Great historical fiction about Galveston, Texas! Reviewed by Richard R. Blake for Reader Views (3/5/09).
Michael Kasenow resourcefully tracks the plight of the oppressed and exploited “alley people” of Galveston, Texas in the post Civil War era. The Last Paradise is a stirring story of the strength and endurance of these unwavering men and women fighting to keep their dignity through the trials of injustice and bigotry in the age of Jim Crow.
A master at character development…
Kasenow writes with such realism…
Includes both rollicking and subtle humor and a thread of romance throughout the story…
The Last Paradise, an editors choice book, is destined to establish Michael Kasenow as a serious historical fiction author.
Wonderful characters! Reviewed by Kelly Davis for Bookideas (3/12/09).
Lest you get the idea that this is a depressing novel about a wretched underclass, let me assure you nothing could be farther from the truth. Kasenow's cast of characters is one of the most endearing motley crews I've had the pleasure of joining since John Steinbeck's Tortilla Flats!
Evocative writing…
I highly recommend The Last Paradise.
A must Read! Poignant! Breath Taking!
Reviewed by Rod Clark for BookReview
(3/31/09).
Michael Kasenow’s wonderful new book, The Last Paradise creates an evocative portrait of turn of the 20th century Galveston. Painted against a vivid and historically accurate canvas, Kasenow’s drama has the social punch of a Sinclair Lewis novel, the action of a Jack London adventure, and a lively sense of humor reminiscent of the works of Samuel Langhorne Clemens (Mark Twain).
|
|
|
|
| A Great Read! Reviewed by Norman Goldman for Bookpleasures (3/12/09). |
Kasenow has certainly done his homework in recreating the flavor of Galveston at the turn of the last century as he blends vivid and harsh descriptions with social, political and economic commentary that is caught up in a hideous and haunting tangle of racism. His knack in revealing off-the-wall characters in small gestures and poignant dialogue adds to their authenticity as we
witness them being caught up in a range of situations, some not exactly lawful, that
come together into a tightly knitted story. He even manages to throw in a bit of romance and sly humor providing the reader with a change of pace and a kind of relaxed center from the various mad events spinning around in the novel.
You want to keep reading…
Brilliant Writing! Captivating! Reviewed by Lynette Lasko for Feathered Quill
(3/30/09). |
Mr. Kasenow’s brilliant writing in this particular novel affords the reader a dynamic look into the post-Civil War era, and reminds us of where this country once was regarding slavery, bigotry and other similar injustices, and how far our country has come. Vivid descriptions of this incredibly poor city and its inhabitants are expertly laced throughout the book.
The Last Paradise is a wonderfully woven story that unfolds it’s raw and gritty message right in the beginning and does not waiver until the thrilling end.
Five Stars! Reviewed by
Tami Brady for TCM Reviews (4/3/09).
Immediately, the reader becomes part of the community. From the start of the book, these people feel real with depth of
character, and above all a sense of humor that gets them through very difficult situations.
More Reviews |
|
|
