The novel is really a series of stories which connect through ancestral lines and share a common theme that has been pervasive in human history. The author successfully shows how regardless of the timeframe, people can feel isolated and lonely and that we all must ensure we ourselves are not falling into the self-reinforcing isolation loop. The story is intricate and makes great use of writing as a literary device; by doing this, the author gives you further insights into the characters that you would not normally see. Many sequences abound in the novel where the author demonstrates his talent in creating rich tapestries while leaving just enough for the reader to insert their own subtleties into the storyline. The novel changes speed towards the last third with an unexpected but morbidly fascinating twist and a satisfying conclusion. I don't often say this - this is a novel that should be read more than once; I guarantee the reader will enjoy each read for different reasons.
--Dave Smiderle
Hindsight is 2020 is a thought-provoking book for an adventurous reader ready to take on the emotional and at times eclectic McLean family saga. This is not a lazy or mindless read, but a book that demands your attention as you weave together the threads of the McLean family tapestry over generations of trauma and loss. The characters are compelling and I had great sympathy and attachment to some, and anger and bewilderment, towards others. The title of this book is also quite fitting for the story as well as for our present time as we collectively return back to our lives after pandemic shutdowns and self and otherly imposed isolations from each other. An ambitious novel that will hold your attention as you become enmeshed in this family saga.
--K. Perz
If I had to describe “Hindsight is 2020” using only one word, it would be cinematic. Every scene in this novel is packed with such expressive language that it feels like you are watching a movie play out as you read it.
The descriptive use of imagery, combined with the novel’s interwoven array of connected events as the stories unfold is captivating to say the least. With a rich set of characters spanning multiple generations, we are taken to a variety of locations, situations and events that ultimately arrive at one cathartic moment.
Martin's ability to express deep emotional dialogues on one hand, and dish out harsh reality bites on the other shows that he is an author who is in full command of his voice. The narratives often conjured up such rich visualizations that many times I completely forgot that I was reading a novel.
In a time of regurgitated entertainment among a sea of mediocrity, “Hindsight is 2020” is nothing short of great storytelling, shining a beacon on what great writing can accomplish.
--John Richer
A Remarkable Narrative Tapestry: Unravelling ‘Hindsight is 2020’
In D. C. Martin's debut novel ‘Hindsight is 2020’, readers are immersed in a captivating journey into the human psyche entangled in the seemingly ordinary McLean family. Through a masterful interplay of psychological tension, intricate character development, unexpected plot twists, and an unsettling sense of déjà vu, this book delivers an unforgettable reading experience.
The characters, many of whom are writers or aspiring writers, invite readers into their inner worlds through an array of introspective journal entries and writing styles. The use of literary devices, references to literary works, and many characters' cathartic compulsion towards profanity add to the diversity of character voices. The McLean family's interconnected lives are entwined with ever-shifting perspectives. Generation-specific references provide unique contexts for each character's era, while reoccurring themes demonstrate timelessness. Martin has an ingenious approach. This prompts readers to contemplate the art of storytelling itself.
The novel’s self-awareness is a testament to its depth. Characters engage in thought-provoking discussions about the process of writing, footnotes, and strike-through editing, creating a narrative that mirrors their quest for effective self-expression. I believe the book is so self-aware it reviews itself. In the chapter cleverly titled “Last Amber Glow”, a character states “This novel is a tapestry. The thread that weaves it together is pure determination.” As I read that reflective statement by one of the characters, I had to agree and applaud D. C. Martin. I also laughed when I continued to read about how “readers would argue about symbolism and homages to great works”, as I had been keeping notes of all the literary works and novels referenced by different characters.
At its core, the novel unfolds as a captivating psychological thriller, a puzzle of uncertainties that keep readers on edge. The reader is pulled into the characters’ psyches as the McLean family embarks on individual journeys that weave together through time. It is a vulnerable and honest narrative. In the novel’s first portion, the reader must persevere through the intentional confusion that mirrors a sense of dementia. In the heart of the novel, the unsettling and revolting characters Jamie encounters while working at the cemetery are magnetic, further intensifying the psychological intrigue. Jamie’s interactions with these figures unravel deeper layers of mystery and suspense, intricately weaving their stories into the broader narrative.
As the story unfolds, pivotal themes of ancestral knowledge, love, grieving, addiction, repression, courage, fear, and an eerie sense of déjà vu emerge. As the McLean family’s saga unfolds across continents, readers are prompted to explore when to embrace a family legacy or quest to break free from the past, which mirrors the larger human experience.
‘Hindsight is 2020’ transcends typical storytelling boundaries and forges a new path. Martin has crafted an incredible debut novel that not only explores the multi-faceted nature of human experience but also challenges the very essence of literature itself. Through its complex characters, diverse writing styles, and suspense, the novel immerses readers in a captivating blend of psychological thriller and introspection. As the McLean family’s journey unfolds, ‘Hindsight is 2020’ invites us to ponder the power of words and the intricacies of identity. Martin sets an example of how we can explore the influences that shape our own lives when we are vulnerable enough to explore them honestly. Be prepared to be pulled in from every angle and shocked, leaving you yearning to re-enter the pages of this masterpiece.
--Julie Richer
Hindsight is 2020 is a novel spanning several generations of the McLean family, giving you glimpses into the inner workings of different family members. The book reads like a collection of short stories held together by the story of Gerry McLean, a man in his 70s facing a pivotal decision. The common thread throughout the book is the weight of choices made and the known or unknown impact of those decisions on the people around you. Some parts required extra attention, as some storylines had multiple layers that made me flip back and forth to the family tree at the back of the book. However, the reflective writing style drew me in and carried me through those layers, and I found it easy to connect with the characters, even the shadier ones. Hindsight is 2020 was a satisfying yet haunting read, and the stories and characters have lingered in my mind long after the last page.
--Eva Black
A remarkable first novel!
Hindsight is 2020 is a remarkable first book by a talented author. It delves into the history of the McLean family all the way from the early 1900s to the present time. The main character Gerry is a complicated man trying to deal with his past and the expectations of the world and himself. The story is told from the multiple perspectives of the various characters oftentimes in a nonlinear fashion. A variety of interesting and quite novel writing devices make this book quite unique. It is a somewhat challenging read and does require a level of engagement from you the reader but is definitely worth it! I particularly enjoy the varied settings of the book which are described in a very intimate way which I think really feels like lived experiences. The characters are equally diverse, some very relatable and some whose motives are much more complicated! This book is definitely worth a read, perhaps even more than once!
--Amanda Smiderle
Hindsight is 2020 is a multi-generational family saga about the McLean family that engages the reader right from the beginning and provides thought-provoking situations and elements that will stay with readers long after they finish the book. The main character, Gerry, is an older gentleman who is plagued with anxiety and finds himself in the middle of a worldwide pandemic. The pandemic offers him the opportunity to reflect on not only his past but his family’s past while also considering his future. The story is told in an interesting format that combines flashbacks, memories, multiple points of view, and more. It also features many different settings making it fast-paced and engrossing. Readers who enjoy introspection as well as multi-generational memoirs will love Hindsight is 2020.
The manuscript is quite clean and free of any grammatical errors. It has clearly been well-proofread and edited. The writing style comes across as intelligent and reasonable. Readers should not have any trouble following the storyline and understanding what is happening in each scene. The story does change timelines and perspectives from chapter to chapter which some readers will not prefer. The author does execute the multiple perspectives well, however.
One of Martin’s strengths as a writer is his ability to craft characters that are extremely well-developed and evoke emotions in the reader. Martin’s characters are relatable and realistic allowing readers to commiserate and empathize with their plight. The character development is the true highlight of Hindsight is 2020.
The intended audience is most likely a mixture of people who enjoy contemporary or literary fiction. Those who enjoy memoirs or family sagas might also find Hindsight is 2020 an enjoyable read. The multi-generational perspectives will appeal to a wide range of readers. At just under three hundred pages, Hindsight is 2020 is a fairly easy read and should not be overwhelming for most readers. Gerry’s experience in a pandemic will also resonate with readers who experienced the recent Covid-19 pandemic.
Overall, Hindsight is 2020 is an engaging family saga that will resonate with readers in a variety of ways. The multi-generational perspectives allow readers to find characters that they connect with on a number of different levels. The novel is incredibly well written making it enjoyable to read. The McLean family’s experiences are profound and endearing and it will provide a thought-provoking experience for readers. It is one of those books that readers won’t be able to walk away from without constantly thinking about the characters and lessons within the book.
--Chelsea Burdick
YourFirstReview.com
D. C. Martin delivers characters and narrative reminiscent of Robertson Davies’ Fifth Business.
With an intensity and ambiguity, at times painfully revealed, ´Hindsight’ is filled with arresting realizations that will stay with you.
–-Elena Petrus
D. C. Martin's novel Hindsight is 2020 intricately weaves the saga of the McLean family across five generations. Central to this expansive narrative is Gerry McLean, a character grappling with the weight of history and the uncertainties of the future. As he confronts his life's twilight, Gerry embarks on a journey of reclamation and retribution, addressing past wrongs inflicted upon his family. This family drama explores a rich tapestry of themes: love, decision-making, sacrifice, loss, and notions of the afterlife.
At first glance, the novel may seem centered on vengeance, yet it transcends this premise, delving into the complexities of familial love and the multifaceted nature of loss. Martin deftly examines the parent-child relationship, capturing its myriad facets, from misunderstandings and misconceptions to petty feuds and the profound love that ultimately prevails. The narrative employs various literary techniques such as flashforwards, flashbacks, dream sequences, and foreshadowing. This approach skillfully unveils character depth, allowing readers to engage more meaningfully with their decisions and motivations. These elements enrich the storytelling and enhance relatability, making the characters' experiences more resonant. The shifts between various characters' perspectives, though creative, can occasionally disrupt the narrative flow, leaving readers searching for clearer coherence. A chronological approach might have offered a more streamlined and deepened understanding of the story. The inclusion of Gerry's book alteration is an intriguing element, although its necessity to the overall plot may not be immediately evident to the reader. The pacing starts off gradually but gains momentum, evolving into a compelling read.
Hindsight is 2020 by D.C. Martin is a richly layered exploration of family dynamics, generational impacts, and the complexities of human relationships. Its gradual crescendo from a slow start to an engaging narrative mirrors the intricate unfolding of the McLean family saga. This book is a notable addition to readers who appreciate multifaceted family dramas and the exploration of the human condition through fiction.
--Literary Titan
A powerful literary tale of revenge and redemption.
Set in Canada, South Korea, and Tanzania, Martin’s latest is a family saga that unfolds over almost a century, taking readers on one man’s quest for revenge. Gerry McLean was never a model father. His childhood experiences, marked by his father’s absence and his mother’s remarriage, left emotional wounds that made it difficult for him to show love or prioritize time with his wife and son. However, when his son disappears without a trace, Gerry’s carefully constructed life crumbles around him.
The story is told in alternative voices, memories, dreams, and diary entries and switches between both the past and the present. This is an intricate tale that intertwines themes of redemption, revenge, family dynamics, and the weight of history. Gerry’s character is depicted as a man haunted by the past, burdened by the choices he’s made and the consequences they’ve wrought upon his life and relationships. His quest for redemption and revenge serves as the driving force behind the narrative, propelling him forward in search of closure and absolution. His inner turmoil is palpable, portrayed with raw emotion and introspection as he grapples with the ghosts of his past. Central to Gerry’s struggle is his fraught relationship with his son, Jamie. Their distant connection serves as a poignant reminder of Gerry’s failings as a father, his inability to fully connect with the ones he loves and the lingering regrets that accompany such neglect.
His transformation into an obsession with Jamie after his death speaks volumes about the complexities of his character and the depths of his regret: in life, Gerry’s relationship with Jamie was distant, perhaps even neglectful, reflecting his inability to prioritize his familial connections over his own inner turmoil and preoccupations; however, Jamie’s death serves as a catalyst for Gerry’s introspection and self-reckoning. Suddenly faced with the permanence of Jamie’s absence, Gerry is forced to confront the full extent of his neglect and the profound loss it has wrought upon his life. In contrast, his bond with Maud is one of tenderness and trust. Despite Maud’s forgiveness of Gerry’s shortcomings, readers may find it difficult to reconcile his absenteeism with his familial responsibilities. Jamie’s haunting backstory elicits sympathy and compassion from readers, making them ache for his tragic fate. The story is complicated, but the patient readers will be rewarded with a gripping tale of pivotal decisions, familial ties, and the haunting nature of revenge that resonates long after the final page is turned.
--The Prairies Reviews
A father struggles with his inner turmoil in Martin’s outstanding novel. Gerry McLean is struggling with the burden of his past and the unknowns of what lies ahead. Over 20 years ago, his son James mysteriously disappeared, and despite a comprehensive police investigation, the case remained unsolved. Now, when James’s body is finally discovered, Gerry is filled with regret for neglecting his son during their time together. But can seeking revenge on those responsible bring Gerry redemption?
With the weight of the stakes hanging heavily in the air, Martin’s writing weaves a gripping drama that leaves little room for breath. The majority of the story takes place in a quaint town in Ontario, but it also transports the reader to South Korea and Tanzania. The narrative follows Gerry from his childhood to his twilight years. Filled with allusions to past wars and the pandemics of both 1920 and 2020, this moving account is firmly rooted in reality, adding to its emotional impact. Through moments of childhood memories and intricate character development, the story unfolds with psychological depth. Those who can focus through the complex narrative will find themselves greatly rewarded upon reaching the final page. A powerfully rendered tale that delves into choices made in a single moment, the bonds of family and their lasting impact, and the haunting nature of betrayal and revenge on one’s life.
--Bookview Reviews
j
--Dave Smiderle
Hindsight is 2020 is a thought-provoking book for an adventurous reader ready to take on the emotional and at times eclectic McLean family saga. This is not a lazy or mindless read, but a book that demands your attention as you weave together the threads of the McLean family tapestry over generations of trauma and loss. The characters are compelling and I had great sympathy and attachment to some, and anger and bewilderment, towards others. The title of this book is also quite fitting for the story as well as for our present time as we collectively return back to our lives after pandemic shutdowns and self and otherly imposed isolations from each other. An ambitious novel that will hold your attention as you become enmeshed in this family saga.
--K. Perz
If I had to describe “Hindsight is 2020” using only one word, it would be cinematic. Every scene in this novel is packed with such expressive language that it feels like you are watching a movie play out as you read it.
The descriptive use of imagery, combined with the novel’s interwoven array of connected events as the stories unfold is captivating to say the least. With a rich set of characters spanning multiple generations, we are taken to a variety of locations, situations and events that ultimately arrive at one cathartic moment.
Martin's ability to express deep emotional dialogues on one hand, and dish out harsh reality bites on the other shows that he is an author who is in full command of his voice. The narratives often conjured up such rich visualizations that many times I completely forgot that I was reading a novel.
In a time of regurgitated entertainment among a sea of mediocrity, “Hindsight is 2020” is nothing short of great storytelling, shining a beacon on what great writing can accomplish.
--John Richer
A Remarkable Narrative Tapestry: Unravelling ‘Hindsight is 2020’
In D. C. Martin's debut novel ‘Hindsight is 2020’, readers are immersed in a captivating journey into the human psyche entangled in the seemingly ordinary McLean family. Through a masterful interplay of psychological tension, intricate character development, unexpected plot twists, and an unsettling sense of déjà vu, this book delivers an unforgettable reading experience.
The characters, many of whom are writers or aspiring writers, invite readers into their inner worlds through an array of introspective journal entries and writing styles. The use of literary devices, references to literary works, and many characters' cathartic compulsion towards profanity add to the diversity of character voices. The McLean family's interconnected lives are entwined with ever-shifting perspectives. Generation-specific references provide unique contexts for each character's era, while reoccurring themes demonstrate timelessness. Martin has an ingenious approach. This prompts readers to contemplate the art of storytelling itself.
The novel’s self-awareness is a testament to its depth. Characters engage in thought-provoking discussions about the process of writing, footnotes, and strike-through editing, creating a narrative that mirrors their quest for effective self-expression. I believe the book is so self-aware it reviews itself. In the chapter cleverly titled “Last Amber Glow”, a character states “This novel is a tapestry. The thread that weaves it together is pure determination.” As I read that reflective statement by one of the characters, I had to agree and applaud D. C. Martin. I also laughed when I continued to read about how “readers would argue about symbolism and homages to great works”, as I had been keeping notes of all the literary works and novels referenced by different characters.
At its core, the novel unfolds as a captivating psychological thriller, a puzzle of uncertainties that keep readers on edge. The reader is pulled into the characters’ psyches as the McLean family embarks on individual journeys that weave together through time. It is a vulnerable and honest narrative. In the novel’s first portion, the reader must persevere through the intentional confusion that mirrors a sense of dementia. In the heart of the novel, the unsettling and revolting characters Jamie encounters while working at the cemetery are magnetic, further intensifying the psychological intrigue. Jamie’s interactions with these figures unravel deeper layers of mystery and suspense, intricately weaving their stories into the broader narrative.
As the story unfolds, pivotal themes of ancestral knowledge, love, grieving, addiction, repression, courage, fear, and an eerie sense of déjà vu emerge. As the McLean family’s saga unfolds across continents, readers are prompted to explore when to embrace a family legacy or quest to break free from the past, which mirrors the larger human experience.
‘Hindsight is 2020’ transcends typical storytelling boundaries and forges a new path. Martin has crafted an incredible debut novel that not only explores the multi-faceted nature of human experience but also challenges the very essence of literature itself. Through its complex characters, diverse writing styles, and suspense, the novel immerses readers in a captivating blend of psychological thriller and introspection. As the McLean family’s journey unfolds, ‘Hindsight is 2020’ invites us to ponder the power of words and the intricacies of identity. Martin sets an example of how we can explore the influences that shape our own lives when we are vulnerable enough to explore them honestly. Be prepared to be pulled in from every angle and shocked, leaving you yearning to re-enter the pages of this masterpiece.
--Julie Richer
Hindsight is 2020 is a novel spanning several generations of the McLean family, giving you glimpses into the inner workings of different family members. The book reads like a collection of short stories held together by the story of Gerry McLean, a man in his 70s facing a pivotal decision. The common thread throughout the book is the weight of choices made and the known or unknown impact of those decisions on the people around you. Some parts required extra attention, as some storylines had multiple layers that made me flip back and forth to the family tree at the back of the book. However, the reflective writing style drew me in and carried me through those layers, and I found it easy to connect with the characters, even the shadier ones. Hindsight is 2020 was a satisfying yet haunting read, and the stories and characters have lingered in my mind long after the last page.
--Eva Black
A remarkable first novel!
Hindsight is 2020 is a remarkable first book by a talented author. It delves into the history of the McLean family all the way from the early 1900s to the present time. The main character Gerry is a complicated man trying to deal with his past and the expectations of the world and himself. The story is told from the multiple perspectives of the various characters oftentimes in a nonlinear fashion. A variety of interesting and quite novel writing devices make this book quite unique. It is a somewhat challenging read and does require a level of engagement from you the reader but is definitely worth it! I particularly enjoy the varied settings of the book which are described in a very intimate way which I think really feels like lived experiences. The characters are equally diverse, some very relatable and some whose motives are much more complicated! This book is definitely worth a read, perhaps even more than once!
--Amanda Smiderle
Hindsight is 2020 is a multi-generational family saga about the McLean family that engages the reader right from the beginning and provides thought-provoking situations and elements that will stay with readers long after they finish the book. The main character, Gerry, is an older gentleman who is plagued with anxiety and finds himself in the middle of a worldwide pandemic. The pandemic offers him the opportunity to reflect on not only his past but his family’s past while also considering his future. The story is told in an interesting format that combines flashbacks, memories, multiple points of view, and more. It also features many different settings making it fast-paced and engrossing. Readers who enjoy introspection as well as multi-generational memoirs will love Hindsight is 2020.
The manuscript is quite clean and free of any grammatical errors. It has clearly been well-proofread and edited. The writing style comes across as intelligent and reasonable. Readers should not have any trouble following the storyline and understanding what is happening in each scene. The story does change timelines and perspectives from chapter to chapter which some readers will not prefer. The author does execute the multiple perspectives well, however.
One of Martin’s strengths as a writer is his ability to craft characters that are extremely well-developed and evoke emotions in the reader. Martin’s characters are relatable and realistic allowing readers to commiserate and empathize with their plight. The character development is the true highlight of Hindsight is 2020.
The intended audience is most likely a mixture of people who enjoy contemporary or literary fiction. Those who enjoy memoirs or family sagas might also find Hindsight is 2020 an enjoyable read. The multi-generational perspectives will appeal to a wide range of readers. At just under three hundred pages, Hindsight is 2020 is a fairly easy read and should not be overwhelming for most readers. Gerry’s experience in a pandemic will also resonate with readers who experienced the recent Covid-19 pandemic.
Overall, Hindsight is 2020 is an engaging family saga that will resonate with readers in a variety of ways. The multi-generational perspectives allow readers to find characters that they connect with on a number of different levels. The novel is incredibly well written making it enjoyable to read. The McLean family’s experiences are profound and endearing and it will provide a thought-provoking experience for readers. It is one of those books that readers won’t be able to walk away from without constantly thinking about the characters and lessons within the book.
--Chelsea Burdick
YourFirstReview.com
D. C. Martin delivers characters and narrative reminiscent of Robertson Davies’ Fifth Business.
With an intensity and ambiguity, at times painfully revealed, ´Hindsight’ is filled with arresting realizations that will stay with you.
–-Elena Petrus
D. C. Martin's novel Hindsight is 2020 intricately weaves the saga of the McLean family across five generations. Central to this expansive narrative is Gerry McLean, a character grappling with the weight of history and the uncertainties of the future. As he confronts his life's twilight, Gerry embarks on a journey of reclamation and retribution, addressing past wrongs inflicted upon his family. This family drama explores a rich tapestry of themes: love, decision-making, sacrifice, loss, and notions of the afterlife.
At first glance, the novel may seem centered on vengeance, yet it transcends this premise, delving into the complexities of familial love and the multifaceted nature of loss. Martin deftly examines the parent-child relationship, capturing its myriad facets, from misunderstandings and misconceptions to petty feuds and the profound love that ultimately prevails. The narrative employs various literary techniques such as flashforwards, flashbacks, dream sequences, and foreshadowing. This approach skillfully unveils character depth, allowing readers to engage more meaningfully with their decisions and motivations. These elements enrich the storytelling and enhance relatability, making the characters' experiences more resonant. The shifts between various characters' perspectives, though creative, can occasionally disrupt the narrative flow, leaving readers searching for clearer coherence. A chronological approach might have offered a more streamlined and deepened understanding of the story. The inclusion of Gerry's book alteration is an intriguing element, although its necessity to the overall plot may not be immediately evident to the reader. The pacing starts off gradually but gains momentum, evolving into a compelling read.
Hindsight is 2020 by D.C. Martin is a richly layered exploration of family dynamics, generational impacts, and the complexities of human relationships. Its gradual crescendo from a slow start to an engaging narrative mirrors the intricate unfolding of the McLean family saga. This book is a notable addition to readers who appreciate multifaceted family dramas and the exploration of the human condition through fiction.
--Literary Titan
A powerful literary tale of revenge and redemption.
Set in Canada, South Korea, and Tanzania, Martin’s latest is a family saga that unfolds over almost a century, taking readers on one man’s quest for revenge. Gerry McLean was never a model father. His childhood experiences, marked by his father’s absence and his mother’s remarriage, left emotional wounds that made it difficult for him to show love or prioritize time with his wife and son. However, when his son disappears without a trace, Gerry’s carefully constructed life crumbles around him.
The story is told in alternative voices, memories, dreams, and diary entries and switches between both the past and the present. This is an intricate tale that intertwines themes of redemption, revenge, family dynamics, and the weight of history. Gerry’s character is depicted as a man haunted by the past, burdened by the choices he’s made and the consequences they’ve wrought upon his life and relationships. His quest for redemption and revenge serves as the driving force behind the narrative, propelling him forward in search of closure and absolution. His inner turmoil is palpable, portrayed with raw emotion and introspection as he grapples with the ghosts of his past. Central to Gerry’s struggle is his fraught relationship with his son, Jamie. Their distant connection serves as a poignant reminder of Gerry’s failings as a father, his inability to fully connect with the ones he loves and the lingering regrets that accompany such neglect.
His transformation into an obsession with Jamie after his death speaks volumes about the complexities of his character and the depths of his regret: in life, Gerry’s relationship with Jamie was distant, perhaps even neglectful, reflecting his inability to prioritize his familial connections over his own inner turmoil and preoccupations; however, Jamie’s death serves as a catalyst for Gerry’s introspection and self-reckoning. Suddenly faced with the permanence of Jamie’s absence, Gerry is forced to confront the full extent of his neglect and the profound loss it has wrought upon his life. In contrast, his bond with Maud is one of tenderness and trust. Despite Maud’s forgiveness of Gerry’s shortcomings, readers may find it difficult to reconcile his absenteeism with his familial responsibilities. Jamie’s haunting backstory elicits sympathy and compassion from readers, making them ache for his tragic fate. The story is complicated, but the patient readers will be rewarded with a gripping tale of pivotal decisions, familial ties, and the haunting nature of revenge that resonates long after the final page is turned.
--The Prairies Reviews
A father struggles with his inner turmoil in Martin’s outstanding novel. Gerry McLean is struggling with the burden of his past and the unknowns of what lies ahead. Over 20 years ago, his son James mysteriously disappeared, and despite a comprehensive police investigation, the case remained unsolved. Now, when James’s body is finally discovered, Gerry is filled with regret for neglecting his son during their time together. But can seeking revenge on those responsible bring Gerry redemption?
With the weight of the stakes hanging heavily in the air, Martin’s writing weaves a gripping drama that leaves little room for breath. The majority of the story takes place in a quaint town in Ontario, but it also transports the reader to South Korea and Tanzania. The narrative follows Gerry from his childhood to his twilight years. Filled with allusions to past wars and the pandemics of both 1920 and 2020, this moving account is firmly rooted in reality, adding to its emotional impact. Through moments of childhood memories and intricate character development, the story unfolds with psychological depth. Those who can focus through the complex narrative will find themselves greatly rewarded upon reaching the final page. A powerfully rendered tale that delves into choices made in a single moment, the bonds of family and their lasting impact, and the haunting nature of betrayal and revenge on one’s life.
--Bookview Reviews
j
