Saturday, July 6, 2024

Review of EXILES by Reading Is My Passion



Enjoy the review from Reading Is My Passion


"Exiles" by L.J. Ambrosio wraps up the Reflections of Michael Trilogy with a heartfelt and captivating story about friendships, love, and self-discovery. In this final installment, we follow Ron as he honors Michael’s wish to immerse himself in the vibrant culture of Paris, a city teeming with protests and a fight for its soul.

It warmed my heart as I recognized that Ron did indeed follow Michael’s wishes for him. Ron has immersed himself fully in the culture of Paris. Even more satisfying was to read that as Michael had taken Ron into his care, so has Ron mentored Louie, a young man struggling with self-identity. Their relationship blossomed into something genuine and supportive.

The emotional depth Ambrosio brings to the story, especially with the loss of Louie’s girlfriend, is profoundly moving. I enjoyed the compassion both Ron and Louie showed to Ron’s ageing dog, Rhonda.

This book, like the ones before it, evokes a range of emotions—laughter, fear, excitement, wonder, and grief. Ambrosio’s ability to weave these feelings into the narrative is what makes the trilogy so special. Yes, the book could use some additional editing, but it is a story that is genuinely touching and worth reading.

"Exiles" is a beautiful and fitting end to the Reflections of Michael Trilogy.

The novel, the last installment in this engrossing trilogy, takes readers to the heart of Paris, where the protagonist Ron, at his friend Michael's suggestion, sets out on a journey of self-exile. Ron's story develops with depth and resonance against the backdrop of the city's lively culture and passionate protests, providing a complex examination of identity, friendship, and the search for purpose.

Much like its predecessors, this novel makes me feel a variety of things, including laughter, anxiety, excitement, wonder, and loss. Ambrosio's skill in incorporating these emotions into the story is what gives the trilogy its unique quality. While there is room for improvement in the book, overall the story is heartwarming and well worth reading.

Ambrosio shows a wonderful capacity to add levels of intellectual insight and emotional depth to her storytelling throughout the story. Every page exudes a feeling of urgency and poignancy that drive readers to reflect on life's most important issues in tandem with the characters.

Excerpt


Julia went to the kitchen and put the food they bought on the counter and grabbed a glass of white wine.
“I am so happy we moved in together. I would have had to worry about getting rid of your apartment,” said Ron. “And now off to New York and Mount Sinai for your internship.”
“I sort of liked living with you," Julia said with a slight smile.
“How are you getting to the airport?” asked Ron. “Lily and her boyfriend will drive us; she has a big car and we all can fit in it, even Rhonda. I want her to come in the car to say goodbye to me.” Julia pauses for a moment and looks at Ron. “You know, you were sent a package by Michael’s son, Joshua.”
Ron looked at Julia. “What? I did?”
“Do you want to open it now?”



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