Title: Starmen

Author: Francis Hamit

Genre: Historical Fiction

 

Harry McLean and James Frazer live completely different lives when they cross paths in 1875. McLean is a detective for the Pinkerton Detective Agency working in El Paso, Texas and Frazer is a British citizen and student who studies cultures and customs. Frazer currently works as an advance man for a traveling air show featuring a statuesque woman named Rose Green. As Frazer introduces McLean to the company’s cast, he learns that Green is the daughter of a one-time Confederate spy.

McLean’s suspicions are raised as to Rose’s intentions with her hot air balloon operation and whether a plot to revive the Confederacy is involved. Soon, these concerns are coupled with lawless activity on the border necessitating Pinkerton intervention. McLean’s fellow agents will battle unforeseen malevolence.

Francis Hamit ushers in an absorbing story set in the latter days of Reconstruction in a country that was still seeking its identity. The story begins on a note of wonder as the spectacle of the hot air balloon attracts curious onlookers. Elements of science fiction are coupled with historical anecdotes throughout the well-paced plot. Hamit creates a story filled with an assorted lineup of colorful characters, both real and fictitious, who propel the narrative forward.

The book features various characters with their own storyline. Harry McLean is a veteran lawman who fights the good fight and is committed to his duty as a Pinkerton. His devotion to his family and his loyalty to his country are unquestioned. His associate, Blake Tilman, is an adept gunman who has been sent to apprehend a fugitive while partnered with an ex-Confederate soldier. Tilman is an erudite man who is still recovering from the tragic loss of his wife and daughter. Whereas McLean’s view of the world is clear, Tilman’s outlook is more nuanced. Hamit’s ability to introduce a character with depth is present in every chapter.

A strong feminist presence is prevalent in the female characters featured throughout the novel. Rose Green is introduced as a crafty entrepreneur who also doesn’t adhere to society’s conventions in relationships. Emily McLean, one of Harry’s three daughters, is not only fearless in her profession but also in her romantic pursuits. Molly Shannon is a charismatic lady of the night who won’t let her job dictate who/how she loves. Hamit imbues each of his female characters with a free-spirited but determined nature. The independence of Rose, Emily, Molly foreshadows the clarion call for women’s rights.

The story doesn’t attach itself to one theme as there are components that relate to the omnipresent battle between good and evil, the space-time continuum along with the pursuit of love and happiness. Hamit’s skill is in fusing these into a readable and cogent narrative.

The story brings in a varied group of characters, many of whom have interesting backstories. Rose Green is a transfixing figure whose introduction is noteworthy yet her character would benefit with more of her backstory provided.

Starmen is a book that succeeds in grabbing the reader’s attention from the outset and refusing to let go of that hold. Francis Hamit has written a fantastic historical fiction epic that will capture the hearts and minds of many.

 

 

This Editorial Review was written by the Book Review Directory staff. To receive a similarly honest, professional review for one of your own books, click here.