Aura of Purgatory: A Novel

Rating:
Summary: Aura of Reality
Review: Though speckled with wry bits of irony and humor this is a serious book. It's depictions of conditions in a politically chaotic tiny dictatorship may seem far-fetched to some but I think the gruesome truth is that these horrific atrocities are actually realistic and are brought to the public's attention in the format of an intriguing novel. Even the barbaric customs described toward the end of the story are scenes that can be found in certain parts of the world today.

The main character of the book, Nathan Rhodes, is revealed by the author, James McGovern, in an interesting mix of chapters that alternate snippets of past memories with the present situation in which Rhodes experiences emotional, political and romantic developments that are likely amplifications of his painful maturation to adulthood.

Aura of Purgatory is an interesting and well-written book whose pace accelerates in the last quarter toward an ending that leaves one contemplating life in third world countries, religion, and various avenues regarding life and its search for meaning. I recommend this definitely adult (R-rated) book.