General Fiction
-
Plot/Idea: While on the surface, Calypso's Odyssey is a successful exploration of one woman's journey into self-discovery, its layered modern mythology lends it a depth and mystery that is both beautiful and inevitable. A heady mix of fate/destiny and flawed decision-making leads both the characters and the reader on a journey that, while familiar, is entwined with something larger and more meaningful.
Prose: O'Brien's prose is heartbreaking, engaging, romantic, and poetic. Calypso's Odyssey becomes the reader's odyssey as we are carried along by a determinism that is itself an illusion that crumbles under the realities and uncertainties of everyday life. Beautifully written and engaging.
Originality: Calypso's Odyssey is a journey to self-discovery that is imbued with originality through the juxtaposition of mythology, fable, and fate with the uncertainties of contemporary, modern life. Calypso's journey is rooted in humanity and all its ugliness, pain, and unexpected joy.
Character/Execution: Calypso is as unreliable as she is honest, as flawed as she is divine—a beautifully written and heartbreakingly executed narrator. Additionally, by creating the framework for "modern" mythology, O'Brien cajoles the reader into placing the characters into predetermined roles, while simultaneously shattering those roles.
Plot/Idea: Make the Dark Night Shine is an epic historical story that largely unfolds on the brink of war. Protagonist Kenzo adventures through post-WWI Paris with two companions until he returns to Japan and leads a path in Zen Buddhism before the onset of WWII. Lessik delivers a consistently compelling narrative that is driven by his protagonist's personal growth.
Prose: Lessik uses clear and exacting prose that make for an enjoyable and multilayered read. He is able to capture Kenzo’s straightforward and analytical tone while also encapsulating his feelings and conflict throughout the novel.
Originality: Kenzo’s identity as a queer Japanese man offers a singular and striking perspective on an era often explored through historical fiction.
Character/Execution: Lessik capably develops the international settings and historical era, but the strongest aspect of the novel lies in Kenzo's journey. From his efforts to conceal his identity to his pursuit of Buddhism and his perilous quest to reunite with his daughter, the protagonist allows the narrative to truly come alive.
Plot/Idea: Kurian constructs a nuanced plot that ebbs and flows gracefully with the rising and falling action, carrying readers along as John and Gunther rediscover their friendship and other parts of themselves, not to mention the world around them.
Prose: Though the characters often had somewhat stilted conversations, this speaks to an intuitive understanding of the painfully awkward and uncomfortable exchanges people who are on a journey to reconcile the past and the present must sometimes endure. The rest of the book is written in such a manner that the audience is given leave to use their imaginations, but not without a solid base to jump off of.
Originality: Journeys akin to John's are fairly common in literature, but the focus on his and Gunther's friendship as well as the many other elements at play set this story apart from others like it; American readers, in particular, will enjoy the locale as well as the rich culture that adds its own unique spin on the plot.
Character/Execution: John and the rest of the characters, even those readers will only see and hear from briefly, are distinct creatures. Though none of them make a grand transformation by the end of the book, they remain constant in such a way that actually reveals more about their core characteristics.
Blurb: Set in late 1980s Spain, this amalgamation of real-world complications and the thrill of mysticism makes for a story as multifaceted and whimsical as Ibiza itself.
Plot/Idea: The War Photographers, a work of historical fiction with a mystery element, centers on two women living in different time periods, whose lives intriguingly intersect: Mae Webster, a codebreaker in 1943, and her granddaughter Rachel, who is a photographer and activist during the Cold War.
Prose: Beaumont tightly weaves together the two narratives. The prose is clear and generally seamless, allowing readers to become fully immersed in the storytelling.
Originality: Beaumont's level of research and knowledge of the history she recreates is apparent throughout the novel. The War Photographers provides a unique blend of history, mystery, and romance.
Character/Execution: Mae and Rachel are memorable characters who are nicely distinct from one another. Through the two protagonists, readers gain a fresh perspective and understanding of both WWII and the fall of the Berlin Wall, while the mystery surrounding the death of Jack Knight provides a level of intimacy and intrigue to the broader circumstances.
Plot/Idea: Vincent's Women is a thought-provoking, intriguing novel built on a fascinating premise: the life of van Gogh through the eyes of the women in his life. Using archival sources such as the artist's letters, the author has woven an intricate plot that will keep readers turning the pages.
Prose: The prose is clear and effective in moving the plot forward. It employs some sophisticated stylistic features, including the layering of multiple narrators, threaded through with the voice of van Gogh's sister-in-law as the narrator. The novel features a lot of shot chapters and frequent page breaks that, at times, detract from the narrative's flow.
Originality: The novel's premise is really compelling, offering a unique take on portraying the famous artist's life. There seems to be an effort to reframe how readers think of van Gogh by focusing on the voices of the women who were often left in the wake of his turbulence. While this is an excellent goal, there are still many ways in which his perspective still comes across as the dominant narrative. The title alone, for instance, positions the women van Gogh interacted with as his possessions, not as equals.
Character/Execution: The novel brings historical characters to life, blending storytelling, historical fact, and intrigue. The reader will especially enjoy the narrative between van Gogh and Gaugain, whose volatile – sometimes violent – relationship shaped the latter's legacy in ways most don't know about.
Blurb: Russo's Vincent's Women presents the life story of Vincent van Gogh through the eyes of the women in his life: muses, adversaries, lovers, and even a concerned nun.
Plot/Idea: Set in 1960s New Orleans, Camellia Season is a lively, character-driven coming-of-age novel that centers around Cherie, who grapples with a troubled home life and seeks to find herself during an era of rapid cultural change.
Prose: Peterson's prose flows lovingly, clearly, and, at times, poignantly. Descriptions of the protagonist's wordless journal add intriguing texture to the storytelling.
Originality: While exploring familiar coming-of-age themes, Camellia Season is uplifted through its vibrant setting and focus on a core set of characters as they change and grow.
Character/Execution: Readers will easily empathize with Cherie as she longs to escape her circumstances and achieve independence. The broader cast of characters are effectively rendered, while the New Orleans setting sparkles.
Plot/Idea: The Importance of Wives is an authentic late 15th century romp that proves to be both compelling and dramatic. It is an absorbing and meticulously crafted tale with brilliantly observed characters and an enthralling storyline.
Prose: The Importance of Wives is addictive and captivating with well written characters and an interesting plot. Morgan's delicate use of language contains subtle narrative flourishes that highlight the story's romanticism and lyrical depth.
Originality: The Importance of Wives is a confidently written period drama with excellently articulated dialogue that feels authentic and measured. A must for those who love well written historical dramas, The Importance of Wives intricately blends fact and fiction to create a thoroughly impressive tale.
Character/Execution: Duchess Anne of Brittany is a strong-minded protagonist brilliantly realized by Morgan. Anne's burgeoning maturity and sense of responsibility come to the fore, bolstered by dynamic stretches of dialogue and great plot development.
Blurb: A riveting historical drama.
Plot/Idea: The Tender Silver Stars is an impactful historical novel that focuses on integrated friendships and women's rights in the South, starting in the '50s and stretching into the '70s.
Prose: Stockwell's prose is sturdy and immediately engaging. From the first descriptions of young Triss, the author capably holds the reader's attention.
Originality: The Tender Silver Stars features an unusual and well-plotted storyline, while the examination of burgeoning women's rights in the American south, particularly in regards to career pursuits, is fascinating.
Character/Execution: Readers will find a strong lead in determined, driven Triss. The unique friendship formed between Triss and Everlove is sensitively explored; their individual and shared struggles are movingly conveyed. Readers will ultimately root for both characters as Triss seeks to bring justice to the story's central villain.
Plot/Idea: Brooklyn Valentine is a quirky and endearing romantic novel that centers on two characters who cross paths against the lively backdrop of Brooklyn. Levine capably captures the experience of finding unexpected romance, while the environs of Coney Island, Brighton Beach, the Brooklyn Bridge, and other locales, are rendered beautifully.
Prose: Levine pulls readers into the story, immediately creating a cozy atmosphere. Dialogue allows the characters to come to life, while Sal's loving descriptions of Brooklyn are immersive.
Originality: This charming New York story eschews Manhattan sight seeing in favor of the many authentic flavors of Brooklyn. Levine offers her protagonists a second chance at love and underscores the importance of community.
Character/Execution: Levine has a knack for character development. Sal and Terry are relatable characters whose personal struggles are convincingly portrayed. Individually intriguing, the pair have a subtle chemistry, and readers will enjoy witnessing them overcome their marked differences. The broader cast of characters, including Sal's family members and unusual, unerringly loyal friends, are fully formed.
Plot/Idea: Insecure and unassuming 30-something Jay embarks on an existential trip of epic proportions as he embarks on an all too real journey of discovery. Set against a backdrop of a hot London summer that's as warped as his own fractured identity and with a small cast of characters that are as symbolic as they are satirical, Jay's experiences–almost all set in real-time–unfold in a painfully tender way that's both faraway and relatable.
Prose: Cacoyannis's prose is beautiful and funny; tragic and heartfelt–it contains magnitudes. A thoroughly clever and entertaining read that's as much a social commentary as an exploration of one man's demons, Reimagining Ben is a joy to read from start to finish.
Originality: What makes Reimagining Ben so delightfully original isn't its plot or even its characters–what sets it apart is its ability to elevate the seemingly mundane to a tragic farce that, despite its forays into absurdity, manages to stay genuine and oddly beautiful.
Character/Execution: Jay is the heart of Reimagining Ben and Cacoyannis captures his struggles beautifully–his insecurity, his ambiguous sexuality, his curiosity–all are revealed through thoughtful interactions with both himself and others. Ben, Andy, Gino, Rita, and even George (at times) are all shifting archetypes of Jay himself and their presence is necessary to reveal hidden (and not so hidden) truths.
Plot/Idea: Isaak's plot will hook readers with moments of intensity scattered by character-driven angst, as the teenaged Rick Leibnitz navigates abuse in his home and a dangerous, enticing world outside.
Prose: The narrative flows smoothly, and Isaak tangles flashes of electrifying prose throughout.
Originality: This coming-of-age featuring crime, drugs, and sex veers into cultural flashbacks of the late 1960s, from guitar fragments of Led Zeppelin to the Vietnam War to sociopolitical aftershocks from Vilgot Sjöman's I Am Curious (Yellow).
Character/Execution: Though the story's execution meanders at times, Isaak's characters feel genuine and believable, each with a unique voice that differentiates them while facilitating a deep connection with readers.
A Grand Pause: A Novel on May 14, 1945, the USS Randolph, Kamikazes, and the Greatest Air-Sea Rescue
by Gary SantosRating: 8.50
Plot/Idea: Santos dedicates much of the novel to building background for the historical plot, sharing the mechanics and inner workings of the U.S. Navy and Air Force against the backdrop of the Second World War. That buildup is both meticulous and intriguing for history buffs, though the action initially takes a backseat. Once it picks up, the fate of airmen Morris and Phegley becomes the center focus, though the crew of the USS Randolph is painted in vibrant tones as well.
Prose: Santos effectively builds a rich, authentic culture through his writing, drawing readers into the world of nations at war and the everyday nitty-gritty of the personnel fighting that war, from the lowest ranking military professional to top commanders.
Originality: Santos pays respect to the true story behind this illuminating historical novel, giving readers solid characters to root for, painstaking details, and an edgy tension.
Character/Execution: Characters abound in this sweeping story, but, despite their immense number, readers will feel connected to the book’s individuals. In many ways, the USS Randolph becomes a character in its own right, as it races an already worn-down crew to rescue fellow military men. Morris and Phegley stand out, of course, but so too does Admiral Mitscher, overburdened and weighed down by the war’s seemingly endless savagery.
Plot/Idea: On the Run is a taut and unnerving historical thriller set between Ireland and the USA at the time of the Troubles. Against the backdrop of IRA bombings and a tense social landscape, Shaw's novel shines a light on the harsh political unrest and unforgiving prison life of the time.
Prose: Shaw's text is peppered with fabulous passages of description that effectively transmit the geographical landscape. The stunning imagery is interspersed with the grim realities of prison life and undeniable tragedy in a book that packs a real emotional punch.
Originality: On the Run is an engrossing and effective novel which captures the tense atmosphere that permeated the Irish sociopolitical landscape in the late 70s. Shaw's historical fiction is woven together with effective sports writing and strong family dramatization to create an all-encompassing and engrossing storyline.
Character/Execution: On the Run's acutely realized family life is one of its main strengths, the great emotional depth in the characters' relationships having a profound impact on the reader. The portrayal of protagonist Terence, convicted for terrorist activity in the aftermath of the assassination of Lord Mountbatten, is particularly affecting.
Blurb: A compelling historical thriller.
Plot/Idea: School is an imaginative and insightful college drama that mixes fantastical elements with modern day teenage issues. Although it has a tendency to descend into monotonous teenage melodrama at times, it is generally an ambitious and rewarding read.
Prose: Freed's text is inventive and playful, brilliantly capturing the likes of text speak and meme culture while exploring the positive and, more often than not, negative vibes associated with college life. Her use of crude and offensive language throughout the novel is simultaneously shocking and effective.
Originality: School will strike a chord with a young, vibrant audience, with its fresh and compelling college setting and exploration of contemporary issues. The plethora of characters and lack of a central protagonist results in an adventurous book that casts a dizzying existential tone over proceedings.
Character/Execution: School's myriad cast of characters lend the novel a freshness and vitality with large stretches of dialogue that are often engaging and dynamic. Freed masterfully displays an understanding of teenage emotion and relationships in a bold, affecting, and memorable book.
Blurb: An inventive and colorful campus drama.
Plot/Idea: Reinelt’s story has a compelling premise—a deep exploration of the mechanics and idiosyncrasies that happen between a patient and psychologist during therapy. The dialogue drives the plot, through poignant interactions between Charlie Houden and psychologist Dina Epstein that illuminate the heartache, trauma, and distress in Charlie's life.
Prose: Reinelt’s prose is direct and easy to read, allowing Charlie's story to unfold in broad strokes while also exploring the minutiae of his past and how it relates to his present experiences.
Originality: The dynamics that come into play between Charlie and his psychologist are riveting and will engage readers. The story favors simmering tension over immediate conflict, a strategy that melds well with the book's premise.
Character/Execution: Charlie and Dina form the strongest part of this novel, and the give and take of their relationship is engrossing to watch—so much so that readers may wish Reinelt expanded their relationship beyond their primary interplay.
Plot/Idea: Pescadero is a quietly moving novel that centers on 14-year-old Hilde, who relocates with her mother and brother from Wisconsin to the titular Northern California town. An additional narrative focuses on a migrant worker and his family, whose story becomes engagingly intertwined with Hilde's.
Prose: Brady prose sensitively examines Hilde's feelings of disorientation as she adjusts to life in California, while sections devoted to Gabriel and Joaquín’s attempts to reunite with his sibling, are raw and impactful.
Originality: Brady integrates familiar coming-of-age themes, while the Northern California setting–and what it represents–is portrayed effectively via multiple lenses.
Character/Execution: Hilde grows from a girl grappling with a sudden relocation and the loss of the family she knew to a wiser, more outwardly compassionate individual. The story of Gabriel and Joaquín plays out movingly and, while Brady doesn't imply Hilde's circumstances are directly comparable, the author makes some acute observations about the human need to find shared community and reestablish roots.
