The Stories That Shaped a Life
Discover compelling pieces by John R. Swatosh in which fiction is based on lived experience and non-fiction reveals what often gets left out of history books. Each title is a different war, redemption, and human paradox travel.
From the villages of Vietnam to the corridors of justice, truth, trauma, and transformation live on every page.
Barton’s Promise – Volume 1
A gripping work of historical fiction based on true events
Barton’s Promise tells the inspirational story of Max Barton — a seemingly ordinary young man whose life becomes extraordinary through war, duty, and faith. After being severely wounded in Vietnam, Max makes a desperate plea for survival and a solemn promise to serve and protect if given another chance. That promise becomes his guiding principle throughout a career in law enforcement, and in battles not just with enemies, but also with his doubts and flaws.
This is more than just a military novel — it’s one of the most inspirational war stories and motivational books written for those who believe in second chances, moral conflict, and redemption. Through faith in God, perseverance, and the love of remarkable women, Max transforms into a man of deep purpose and impact.
Perfect for fans of Christian military books, motivational books for teens, and veterans books alike.
Barton’s Promise – Volume 2
Coming March 2025 – Available in multiple formats
Volume 2 continues Max Barton’s powerful journey as he strives to fulfill the promise he made on the battlefield—a promise tested by pain, loss, and the lingering effects of war. Still guided by his vow to protect others, Max faces new trials in his personal and professional life, including deep emotional wounds and moral decisions no training can prepare you for.
A standout among Christian war books and historical fiction, this volume delves deeper into the emotional costs of service and the strength required to stay true to one’s calling.
An inspiring entry for readers seeking real life war stories, military memoirs, and books about veterans that resonate beyond the battlefield.
Letters I Never Sent Home…from Vietnam
A raw and revealing memoir — one of the best Vietnam War books written by a veteran
This non-fiction war book offers an unfiltered look into the year John Swatosh spent as a U.S. Army counterintelligence agent during the Vietnam War. Through letters never sent, readers witness not just the tactical missions but the personal struggles, guilt, and transformation of a young soldier turned veteran.
It’s a story many veterans will recognize — returning home to rejection, carrying invisible wounds, and trying to reconcile morality with survival. This is one of those Vietnam War memoirs that not only informs but also heals. Ideal for fans of military biographies, books about the Vietnam War, and personal stories from Vietnam.
97-Bravo
The real story of a soldier who never planned to go to war
Before the uniform, John was a college student in Michigan, unsure of his beliefs about Vietnam. But by 1971, he found himself embedded deep in intelligence work — assigned to the Phung Hoang Program, collaborating with the CIA, and operating under high-stakes conditions. From Saigon villas to Viet Cong hit lists, 97-Bravo delivers a front-row seat to the hidden world of military intelligence during one of history’s most controversial wars.
This compelling memoir stands out among military history books and best nonfiction war books, offering both strategic insight and deep emotional reflection.
A must-read for those seeking books written by Vietnam veterans, Christian military literature, or simply powerful, true war stories.
Life and Times of Jon Sawyer
Coming Soon
