Totally different story with a totally different vocabulary and totally less gore (but still some gore). Yet this story, from the first pages said ” Similar to Man in Full style”. Wolfe had the touch, Stephen Doster has it too. Maybe better because it doesn’t take him so long to get around the story and solve the mystery.
The cast of characters is wide and over the top. The romances are so not-realistic as to probably be accurate because that is how life goes. There is political manipulation, murder and abuse, violence (For a couple of guys pushing middle age, Charlie and Dudley endure getting the snot beat out of them pretty well), corruption, honor, racism, racism kicked in the teeth.
All stirred together in a colorful Southern stew that features some beautiful roses. A story that will have you teary, smiley, giggley, saddened, angered and rewarded with justice in the end. There’s some shocking events and plenty of candor, but yet there is a pleasant, encouraging spirituality with some sunshine and clarity.
I liked the book a lot, if you haven’t guessed. Doster wrote well on this one. Don’t argue with the outrageous, just go with it and enjoy the ride. A book that you won’t want to put down and one that will be on your mind long after you finish.
Rose Bush is a smiling example of Koster’s ability and I hope he will write more books.
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