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The Balladeer
Fred Calvert, author
Kentucky Balladeer, Bobby Wayner, 50, had run away from home as a boy two days after his older brother, Eldon, died. After years at sea and more years locked up in Folsom Prison, he decides to do what he's always been afraid to do--return home to reconnect with his family. He also wants to solve the mystery of why his brother had been shot by a German immigrant. Many in the community had alleged the German was a Nazi, and that he had even murdered his own family. Bobby wants the truth. He also wants to confess the little lie that he'd told that he thought was innocent, but, in fact, it had helped to kill his beloved brother.
Plot/Idea: 8 out of 10
Originality: 8 out of 10
Prose: 9 out of 10
Character/Execution: 10 out of 10
Overall: 8.75 out of 10
Assessment:
The first paragraph of this winning novel hooks readers and sets the tone for Calvert's story about a man going home to face his demons. The narrator's voice is strong and grabs readers, building tension as the turbulent story unfolds. Vivid description, fully developed characters, and tight plotting will appeal to readers and keep them captivated until the very end.
Date Submitted: June 06, 2016