Saturday, July 6, 2024

Review of EXILES from Avid Reader



Enjoy the review from Avid Reader



“Exiles” by LJ Ambrosio is a poignant and evocative conclusion to the Reflections of Michael Trilogy. As the final installment in this captivating series, the novel transports readers to the heart of Paris, where protagonist Ron embarks on a journey of self-exile at the behest of his friend Michael. Against the backdrop of the city’s vibrant culture and impassioned protests, Ron’s narrative unfolds with depth and resonance, offering a nuanced exploration of identity, friendship, and the search for meaning.

Ambrosio’s prose is rich and immersive, painting vivid portraits of Parisian streets teeming with life and energy. From bustling cafes to historic landmarks, the city itself becomes a character, its essence intricately woven into the fabric of Ron’s story. As he navigates the complexities of his newfound solitude, Ron encounters a diverse cast of characters whose lives intersect with his in unexpected ways. Through these encounters, Ambrosio deftly explores themes of connection and belonging, highlighting the transformative power of human connection.

At its core, “Exiles” is a meditation on the essence of self and the search for authenticity in a world fraught with turmoil and uncertainty. Ron’s journey serves as a catalyst for introspection, prompting readers to reflect on their own desires, fears, and aspirations. As he grapples with the weight of his decisions and the consequences of his actions, Ron undergoes a profound evolution, emerging not only as a fully realized individual but also as a symbol of resilience and hope in the face of adversity.

Throughout the narrative, Ambrosio demonstrates a remarkable ability to infuse her storytelling with layers of emotional depth and philosophical insight. Each page is imbued with a sense of urgency and poignancy, compelling readers to ponder life’s most profound questions alongside the characters. Whether exploring themes of love, loss, or redemption, Ambrosio’s writing resonates with authenticity and raw vulnerability.

In "Exiles," LJ Ambrosio has crafted a masterful conclusion to the Reflections of Michael Trilogy, one that transcends the confines of genre to offer a timeless exploration of the human condition. With its lyrical prose, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, this novel is sure to captivate readers from beginning to end. As Ron's journey unfolds against the backdrop of Parisian streets, readers are invited to embark on a journey of their own—a journey of self-discovery, connection, and ultimately, redemption.

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


Near the corner, Ron had missed his opportunity to slow and check for other people walking, so he slammed into a group of women. He especially blasted into an old lady whose groceries flew into the sky, and a yogurt splattered against a wall and the faces of the other women. She turned to condemn her assailant, but he was already on the next block in pursuit of the thief.

He spotted the thief at the Notre Dame Hotel, out of breath, leaning against a pillar. Surprised at the thief’s choice to stop here, he slowed down and let his feet pound the street into a halt.

Ron grabbed at him but still missed his shoulder. “Give me the book back!” he said, very loudly. The thief just shrugged his shoulder, a mocking smile. His smile made the act of chasing him through the streets feel silly, as if this were a game that had been played and he took it too seriously.

The thief looked at Ron and asked, sarcastically, “What language are you speaking?”

“What do mean? I am speaking French!”

Our thief laughed, turned to a random man who walked down the street, and said, “This young man thinks he is speaking French Go ahead say something to this stranger; he will tell you are speaking some other language other than French!”

“I will call the police,” Ron said firmly.

“Go ahead! They know me very well. I have been arrested over 10 times.”

“Stealing other books?”

“No, protecting my freedom and that of my compatriots; they will arrest me and beat me to their enjoyment. I do not care. You want to see my scars?”

“What is your name?” asked Ron.

“Louie Dubois!” he said with pride. “Who are you? How does an American run a bookstore in Paris?”

“By speaking multiple languages badly. Okay? You got one jab in, now give me that book back.”



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