Review of Goodbye Bobby
Posted: 25 Jan 2025, 12:14
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Goodbye Bobby" by JJ Harrigan.]
Goodbye Bobby by JJ Harrigan is a historical fiction novel set in 1968, centered around Robert F. Kennedy's presidential campaign. The author presents a fictional strategy regarding the Vietnam War and sets up a what-if scenario related to the campaign. This book is the second installment in the Goodbye series and continues the adventures of Charlie Parnell, the protagonist from the first book. At the beginning of the story, Charlie and his stepdaughter, Angelita, are mourning the loss of Isabel Parnell, who was Angela's mother and Charlie's wife. During this difficult time, Charlie is visited by a menacing figure from his past, whom he fears and considers trouble. This visitor brings a message and a request from a mysterious individual, proposing a plan to stop the Vietnam War, with Charlie as the key player. Charlie is skeptical of the plan, labeling it as harebrained. He understands that if he acts on it, he could potentially play a crucial role in ending the war. However, he is also acutely aware that if he fails, Angelita will be left parentless, and he may end up trapped in North Vietnam, his fate left to the decision of the communist forces there. Initially, Charlie tries to avoid getting involved in the plan. Everything changes when he meets the national icon and 1968 presidential candidate, Bobby Kennedy. This encounter inspires him and sets his heart to the mission. However, the stakes are high; if he fails, not only will his life be at risk, but Bobby's political dreams will also be jeopardized. Will Charlie succeed in this daring mission? What will happen to Bobby Kennedy's political aspirations? Grab the book and dive into this thrilling adventure.
I haven't read the first book in the series, but I believe this book picks up where the previous story left off. At first, I had a bit of trouble getting into the narrative and understanding the various characters. However, as I continued reading, the story became clearer, and I found myself completely engrossed in it. Although it's not essential to read the series in order, starting with the first book would enhance your understanding of the characters. Even though I hadn't read the initial installment, my overall reading experience was not diminished. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and learned a great deal about the political tension surrounding the 1968 election. I found it fascinating to read about the circumstances surrounding the campaign. Out of curiosity, I googled Bobby Kennedy and discovered many facts I wasn't aware of.
The characterization in this book is excellent, with a diverse cast of characters. The interactions between historical figures and fictional characters are believable, and the author skillfully weaves real historical events into a fictional narrative, which I found engaging. Certain scenes are emotionally charged, and the author effectively conveys these emotions. His writing style is elegant and easy to understand, with a steady pacing that never lags. I was fully engaged throughout and never felt bored. The author included the day, date, year, and location before each scene, making it easy to follow the story. Additionally, I loved the book cover and title, which initially drew me to the book.
I am eager to read the first story in the series, and I am looking forward to the third book, which will continue to explore the political adventures of the Parnell family. This book has left a lasting impression on me. The editing is quite good, as I found only two errors. Since there is nothing I dislike about this book, I rate it 5 out of 5 stars. Fans of political thrillers and historical fiction will definitely appreciate this novel.
******
Goodbye Bobby
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Goodbye Bobby by JJ Harrigan is a historical fiction novel set in 1968, centered around Robert F. Kennedy's presidential campaign. The author presents a fictional strategy regarding the Vietnam War and sets up a what-if scenario related to the campaign. This book is the second installment in the Goodbye series and continues the adventures of Charlie Parnell, the protagonist from the first book. At the beginning of the story, Charlie and his stepdaughter, Angelita, are mourning the loss of Isabel Parnell, who was Angela's mother and Charlie's wife. During this difficult time, Charlie is visited by a menacing figure from his past, whom he fears and considers trouble. This visitor brings a message and a request from a mysterious individual, proposing a plan to stop the Vietnam War, with Charlie as the key player. Charlie is skeptical of the plan, labeling it as harebrained. He understands that if he acts on it, he could potentially play a crucial role in ending the war. However, he is also acutely aware that if he fails, Angelita will be left parentless, and he may end up trapped in North Vietnam, his fate left to the decision of the communist forces there. Initially, Charlie tries to avoid getting involved in the plan. Everything changes when he meets the national icon and 1968 presidential candidate, Bobby Kennedy. This encounter inspires him and sets his heart to the mission. However, the stakes are high; if he fails, not only will his life be at risk, but Bobby's political dreams will also be jeopardized. Will Charlie succeed in this daring mission? What will happen to Bobby Kennedy's political aspirations? Grab the book and dive into this thrilling adventure.
I haven't read the first book in the series, but I believe this book picks up where the previous story left off. At first, I had a bit of trouble getting into the narrative and understanding the various characters. However, as I continued reading, the story became clearer, and I found myself completely engrossed in it. Although it's not essential to read the series in order, starting with the first book would enhance your understanding of the characters. Even though I hadn't read the initial installment, my overall reading experience was not diminished. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and learned a great deal about the political tension surrounding the 1968 election. I found it fascinating to read about the circumstances surrounding the campaign. Out of curiosity, I googled Bobby Kennedy and discovered many facts I wasn't aware of.
The characterization in this book is excellent, with a diverse cast of characters. The interactions between historical figures and fictional characters are believable, and the author skillfully weaves real historical events into a fictional narrative, which I found engaging. Certain scenes are emotionally charged, and the author effectively conveys these emotions. His writing style is elegant and easy to understand, with a steady pacing that never lags. I was fully engaged throughout and never felt bored. The author included the day, date, year, and location before each scene, making it easy to follow the story. Additionally, I loved the book cover and title, which initially drew me to the book.
I am eager to read the first story in the series, and I am looking forward to the third book, which will continue to explore the political adventures of the Parnell family. This book has left a lasting impression on me. The editing is quite good, as I found only two errors. Since there is nothing I dislike about this book, I rate it 5 out of 5 stars. Fans of political thrillers and historical fiction will definitely appreciate this novel.
******
Goodbye Bobby
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon