Embark on the heartfelt finale of the Hamilton Place series with my review of "Roses in December" by Mark A. Gibson. This virtual blog tour is brought to you by iRead Book Tours. The series starts with "A Song That Never Ends" and unfolds through generations of the Hamilton family. Don't miss the chance to journey into this captivating saga, and enter the giveaway posted below for a chance to explore the power of family.
My Review
⭐⭐⭐
Dive into the heart-wrenching conclusion of the Hamilton Place series with "Roses in December" by Mark A. Gibson. The saga persists in its third-person ominous narrative, a choice that, while not my preferred point of view, doesn't hinder the author's ability to weave a tapestry of emotions and familial complexities.
The story unfolds around Jimmy Hamilton, a hero in Vietnam, the weight of guilt and untold secrets overshadows his sacrifice. Becca, his widow, bears the burden of a loveless marriage and keeps her son in the dark about his true heritage, creating a web of deception and unspoken truths.
James Jr., the intellectually gifted yet troubled scion of the Hamiltons, grapples with a false narrative, haunted by a loss that transcends the pages. The author masterfully crafts a tale of bravery, sacrifice, and redemption that echoes through generations.
Despite my preference for a different narrative perspective, "Roses in December" triumphs in delivering a poignant and beautiful conclusion to the family saga. The intricate storytelling, coupled with evocative themes of love and loss, keeps readers hooked until the last page.
Gibson's ability to encapsulate the Hamiltons' journey, from the jungles of Vietnam to the gardens of stone at Arlington, is commendable. The title itself, "Roses in December," hints at the enduring beauty within the narrative, even amid the harshness of life.
In summary, if you can overlook the narrative style, "Roses in December" is a powerful testament to the enduring strength of family bonds. The novel serves as a fitting farewell to the Hamiltons, leaving readers with a lingering sense of reflection on their family sagas.
If you haven't read the first book "A Song That Never Ends", check out my review and Mark A Gibson's interview about his writing journey in my blog post, A Heartfelt Journey Through Generations - "A Song That Never Ends" Book Review and Author Interview.