Page 40 - Novelist Post – J.D. Barker and more

REVIEW CORNER
GREAT CIRCLE
by Maggie Shipstead
“Great Circle” is a masterful, inspiring tale of adven- ture and identity, beautifully written with unforgettable characters and vivid storytelling.
Maggie Shipstead’s Great Circle is a breathtaking literary achievement that intertwines the lives of two women separated by nearly a century but connected by their unyielding spirit and quest for freedom. This novel showcases Shipstead’s prowess as a storyteller, weaving historical and contemporary narratives that captivate and inspire.
The story follows Marian Graves, an intrepid aviator whose life is marked by daring adventures
and a relentless pursuit of the skies. From her early days flying in Alaska to her mysterious disappearance while attempting a great circle flight around the globe, Marian’s journey is one of courage and resilience. Shipstead’s meticulous research and vivid descriptions bring Marian’s world to life, making her a character who feels both larger-than-life and deeply human.
Parallel to Marian’s story is that of Hadley Baxter,
a modern-day actress cast to play Marian in a biopic. Hadley’s struggles with fame, identity, and personal demons provide a compelling counterpoint to Marian’s narrative. As Hadley delves deeper into Marian’s life, she embarks on her own journey of self-discovery. Shipstead skillfully navigates these dual timelines, creating a seamless and engaging narrative.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its explora- tion of themes such as freedom, identity, and societal constraints. Marian’s defiance of gender norms and her determination to carve out her own path in a male-do- minated field are both inspiring and thought-provoking. Similarly, Hadley’s struggle to reconcile her public persona with her true self resonates deeply.
Shipstead’s prose is both lyrical and precise, capturing the grandeur of the skies and the intimate moments of her characters’ lives. “Great Circle” is a profound exploration of living authentically and pursuing one’s passions against all odds. This novel will linger in your thoughts long after you’ve turned the final page.
ALL THE BROKEN PLACES
by John Boyne
A poignant, beautifully written exploration of guilt, redemption, and history’s shadows. Boyne’s storytelling is both compelling and deeply moving.
John Boyne’s All the Broken Places is a masterful exploration of guilt, redemption, and the long shadows cast by history. This poignant novel follows the life of Gretel Fernsby, a 91-year-old woman living in London, who harbors a dark secret from her past. As the story unfolds, Boyne skillfully weaves together past and present, revealing the haunting memories of Gretel’s childhood in Nazi Germany and her struggle to recon- cile with her family’s legacy.
Boyne’s narrative is both compelling and heart-w- renching, drawing readers into Gretel’s internal conflict and the moral complexities she faces. The character development is exceptional, with Gretel portrayed as a deeply flawed yet sympathetic figure. Her interactions with her neighbors and the arrival of a new family in her building serve as catalysts for her to confront her past, leading to moments of profound introspection and emotional revelation.
The novel’s pacing is well-balanced, with Boyne maintaining a delicate tension throughout. His prose is elegant and evocative, capturing the nuances of human emotion and the weight of historical trauma. The themes of forgiveness and the possibility of redemption are explored with sensitivity and depth, making “All the Broken Places” a thought-provoking read.
One of the novel’s strengths is its ability to huma- nize its characters, presenting them in shades of gray rather than black and white. This nuanced portrayal encourages readers to reflect on the complexities of morality and the impact of history on individual lives.
All the Broken Places is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page. John Boyne has crafted a powerful story that speaks to the enduring human capacity for change and forgiveness.
A DEATH IN CORNWALL
by Daniel Silva
A masterful thriller, “A Death in Cornwall” captivates with its intricate plot, vivid settings, and compelling characters. An absolute must-read!
Daniel Silva’s latest novel, A Death in Cornwall, is a masterful blend of suspense, intrigue, and rich cha- racter development that will captivate both long-time fans and new readers alike. Set against the picturesque yet brooding backdrop of Cornwall, Silva weaves a tale that is as atmospheric as it is thrilling.
The story follows Gabriel Allon, the legendary art restorer and spy, who is drawn into a complex web
of deceit and murder. When a prominent art dealer is found dead under mysterious circumstances, Allon
is reluctantly pulled from his quiet life in Venice to unravel the truth. What begins as a seemingly straigh- tforward investigation quickly spirals into a labyrinth of secrets involving stolen masterpieces, international conspiracies, and a shadowy adversary from Allon’s past.
Silva’s writing is as sharp and evocative as ever. His meticulous attention to detail brings the Cornish lan- dscape to life, making it almost a character in its own right. The plot is tightly woven, with twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end. Silva’s ability to blend historical facts with fiction adds a layer of depth and authenticity to the narrative, making the stakes feel incredibly real.
The character of Gabriel Allon continues to evolve, showing new facets of his personality and skills. His interactions with a cast of well-drawn supporting characters, including his wife Chiara and a host of new and familiar faces, add emotional weight and comp- lexity to the story.
A Death in Cornwall is a testament to Daniel Silva’s prowess as a storyteller. It’s a gripping, intelligent th- riller that not only entertains but also provokes thought about the art world and the murky waters of internatio- nal espionage. Whether you’re a die-hard Silva fan or a newcomer to his work, this novel is a must-read.
40 I I NOVeLIST POST
NOVEL • STORY • LITERATURE