In Old Kentucky   By: Edward Marshall (1870-1933)

In Old Kentucky by Edward Marshall is a fascinating novel that takes readers on a journey through the beautiful landscapes and complex social dynamics of rural Kentucky in the mid-19th century. Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing America, this book presents a compelling narrative that explores themes of love, family, and the harsh realities of life in the antebellum South.

One of the first things that struck me about this novel was Marshall's vivid and immersive descriptions of the Kentucky countryside. From the rolling hills to the meandering rivers, the author paints a breathtaking picture of the natural beauty that surrounds the story's characters. Whether it's a moonlit horse ride through the backwoods or a playful gathering by the creek, the setting truly comes alive, transporting readers to a time and place long gone.

The characters in In Old Kentucky are richly developed and deeply relatable. Marshall excels at capturing the conflicting emotions and motivations that drive human behavior, creating layered and authentic individuals. The protagonist, Jonathan Hale, stands as a moral compass in a world where right and wrong are often blurred. His journey from a wide-eyed young man to a hardened adult is both heartbreaking and inspiring.

Moreover, Marshall skillfully delves into the complex social fabric of 19th-century Kentucky, examining the dynamics between the various classes and races. The themes of slavery, injustice, and the struggle for civil rights are handled with sensitivity, and the author manages to shed light on the harsh realities of the time without resorting to heavy-handedness or oversimplification.

The pacing of the story is well-balanced, with moments of intense action and suspense juxtaposed with reflective and introspective passages. Marshall's writing style is eloquent and evocative, drawing readers into the narrative and keeping them engaged throughout.

However, the novel does suffer from a few minor flaws. The occasional shift in perspective can be confusing, requiring readers to adjust quickly to a new character's point of view. Additionally, certain plot points could have been explored in greater detail, as they felt somewhat rushed or unresolved.

In Old Kentucky is a captivating novel that showcases Edward Marshall's talent for storytelling and vivid world-building. With its blend of historical accuracy, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, this book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and Southern literature. It serves as a reminder of the struggles faced by individuals during a tumultuous period in American history and offers a glimpse into the resilience and perseverance of the human spirit.

First Page:

She was coming, singing, down the side of Nebo Mountain "Old Nebo" mounted on an ox. Sun kissed and rich her coloring; her flowing hair was like spun light; her arms, bare to the elbows and above, might have been the models to drive a sculptor to despair, as their muscles played like pulsing liquid beneath the tinted, velvet skin of wrists and forearms; her short skirt bared her shapely legs above the ankles half way to the knees; her feet, never pinched by shoes and now quite bare, slender, graceful, patrician in their modelling, in strong contrast to the linsey woolsey of her gown and rough surroundings, were as dainty as a dancing girl's in ancient Athens... Continue reading book >>