Review of Swallows Also Fall

Please use this sub-forum to discuss any non-fiction books such as autobiographies or political commentary books.
Post Reply
User avatar
Shirley Ann Riddern Labzentis
Previous Member of the Month
Posts: 1418
Joined: 29 Nov 2022, 21:32
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 402
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-shirley-ann-riddern-labzentis.html
Latest Review: Laura by A. G. Graham
Reading Device: B07H9H1K1C
2025 Reading Goal: 30
2025 Goal Completion: 116%

Re: Review of Swallows Also Fall

Post by Shirley Ann Riddern Labzentis »

Great review! Based on your review and the sample that I read, I don't think that I would enjoy this book. I'm glad that you did, though.
"Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know which one you are going to get!"
Latest Review: Laura by A. G. Graham
Fatola Fatai
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 290
Joined: 08 Feb 2018, 07:47
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 157
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-fatola-fatai.html
Latest Review: The Ultimate Prepared Bug-In Guide by S. Lee

Post by Fatola Fatai »

I appreciate how the author attempted to fill in the gaps and bring to life the early, harder-to-document years of Marcelino Massana's life story. Fleshing out those formative experiences that shaped his ideologies and future path is a worthwhile creative exercise
Diksha Sharma 20
Posts: 22
Joined: 07 May 2024, 02:49
Currently Reading: The Vampire Diaries
Bookshelf Size: 13

Post by Diksha Sharma 20 »

I appreciate your detailed and extremely profound summary of CR Armeny's Swallows Also Fall. Please note that your thorough research into the historical background, force and life of Marcelino Massana made the book come alive for me. I respect your frankness about those narrative difficulties, which in this particular case, though they bothered you, they did not take the book from you instead. Recommending this book, you have ignited my excitement in the process of reading, which leads me to my passion in the annals of history. Thanks again for this discussiooon!
User avatar
Amy Luman
Previous Member of the Month
Posts: 5800
Joined: 29 Mar 2021, 14:05
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 1066
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-amy-luman.html
Latest Review: Cruel Lessons by Randy Overbeck
Reading Device: B00JG8GOWU

Post by Amy Luman »

I don’t really enjoy biographies as a whole and don’t see anything about this one to change my mind. I can understand how things are a little bit mixed up when almost the entire book comes from stories from Mr. Armeny’s father and not from first-hand knowledge. Congratulations on BOTD!
User avatar
Seetha E
Minimum Wage Millionaire Reader
Posts: 1896
Joined: 02 Mar 2023, 10:18
Currently Reading: Past Life's Revenge
Bookshelf Size: 359
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-seetha-e.html
Latest Review: Minimum Wage Millionaire (Version 1, released July 28th 2025) by Eckhart Aurelius Hughes
2025 Reading Goal: 51
2025 Goal Completion: 72%

Post by Seetha E »

Marcelino Massana was orphaned at an early age. His perspective on life was irreversibly changed by his experiences during the Spanish Civil War. His struggle against oppressors such as the church, landlords, and the wealthy is worth following by anybody interested in historical conflict and associated events. The review by John Owen is outstanding. Congrats on BOTD to the author, CR Armeny.
User avatar
Cristiano Bellucci
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 458
Joined: 24 Nov 2023, 10:57
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 46
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-cristiano-bellucci.html
Latest Review: Consider It Done by Akomolede Oladapo Amos

Post by Cristiano Bellucci »

It is an incredible story. The author puts everything to share the story. It is incredible that all really happened.
Book allow you to fully explore a topic and immerse yourself in a deeper way than most media today. Mark Zuckerberg.
User avatar
Pablo Josue Mendia
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 319
Joined: 07 Dec 2023, 01:01
Favorite Book: Terms of Service
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 159
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-pablo-josue-mendia.html
Latest Review: What did you do at school today? by C.C. Lacavera
Reading Device: B00JG8GOWU

Post by Pablo Josue Mendia »

Thank you for the informative review!

"Swallows Also Fall" by CR Armeny seemingly delves into Marcelino Massana's life, revealing his journey from familial tragedy during the Spanish Flu to his defiance against Franco's regime.

Through meticulous research, the author seemingly presents a compelling narrative that humanizes Massana beyond propaganda's vilification.

Sounds like a must-read for history enthusiasts seeking insight into lesser-known heroes of the Spanish Civil War.
Pranav Dewangan
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 528
Joined: 13 Dec 2023, 08:56
Currently Reading: The Science of Storytelling
Bookshelf Size: 108
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-pranav-dewangan.html
Latest Review: Mouse Trax by M.H. Dixon

Post by Pranav Dewangan »

This review of "Swallows Also Fall" by CR Armeny sheds light on a fascinating and lesser-known historical figure, Marcelino Massana. The intricate weaving of Marceli's life, from his upbringing to his involvement in the Spanish Civil War, promises a compelling narrative. Despite the author's acknowledgment of gaps in historical records, their personal connection to Marceli's story adds depth and authenticity. I'm intrigued to explore this complex and pivotal period through Marceli's eyes.
User avatar
Cristina-Ioana Toader
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 663
Joined: 16 Feb 2023, 09:19
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 93
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-cristina-ioana-toader.html
Latest Review: Deceptive Calm by Patricia Skipper

Post by Cristina-Ioana Toader »

Your review is very pleasant, and I appreciate that it offers a positive recommendation for the book despite encountering minor issues with the storytelling, such as shifts in perspective and timeline.
User avatar
Rajaee R
Minimum Wage Millionaire Reader
Posts: 229
Joined: 19 Feb 2024, 12:31
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 11
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-rajaee-r.html
Latest Review: Native Companions by Jenni Barnett

Post by Rajaee R »

This review fails to give a clear idea about the book. But it succeeded in making me keen to know about Marecelino Massana.
Thanks for the review.
User avatar
Olga Markova
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 689
Joined: 22 Oct 2022, 17:27
Currently Reading: The Postscript Murders
Bookshelf Size: 149
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-olga-markova.html
Latest Review: Fallen Kings by June Gillam

Post by Olga Markova »

Your review is very informative, John! Sampling, I enjoyed Rosana's story about the three men found murdered in the forest by the Franco's Civil Guard and her worries about their safety. I am yet to meet with Marcel-li but it does feel like a great read!
User avatar
Joshua Sawders
In It Together VIP
Posts: 451
Joined: 08 May 2024, 16:25
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 67
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-joshua-sawders.html
Latest Review: Donny and Mary Grace's California Adventures by Catherine A. Pepe

Post by Joshua Sawders »

This review provides a thorough and insightful analysis of "Swallows Also Fall" by CR Armeny, highlighting its portrayal of Marcelino Massana and the historical context of the Spanish Civil War. The reviewer acknowledges the challenges of piecing together Marcelino's life due to limited sources but appreciates the author's effort in filling in the gaps. Despite minor issues with shifting perspectives and timelines, the reviewer highly recommends the book for its historical depth and engaging storytelling.
Brienna Cooper
Posts: 362
Joined: 05 Jul 2023, 12:57
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 108

Post by Brienna Cooper »

Nice review! A read that includes the huge effects of the Spanish flu (as well as the war) seem highly timely considering what has gone on around the globe in the last 4 years (and continues to in many ways). I will say the POV confusion does sound like it could be off-putting. However, if the content is enticing enough, it would probably be worth making the effort to figure it out (and hopefully wouldn’t take too much time).
User avatar
Olivier Muhammad
In It Together VIP
Posts: 372
Joined: 09 May 2024, 03:52
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 36
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-olivier-muhammad.html
Latest Review: Brooklyn ‘76 by Anthony Ausiello

Post by Olivier Muhammad »

I appreciate your honest perspective regarding the mixed points of view and the shifting timelines in the book. While it may have presented some initial challenges, it's impressive that you were able to piece everything together and fully enjoy the story. Your recommendation of the book, especially to history enthusiasts, is valuable and helps highlight its historical significance.
Julius Adekunle 1
Posts: 36
Joined: 18 Apr 2024, 02:48
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 23
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-julius-adekunle-1.html
Latest Review: A Kingdom Forgotten by Charles W. McDonald Jr.

Post by Julius Adekunle 1 »

"Swallows Also Fall" by CR Armeny offers a fascinating and well-researched glimpse into the life of Marcelino Massana, a lesser-known figure from the Spanish Civil War era. Despite some narrative shifts, the book skillfully weaves together Marcelino's experiences and challenges historical misconceptions. A compelling read for history enthusiasts, earning a solid 5 out of 5 stars from me. Highly recommended!
Post Reply

Return to “Non-Fiction Books”