Review of Swallows Also Fall

[John Owen]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Swallows Also Fall" by CR Armeny.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Little is known about Marcelino Massana. Around the time of the Spanish Flu, a sickly and weak Marceli was brought to Rosana's family by his father Manel and aunt Pepeta. Marceli's mother would then die of the flu, followed shortly by his father. His uncle Robert would then forcibly take him to be brought up in a church environment in Solsona, where the strict rules and apathy towards people's freedom, opinions, and feelings would shape his perspective and fate forever. He would later rub shoulders with oppressors such as the church, landowners, and the rich, and he would even form a group of "Maquis," who opposed Franco's occupation and authoritarian leadership. This is just part of his exploits, but if you want to learn more about him and his relation to the Spanish Civil War, read "Swallows Also Fall" by CR Armeny.

I didn't know this book was grounded in history until I reached the last section where the author explained their motivation for writing the book. As a person who was opposed to the government of the day, there were bibliographies written about him, painting him as a terrorist, but all those were simply propaganda to discredit his legacy. There are also true writings about him from those who actually personally knew him and interacted with him, but there's not much about his earlier life.

That's the gap the author tries to fill, even though they admit it isn't as complete as it should be. Also, the author is related to Marceli's foster family, so I understand why they are so passionate about it. It's amazing that they have managed to string together such an amazing account of Marceli, despite the limited information available on him (which is basically very limited writings on him and stories told from the author's father).

I think the points of view were mixed up a bit, but I managed to piece it all together. There are times the story is told from Marceli's perspective without as much as a clue on who it was. I only understood whose perspective it really was when I read the book and the review description. Also, the introduction starts much later, then the story shifts to a totally different timeline — from when Rosana, her brothers, and Marceli were little — and that threw me off a little. I managed to fit everything together, so I can't say it's so much of an issue.

I didn't find anything seriously off-putting, so the book earns 5 out of 5 stars from me. I highly recommend this book to those inclined towards history, especially historical wars and similar events.

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Swallows Also Fall
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[Jessica Uchechi Azuka]

This book is a historical novel that tells us about a man called Marcelino and his life experiences. It highlights historical events that happened during his lifetime. This is an amazing book and review.

[Conshelle Dwight William]

Wow, "Swallows Also Fall" by CR Armeny sounds like an incredible read! It's fascinating how the author has filled in the gaps of Marcelino Massana's life, despite the limited information. The personal connection to Marceli's foster family must have added a unique perspective. I can see why you found this historical account so captivating! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on it.

[Leen282]

Recent history (the word 'recent' probably reflects my age) makes a story so much more tangible, so much more intriguing. When facts and imagination are mixed, it is often difficult to know what is true and what not. In any case, the life of Marceli, growing up an orphan and opposing a government, makes for an interesting read.

[Sushan Ekanayake]

"Swallows Also Fall" by CR Armeny unveils the obscured life of Marcelino Massana amidst the Spanish Civil War and the Spanish Flu. Armeny's narrative dives deep, blending personal anecdotes with historical research, presenting a powerful portrayal beyond the tainted image of a 'terrorist'—an enriching read for history buffs! Congratulations on being BOTD!

[Harshitha G B]

From blurb and your review, this book looks like war based, politics agenda, women fighting to acknowledge their existence. The life journey the boy, especially when author related to him directly will support the facts written.

[Harshitha G B]

From blurb and your review, this book looks like war based, politics agenda, women fighting to acknowledge their existence. The life journey the boy, especially when author related to him directly will support the facts written.

[María Andrea Fernández Sepúlveda]

My grandparents fought and later fled Franco's tyranny, so I feel special gratitude that C.R. Armeny is part of the collective that wants to keep the Spanish Civil War voices alive. And I love the poetic note of the book's title. Thank you for your review.

[williams Emerald]

Your detailed review about the book 'Swallows Also Fall' by CR Armeny is an eye-opener. The review helped explain better how the book does a remarkable job of blending historical facts with a compelling fictional account, bringing Marcelino Massana's complex life and the Catalonian resistance movement to the forefront. Despite the challenges of limited historical records and shifting perspectives, the author skillfully fills in the gaps of Marceli's early life, driven by a personal connection to his foster family. This immersive read offers a vivid portrayal of Marceli's struggle against oppression and is a must-read for anyone interested in history, especially the Spanish Civil War and resistance movements. I can’t even wait to dive in fully. Nice review!

[Tomi Ahmed]

Thank you for this detailed and insightful review. It's clear you have a deep appreciation for the historical context and the author's efforts to illuminate Marcelino Massana's life. Your explanation of the book's strengths, particularly the way it fills gaps in historical knowledge and weaves together limited information, is compelling. I also appreciate your honesty about the narrative structure and perspective shifts, as it gives potential readers a well-rounded view of what to expect. Your high rating and recommendation will surely encourage others interested in historical narratives to pick up this book. Great job!

[Alexandra-Rita Don-Baadom]

I was surprised to find that this is a work of fiction. I would have sworn that I was reading real life experience of real people. I love that the author expertly blended historical facts with events that are subject of his/her imagination. This is one book that I would love to read over and over again.

[Annabell Samuel]

How children are brought has a significant role it plays when they become adults. I'm sure Marcelino Massana has seen life from the basis of survival and need to break free that he had no qualms challenging anyone who wanted to stand in his way of progress. This book seems to tell a realistic story.

[Sarah Zain]

The review is well-written and explained the book well.The difference between what history records and reality is often a gap that only those who lived it know. From the sample and review OBC I find that the book, with its political and social nature, will attract the attention of many readers. Congrats on BOTD

[Arslan Gujjar 2]

This book is based on history and natural aspects but as well related nature of politics is involved so i think this book is recommended for deep analysing of natural and political aspect of life according to history

[abderrahman El achari]

The book "Swallows Also Fall" by CR Armenia tells the story of Marcelino Massana and his relationship with Franco in the Spanish Civil War. Good review
my regards