Review of Distant Thunder

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.
Forum rules
Authors and publishers are not able to post replies in the review topics.
Post Reply
Isaac Oh
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 312
Joined: 26 May 2022, 05:26
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 86
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-isaac-oh.html
Latest Review: What I Hear When God Speaks by Allen J Brown Jr

Review of Distant Thunder

Post by Isaac Oh »

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Distant Thunder" by Timothy J. Krueger.]
Book Cover
4 out of 5 stars
Share This Review


The American Revolution was a monumental event that changed the course of history. In Distant Thunder, Timothy J. Krueger takes readers on a captivating journey through one of the most pivotal periods in American history. The book follows the journey of Rev'd Langdon, a colonist and loyalist, during the beginning of the American Revolution.
 
During the 1775 colonial upheaval, there lived a man by the name of Reverend Thomas Langdon. He was loyal to the crown and did not share the views of the masses. The rising tension forced him to leave his hometown, Falmouth, on The Canceaux. He became a secretary for Admiral Graves and witnessed the start of the American Revolution.
 
Through meticulous research and an engaging storyline, the author brings to life the events and ideologies that shaped this moment in history. His ability to seamlessly blend history with personal anecdotes makes this book an engaging read. By highlighting the complexities of the American Revolution, the book educates readers on this pivotal event. The author presented a well-researched account to provide a comprehensive perspective on the American Revolution. His analysis is insightful and thought-provoking.
 
One of the wonderful aspects of Distant Thunder is Timothy's ability to bring history to life. His vivid and engaging descriptions take readers back in time, letting them experience the tension and sacrifices made. Another aspect I loved was that Rev'd Langdon's character was tailored after the life of Rev'd Jonathan Wiswall. The book also contained real-life events, making it authentic. Rev. Langdon was my favorite character. He stood firm in his beliefs, even after being called a "Tory."
 
Although this book had a great deal of positive aspects, it also had some negative aspects. It is hard to fault the author's thoroughness in this book, but the relentless detail and overly long passages of dialogue that drag on make it a tough read. Characters rumble on at length about political matters. There is no denying that the topic is interesting, but the long dialogue makes the book feel a bit slow. The plot is obscured by the sheer weight of the tedious dialogue, making it difficult to maintain any momentum while reading. Also, the author uses big words when smaller ones would have been more effective. The result is a book that feels overly academic, rather than accessible and easy to read. This makes the book less enjoyable, as I had to resort to the dictionary several times. It had some errors, showing it was professionally edited.
 
Due to these reasons, I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. It was an engaging and insightful read. It is a must-read for not only history buffs but also readers seeking to learn more about the American Revolution.

******
Distant Thunder
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Minaxiben Chandrakant Patel
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 188
Joined: 08 Oct 2023, 01:03
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 113
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-minaxiben-chandrakant-patel.html
Latest Review: Death by Chaos by Renaii West

Post by Minaxiben Chandrakant Patel »

Thank you for sharing your thoughtful review of "Distant Thunder." It's evident that Timothy J. Krueger's meticulous research and engaging storytelling have made the American Revolution come alive. The integration of real-life events and the portrayal of Rev'd Langdon as a steadfast character contribute to the authenticity of the narrative. Your appreciation for the vivid descriptions and the book's educational value is well-conveyed.
User avatar
Amy Luman
Previous Member of the Month
Posts: 5031
Joined: 29 Mar 2021, 14:05
Currently Reading: 2084
Bookshelf Size: 1017
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-amy-luman.html
Latest Review: Time Before Time by Dan DuBose
Reading Device: B00JG8GOWU

Post by Amy Luman »

This is a different picture from what you usually se. I’m not a fan of historical fiction, but I am not familiar with any books that take the perspective of a “ Tory.” Thanks!
User avatar
ANYANWU FRANK
Posts: 1
Joined: 03 Jun 2023, 14:19
Bookshelf Size: 0

Post by ANYANWU FRANK »

However, you also mention the book's negative aspects, such as the excessive detail and lengthy passages of dialogue that slow down the pace of the story. You note that the book feels overly academic and difficult to read at times, with the author's use of big words. Additionally, you mention errors in the editing.

Despite these drawbacks, you still rate the book 4 out of 5 stars for its engaging and insightful nature. You believe it is a must-read for history enthusiasts and those looking to learn more about the American Revolution.

Overall, your review highlights the strengths and weaknesses of "Distant Thunder," giving readers a balanced perspective on the book.
Minaxiben Chandrakant Patel
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 188
Joined: 08 Oct 2023, 01:03
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 113
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-minaxiben-chandrakant-patel.html
Latest Review: Death by Chaos by Renaii West

Post by Minaxiben Chandrakant Patel »

Your review of "Distant Thunder" by Timothy J. Krueger provides a comprehensive and balanced perspective on the book, highlighting both its positive aspects and areas that you found challenging.
Lisa P Cowling
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 162
Joined: 05 Aug 2023, 03:16
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 39
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-lisa-p-cowling.html
Latest Review: The one that kills you by Rick Rothermel

Post by Lisa P Cowling »

The book appears to have been well-researched. I have to commend the effort the author put in. While I am not particularly a lover of history, I would love to read this.
Donaking
Posts: 343
Joined: 20 Jan 2024, 16:26
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 12

Post by Donaking »

The review of "Distant Thunder" highlights the captivating journey through the American Revolution portrayed by Timothy J. Krueger. The author's meticulous research and ability to blend history with personal anecdotes make this book an engaging and educational read. However, some readers felt that the excessive detail and lengthy dialogue hindered the book's flow and accessibility. Despite this, the review rates it as an engaging and insightful read, recommended for both history buffs and those interested in learning more about the American Revolution.
Timothy Gye
Posts: 183
Joined: 19 Jan 2024, 10:52
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 16
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-timothy-gye.html
Latest Review: Original Wisdom by Donna Bond

Post by Timothy Gye »

Thank you for sharing your insightful review, Your detailed analysis highlights the author's skillful blend of science and marketing concepts, enriched by engaging personal anecdotes. It's encouraging to see the positive impact of real-world examples and the effectiveness of practical insights. Your thorough appreciation, including the absence of dislikes and recognition of the well-edited content, reinforces the book's value. Your 5-star rating and recommendation make a compelling case for readers!
Timothy Gye
Posts: 183
Joined: 19 Jan 2024, 10:52
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 16
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-timothy-gye.html
Latest Review: Original Wisdom by Donna Bond

Post by Timothy Gye »

Thank you for sharing your insightful review, Your detailed analysis highlights the author's skillful blend of science and marketing concepts, enriched by engaging personal anecdotes. It's encouraging to see the positive impact of real-world examples and the effectiveness of practical insights. Your thorough appreciation, including the absence of dislikes and recognition of the well-edited content, reinforces the book's value. Your 5-star rating and recommendation make a compelling case for readers!
Rohith Kumar Pakala
Posts: 155
Joined: 15 Feb 2024, 03:56
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 16
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-rohith-kumar-pakala.html
Latest Review: The MISOGI Method by Jody B. Miller

Post by Rohith Kumar Pakala »

Thank you for your valuable insights, your review built interest in me to read this book. Great information is given by you about the book, thank you for that.
Post Reply

Return to “Historical Fiction”