Review of Taming Spirit

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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Jane Ogwang
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Review of Taming Spirit

Post by Jane Ogwang »

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Taming Spirit" by Dan Martin.]
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5 out of 5 stars
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If you take an interest in history, then you have probably read or heard about the story of the Sundance Kid. If you haven't, then do not worry. A simple Google search would give you some details. But if you need an intricate narration of the stories of these legends of crime, this book, Taming Spirit by Dan Martin, is perfect for you.

The author uses the fictional characters Wesley Powers and Harvey Hellman to portray the characters of outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. It follows the story of Alex Logan, a kid brought up in the vast country areas of West Canada. He grows up to learn a secret about his real roots and his relation to a rival family in the same area. Following incessant bullying and this revelation, his father sends him to the Bar U ranch. Here, he starts a new life, meets new people, and learns new skills. One person in particular, Laramie, forms a great bond with him, a bond that would shape his future life. Alex joins the group, the Wild Bunch, and goes on a number of daring and challenging missions with them. Find out the details of these missions and whether they completed them by picking and reading this incredible book.

I absolutely enjoyed reading this book. Crafting a book with a blend of historical fiction and facts isn't a mean feat. It takes the highest level of creativity to get it right, especially given how high the bar for that kind of writing is. This one did particularly well. The author added twists and turns to the stories, giving them more life. The conversations also seemed real, human, and almost precise. Dan's attention to detail was commendable.

I loved that the author built the characters in the book quite well. Alex's emotional journey, for instance, was great to read. I could relate to him whenever he experienced rejection, loss, triumph, and love. His empathy and sympathy were relatable and authentic, even when his decisions seemed suspect. His relationship with Molly was also a thing for the movies; it was great to follow.

Dan's command of the language was also commendable. His descriptions of landscapes and scenes were vivid. His analysis of horse races and the preparations for those races were so detailed and candid. I picked a trick or two on winning those races. I find no fault to report about Dan's writing.

I, therefore, award this book a perfect rating of five out of five stars. It is enjoyable, thrilling, and professionally edited. Lovers of historical fiction should push this book up their lists. I should, however, warn of the strong language that makes it more suited for mature audiences.

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Taming Spirit
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Uchechi uk
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Post by Uchechi uk »

I can also relate with this book. The author built the characters well. Alex is such an adventurer but it is good. His role might make me get a copy of this book.
AbigailRay
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Post by AbigailRay »

From my experience, this book is going to be a good read. I would love to give it a try. Nice review.
Jane Ogwang
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Post by Jane Ogwang »

Uchechi uk wrote: 03 Sep 2023, 05:08 I can also relate with this book. The author built the characters well. Alex is such an adventurer but it is good. His role might make me get a copy of this book.
I'm sure you'll enjoy reading it. Thank you for your comment.
Jane Ogwang
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Post by Jane Ogwang »

AbigailRay wrote: 03 Sep 2023, 13:18 From my experience, this book is going to be a good read. I would love to give it a try. Nice review.
I'm certain it will be. Thanks for the comment.
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Okewunmi Pelumi
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Post by Okewunmi Pelumi »

Wow, this review is distinctive, I love it. I'm sure that this book will be interesting. I'll have to read it.
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