Review of Life’s Untidy Weave

Please use this forum to discuss historical fiction books. Common definitions define historical fiction as novels written at least 25-50 years after the book's setting.
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Ekezie1998
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Review of Life’s Untidy Weave

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[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Life's Untidy Weave" by CPH Pennymaker.]
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4 out of 4 stars
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Life’s Untidy Weave by C.P.H. Pennymaker traces the lifestyle and belief system that existed in British Columbia and the challenges that came with living in such a society. It tells a tale of Josh, raised in a family with the strictest religious principles and beliefs. It narrates his struggles and conflicts, as he is a growing young lad who tries to make sense of these values, the world, and his ultimate purpose in life. Accused by his uncle, Nehemiah, he finds himself on an adventure that promises to change his life and cause him to question everything he has ever learned.

The novel has a lot of positive aspects. What I find most compelling is the sheer mastery the author employs in unraveling secrets and significant plot twists. The mysteries were neatly interwoven and hidden away from common sight while the author skillfully revealed them bit by bit. Seemingly bland plots are retold in later parts of the novel, embellished with unexpected turns that create a heightened level of suspense and anticipation. The story is well-developed and detailed. I did not find any lacuna in the storyline despite the different periods the author portrayed in the book. If any, the epilogue filled it up.

Also, readers cannot help but mull over the inhumane discrimination and treatment meted on slaves. The blacks greatly suffered injustice, especially in the hands of wicked masters like Clarke’s father. However, due to the abolitionist movement, awareness and solutions were brought to this menace. The author presents most of the characters as people undergoing self-discovery or transition. Set in a superstitious, judgmental, and repressive society, most of the characters created by the author display an immense desire to liberate themselves from societal and religious shackles.

Predominant in the novel is the captivity many have placed themselves in due to religion or the misconstruction of who God is and our relationship with him. Isaac Crawford symbolizes staunch devotion to faith, pattern, and the consequences of not sticking to those patterns. Change is a foreign concept to him. The effect of such rigid adherence to religion reflects on his family.

I could not find any negative aspects to this book. Asides from minor grammatical errors, the book was engaging and entertaining. It was professionally edited. I rate this novel 4 out of 4 stars because I enjoyed reading it, and the suspense was expertly crafted. I recommend this novel to readers that enjoy adventure or mystery novels. I also recommend this book to people passionate about freedom or liberality.

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Life's Untidy Weave
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Mbenma Esther 080
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Post by Mbenma Esther 080 »

Religious extremism has done more harm than good especially to worshippers who can go far. Thanks for the review
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Nwadinso Michael
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Post by Nwadinso Michael »

In my opinion, this book represents reality. There are things that happen around us that makes us to question our beliefs. I'd love to see how Joel survived. Thanks for your review.
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Aisha Yakub
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Post by Aisha Yakub »

I appreciate great writing no matter the genre. I like how you described the writing style of this book, and it appealed to me. Great review.
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