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Uncertainty and Revelation
A House of Cranes follows an eleven-year-old orphan who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth after going to live with a well-off family in Connecticut. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I always wanted to write a coming-of-age story. I think back to my childhood and all the discoveries that come with being a boy, a teenager, and a young man. It’s a time filled with uncertainty and revelation.
The characters of Lucius and the Crane family are intricately woven, with a multitude of layers that make them unique and intriguing. What was the most important factor for you to get right in your characters?
My goal is to always give my characters as much depth as possible. If they’re not interesting to me, I can’t expect them to be interesting to my readers. It’s also important for each character to have some opposing qualities I can use to pit them against one another.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Love and acceptance, and at the very least, to be seen by those we hold in high esteem, are the underlying themes in the novel. Above that is coming to terms with want versus need and understanding the difference between love and obsession.
What is the next book that you’re working on, and when can your fans expect it?
The current novel I’m writing is about a retired CEO, twice divorced, childless, alone, and has been diagnosed with a terminal illness. She hires a male escort who she has seen in the past to spend a month with her at her vacation home on a small island off the coast of Australia. My planned publication date is in the fall of this year.
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A House of Cranes
Set in 1963 in Hartford, Connecticut, A House of Cranes by James Walter Lee delves into the life of Lucius Cook, an eleven-year-old orphan who finds solace in the Crane household. This historical fiction portrays Lucius’ complex relationship with the Crane family, particularly the enigmatic Eleanor Crane, sparking a journey filled with self-discovery amidst the family’s hidden struggles.
Lee masterfully crafts a narrative that delves into themes of identity, familial bonds, and the intricate nature of love. As Lucius transitions from a reserved boy to a young man contending with burgeoning desires, the reader is drawn into a richly described world of emotional complexity. The author’s prose, characterized by its immersive quality, offers a deep dive into Lucius’s psychological landscape, marking key moments of realization and growth. The portrayal of the Crane family serves as a poignant reflection on the dichotomy between appearances and reality, especially in the context of Eleanor and Kenneth Crane’s strained marriage. This dynamic adds layers to the narrative as each character navigates their intricate web of relationships amid emotional upheaval. Lee’s handling of sensuality and desire within the novel is noteworthy, blending tenderness with a sense of provocative exploration. Central to the narrative, this aspect delves into complex and provocative themes, offering a rich and thought-provoking experience for those who engage with its depth. It contributes significantly to the novel’s examination of intimacy and personal growth.
A House of Cranes is a compelling blend of historical setting and profound character study. James Walter Lee’s adept storytelling and rich characterizations make this work a significant contribution to the literary fiction genre. Its introspective exploration of human emotions and relationships will likely engage readers who appreciate nuanced, character-driven narratives.
Pages: 386 | ASIN : B0CTD39W3K
LITERARY TITAN 