Review of Swallows Also Fall

Please use this sub-forum to discuss any non-fiction books such as autobiographies or political commentary books.
Post Reply
Ankit Gupta 7
Posts: 6
Joined: 12 May 2024, 02:41
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 5

Re: Review of Swallows Also Fall

Post by Ankit Gupta 7 »

The review provided valuable insights. The book appears fascinating, with a plot set during the era of the Spanish flu. I'm excited to dive in and learn more about Marceli's journey following the death of his parents.
Rodel Barnachea
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 1676
Joined: 24 Jun 2020, 22:16
Favorite Author: Lemony Snicket
Currently Reading: The Unfakeable Code®
Bookshelf Size: 87
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-rodel-barnachea.html
Latest Review: An Accessible Iliad by Emer Jackson
fav_author_id: 5004

Post by Rodel Barnachea »

"Swallows Also Fall" by CR Armeny tells the story of Marcelino Massana, a man shaped by his harsh upbringing and later resistance against Franco's authoritarian regime in Spain. The book blends history with personal accounts to shed light on Marcelino's life, his struggles against oppression, and his role in the Spanish Civil War.
User avatar
Sirajuddin A
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 1663
Joined: 02 Jun 2018, 05:35
Currently Reading: Lessons to My Younger Self
Bookshelf Size: 575
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-sirajuddin-a.html
Latest Review: We are Voulhire: A New Arrival under Great Skies by Matthew Tysz

Post by Sirajuddin A »

This biographical account of  Marcelino Massana reveals engaging aspects of his revolutionary life and his relation to the Spanish Civil War.
User avatar
Stephen Christopher 1
Minimum Wage Millionaire Reader
Posts: 1808
Joined: 07 Feb 2023, 04:27
Favorite Book: The Book Thief
Currently Reading: The Girl Who Loved Caravaggio
Bookshelf Size: 248
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-stephen-christopher-1.html
Latest Review: Harold and Lewey by Bela Feketekuty
2025 Reading Goal: 12
2025 Goal Completion: 0%

Post by Stephen Christopher 1 »

Family biographies are interesting to read. You mentioned that it switches POVs at times. Do you feel the book could be structured a little better to make this a little less confusing?
Reva Parker
In It Together VIP
Posts: 1400
Joined: 17 May 2020, 11:21
Favorite Book: Life
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 657
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-reva-parker.html
Latest Review: Dear Abigail by Richard Rees

Post by Reva Parker »

Thank you for your great review. I'm so glad you enjoyed the book. I hope Marceli gets well. I also hope that he somehow has a life with love and happiness after losing both parents so young. I did think the writing and editing were well done in the sample, but I'm just not in the mood for stories about war and illnesses right now, so I will pass. I hope that many others will enjoy reading it.
Ram Sahni
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 128
Joined: 02 Feb 2024, 13:54
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 51
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-ram-sahni.html
Latest Review: The Kovalenko Secret by Philip L Rettew

Post by Ram Sahni »

The story can serve as a gateway to further exploration of the Spanish Civil War. Readers may be inspired to delve deeper into the historical details and events surrounding the conflict.Congrats on #BOTD
User avatar
mrlefty0706
In It Together VIP
Posts: 2309
Joined: 06 Aug 2020, 00:45
Favorite Author: Jack Winnick
Favorite Book: Where, Right Matters
Currently Reading: This Is Your Last Warning
Bookshelf Size: 1276
Reading Device: B00I15SB16
fav_author_id: 77547
2025 Reading Goal: 150
2025 Goal Completion: 115%

Post by mrlefty0706 »

“Swallows Also Fall” by CR Armeny is a story about Marcelino Massana and it begins in 1944 during the Spanish Flu at the end of WWII and during the Spanish Civil War. Marcelino was a very sick baby with the Spanish Flu, his mother and father both died and his uncle took him to Solsona so that he could be raised in a church environment where strict rules would be imposed. The Spanish Civil War occurred when Franco took over and ruled with an authoritarian form of leadership. Marcelino grew up to oppose Franco and he formed a group of Maquis a.k.a. Resistors, to Franco’s rule. To learn more about Spanish history during this time period read “Swallows Also Fall”. I found the sample somewhat hard to follow but it supplemented the very good official review.
_Rhea Jacob
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 512
Joined: 12 Aug 2023, 14:27
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 38
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-rhea-jacob.html
Latest Review: Social Skills Success for Young Adults by Dallas Brennan

Post by _Rhea Jacob »

It looks like an interesting history book surrounding Marceli and the Spanish civil war and more, however, I think I will be skipping it for now. Thank you for your review!
Elijah Reuben
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 58
Joined: 20 Jan 2024, 01:19
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 8
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-elijah-reuben.html
Latest Review: Entanglement - Quantum and Otherwise by John K Danenbarger

Post by Elijah Reuben »

A well-written review 👏
I think the life of Marcelino including his struggles should be emulated by freedom fighters all over the world. It's never easy to achieve a desired goal.
Avinash Kumar Thakur
Posts: 5
Joined: 14 May 2024, 01:42
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 0

Post by Avinash Kumar Thakur »

"Swallows Also Fall" doesn't just recount historical events; it breathes life into them through the eyes of its characters. As you turn the pages, you're not just reading about war-torn Europe; you're walking alongside individuals whose lives are irrevocably changed by the turmoil around them.

Armeny's characters are not just names on a page; they are people with hopes, fears, and dreams. You feel their love, their loss, and their resilience as they grapple with the uncertainties of war. From the tender moments of connection amidst chaos to the heart-wrenching farewells, every scene is imbued with a deeply human touch.

What sets "Swallows Also Fall" apart is its meticulous attention to historical detail. It's not just about the big events; it's about the small moments that shape lives. Armeny's research shines through, painting a vivid picture of the era with authenticity and depth. You can almost feel the weight of history as you immerse yourself in the world of the novel.

But perhaps what resonates most deeply is the novel's exploration of the human spirit. In the face of adversity, Armeny's characters display remarkable courage, sacrifice, and determination. Their stories remind us of the strength that lies within each of us, even in the darkest of times.

In the end, "Swallows Also Fall" is more than just a historical novel; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It's a reminder that even in the midst of chaos, love, hope, and courage endure, offering solace and inspiration to readers long after the final page is turned.
Last edited by Avinash Kumar Thakur on 14 May 2024, 22:50, edited 1 time in total.
Aremu Titilopemi Funmilayo
Posts: 488
Joined: 11 Apr 2023, 21:34
Currently Reading: Fireproof Happiness
Bookshelf Size: 62
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-aremu-titilopemi-funmilayo.html
Latest Review: In The Beginning... Man Created God? by Brandon Irving

Post by Aremu Titilopemi Funmilayo »

Well, I've fallen in love with history books these days so I would love to read the book. Kudos to the author for winning BOTD with this book!
User avatar
Abiodunakinola
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 617
Joined: 24 Mar 2022, 17:02
Favorite Book:
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 79
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-abiodunakinola.html
Latest Review: EMA by Aian D. Grey

Post by Abiodunakinola »

In “Swallows Also Fall” by CR Armeny, the life of Marcelino Massana is intricately woven with the history of the Spanish Civil War, providing a nuanced perspective on his struggles against authoritarian rule. The author's connection to Marceli's foster family adds a personal touch, making this historical account both passionate and compelling despite the challenges of limited source material. Nice review.
Latest Review: EMA by Aian D. Grey
User avatar
EBERE WRITES COCEPT
In It Together VIP
Posts: 516
Joined: 10 Apr 2023, 15:49
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 137
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-ebere-writes-cocept.html
Latest Review: Forty Years to Life by Brenda Bradford Ward

Post by EBERE WRITES COCEPT »

I'm fascinated by CR Armeny's ability to shed light on lesser-known historical figures like Marcelino Massana in 'Swallows Also Fall'. The author's deep dive into Marcelino's life and his resistance against oppression is both enlightening and inspiring. Congrats on the BOTD.
User avatar
MMcB
Posts: 473
Joined: 13 Dec 2020, 22:29
Favorite Book: Island of Missing Trees
Currently Reading: Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures
Bookshelf Size: 100
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-mmcb.html
Latest Review: The Elephant(s) in the Room by Denny Laake and Monica Laake Beavers

Post by MMcB »

Thank you for the interesting review of “Swallows Also Fall" by CR Armeny. I do not think there are many books about the life of Marcelino Massana and his involvement in the Spanish Civil War and all that happened during that historical period. I am glad to know this book looks at his life, from childhood on and includes information about his political views. This seems like a great read!
If you're going through hell, keep going.
~ Sir Winston Churchill
User avatar
Veronica Hunter
In It Together VIP
Posts: 503
Joined: 10 Sep 2023, 23:16
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 87
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-veronica-hunter.html
Latest Review: Circumstances of War by Robert John Gardner

Post by Veronica Hunter »

CR Armeny's 'Swallows Also Fall' is a testament to the untold stories of bravery and resistance during the Spanish Civil War. Marcelino Massana's journey from a sickly child to a courageous freedom fighter is insightful. Congratulations on the book of today award.
Post Reply

Return to “Non-Fiction Books”