The Fugitive at Greyledge is a good, entertaining yarn by a promising author. The plot seems simple. Charlotte, the a Southern heiress of Greyledge, falls from her horse. She is rescued by a younger man, the fugitive, Jude. Jude is a sensitive sort, but he is on the run from killing two men in the Army who sexually abused him---one of these was actually a bully whom he knew earlier in his home town. Jude and Charlotte gradually become entangled. But it's a 50's sort of thing, and it's not really that simple, with hesitation and second thoughts on both sides before the relationship is consumated. Charlotte seems to resent Jude's easy masculinity, while Jude doesn't really want to settle down and especially doesn't want to get entangled in Charlotte's less than perfect relationships with the local power structure. But he does get entangled, really really entangeld, and the result is a horrific conflict that is the watershed of the story... The author, a retired biologist, has a keen eye for local customs and conflicts, and a good feeling for the way familial and local history can blend to force people onto paths they might otherwise never have taken. His ear for dialog does need some sharpening---in spots, he substitutes explanatory narrative where speech would be better. But he more than makes up for this by an almost extraordinary and instinctive grasp of sexuality and its implications, particularly in an era a bit more repressed than our own. This is not a novel for children. Adults, though, will find it an excellent way to spend a couple of hours. When the story ends, we don't really know if Jude is alive or dead. I have a feeling that we'll find out.
The characters in this book are very believable
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
This book is thoroughly absorbing. It reads well and the characters are 3-dimensional and real. I was sorry the book ended because I cared for the main characters and wanted to know more about their fate. The ending makes you anxious for the next installment.
Two Thumbs Up!! You must get a second copy to share*
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
The story and characters... simply entrancing! Contrary to other reviewers, I was compelled to put the book down mid-read to linger in Grimble County, Virginia: I didn't want it to ever end! Hoping there is sequel soon from this talented new author.
Intriguing! Just had to finish it. Characters were so real.
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
Characters were brought to life and story was intriguing. Just had to finish it in one sitting. Historically well researched and enough suspense to hold your attention. I found myself totally engrossed in the story line and hoping for a happy ending!
characters you care about, exciting, gripping plot
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 26 years ago
This book kept me on pins and needles to the end. I want to hear more about the characters. Romantic- thriller -mystery all in one
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