Review of With Eyes Wide Open
-
Kibet Hillary
- Official Reviewer Representative
- Posts: 4323
- Joined: 26 Jul 2017, 01:48
- Currently Reading: Anticipation Day
- Bookshelf Size: 3551
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-kibet-hillary.html
- Latest Review: Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures by Catherine A. Pepe
Review of With Eyes Wide Open
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "With Eyes Wide Open" by John W. Roberts.]
With Eyes Wide Open: The Execution of Quentin Marshall, penned by John W. Roberts, stands as an extraordinary masterpiece in the genre of historical fiction. Fearlessly plunging into the intricate realm of racism, the narrative weaves a profoundly moving and undeniably significant tale. Roberts' adeptness in navigating such a sensitive topic with grace and authenticity is a testament to his literary prowess, creating a story that resonates deeply and leaves an indelible impact long after the reader turns the final page.
The tale begins with a teenage caller's chilling account to the county sheriff's department. He reports a disturbing sighting at a secluded spot in the White Cross Creek area—a scene that sets the wheels of a gripping narrative in motion. From there, an intricate web of characters is woven, including Quent Marshall, his landlord James Arnette, their families, the county sheriff’s department, and other individuals, each contributing a unique perspective to this emotional journey.
The character development stands out, with each embodying a distinct voice that adds to the rich emotional mosaic of the story. Their trials, triumphs, and growth are depicted with such authenticity that readers cannot help but become emotionally invested. The author's meticulous research brings the historical setting to vivid life, immersing the reader in the intricacies of life in 1958 South Carolina, specifically Dillard County. The narrative seamlessly marries historical accuracy with the personal odysseys of the characters, striking a harmonious balance between education and entertainment.
Central to the story is a profound exploration of racism—its insidious grip on individuals, families, and entire communities. Roberts handles this theme well, revealing its brutal realities while concurrently infusing the narrative with hope and resilience. Indeed, Willie Mae, Quent’s wife, never gives up hope; she plays a significant role and continues to lend help even when needed by those who had wronged her husband. Consequently, With Eyes Wide Open is an achievement of remarkable proportions capable of sparking essential conversations about race, history, justice, and the unyielding quest for equality.
The conclusion of With Eyes Wide Open left me astounded. The author's ability to resolve the main conflict unforeseeably was an ingenious stroke of narrative craftsmanship. Just as I thought I had the story deciphered, Roberts skillfully veered in an unexpected direction. This remarkable conclusion underscores the author's unparalleled storytelling prowess and his uncanny ability to maintain reader engagement until the final punctuation mark. It is an ending that stands as a testament to his capacity for crafting narratives that resonate deeply.
The seamless editing and absence of any negative aspects make this book deserving of a rating of five out of five stars. For enthusiasts of historical fiction, particularly those intrigued by narratives addressing entrenched racial prejudice, this is a must-read. With Eyes Wide Open is an enduring tribute to human resilience and a stirring reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice. This work holds up a mirror to our world, reflecting both its harsh realities and its potential for transformative change through dedicated individuals like Abraham Washington, Quent’s attorney.
******
With Eyes Wide Open
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on iTunes
With Eyes Wide Open: The Execution of Quentin Marshall, penned by John W. Roberts, stands as an extraordinary masterpiece in the genre of historical fiction. Fearlessly plunging into the intricate realm of racism, the narrative weaves a profoundly moving and undeniably significant tale. Roberts' adeptness in navigating such a sensitive topic with grace and authenticity is a testament to his literary prowess, creating a story that resonates deeply and leaves an indelible impact long after the reader turns the final page.
The tale begins with a teenage caller's chilling account to the county sheriff's department. He reports a disturbing sighting at a secluded spot in the White Cross Creek area—a scene that sets the wheels of a gripping narrative in motion. From there, an intricate web of characters is woven, including Quent Marshall, his landlord James Arnette, their families, the county sheriff’s department, and other individuals, each contributing a unique perspective to this emotional journey.
The character development stands out, with each embodying a distinct voice that adds to the rich emotional mosaic of the story. Their trials, triumphs, and growth are depicted with such authenticity that readers cannot help but become emotionally invested. The author's meticulous research brings the historical setting to vivid life, immersing the reader in the intricacies of life in 1958 South Carolina, specifically Dillard County. The narrative seamlessly marries historical accuracy with the personal odysseys of the characters, striking a harmonious balance between education and entertainment.
Central to the story is a profound exploration of racism—its insidious grip on individuals, families, and entire communities. Roberts handles this theme well, revealing its brutal realities while concurrently infusing the narrative with hope and resilience. Indeed, Willie Mae, Quent’s wife, never gives up hope; she plays a significant role and continues to lend help even when needed by those who had wronged her husband. Consequently, With Eyes Wide Open is an achievement of remarkable proportions capable of sparking essential conversations about race, history, justice, and the unyielding quest for equality.
The conclusion of With Eyes Wide Open left me astounded. The author's ability to resolve the main conflict unforeseeably was an ingenious stroke of narrative craftsmanship. Just as I thought I had the story deciphered, Roberts skillfully veered in an unexpected direction. This remarkable conclusion underscores the author's unparalleled storytelling prowess and his uncanny ability to maintain reader engagement until the final punctuation mark. It is an ending that stands as a testament to his capacity for crafting narratives that resonate deeply.
The seamless editing and absence of any negative aspects make this book deserving of a rating of five out of five stars. For enthusiasts of historical fiction, particularly those intrigued by narratives addressing entrenched racial prejudice, this is a must-read. With Eyes Wide Open is an enduring tribute to human resilience and a stirring reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice. This work holds up a mirror to our world, reflecting both its harsh realities and its potential for transformative change through dedicated individuals like Abraham Washington, Quent’s attorney.
******
With Eyes Wide Open
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on iTunes
“It just hurts too much to admit what is wanted so badly when there’s no guarantee of its availability.”
- Dr. Larry Crabb
- Dr. Larry Crabb
-
MoSaleh2000
- Posts: 4
- Joined: 27 Aug 2023, 18:44
- Favorite Book: My Real-Life Rom-Com
- Currently Reading: The Smartest Person in the Room
- Bookshelf Size: 8
The book opens with Roberts thinking back on his upbringing and early years, which helped to build his worldview and instill in him a spirit of curiosity and tenacity. Roberts experiences critical turning points in his life as well as unanticipated setbacks as he moves through different phases. personal relationships, job decisions, and experiences with love loss, offering insightful commentary and life lessons along the way.
The value of keeping "eyes wide open" is one of the book's primary themes.
The value of keeping "eyes wide open" is one of the book's primary themes.
-
BIKUMONI RAJBONGSHI
- Posts: 2
- Joined: 28 Aug 2023, 04:38
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 4
The book opens with Roberts recollecting his childhood and early years, which assisted with building his perspective and impart in him a feeling of interest and relentlessness. Roberts encounters basic defining moments in his day to day existence as well as unexpected misfortunes as he travels through various stages. individual connections, work choices, and encounters with adoration misfortune, offering sagacious editorial and life illustrations en route.
The benefit of keeping "eyes totally open" is one of the book's essential topics
The benefit of keeping "eyes totally open" is one of the book's essential topics
