Review of Swallows Also Fall

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Mayuri Kotalawala
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Re: Review of Swallows Also Fall

Post by Mayuri Kotalawala »

I think the points of view were mixed up a bit, but I managed to piece it all together. There are times the story is told from Marceli's perspective without as much as a clue on who it was. I only understood whose perspective it really was when I read the book and the review description. Also, the introduction starts much later, then the story shifts to a totally different timeline — from when Rosana, her brothers, and Marceli were little — and that threw me off a little. I managed to fit everything together, so I can't say it's so much of an issue.
- It sounds very confusing and time-consuming to unravel the different timelines. Therefore it would be a huge issue. Nevertheless thank you for your thoughtful review.
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Gayatri Tripathi
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Post by Gayatri Tripathi »

Your review offers a fascinating glimpse into the complex narrative of "Swallows Also Fall." It's intriguing to see how the author weaves together historical fact and personal connection to bring Marceli's story to life. The challenges of piecing together a narrative from limited information seem to have been met with skill, though I can imagine how shifting perspectives might have momentarily disoriented the reader. Yet, your ability to navigate these shifts and piece together the story speaks to the strength of the narrative. Thank you for sharing your insights!
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Post by Chris Agbara »

"Swallows Also Fall" is a captivating historical tale, shedding light on Marcelino Massana's remarkable journey amidst the tumultuous backdrop of the Spanish Civil War. A must-read for history enthusiasts, offering a compelling narrative despite the limited historical records available. 5 out of 5 stars.
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Post by Nemanja Jankovic »

"Swallows Also Fall" by CR Armeny whose plot begins at the time of the Spanish Flu. The events in the book are inspired by historical events. I like how the characters in the book are described, especially Marceli, because they seem authentic.
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Timothy Rucinski
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Post by Timothy Rucinski »

This is an exciting concept, particularly since not many books about the Spanish Civil War are popular these days. My limited experience with Spanish war literature goes back to Hemingway, and that novel was written from an American's perspective. Therefore, I hope that Author Armeny's novel will bring this brutal time in world history to the forefront for new readers.
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Post by Rose Angela »

"Swallows Also Fall" by CR Armeny is a compelling historical fiction set in the backdrop of the 1918 influenza pandemic and the Spanish Civil War. The narrative, told through the eyes of Marcel-li Massana, a foster child turned revolutionary, offers a unique perspective on the Catalonian resistance movement. Armeny's vivid descriptions of the countryside and the characters are commendable. However, the pacing of the story might feel slow for some readers, particularly in the first half. Despite this, the book serves as an enlightening read about a tumultuous period in history. It has received varied ratings, reflecting diverse reader experiences. Overall, it's a noteworthy exploration of the human spirit amidst adversity.
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Post by Asma Aisha Ansari »

'Swallows Also Fall' by CR Armeny intricately weaves Marcelino Massana's tumultuous journey through history, from the Spanish Flu era to Franco's regime. The blend of personal struggle against oppression and political turmoil promises a gripping read.
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Post by Rose Ngore »

The review of the book "Swallows Also Fall" by CR Armeny is well explained for better understanding, a prior knowledge of Marcelino's life history to the readers. This looks like an interesting book to have a copy. Nice review
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Post by Marie Chalupová »

A historical book about Marcelino Massana, partially written from his point of view. I have no clue who that is but seems like it's a well written story.
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Post by Hazel Arnaiz »

The book examines a period in history to shed light on what life was like when a nation was in conflict. The story preserves memories of the past by bringing them to life in fiction, allowing readers to immerse themselves in a time long gone.
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Post by Seamstress »

Harsh, to be honest, way too harsh to appeal to my tastes, because life is full of negative experiences as it is and adding to reality even more dark colors isn't something I readily agree with. After all, it's enough to turn on the news for that, but to read my preference is positive fiction. Sorry and congrats!
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Post by Jensyn Runkle »

Based on the blurb and the above review, this book offers insight into the events of historical figure Marcelino Massana's life during the Spanish Civil War. The reviewer offers a an interesting perspective on how the events of the novel evolve from fact and fiction. It is sure to be an interesting read.
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Ryan Fielder
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Post by Ryan Fielder »

Jessica Azuka wrote: 11 Dec 2023, 10:56 This book is a historical novel that tells us about a man called Marcelino and his life experiences. It highlights historical events that happened during his lifetime. This is an amazing book and review.
Coming up with a good representation from only words of myth, folk tales, and pass down stories.. can be quit tricky and complex. Good job for 5 out of 5 reach for the book.
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Post by Nesredin Mohammed »

Swallows Also Fall blends fact and fiction well, but the Cardona concentration camp is mentioned at one point. Despite extensive research, I can find no details that there was ever a concentration camp in Cardona. I think CR Armeny mentioning something specific should be backed up by truth. Also, I did not particularly appreciate that the only explanation for the foster family moving to Berga was that they had too much bad luck on their smallholding and wanted a change. The family are poor, livestock have died, and presumably, they have even less money now, but they move to a farmhouse. How do they suddenly afford this?

I recommend Swallows Also Fall by CR Armeny to adults and older teenagers who enjoy factually based historical fiction. Due to the subject matter, I would not recommend it to anyone younger.

I would like to give Swallows Also Fall 4 out of 4 stars. It is well-written, and the editing is perfect. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about Marcel-li's life.
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Post by tarafarah7 »

Although this isn't the book for me, today's BOTD is an engaging and informative historical fiction novel that focuses on the life of Marcelino Massana. Readers interested in biographies and books about the Spanish Civil War will definitely want to give this one a try. Thank you! :-)
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