Saturday, July 6, 2024

Review of EXILES from Deepak Choudhary



Enjoy the review from Deepak Choudhary


"Exiles," the triumphant conclusion to L.J. Ambrosio's "Reflections of Michael Trilogy," invites readers on an emotive journey through the enchanting streets of Paris. As Ron embarks on a path of self-imposed exile at the behest of his late friend Michael, the narrative unfurls against the backdrop of a city ablaze with fervent protests and pulsating cultural vibrancy.

Ambrosio deftly crafts a narrative brimming with poignant explorations of friendship, love, and self-discovery. Ron's symbiotic relationship with Louie, a young man navigating his own identity struggles, serves as a poignant testament to the transformative power of human connection amidst the tumult of life.

The emotional depth of "Exiles" is palpable, resonating through the tender moments shared between Ron and his faithful companion Rhonda, and the collective grief over Louie's loss. Ambrosio masterfully navigates the spectrum of human emotions, evoking laughter, fear, excitement, wonder, and sorrow with equal measure.

Against the backdrop of Parisian upheaval, "Exiles" emerges as a compelling exploration of identity and purpose, underscored by the enduring resilience of the human spirit. While the novel may harbor imperfections, Ambrosio's unwavering commitment to intellectual depth and emotional authenticity ensures a profoundly enriching reading experience.

In the tapestry of the "Reflections of Michael Trilogy," "Exiles" stands as a testament to Ambrosio's narrative prowess and his ability to captivate readers with a story that resonates long after the final page is turned.


Blurb


In this final chapter, Ron's story concludes from Reflections on the Boulevard (2023). Michael's wish was for Ron to exile himself in the heart of Paris with its beautiful culture and citizens as they protest and fight for the soul of the city. Ron's journey is met with life-affirming friendships and lessons along the way. The final book in the Reflections of Michael Trilogy, which started with A Reservoir Man (2022).

Excerpt


Lily asked Louie what his plan was to locate a more permanent apartment. “You can't live here at the bookstore; you have no privacy.”

Louie rebutted this more quickly than he meant to. “I’ve had no privacy for the last 18 months, who cares! Being here at the bookstore is monumental for me. I live with all the authors. The other night I asked Virginia Woolf to explain her problems with her husband in more detail. It seems bizarre, but you almost feel that the writers can talk to you here. I felt I got an answer. I also asked why she would commit suicide. After she explained her relationship with her husband, she asked me why I attempted to kill myself? I told her it was a loneliness, a desperation to love.”

Lily looked at Louie, shocked and confused. Louie continued without notice. “And I’ll say that you gave me love and then...I wasn’t lonely. I had you to love.” He smiled at Lily. She nodded her head and placed her head on his shoulder in return.

Louie quickly got up to call her a taxi. Once it arrived, he opened the door of the taxi and kissed her very gently on the lips. “I think one day soon, we will have true love. As we continue to hold on to each other, like last night, we will see into each other’s eyes, the truth.”


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