Blog Archives
The Road to Moresco
Mark Jamilkowski’s inaugural novel, The Road to Moresco, presents a sweeping narrative that spans over 150 years, intricately weaving the threads of global historical events with the intimate saga of an Italian family. The novel’s canvas stretches from the mid-1800s in Sicily to contemporary Italy, tracing the Moresco family’s odyssey across continents and generations. Jamilkowski blends historical fact with fiction, creating a richly detailed world where readers can vividly experience both the grandeur and the turmoil of the times.
The novel’s strength lies in its complex and dynamic characters. It features a diverse ensemble, each navigating the turbulent waters of their personal and political realities. Particularly noteworthy are the novel’s female characters. They are portrayed as formidable and resilient, actively shaping their destinies against the backdrop of societal constraints.
Jamilkowski’s prose is evocative, painting each scene with such vivid imagery that readers feel transported into the heart of the story, experiencing its highs and lows alongside the characters. At the core of The Road to Moresco are themes of fascism, Nazism, and the ramifications of the Second World War. The narrative delves into the intricate dynamics of a mother-daughter relationship set against this tumultuous historical backdrop.
The story primarily focuses on Maria-Luisa Moresco, a determined pianist, as she juggles her career ambitions with the demands of family and motherhood, and her daughter, Chiara, who navigates her own complex path of love and duty. Their relationship, marked by love and conflict, mirrors the larger historical and cultural shifts of the era.
Jamilkowski’s debut novel blends music, war, love, and family life. It all comes together in a resonant and powerful narrative. This book is an engaging read for those interested in the interplay of history, culture, politics, and personal stories within the grand tapestry of a family saga. Jamilkowski’s work leaves an indelible mark, making The Road to Moresco a commendable addition to the genre.
Pages: 310 | ASIN : B0CCK7DMPJ
I Wanted To Give Him A Voice
Pontius Pilate: An Unexpected Memoir looks at Pilate’s family life, childhood, military and political careers, how he ended up in the crucial role of Jesus’s crucifixion, and what life was like after. What inspired you to tell this story?
For one of the central figures in the crucifixion story, little was known about the man Pontius Pilate. He was recalled to Rome after an incident involving rebels in a small village in Judea, but beyond that, little was known about him. My intent was to give this historical figure flesh and bones. To give him a loving family life beyond the military. To have him torn between staying at home or fighting another battle for Rome or expanding Rome’s territory. Most importantly, I wanted to give him a voice, not to vilify but to understand him and the need for him to be there at the Praetorium to wash his hands, because had he let Jesus go, scripture prophesy would not have been fulfilled.
What is one thing that people point out after reading your book that surprises you?
Readers have told me they were surprised at the depth of Pilate’s character that I portrayed, making him a man with feelings of love, kindness, and empathy, and that I depicted ancient Roman life so accurately and fully. I was most surprised when a producer of note told me she was moved to tears by the ending of the story.
What is the next book that you’re working on, and when can your fans expect it out?
Pablo has several more books that have been published and as many that have not yet been published. He keeps writing, so I keep falling behind in editing his manuscripts. We expect to submit another book soon.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Pilate’s roots ran deep in the Italian countryside, and as he aged, he yearned more and more for home and family, for vineyards and barley fields, and for the laughter of children. His beloved wife Claudia had a gift of discernment, an ability to forecast events and outcomes. When Pilate became governor of Judea, a loathsome assignment to him, he took Claudia with him. What transpired from then on was life-changing for both of them.
Pontius Pilate was the unwilling participant in the crucifixion of Jesus, so regretful of his act that he washed his hands over and over again. As American playwright Arthur Miller once said, “Maybe all one can do is hope to end up with the right regrets.”
Pontius Pilate: An Unexpected Memoir
Pontius Pilate: An Unexpected Memoir by Pablo Zaragoza is a captivating journey into historical fiction, tracing the intriguing life of Pontius Pilate and his lineage, from his humble beginnings to his end. In this meticulously rendered narrative, Zaragoza expertly navigates the tides of Pilate’s existence, illuminating his Roman citizenship, his ascension within the military, and the growth of his family lineage.
The novel provides a compelling exploration of Pilate’s transformation, encapsulating his rise from a mere boy to a celebrated soldier, earning the admiration and respect of Rome through his gallant efforts in battle. The tale takes an intriguing twist as Pilate matures, revealing a test of his unwavering loyalty to Rome when appointed as Judea’s procurator.
Immersed in the critical turning point of Jesus’s fate, the book masterfully depicts the circumstances leading up to Jesus’s crucifixion. It eloquently presents the political and religious undercurrents that characterized the era, as well as Pilate’s crucial role in this narrative.
Zaragoza’s storytelling prowess is evident throughout the book. He skillfully resuscitates this biblical and historical narrative, offering a fresh perspective on the well-documented crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. The novel’s prose is crisp and compelling, drawing readers into Pilate’s world and fostering a unique connection.
Zaragoza’s remarkable research skills are fully displayed in this narrative, lending a well-rounded understanding of the Roman Empire’s history and culture. The author’s narrative finesse transforms a potentially austere subject into an enthralling tale brimming with war, politics, power, religion, and the unavoidable bloodshed that marked Rome’s expansive legacy.
In this riveting tale, Zaragoza subtly yet effectively captures the evolution of Pilate’s character, his moral compass, and his nuanced views on Rome’s governance. Zaragoza’s adeptness in emotionally engaging the reader is exemplary, providing a gripping experience from the opening to the closing lines. The novel expertly balances an engrossing narrative with a profound examination of the historical context.
Pontius Pilate: An Unexpected Memoir presents an insightful and enjoyable reading experience. Zaragoza’s novel is both a rewarding delve into historical exploration and an expertly crafted tale that proves to be a standout addition to the historical fiction genre.
Pages: 404 | ASIN : B09W431MZY
Dogs Don’t Cook
In Dogs Don’t Cook by author Catherine Alexander, Thomas ‘Hatch’ Hatchfield was an artist. It was all he dreamed of being from the time he picked up a crayon. Then came the Vietnam war. Returning from the war as a veteran, he was scarred by his experiences and struggled with homelessness and alcohol addiction. Judged by society and all but abandoned by what’s left of his family, Hatch’s only real friend is his dog, Bud. Dog lovers won’t be surprised to know that Bud is a loyal straight-talker and doesn’t shy away from telling Hatch honest truths about things even when it is painful.
With no family that wants to help him, Hatch eventually stumbles into meeting the practical and kind-hearted Rosa, who becomes his real family. She gives him a place to live and work and inspires him to get back on his feet and start to create art again. The relationship between Hatch and Rosa is beautiful and shows that kindness is still out there in the world.
Hatch is a very clearly drawn character with a distinctive voice written from a first-person perspective. You are immediately drawn into his world and can’t help but find yourself firmly on his side right from the beginning. The Vietnam war period sets the backdrop for Hatch’s journey, and it provides a timely and poignant commentary on the war in general. I felt that in a couple of instances, elements of the story seemed to be dropped in for convenience without being fully developed or resolved, like the handling of Hatch’s brief love interest. There is a stark contrast in the portrayal of Hatch as a hopeless drunk vs. him sober, without a lot of transition between the two stages. Watching Hatch emerge from his drunken fog and reclaim parts of his former self is heartwarming.
Dogs Don’t Cook is a moving story of love, loss, family, and triumph over considerable adversity. This historical war fiction novel captures the emotions many returning vets felt and shows some of the challenges they endured once returning to America. Hatch is the character who stays with you long after you finish the book.
Pages: 266 | ASIN : B09NCZJ4Q6
LITERARY TITAN 