The Carousel

Rating:
Summary: Richard Paul Evans at his best!
Review: This is a tale that is classic Evans. It is an inspiring story of life, love and loss. It is a story that makes you look at the perceived obstacles in life. Are they really obstacles and stumbling blocks, or are they really building blocks. The Carousel begins with a decision of a couple to marry secretly, at a very young age as they both begin their journey towards their own goals. The secrets they are forced to keep and the feelings they hide work against everything they thought that they wanted. This story wraps itself around every emotional chord and touches your heart with truth and honesty. Although Evans creates a very simple tale, it is by no means simplistic. It is probably the simplicity of his writing that makes The Carousel so wonderful and inspirational without being "preachy". It remains in your heart long after this book has been tucked back onto it's shelf.

Rating:
Summary: good
Review: This is a tale that is classic Evans. It is an inspiring story of life, love and loss. It is a story that makes you look at the perceived obstacles in life. Are they really obstacles and stumbling blocks, or are they really building blocks. The Carousel begins with a decision of a couple to marry secretly, at a very young age as they both begin their journey towards their own goals. The secrets they are forced to keep and the feelings they hide work against everything they thought that they wanted. This story wraps itself around every emotional chord and touches your heart with truth and honesty. Although Evans creates a very simple tale, it is by no means simplistic. It is probably the simplicity of his writing that makes The Carousel so wonderful and inspirational without being "preachy". It remains in your heart long after this book has been tucked back onto it's shelf.

Rating:
Summary: EXCELLENT READ! You will not be disappointed.
Review: This is the first book I have read by Richard Evans (aside from the children's book "The Dance"). I was not disappointed. While usually a reader of non-fiction, I am very "picky" when it comes to novels and work of fiction. This story was extremely satisfying. This book read very well, the story flowed nicely, the characters were well-defined, and everything happened for a reason. While some people may call this a "sappy love story", I choose to look at it as a painful, but must-have lesson about life and love. Growing up and coming of age - you know - the twenty-something years where you are no longer a child, but not yet a "real" grown-up. I will definitely go back and read some of Mr. Evans' other pieces - beginning with the prequel to this story. I highly recommend!!!

Rating:
Summary: good
Review: Though I must admit the story was poignant and I agree that life is like a carousel at times, it left me unsatisfied... This is the first book I've read of Evans, and he's a good author, but at times I was left hanging and wondering...it felt like a soap opera episode... It's a decent read, though, and the publishing company did a really good job designing his books, so don't be surpised if you're drawn to this book.