New American Café


Fiction - Drama
396 Pages
Reviewed on 11/04/2024
Buy on Amazon

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    Book Review

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

New American Café by Richard Sanford is a vivid slice of late-seventies life, capturing the chaotic blend of ambition, art, and the hustle of city life. The novel is about Mitch Lanier, a young musician who finds himself navigating the often-turbulent waters of love, music, and entrepreneurship after his breakup with Melanie, his college sweetheart. The book paints a detailed picture of the struggle to balance artistic dreams with the harsh realities of life. Mitch's partnership with the eccentric Corey McGowan to open a café is both a lifeline and a burden as it intertwines their fates with a colorful cast of characters, from musicians to poets to schemers. The café isn't just a business; it's a symbol of potential and a beacon of hope that keeps them all going.

Richard Sanford does an excellent job of immersing readers in the era with its gritty streets, smoky clubs, and the raw energy of a city that never stops moving. The relationships are messy and real, with Mitch’s romantic entanglements reflecting the broader theme of chasing dreams while dealing with life demands. Fans of Hunter Thompson and David Sedaris will love New American Café as its subtle pop culture and laugh-out-loud humor match the masters of the genre. New American Café is the perfect read for anyone who appreciates a well-drawn portrait of a time and place where art, life, and love intersect in ways that are as exhilarating as they are heartbreaking. It's a must-read for those who enjoy stories about artistic pursuits, urban life, and 70s pop culture.