Title: Faded Flowers
Author: Timothy Etoori
Publisher: AuthorHouse
ISBN: 978-1-5049-3486
Pages: 210
Genre: Fiction
Reviewed by: Suzanne Gattis
Pacific Book Review
Faded Flowers by author Timothy Etoori is the story of two men, both with different pasts, beliefs and destinies, who are destined to cross paths in life. They couldn’t have lived more different lives but somehow found common ground in the ending. One spends his life serving others; the other spent his life mainly serving his own purpose. It is a story of overcoming trials, faith, acceptance, and eventual change.
Robert and John seem unlikely to ever have met, let alone have an effect on each other’s lives. John, after the disappearance of his brother, turns his devastation to the only thing he knows, faith, and dedicates his life to spreading the gospel and assisting others on their religious journey. He seemingly puts aside his own desires to preach with dedication. John however, almost by default, chooses a life of fighting and rule breaking after he tests poorly in school. John definitely has a rebellious persona. However, the circumstances of life, in large part due to a woman whom they have each loved, bring these two men together. This is a story of two unlikely men whose fate eventually puts them together at the right time and the right place.
Speaking of place, the setting of this book plays a major role in the storyline and brings great depth to the tale. Based in Uganda, the environment is one of instability and violence. It occurs during a destructive time in the nation’s history. The violence is severe; the suffering is heart wrenching. Etoori was obviously very familiar with the setting, as he masters the writing in such a way the storyline of this country seemed to jump off the pages. The book would not have been complete had the storyline of Uganda not been so well developed. The setting indeed becomes a character in the development of the novel. It helps explain the motivation, thoughts, and actions of the two main characters.
Due to Robert’s journey and calling in life, the story is full of religious overtones. The author’s continuing commitment to religion throughout the book gave Robert’s story a very innocent aspect. Polar opposite, from John’s storyline comes the overtones of danger and defiance. He is a warrior and rule breaker. There is enough push and pull to keep the book interesting and the reader absorbed in this unique world.
For a premier book, the author did a very good job writing this tale. It is an easy to read, interesting fictional story. I like how Etoori left the book open-ended and came to a close a little abruptly. It made me contemplate what the various outcomes of the story just may be. I definitely recommend this book to readers liking to push the envelope of diversity and location, while enjoying the power of faith.
