"The Long Roll" by Mary Johnston is an extraordinary historical novel that takes place during the tumultuous American Civil War. The story is beautifully told through the eyes of Richard Cleave, a young man from Virginia who makes the difficult decision to leave his home and join the Confederate Army. Through his compelling narrative, readers gain a deep understanding of the experiences and struggles of soldiers, as well as the brutal realities of war.
What sets "The Long Roll" apart is Johnston's incredible attention to detail, which brings the story to life and immerses readers in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the battlefield. The descriptions of the battles are vivid and intense, portraying the true horror and chaos that soldiers faced. Johnston's ability to convey these harrowing experiences is both poignant and powerful.
The novel's greatest strength lies in its character development. Richard Cleave is a complex and relatable protagonist who undergoes a profound transformation as he witnesses the devastating effects of war. His journey from an idealistic young man to a seasoned soldier is truly captivating, and readers will find themselves emotionally invested in his story. Additionally, the secondary characters are equally well-developed and contribute significantly to Richard's personal growth. Each character plays a unique role and adds depth to the overall narrative.
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"The Long Roll" also delves into the moral complexities and dilemmas faced by its characters. Loyalty, particularly conflicting loyalties between soldiers on opposite sides of the conflict, is a central theme explored in the novel. Johnston also sheds light on the often overlooked experiences of civilians, particularly women, during this turbulent period. The challenges and sacrifices they faced are brought to the forefront, providing a comprehensive perspective of the war.
In conclusion, "The Long Roll" is a poignant and powerful novel that explores the human side of war. Mary Johnston's meticulous research and captivating storytelling make this book a standout in the genre. With its rich historical context, well-drawn characters, and gripping narrative, "The Long Roll" is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the American Civil War and the human stories behind it.
What are readers saying?
Mary Johnston's novel "The Long Roll" has received mixed reception among readers. Set during the American Civil War, the book explores the experiences of soldiers and civilians entangled in the conflict. While some readers praised the book for its well-developed characters and immersive storytelling, others felt that the plot was slow-paced and the writing style overly wordy.
Many readers appreciated the depth and complexity of the characters in "The Long Roll." They found the protagonist, Richard Cleave, to be a compelling and well-rounded character, and admired his personal growth throughout the story. Additionally, the book delves into the lives of other soldiers and civilians, vividly portraying the challenges they faced during the war. The author's attention to detail was praised for its ability to bring the historical setting to life.
However, some readers found the plot of "The Long Roll" to be slow and meandering, causing difficulties in maintaining their interest. They felt that certain parts of the story dragged on, hindering their enjoyment. Furthermore, a few readers commented on the verbose writing style, stating that it made it harder for them to connect with the characters and affected their overall enjoyment of the book.
Despite these criticisms, many readers applauded Mary Johnston for effectively capturing the essence of the American Civil War period. They commended her extensive research and historical accuracy, noting how the book successfully transported them back in time. Readers particularly enjoyed the descriptions of battle scenes, which effectively portrayed the chaos and brutality of war.
Overall, opinions regarding "The Long Roll" by Mary Johnston are divided. Readers who appreciate detailed character development and a historically accurate setting are likely to find this book compelling. However, those who prefer a faster-paced plot or a more concise writing style may find it less enjoyable. Ultimately, whether this book is a hit or miss will depend on individual preferences.
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