This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Free Book Program, which is open to all readers and is completely free. The author will provide you with a free copy of their book in exchange for an honest review. You and the author will discuss what sites you will post your review to and what kind of copy of the book you would like to receive (eBook, PDF, Word, paperback, etc.). To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Review Exchange Program, which is open to all authors and is completely free. Simply put, you agree to provide an honest review an author's book in exchange for the author doing the same for you. What sites your reviews are posted on (B&N, Amazon, etc.) and whether you send digital (eBook, PDF, Word, etc.) or hard copies of your books to each other for review is up to you. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email, and be sure to describe your book or include a link to your Readers' Favorite review page or Amazon page.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Donation Program, which was created to help nonprofit and charitable organizations (schools, libraries, convalescent homes, soldier donation programs, etc.) by providing them with free books and to help authors garner more exposure for their work. This author is willing to donate free copies of their book in exchange for reviews (if circumstances allow) and the knowledge that their book is being read and enjoyed. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email. Be sure to tell the author who you are, what organization you are with, how many books you need, how they will be used, and the number of reviews, if any, you would be able to provide.
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Paradise Undone: A Novel of Jonestown is a work of fiction in the recent historical, psychological drama, and intrigue subgenres. It is best suited to mature readers owing to the presence of some explicit language, instances of violence, and the subject matter of mass death. Penned by author Annie Dawid, the novel delves into the aftermath of the tragic events of November 18, 1978, when 917 individuals perished in the infamous Jonestown Massacre. Set in 2008, a survivor recounts the harrowing tale to a journalist on the 30th anniversary of the event. Dawid's narrative explores the inception of Peoples Temple by Jim Jones and his wife, Marceline, as a beacon of hope for the marginalized, aiming for communal living and equality. However, over time, Jones's autocratic rule and personal indiscretions erode the foundation of the community, straying from the initial vision. Despite Marceline's disillusionment with their marriage, she remains loyal to Jones, even in death.
Author Annie Dawid has crafted an intense work that skillfully navigates the intricate dynamics within Peoples Temple, offering insight into the gradual unraveling of utopian ideals and the manipulation of loyalty. The novel's emotional depth and historical accuracy immerse the reader in the tragic events of Jonestown, prompting reflection on the nature of faith, power, and the human capacity for both good and evil. I found the narrative flow confident and compelling, guiding readers through a haunting exploration of human frailty and the complexities of devotion and always letting you know you’re in safe hands with the subject matter. Dawid's poignant portrayal of Marceline's conflicted feelings was absolutely heart-wrenching, with keen attention to detail in character development, speech, and thought presentation to make her realistic. Overall, Paradise Undone is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that sheds light on one of history's darkest chapters, leaving a lasting impact on its readers, and I would not hesitate to recommend it.
