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A novel for our times. A saga for the ages.
The good ole boys and gals are at it in Texas. With every fun stereotype as a character and several plot lines running faster than a stampede after hearing a rattlesnake, this was an entertaining and engaging read. Now many Texans might not be concerned or even notice if the State Senate disappeared but the characters in this book are sure in an upheaval.
There are several story lines happening their mix is efficiently handled as the author gives the reader a face to each component. Whether it’s a 20-year old undocumented person in the national guard or a seasoned talking head or a cowboy just trying to figure out how to use a might-be law to his advantage. Clavey also pulls from our consistent headline issues to bring the story firmly home to Texas. And of course living this close to the border, there has to be the Mexican drug cartel and a set of brothers that have you wondering about who is in control.
The author does a very good job of personalizing many issues that are hard to fathom for those in other states and even many in Texas. Living here, you hear all the stories and see the pictures on the news but getting people to relate can be an issue. Clavey does just that. I felt the friendship between the ladies of the café, I felt the angst of Cuco as he is faced with the issue of his position and dealing with immigration and I felt the frustration in Reyes as he tries to make things happen.
I look forward to seeing just where the author is brave enough to take this story in the rest of this series and following along on his tale, or truth.
Side note that I found humorous – The author gives a bit of a double entendre with some of his character’s names – not only a Senator with the nickname ‘Kill Bill’ but we also have Governor Block – take this as you will, but they brought a smile to my face.
Bruce Clavey of Round Rock, Texas writes with a passion for exploring the Latin heritage tucked in cultural corners throughout Texas, Mexico, and Central America. In 2017, Clavey’s research into perspectives on state history led to his onsite rediscovery of the Mexico City dungeon where the colonial “Father of Texas” was imprisoned, documented in his book “The Inquisition of Stephen F. Austin.” His interest to illuminate compelling historic junctures brought the creation of several feature dramatizations for state museum in-exhibit performance. Clavey’s release of Book One of The Republic Series in 2020 begins the journey of Texas and Mexican characters who confront the pressure points at today’s vibrant river border, a land that has functioned for centuries as both international gateway and barrier.
THREE WINNERS each receive a prize pack including: Autographed paperback copy of To the Republic; unisex tee with the “Texas Forever” design; baseball cap stitched with the “Texas Forever” design; ceramic lapel pin with the “Mano de Tejas” design; vinyl 5” decal with the “Mano deTejas” design.
US only. Giveaway ends midnight, CDT, May 7, 2021
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Jennie Reads 
“several plot lines running faster than a stampede after hearing a rattlesnake” Ha! You win for quote of the week. Great review. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts & this series starter! Sounds like a winner.
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Jennie, thank you for your thoughtful and articulate review of To the Republic: Book One. Your observations touch on aspects of the story that, for years, have gone unexplored in reader feedback. They are most beneficial here in Book Two’s final runway to publication. All the best with Jennie Reads!
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