Disappearances : Book Review

In Howard Frank Mosher's "Disappearances," readers are transported to the remote wilderness of Vermont during the Prohibition era. The story revolves around the life of 17-year-old Wild Bill Bonhomme, who embarks on a dangerous journey alongside his father, Quebec Bill, and their eclectic crew. Their primary objective is to smuggle a large shipment of whiskey across the border, a mission that holds their survival at stake.

Mosher's writing paints a vivid and atmospheric picture of the unforgiving landscape, almost turning it into a character of its own. From the biting winter winds to the snow-covered mountains, every detail is described with remarkable clarity, effectively transporting readers to an era where life was raw and survival came with risks.

The characters in "Disappearances" are richly complex and captivating, each possessing their own unique quirks and motivations. Wild Bill, torn between conforming to his father's footsteps and pursuing his own desires, adds a layer of depth to the coming-of-age aspect of the story. Quebec Bill, a larger-than-life figure known for his storytelling prowess, effortlessly steals every scene with his charismatic presence.

In addition to its adventurous plot, "Disappearances" incorporates elements of magical realism, infusing a touch of the supernatural into the already enchanting narrative. These elements, such as the enigmatic disappearing herd of horses and the thematic exploration of transformation, contribute to the book's distinctive and captivating nature.

Overall, "Disappearances" is a compelling and evocative tale brimming with adventure, eccentric characters, and the untamed beauty of Vermont's wilderness. Mosher's masterful storytelling and his ability to capture the essence of a time and place make this book a must-read for enthusiasts of historical fiction and coming-of-age stories. Immerse yourself in the richness of the written word and let "Disappearances" transport you to a captivating world where the wild and the extraordinary coalesce.

What are readers saying?

The Goodreads reviews for the book "Disappearances" have been overwhelmingly positive. Readers have consistently praised the book for its captivating plot, vibrant descriptions, and well-developed characters. Many reviewers have particularly appreciated the seamless blend of mystery and historical fiction, providing an immersive reading experience. However, a few readers did mention that they found the pacing to be slow and the plot twists predictable.

A recurring theme in the positive reviews is the author's remarkable ability to create an atmospheric setting. Readers have enjoyed the vivid descriptions of the Vermont wilderness and felt transported to the early 1900s. The incorporation of Native American folklore and traditional storytelling has also been praised, as it adds depth and richness to the narrative.

The book's well-developed and relatable characters have been another aspect that received praise. Reviewers have expressed emotional investment in the protagonist, Blue, and appreciated her growth and transformation throughout the story. The interactions and dynamics between characters have been deemed realistic and have added an extra layer of depth to the overall plot.

The combination of mystery and historical fiction has been highly regarded by many readers, as it offers an intriguing and distinctive element to the story. The exploration of family history and the unveiling of long-held secrets have kept readers captivated and motivated to solve the mysteries along with the characters. Nevertheless, a few reviewers have mentioned that they found the pacing to be slow at times, impacting their overall enjoyment of the book.

While the majority of reviewers found the plot twists and turns exciting and unexpected, a small percentage expressed disappointment in their predictability. These reviewers felt that the mysteries were resolved too quickly or lacked the desired impact. It is important to note, however, that these opinions were in the minority, and the majority of readers were highly satisfied with the book's plot development.

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