Title: The Sin of Angels
Author:
Publisher: William Winchester Nivin and Jody A. Riddle Publishing
ISBN: 978-1962730143
Pages: 596
Genre: Historical Fiction
Reviewed by: Subhrajit Saha
Pacific Book Review
Life goes on! That’s exactly what came to mind as I turned the final page of William Winchester Nivin’s & Jody Riddle period drama The Sin of Angels. This sprawling novel, with over five hundred pages, feels like a wholesome feast brimming with diverse flavors – joy, sorrow, anger, romance, disgust, awkwardness, and more. Despite its length, it never drags nor feels monotonous. Instead, the constant flux of events and the appearance of hundreds of characters might occasionally feel overwhelming, yet it keeps the intrigue alive. The narrative masterfully stirs a relentless curiosity, compelling readers to chase after what’s coming next.
Set against the backdrop of the 1850s United States, the novel delves into a politically charged era where society finds itself divided over the abolition of slavery. While one faction raises its voice to dismantle the oppressive system, others vehemently oppose it. Some present well-reasoned arguments for their stance, while others blindly cling to old traditions, perpetuating the exploitation of human beings as it had been for generations. The Marquands are a well-established and influential family in the state of Kentucky. Bertrand Marquand, the patriarch, is a seasoned lawyer and politician. The twin brothers of the family, Edward and John, share nothing in common apart from their appearance. Edward is well-mannered, educated, and deeply empathetic, whereas John is the complete opposite – a spoiled brat and a mama’s boy with empathy for anyone. Ruthless in his pursuit of personal desires, John seems to embody every negative trait imaginable, as if the almighty had poured every possible vice into one person.
From attempting to kill his cousin Allen to expressing a disturbing desire for Edward’s girlfriend, betraying his own partner, and committing financial fraud, John remains a constant troublemaker throughout his life. In stark contrast, Edward, much like their father, embodies the role of a family man, striving to protect everyone and maintain balance amidst the chaos. As John’s storyline grows darker and more twisted, Edward’s journey becomes increasingly vibrant and compelling. The novel is filled with moments that evoke a whirlwind of emotions – confusion, bliss, and rage – particularly in subplots involving Edward’s dynamics with Sally, Shirley, and Mary. The real concern lies in whether Edward and John, despite being part of the same family, can coexist. This raises a critical question: how will the Marquand family and the other characters withstand the chaos brought on by such a disruptive personality? Moreover, what role will Edward, John’s twin, play in preventing him from tearing their family apart?
A narrative like ‘The Sin of Angels’ demands well-developed character writing alongside an eventful plot to keep the audience hooked. Fully aware of this, the author skillfully incorporates a range of fascinating side characters, adding depth and vibrancy to the story, making the narrative all the more engaging. Though the narrative, centered around the Marquand brothers, despite that, it is enriched by a host of intriguing characters. Among them, Shirley Owen stands out with the most compelling arc in Nivin’s novel. Initially introduced as a stubborn child of the Owen family, Shirley’s transformation throughout the story is bound to captivate readers and make them fall in love with her character. Then there’s Anne Ridgeway, a one-dimensional lover who evokes both pity and frustration with her actions. The cast also includes Bob Abbington, who evolves from a brash figure to a tender lover boy, the archetypal mother figure in Dorothy Marquand, and the shrewd, calculating Bertrand – all of whom contribute to making this story even more engaging.
With its captivating political setting, well-fleshed characters, and engaging narration, William Winchester Nivin’s novel is a must-read for anyone seeking a compelling addition to the historical fiction genre.
