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DocHilda
Posted September 21, 2009
Fictional novel based on accurate representation of Austin, Texas and early formation of Texas Republic. The book subtly presents some interesting ideas on leadership and politics.
Shrake is truly a gifted writer, able to reach a well-read audience, or someone who wants to have a fun read about Texas, particularly about Austin, TX.
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Shrake presents an accurate historical representation of Matthew Caldwell and the Texas Rangers through this interesting anthropology of facts written in fictional style.
He weaves history through representation of non-fictional and fictional characters. His style is certainly fitting of Wouk. Borderlands provides James Michener-like attention to details; however, Shrake manages less dry spells in the rhythm of the text with the rich story.
The reader is immersed enough to "see" the landscape and the different tribes of Indians, as well as the era of San Antonio, Houston, and many people in the country and small towns along the Rio Grande-not to mention the geography in between. One gets a sense of being there with Captain Caldwell and his magnificent horse wanting all citizens of Texas, Indians, Mexicans, and refugees from the Civil war as well as Spaniards to succeed at making a living in the new Republic. The antagonists are plenty: Shrake plays them perfectly against the protagonists.
Other main characters are historically verifiable and seamlessly woven in the story. They are believable and endearing with a balance of feminine and masculine.
He fills in extra characters who provide, anthropological, sociological, geo-political and even sexual innuendo based on historically accurate persons and events.
A small example of this: Shrake provides insights into the German immigrant movement. [Matthew Caldwell's] German Mail-order bride's family wants her to migrate to Texas due to their own political strife at the time (circa 1849) through Galveston, TX. This fictional look at a historically accurate account makes for interesting dialogue for a similar issue today for border debates and immigrants.
This immigration through Galveston is interesting in that it shows Shrake's attention to research detail and editing finesse-it is not pointed out in the book, but the Galveston Port was responsible for more immigrants than Ellis Island, and unfortunately Jewish immigrants found racism alive and well. This was discovered, and a immigration agent was removed, but not unfortunately before many were returned home. The port was closed due to an overwhelming influx of immigrants and illness (State of Texas: Bob Bullock Museum).
Even if you are not a fan of Texas per se, enjoy this amazing author's work post portem. He was a true contributor to the arts.
Certainly any library looking to include a historical fiction on the origins of Austin, Texas and her people would be well advised including this novel. A well, researched literary and scholarly contribution to the field.
Hilda V. Carpenter, PhD -
Anonymous
Posted December 13, 2001
Good Texas novel
A good long read, moments of brilliance when he describes some of the characters. Most Texans will enjoy knowing even more about their history. Recommended.
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Anonymous
Posted September 6, 2000
A New Western Classic
One of the best westerns I have ever read, right up there with 'Lonesome Dove,' 'The Way West,' 'Little Big Man,' and the works of Elmer Kelton. I heartily recommend it.
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Anonymous
Posted May 30, 2000
Eat Your Heart Out Larry McMurtry
What I'd like readers to know is that Shrake's book is wonderfully witty and wise as well as wickedly funny. The scenes of early Austin and Houston are vividly authentic. The characters are fascinating. The story is captivating. Can't wait for the movie version!
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Anonymous
Posted April 28, 2000
Wildly entertaining.
The interesting mix of semi-fact and pure fiction make the book a must read. The characters are simply captivating. The book is hard to put down.
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