Crittenden A Kentucky Story of Love and War   By: John Fox (1863-1919)

In John Fox's historical novel "Crittenden: A Kentucky Story of Love and War," readers are taken on an emotional journey through the tumultuous times of the American Civil War. Set in the heart of Kentucky, the story revolves around two families, the Crittendens and the Coltons, whose lives intertwine against the backdrop of the nation's deadliest conflict.

From the very beginning, Fox's vivid storytelling draws us into the lives of these families, capturing the essence of their relationships, struggles, and hopes. The protagonist, Valentine Colston, embodies the spirit and determination of a young Southern man torn between his loyalty to his family and his duty to his nation. As he navigates the intricacies of love, friendship, and war, readers are given a window into the complex and conflicting emotions experienced by those caught in the midst of this devastating war.

One aspect of the novel that stands out is Fox's meticulous attention to historical detail. The author paints a rich portrait of the era, seamlessly blending accurate historical facts with the fictional narrative. Through his descriptive prose, readers can truly imagine the sights and sounds of Kentucky during the war, from the sprawling plantations to the battlefields stained with blood. Fox's commitment to authenticity adds depth and credibility to the story, making it all the more engaging for history enthusiasts.

Moreover, Fox masterfully captures the essence of the human experience during wartime. As readers witness the transformation of Valentine, they are confronted with the harsh realities of war and its toll on families, friendships, and love. The emotional depth portrayed in the novel is heart-wrenching, and it provokes contemplation on the sacrifices made by those who fought in the Civil War, as well as the enduring power of love and loyalty in times of strife.

While the book primarily focuses on Valentine's journey, Fox skillfully weaves in the perspectives of other characters, shedding light on different experiences and motivations. The complexity and diversity of these characters make the story even more engrossing, as readers witness their triumphs, tragedies, and moral dilemmas. Each character, from the strong-willed Louella Crittenden to the conflicted Clay Colton, adds layers of depth and nuance to the narrative, ensuring that every reader will find someone to root for.

If there is one criticism to be made, it would be the occasional meandering of the plot. At some points, the story loses momentum, with certain subplots feeling extraneous and distracting from the central narrative. However, such instances are few and far between, and they do not significantly hinder the overall impact of the novel.

In conclusion, "Crittenden: A Kentucky Story of Love and War" is a captivating historical novel that artfully combines elements of romance, drama, and war. John Fox's ability to transport readers to a bygone era and immerse them in the lives of his characters makes for a compelling and immersive reading experience. Whether a fan of historical fiction or simply interested in exploring the complexities of human nature, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.

First Page:

Day breaking on the edge of the Bluegrass and birds singing the dawn in. Ten minutes swiftly along the sunrise and the world is changed: from nervous exaltation of atmosphere to an air of balm and peace; from grim hills to the rolling sweep of green slopes; from a high mist of thin verdure to low wind shaken banners of young leaves; from giant poplar to white ash and sugar tree; from log cabin to homesteads of brick and stone; from wood thrush to meadow lark; rhododendron to bluegrass; from mountain to lowland, Crittenden was passing home... Continue reading book >>