Review of Long Branch

Post by **Kutloano Makhuvhela** » 30 Jul 2024, 18:06

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Long Branch" by Dan Ramm.]

4 out of 5 stars

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Long Branch by Dan Ramm is a crime thriller that follows a struggling actor as he tries to survive in Hollywood when COVID-19 has put everything on hold. Dan Ramm’s bio is fascinating. He is an Emmy-nominated producer who has extensive credits on many TV shows. Dan is also an author, and this book is one of his. His background in show business is clearly visible when reading this book because the protagonist is an actor who is looking for his second comeback in the industry. This book is slow but gripping, chilled, and moving. It is one you won’t forget any time soon.

Mason Powell is what one could describe as a ‘has-been actor’. His successful TV show, Tin Star, aired a long time ago, and it propelled him to stardom. He won awards and was rubbing shoulders with you-know-who’s of the industry. But now that seems like ages because he hasn’t been called in a long time to a new role. He now makes his living by making public appearances and signing autographs, but that is not enough. He needs something soon. His manager, Jack, works very hard behind the scenes to get him something, but it is tough.

One day, Mason receives bad news about his investments. He has lost everything. He is forced to sell all his belongings, like his house. He doesn’t know what to do until he remembers that he still owns the house he inherited from his late mother in the small town called Long Branch in Georgia. He figures he could go there, fix it up, sell it, and use the money to make something of his life. However, unfortunately, he finds that this town might be small, but it definitely harbours deep and dark secrets. What are these secrets? Who is involved?

The answers to these questions can be found between the covers of this book. I enjoyed reading it so much. Not only will you find the answers, but you will also enjoy the journey to them. Mason Powell is a relatable character who has virtues and flaws like anybody else. When he gets to his old hometown, you see all of his personalities come out. These problems all fall on him to deal with. He didn’t ask for them, but he definitely has to face them head-on.

The author made sure that Mason Powell was the star of this story. That might sound obvious since he is the protagonist, but as you read the book, you will understand why. He was a man who lost everything. He hit rock bottom, and the author made sure we understood this condition by fully describing it for us. Then, on his journey to redemption, more problems came that promised to deter him from his goal.

The author did a wonderful job setting the story in this small town called Long Branch. This grounded the setting and shifted the focus from the environment to the characters themselves. We experienced the environment through the characters. The town came alive in style. All the characters that appeared had roles. There was no throw-away character. Even those who had a minor appearance played a major role in the plot. My favourite had to be Buck. He was interesting and kept me on my toes. I didn’t know what he would do next. Sometimes I wasn’t even sure whether he was on the side of Mason or not.

The writing was gentle, slowing the pace as a result. This made sure I was immersed in the characters and spent a lot of time with them. I knew what each liked and disliked, which made me stay alert and try to guess who might be a villain. The pace was consistent from start to finish. The climax was breath-taking. Everything was moving now in a different direction, and the book was flowing. I loved the conclusion, which tied everything together to give a heart-warming and, at the same time, sad ending.

What I disliked were the errors that I came across. They were many and took away my enjoyment of what would have otherwise been a perfect book. I found myself rereading sentences, trying to make sense of them. I think if the book were to go through another round of editing, it would be perfect.

That’s why I proudly rate this book four out of five stars. I knocked off one star because of the errors. Nonetheless, I would recommend this book to lovers of crime thrillers, especially those set in small towns with a little touch of Western style. Mason Powell made the best protagonist because most people would feel close to him, especially in this fast-paced age. Indeed, I see this book being adapted into a TV show or a feature film.

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Long Branch
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RJ Reviews · Post by **RJ Reviews** » 02 Aug 2024, 10:19

A book lacking professional editing, no matter how intriguing, doesn't appeal to me. The book seems to have promises, an actor's struggles to overcome hard times and regain his lost fortune. I genuinely hope the author will care to arrange for a round of editing to get rid of the errors. Your review was detailed and honest. Thank you.

Post by **Stephen Christopher 1** » 02 Aug 2024, 23:59

As I was reading your review I also thought this book would make a fun TV series. Despite all the errors, I'm going to add this one to my list. Thanks for introducing it to me.

Post by **Boring Pigeon** » 03 Aug 2024, 06:34

This review provides great insight into "Long Branch" by Dan Ramm, a crime thriller set in Hollywood during the COVID-19 pandemic. The reviewer praises the author's background in show business, as it brings authenticity to the protagonist's journey as a struggling actor. They highlight the relatability of the main character and the well-developed small town setting of Long Branch. The pacing and climax are described as engaging, with a satisfying conclusion. However, the review mentions numerous errors that affected the reading experience. Overall, the book receives a rating of four out of five stars. Recommended for fans of crime thrillers set in small towns. Gripping plot, held me spellbound throughout.

Post by **Mary Barnes+** » 07 Aug 2024, 04:21

Dan Ramm's portrayal of a struggling actor seeking solace and redemption is both compelling and relatable. The novel effectively builds suspense while exploring themes of loss, identity, and the complexities of small-town life. Though hampered by minor editing issues, Ramm's talent for storytelling shines through.

Gerry Steen · Post by **Gerry Steen** » 07 Aug 2024, 13:22

I enjoy books that take the time to develop characters and give them a backstory. The small town of Long branch is intriguing. What secrets does it hold? Will Mason's luck improve? I hope so. I have not read the book, but I am rooting for him because of your review. I am glad that you pointed out that this book needs a good round of editing. Thank you for this well-written and honest review.