Official Review: The Blacksmith's Arm by Keith L Wright
Posted: 26 Oct 2018, 02:53
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Blacksmith's Arm" by Keith L Wright.]
3 out of 4 stars
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The Blacksmith's Arm by Keith L Wright is a historical fiction novel written through the eyes of the ordinary person who care less about the outcome of events. It follows the story of two lads from similar backgrounds facing the normal ordeals of young life. The outstanding thing about the book is that the two lads are from different eras. One is born in the 1630s and the other in the twentieth century. The zeal to impress every pretty girl around does not spare them, and they end up having nights full of lustful dreams.
The protagonist in the 17th century is John Smith, a blacksmith whose love for Annie develops the moment he meets her. However, she breaks his heart when he finds her sleeping with her father. Next comes Hazel, who ends up defiled by army soldiers and he grows a hatred for her. Later, Smith is angered when the village people claim he is responsible for Hazel's pregnancy. Therefore, he joins the army to avenge for her by killing the soldiers who had defiled her. Unbeknown to him, his life was to change forever.
In the 20th century, we meet Jack, who joins the police force after his parents force his girlfriend to abort his baby. He joins the force to get away from his parents but sustains serious injuries, after being attacked by an angry mob.
This book's summary says that it is not a historical tome, though agrees that the historical facts in it are correct. The idea is to give a clear distinction in the views of people today and the 17th century. The book uses politics, romance, and the Civil War to give a nicely executed storyline showing the contrast between the two eras.
What I liked about the book is the striking character development. Several characters appear briefly but are dynamic enough to capture and gratify the heart of the reader. While the story is written with paragraphs that alternate between the 20th century and the 17th century, the language used is simple and easy to follow. I found it impressive since the reader can easily see the contrast in the different ages through the paragraphs. For example, swords and muskets are the weapons in the 1630s, and transport is by horses and wagons, while in the 20th century we see ultramodern cars, tanks, AK47s, and street cameras.
Several paragraphs were in bold with no explanation why they were so, though they did not distract the reading. I also came across some few grammar errors, missing words, and other words typed without spacing. I would have given the book 3.5 stars if it were possible, but due to the errors, I give it 3 out of 4 stars. There are gory scenes in the book that might be disturbing to some readers. However, for those who may not mind the scenes, this is a good book to read.
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The Blacksmith's Arm
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3 out of 4 stars
Share This Review
The Blacksmith's Arm by Keith L Wright is a historical fiction novel written through the eyes of the ordinary person who care less about the outcome of events. It follows the story of two lads from similar backgrounds facing the normal ordeals of young life. The outstanding thing about the book is that the two lads are from different eras. One is born in the 1630s and the other in the twentieth century. The zeal to impress every pretty girl around does not spare them, and they end up having nights full of lustful dreams.
The protagonist in the 17th century is John Smith, a blacksmith whose love for Annie develops the moment he meets her. However, she breaks his heart when he finds her sleeping with her father. Next comes Hazel, who ends up defiled by army soldiers and he grows a hatred for her. Later, Smith is angered when the village people claim he is responsible for Hazel's pregnancy. Therefore, he joins the army to avenge for her by killing the soldiers who had defiled her. Unbeknown to him, his life was to change forever.
In the 20th century, we meet Jack, who joins the police force after his parents force his girlfriend to abort his baby. He joins the force to get away from his parents but sustains serious injuries, after being attacked by an angry mob.
This book's summary says that it is not a historical tome, though agrees that the historical facts in it are correct. The idea is to give a clear distinction in the views of people today and the 17th century. The book uses politics, romance, and the Civil War to give a nicely executed storyline showing the contrast between the two eras.
What I liked about the book is the striking character development. Several characters appear briefly but are dynamic enough to capture and gratify the heart of the reader. While the story is written with paragraphs that alternate between the 20th century and the 17th century, the language used is simple and easy to follow. I found it impressive since the reader can easily see the contrast in the different ages through the paragraphs. For example, swords and muskets are the weapons in the 1630s, and transport is by horses and wagons, while in the 20th century we see ultramodern cars, tanks, AK47s, and street cameras.
Several paragraphs were in bold with no explanation why they were so, though they did not distract the reading. I also came across some few grammar errors, missing words, and other words typed without spacing. I would have given the book 3.5 stars if it were possible, but due to the errors, I give it 3 out of 4 stars. There are gory scenes in the book that might be disturbing to some readers. However, for those who may not mind the scenes, this is a good book to read.
******
The Blacksmith's Arm
View: on Bookshelves
Like kwahu's review? Post a comment saying so!