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The Dawn of Eve
Shaun Penney
2014 Bronze Medal
638 Pages
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Fiction - Dystopia
Reviewed by Samantha Rivera for Readers' Favorite
Some time has passed since Carol not only learned who she really is and everything about herself, but also who her true friends and enemies are. People are not who they seem in this futuristic world and it’s up to Carol, Gen, Mionne, Vanguard and a few surprising allies to save the day and to avenge a loss that none of them could have believed. There will be more than a few surprises throughout this story of love, adventure, betrayal and science fiction all rolled into one. The Dawn of Eve by Shaun Penney is a story you won’t soon forget.
The Uwemass is no longer a faceless organization seemingly destroying the human race. They've now been identified and though Carol knows who they are (thanks to Eve), it’s a shock to the rest of her group and the world that not only are there still women alive, but they’re running the show. I was amazed by how much Carol had changed and how much she and her group were able to accomplish. It’s no easy feat to attempt to destroy some of the strongest individuals in the world but Carol, Vanguard and the rest are definitely not the type to back away from a challenge. The new characters intrigued me as well, like Cliff and, of course, characters like Lilith are hard to forget as well. Carol’s crew are going to meet the challenge of defeating the Uwemass (and their new enemy as well) head on in The Dawn of Eve by Shaun Penney.
Some time has passed since Carol not only learned who she really is and everything about herself, but also who her true friends and enemies are. People are not who they seem in this futuristic world and it’s up to Carol, Gen, Mionne, Vanguard and a few surprising allies to save the day and to avenge a loss that none of them could have believed. There will be more than a few surprises throughout this story of love, adventure, betrayal and science fiction all rolled into one. The Dawn of Eve by Shaun Penney is a story you won’t soon forget.
The Uwemass is no longer a faceless organization seemingly destroying the human race. They've now been identified and though Carol knows who they are (thanks to Eve), it’s a shock to the rest of her group and the world that not only are there still women alive, but they’re running the show. I was amazed by how much Carol had changed and how much she and her group were able to accomplish. It’s no easy feat to attempt to destroy some of the strongest individuals in the world but Carol, Vanguard and the rest are definitely not the type to back away from a challenge. The new characters intrigued me as well, like Cliff and, of course, characters like Lilith are hard to forget as well. Carol’s crew are going to meet the challenge of defeating the Uwemass (and their new enemy as well) head on in The Dawn of Eve by Shaun Penney.
Recommend this book:
The Chronicles of Heaven's War
Book I: Sisters of the Bloodwind
Ava D Dohn
2014 Bronze Medal
556 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Maria Beltran for Readers' Favorite
For ages, the people of the First Realm have lived peacefully. But the selfish and deceitful eldest son wreaks havoc in the hope to control and seize the realm creating a chaotic world. The sisters of the Bloodwind take the courage to fight the Evil and help secure a future for all humankind. Will they succeed in bringing back peace in the realm? Will they be able to finally put an end to this war?
Ava D. Dohn is certainly a wonderful writer. Undoubtedly, she has a unique talent. The first book of "The Chronicles of Heaven’s War" allows us to take a glimpse into how the author’s mind works. It also gives us a glimpse of the world the way she sees it. The story line itself is interesting – an alteration of life. The journey of the characters – the brothers and sisters – in this novel mirrors all the various walks of life in the real world. The wickedness of the eldest son and the courage of his brothers and sisters to fight against him are effective representations in exploring reality. It cannot be denied that this is a wonderful book to read because the characters are just so real. The realm that the author takes us into is an amazing place and this is proof of her rich imagination. This is one of those books that make you stop and think. After reading this book, you will definitely want to buy the next book in the series.
For ages, the people of the First Realm have lived peacefully. But the selfish and deceitful eldest son wreaks havoc in the hope to control and seize the realm creating a chaotic world. The sisters of the Bloodwind take the courage to fight the Evil and help secure a future for all humankind. Will they succeed in bringing back peace in the realm? Will they be able to finally put an end to this war?
Ava D. Dohn is certainly a wonderful writer. Undoubtedly, she has a unique talent. The first book of "The Chronicles of Heaven’s War" allows us to take a glimpse into how the author’s mind works. It also gives us a glimpse of the world the way she sees it. The story line itself is interesting – an alteration of life. The journey of the characters – the brothers and sisters – in this novel mirrors all the various walks of life in the real world. The wickedness of the eldest son and the courage of his brothers and sisters to fight against him are effective representations in exploring reality. It cannot be denied that this is a wonderful book to read because the characters are just so real. The realm that the author takes us into is an amazing place and this is proof of her rich imagination. This is one of those books that make you stop and think. After reading this book, you will definitely want to buy the next book in the series.
Recommend this book:
The Crystal Key
T. L. Howard
2014 Honorable Mention
604 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Marissa Tapia for Readers' Favorite
The Crystal Key by T.L. Howard is a captivating story about a young girl named Mirah, whose life was disrupted by a man named Rasmun, a man searching for the girl with the crystal key that will help his Lord come into power. Though he initially failed, Rasmun is determined to get his hands on Mirah. Many years later, after the death of her mother, Mirah is suddenly forced out of her familiar life to spend several months on the road with three knights. Though none of them know Mirah's importance, this much is certain - she's in danger.
T.L. Howard kept me captivated throughout the whole story. The plot was interesting and very different from other books in this genre. The characters, especially Mirah and Roenin, were interesting. Their constant fighting throughout their travels kept their journey somewhat lighthearted, despite the fact Mirah was being targeted repeatedly by Rasmun. Watching the characters grow as people and build new relationships helped with the overall plot. Each character was well thought out and had an in-depth angle to their backgrounds. I don't like books with flat, unrelatable characters, so being able to put yourself in the story is important to me. This book made it easy to do so.
The reader can identify with the personal struggles of the characters, such as being being forced to have something familiar taken away from you and having a huge responsibility placed on your shoulders. The book had some humor, romance, action and suspense, making it interesting for almost anyone. I would reread this book many times over.
The Crystal Key by T.L. Howard is a captivating story about a young girl named Mirah, whose life was disrupted by a man named Rasmun, a man searching for the girl with the crystal key that will help his Lord come into power. Though he initially failed, Rasmun is determined to get his hands on Mirah. Many years later, after the death of her mother, Mirah is suddenly forced out of her familiar life to spend several months on the road with three knights. Though none of them know Mirah's importance, this much is certain - she's in danger.
T.L. Howard kept me captivated throughout the whole story. The plot was interesting and very different from other books in this genre. The characters, especially Mirah and Roenin, were interesting. Their constant fighting throughout their travels kept their journey somewhat lighthearted, despite the fact Mirah was being targeted repeatedly by Rasmun. Watching the characters grow as people and build new relationships helped with the overall plot. Each character was well thought out and had an in-depth angle to their backgrounds. I don't like books with flat, unrelatable characters, so being able to put yourself in the story is important to me. This book made it easy to do so.
The reader can identify with the personal struggles of the characters, such as being being forced to have something familiar taken away from you and having a huge responsibility placed on your shoulders. The book had some humor, romance, action and suspense, making it interesting for almost anyone. I would reread this book many times over.
Recommend this book:
Night of the Fae
Ana Martin Series #1
Lyneal Jenkins
2014 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Melinda Hills for Readers' Favorite
Many of us have strange sensations from time to time but for Ana Martin, there is an amazing explanation – she is connected to a race of special beings through her love for Gabriel, a member of the Siis. Night of the Fae is volume one in the Ana Martin series by Lyneal Jenkins and introduces Ana, as well as Gabriel and other members of his race. Ana has special abilities herself, in addition to a problem with bipolar disorder, but Gabriel’s presence helps her deal with both. As the first human to be affected by the presence of Siis powers, no one knows exactly what will happen. One thing is for certain, though – Ana’s life will never be the same because the evil Fae hunt her as a means to get to Gabriel. Ana tries her best to keep up with her normal life, but will things ever really be the same?
Well-paced and engaging, Night of the Fae by Lyneal Jenkins is the perfect supernatural/fantasy read. Ana, Gabriel and the other characters are carefully developed and realistic in spite of the supernatural nature of some of them. Following their love, hate and trials keeps the pages turning. It is quite easy to get caught up in the swirling emotions that allow you to feel what Ana is feeling. Night of the Fae is a complete book with a conclusion to this part of the story that leads smoothly and naturally into the second volume, Hidden Light. It is certainly well worth the time and is sure to please.
Many of us have strange sensations from time to time but for Ana Martin, there is an amazing explanation – she is connected to a race of special beings through her love for Gabriel, a member of the Siis. Night of the Fae is volume one in the Ana Martin series by Lyneal Jenkins and introduces Ana, as well as Gabriel and other members of his race. Ana has special abilities herself, in addition to a problem with bipolar disorder, but Gabriel’s presence helps her deal with both. As the first human to be affected by the presence of Siis powers, no one knows exactly what will happen. One thing is for certain, though – Ana’s life will never be the same because the evil Fae hunt her as a means to get to Gabriel. Ana tries her best to keep up with her normal life, but will things ever really be the same?
Well-paced and engaging, Night of the Fae by Lyneal Jenkins is the perfect supernatural/fantasy read. Ana, Gabriel and the other characters are carefully developed and realistic in spite of the supernatural nature of some of them. Following their love, hate and trials keeps the pages turning. It is quite easy to get caught up in the swirling emotions that allow you to feel what Ana is feeling. Night of the Fae is a complete book with a conclusion to this part of the story that leads smoothly and naturally into the second volume, Hidden Light. It is certainly well worth the time and is sure to please.
Recommend this book:
Eating Through the Earth
Dr. Karen Hutchins Pirnot
2014 Honorable Mention
394 Pages
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Fiction - General
Reviewed by Bernadette Ventrillos for Readers' Favorite
“Eating through the Earth” by Karen Pirnot is a book for all women. She has taken the attributes of several of her precious friends and combined them to create some of the most memorable characters you will ever meet. Every reader will catch a glimpse of their self somewhere in these characters. Stelby’s life had revolved around her husband and children; after he passed away life went on in much the same fashion until one of her daughters gave her a gift certificate to a spa. That was a life changing day. Stelby returned home with a renewed spirit; after all those years she had discovered her niche. She and several other women turn her basement into a meeting place. They discovered there was little they could not do, from finishing dry wall to patching concrete. They found something that had been hidden in the basement; it was never meant to be found. The women bloomed as their friendship strengthened.
“Eating through the Earth” by Dr. Karen Pirnot will touch the hearts of many. This is a book on the importance of knowing your own self-worth; it is a book about friendship. Stelby was my favorite character; she was awakened by a trip to the spa, such a simple event and yet an important one. Once Stelby got something in her mind, there was no stopping her. No project was too big. Cheryl wanted someone to love her and someone to love. Clarice felt guilt and went through life trying to be perfect. The other characters too have equally important attributes. When they worked together they were unstoppable.
“Eating through the Earth” by Karen Pirnot is a book for all women. She has taken the attributes of several of her precious friends and combined them to create some of the most memorable characters you will ever meet. Every reader will catch a glimpse of their self somewhere in these characters. Stelby’s life had revolved around her husband and children; after he passed away life went on in much the same fashion until one of her daughters gave her a gift certificate to a spa. That was a life changing day. Stelby returned home with a renewed spirit; after all those years she had discovered her niche. She and several other women turn her basement into a meeting place. They discovered there was little they could not do, from finishing dry wall to patching concrete. They found something that had been hidden in the basement; it was never meant to be found. The women bloomed as their friendship strengthened.
“Eating through the Earth” by Dr. Karen Pirnot will touch the hearts of many. This is a book on the importance of knowing your own self-worth; it is a book about friendship. Stelby was my favorite character; she was awakened by a trip to the spa, such a simple event and yet an important one. Once Stelby got something in her mind, there was no stopping her. No project was too big. Cheryl wanted someone to love her and someone to love. Clarice felt guilt and went through life trying to be perfect. The other characters too have equally important attributes. When they worked together they were unstoppable.
Recommend this book:
The Daughter of the Sea and the Sky
David Litwack
2014 Finalist
290 Pages
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Fiction - General
Reviewed by Faridah Nassozi for Readers' Favorite
Two major life changing events had taken place in Helena Brewster's life in the recent past; her father had passed away and she had seen Jason again after four years. However, neither of these compared to the effects of the sudden appearance of an angelic 9-year-old girl from the Forbidden Sea. When Helena and Jason rescued Kailani from the ocean, they did not anticipate her extraordinary nature and the effect it would have on them and everyone else around her. Kailani's nature was a mixture of the innocence of a 9-year-old and the wisdom of a mythmaker beyond her years. As Helena and Jason got to know her better, their lives changed in ways they had never imagined before. They promised to protect this child from the Blessed Lands from the ruthless laws of the Republic. However, no one really knew what this daughter of the sea and the sky was; was she just another zealot here to cause trouble in the land of the soulless? A prophet as some had come to believe? Or just a troubled innocent child?
The Daughter Of The Sea And The Sky by David Litwack is an intriguing tale of faith versus reason as each of the two lands separated by a horrible war fought to stay true to what they believed. David Litwack's writing style draws a very vivid picture of the setting of the story and the different characters that form part of this extraordinary tale. His description of Kailani's innocent and yet dazzling beauty and her personality gives you a real image of the little girl whose strange character and innocent wisdom touched so many lives. The story keeps you on the edge from one page to the next as you wait to discover the reason behind her sudden appearance in the land of the soulless and, in the end, the truth is very awe-inspiring and most deserving.
Two major life changing events had taken place in Helena Brewster's life in the recent past; her father had passed away and she had seen Jason again after four years. However, neither of these compared to the effects of the sudden appearance of an angelic 9-year-old girl from the Forbidden Sea. When Helena and Jason rescued Kailani from the ocean, they did not anticipate her extraordinary nature and the effect it would have on them and everyone else around her. Kailani's nature was a mixture of the innocence of a 9-year-old and the wisdom of a mythmaker beyond her years. As Helena and Jason got to know her better, their lives changed in ways they had never imagined before. They promised to protect this child from the Blessed Lands from the ruthless laws of the Republic. However, no one really knew what this daughter of the sea and the sky was; was she just another zealot here to cause trouble in the land of the soulless? A prophet as some had come to believe? Or just a troubled innocent child?
The Daughter Of The Sea And The Sky by David Litwack is an intriguing tale of faith versus reason as each of the two lands separated by a horrible war fought to stay true to what they believed. David Litwack's writing style draws a very vivid picture of the setting of the story and the different characters that form part of this extraordinary tale. His description of Kailani's innocent and yet dazzling beauty and her personality gives you a real image of the little girl whose strange character and innocent wisdom touched so many lives. The story keeps you on the edge from one page to the next as you wait to discover the reason behind her sudden appearance in the land of the soulless and, in the end, the truth is very awe-inspiring and most deserving.
Recommend this book:
Raegan and RJ Save the Day
Raegan and RJ in Space
Mr. Richard M. Collins
2014 Honorable Mention
28 Pages
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Fiction - Graphic Novel/Comic
Reviewed by Michelle Robertson for Readers' Favorite
Raegan and RJ Save the Day: Raegan and RJ in Space, written by Richard Collins and Illustrated by Jennifer Lusong, is an intriguing graphic novel and vividly colorful comic. This book provides an introduction into the realm of Christians living in space. The book also offers educational insight into the future of space travel and habitation. Readers are instantly attracted to colorful pictures and situations or happenstances that may seem impossible. The author teaches readers to use their imaginations and enter into a futuristic world of space living. For example: our society has already accomplished so much with its technology, gadgets, satellites, space travel, rockets, space vehicles, so why not envision a space station, where we inhabit residences with similar living and recreational spaces to Earth. The author portrays a Christian living lifestyle by creating a scenario in which an act of kindness outweighs the possibilities of potential self danger.
The graphic novel/comic can be used by teachers and parents to read to children and enjoy. The concept of space living and space travel as a norm allows readers to enter into a creative mindset where there are no limitations to what we can create with technology. The Christian aspects within the book allow readers to imagine a world filled with advanced technology and a great deal of human kindness and selflessness. This book is entertaining and creative for those who think "outside the box."
Raegan and RJ Save the Day: Raegan and RJ in Space, written by Richard Collins and Illustrated by Jennifer Lusong, is an intriguing graphic novel and vividly colorful comic. This book provides an introduction into the realm of Christians living in space. The book also offers educational insight into the future of space travel and habitation. Readers are instantly attracted to colorful pictures and situations or happenstances that may seem impossible. The author teaches readers to use their imaginations and enter into a futuristic world of space living. For example: our society has already accomplished so much with its technology, gadgets, satellites, space travel, rockets, space vehicles, so why not envision a space station, where we inhabit residences with similar living and recreational spaces to Earth. The author portrays a Christian living lifestyle by creating a scenario in which an act of kindness outweighs the possibilities of potential self danger.
The graphic novel/comic can be used by teachers and parents to read to children and enjoy. The concept of space living and space travel as a norm allows readers to enter into a creative mindset where there are no limitations to what we can create with technology. The Christian aspects within the book allow readers to imagine a world filled with advanced technology and a great deal of human kindness and selflessness. This book is entertaining and creative for those who think "outside the box."
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/like-footprints-in-the-wind&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51ZmMtD3SkL._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description=In Pamela Atherstone's novel ". . . Like Footprints in the Wind" the saga of a family torn apart takes us from unrest in a German-Russian village at the hands of Stalin to their separate destinies. Under Stalin's rule families are uprooted overnight and forced on a journey of unimaginable consequences. Johannes and Katerina pack items they feel can...){kind=link}
...Like Footprints in the Wind
A Generation Lost
Pamela Atherstone
2014 Finalist
388 Pages
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Fiction - Historical - Event/Era
Reviewed by Alice Recker for Readers' Favorite
In Pamela Atherstone's novel ". . . Like Footprints in the Wind" the saga of a family torn apart takes us from unrest in a German-Russian village at the hands of Stalin to their separate destinies. Under Stalin's rule families are uprooted overnight and forced on a journey of unimaginable consequences. Johannes and Katerina pack items they feel can't be left at home and along with their four young children and their two teenage daughters, they begin a trek that ultimately is destined for Siberia. On the treacherous trip Katerina must find a respectable gravesite to bury her baby, Rosina. Eventually they are loaded onto cramped and windowless boxcars and after many days reach their destination. The family is quickly separated and this is the ultimate dagger in the hearts of each of them. Only one daughter is saved and Anya's quest is to find the rest of her family.
Pamela Atherstone's ". . . Like Footprints in the Wind" is a riveting story of a dark phase in history few of us recall. She has the unique ability to tell the tale of the dislocation of German-Russian families in a way that brings home the cruelty of leaders toward their own people. The family Atherstone depicts is like any loving and hard-working family. Their individual destinations end the similarities. Atherstone's talent for telling a story brings the reader to admire the unusual way this particular family learns to cope and the realization of how many others endured unspeakable hardships. My hope is Pamela Atherstone continues her stories to both enlighten and to entertain us all. I look forward to more books coming from this author.
In Pamela Atherstone's novel ". . . Like Footprints in the Wind" the saga of a family torn apart takes us from unrest in a German-Russian village at the hands of Stalin to their separate destinies. Under Stalin's rule families are uprooted overnight and forced on a journey of unimaginable consequences. Johannes and Katerina pack items they feel can't be left at home and along with their four young children and their two teenage daughters, they begin a trek that ultimately is destined for Siberia. On the treacherous trip Katerina must find a respectable gravesite to bury her baby, Rosina. Eventually they are loaded onto cramped and windowless boxcars and after many days reach their destination. The family is quickly separated and this is the ultimate dagger in the hearts of each of them. Only one daughter is saved and Anya's quest is to find the rest of her family.
Pamela Atherstone's ". . . Like Footprints in the Wind" is a riveting story of a dark phase in history few of us recall. She has the unique ability to tell the tale of the dislocation of German-Russian families in a way that brings home the cruelty of leaders toward their own people. The family Atherstone depicts is like any loving and hard-working family. Their individual destinations end the similarities. Atherstone's talent for telling a story brings the reader to admire the unusual way this particular family learns to cope and the realization of how many others endured unspeakable hardships. My hope is Pamela Atherstone continues her stories to both enlighten and to entertain us all. I look forward to more books coming from this author.
Recommend this book:
The Ambitious Madame Bonaparte
Ruth Hull Chatlien
2014 Gold Medal
495 Pages
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Fiction - Historical - Personage
Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite
The Ambitious Madame Bonaparte by Ruth Hull Chatlien tells the true story of Elizabeth Patterson Bonaparte, better known as Betsy. She was the daughter of a Baltimore merchant, William Patterson, and was the first wife of Jérôme Bonaparte and sister-in-law of Emperor Napoleon I of France. I enjoyed learning about Elizabeth ‘Betsy’ Bonaparte as my knowledge about her is almost non-existent. Getting to know one of the historical figures famously known as the ‘Notorious Belle of Baltimore’ through this novelized fact-based book is pleasant and enlightening at the same time. Betsy attended Madame Lacomb's Academy and studied history, culture, mathematics and French – knowledge that would later serve her well.
I personally think that Odette, Madame Lacomb’s slave, was an important catalyst for choices that Betsy made in her life – regardless whether Odette’s prophecy was legit or not in the first place. It still amazes me what we can learn from someone back in the past. Betsy’s determination transcends time because she was a strong-minded woman who shaped her own destiny, despite the obligatory limitations that society and her family tried to impose on her. Her choice to be with the man she loved, her fight for her marriage, plus her daring French fashion sense showcased her strength, charisma and wit. This is a laudable work from Chatlien. Her writing resonates with elegance, yet is simple and clear. It is easy to become absorbed in this well-written historical novel. The Ambitious Madame Bonaparte will appeal to all avid readers of the genre.
The Ambitious Madame Bonaparte by Ruth Hull Chatlien tells the true story of Elizabeth Patterson Bonaparte, better known as Betsy. She was the daughter of a Baltimore merchant, William Patterson, and was the first wife of Jérôme Bonaparte and sister-in-law of Emperor Napoleon I of France. I enjoyed learning about Elizabeth ‘Betsy’ Bonaparte as my knowledge about her is almost non-existent. Getting to know one of the historical figures famously known as the ‘Notorious Belle of Baltimore’ through this novelized fact-based book is pleasant and enlightening at the same time. Betsy attended Madame Lacomb's Academy and studied history, culture, mathematics and French – knowledge that would later serve her well.
I personally think that Odette, Madame Lacomb’s slave, was an important catalyst for choices that Betsy made in her life – regardless whether Odette’s prophecy was legit or not in the first place. It still amazes me what we can learn from someone back in the past. Betsy’s determination transcends time because she was a strong-minded woman who shaped her own destiny, despite the obligatory limitations that society and her family tried to impose on her. Her choice to be with the man she loved, her fight for her marriage, plus her daring French fashion sense showcased her strength, charisma and wit. This is a laudable work from Chatlien. Her writing resonates with elegance, yet is simple and clear. It is easy to become absorbed in this well-written historical novel. The Ambitious Madame Bonaparte will appeal to all avid readers of the genre.
Recommend this book:
Beyond The Divide
J.P. Kenna
2014 Finalist
535 Pages
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Fiction - Historical - Personage
Reviewed by Melinda Hills for Readers' Favorite
The Scanlons, Fitzpatricks, and Quinns represent a segment of American society in the latter half of the 19th century and their interaction with friends, neighbors, and others broadens our view regarding what was happening throughout most of the United States. In Beyond the Divide, J.P. Kenna portrays the effects of major events on the everyday lives of people from the point of view of a New Jersey Irish family. From the reconstruction and post-Civil War growth of industry to the social issues facing the poor, women, unappreciated working men, unmarried mothers, African-Americans, and many more groups, the Scanlon family weathers the changes. Their conversations and letters provide a rich depiction of their lives. From the heyday of the family patriarch, the Irish immigrant James Fitzpatrick, to the adventures in the expansion of the west experienced by his grandson, the growth of the labor movement and the role of politics, religion and money in the events that have shaped the course of this country are creatively, informatively and engagingly presented.
J.P. Kenna has created an engrossing history lesson through excellent story-telling and well-developed characters in Beyond the Divide. Painting clear pictures of life in urban New Jersey as well as the nearly virgin Northwest through the lives of varied yet highly believable characters, Kenna sets the action of his story against the major movements and players of the second half of the 19th century. Kenna creates the basis of social commentary regarding the rise of the vastly wealthy industrialists in contrast to the lives of the working man and farmer. He outlines how government, religion and natural human prejudices were bent to influence the outcome of elections, the course of social policies and the overall future of the American people. This is an excellent novel that deserves a careful reading and deep contemplation.
The Scanlons, Fitzpatricks, and Quinns represent a segment of American society in the latter half of the 19th century and their interaction with friends, neighbors, and others broadens our view regarding what was happening throughout most of the United States. In Beyond the Divide, J.P. Kenna portrays the effects of major events on the everyday lives of people from the point of view of a New Jersey Irish family. From the reconstruction and post-Civil War growth of industry to the social issues facing the poor, women, unappreciated working men, unmarried mothers, African-Americans, and many more groups, the Scanlon family weathers the changes. Their conversations and letters provide a rich depiction of their lives. From the heyday of the family patriarch, the Irish immigrant James Fitzpatrick, to the adventures in the expansion of the west experienced by his grandson, the growth of the labor movement and the role of politics, religion and money in the events that have shaped the course of this country are creatively, informatively and engagingly presented.
J.P. Kenna has created an engrossing history lesson through excellent story-telling and well-developed characters in Beyond the Divide. Painting clear pictures of life in urban New Jersey as well as the nearly virgin Northwest through the lives of varied yet highly believable characters, Kenna sets the action of his story against the major movements and players of the second half of the 19th century. Kenna creates the basis of social commentary regarding the rise of the vastly wealthy industrialists in contrast to the lives of the working man and farmer. He outlines how government, religion and natural human prejudices were bent to influence the outcome of elections, the course of social policies and the overall future of the American people. This is an excellent novel that deserves a careful reading and deep contemplation.
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