Eric B. Miller’s "Tidewater," published by Millbrown Press and book tour sponsor iRead Book Tour, is a sprawling historical novel that sweeps readers from the late Gilded Age through the aftermath of the Great War. With a richly detailed backdrop, Miller skillfully captures the transition between these two eras, painting a vivid picture of a world in flux.
My Review
⭐⭐⭐
In "Tidewater", Eric B. Miller offers readers an ambitious and multifaceted narrative that spans several decades and continents. With an ensemble cast of characters that bring to life the tumultuous transition from the Gilded Age to the Roaring Twenties, this book promises to engage history lovers and those who appreciate complex character-driven stories.
Plot Overview
Set in 1890, the novel begins on a sluggish Chinese river where American heiress Alice Sheffield meets Andrew Croft, a Boston soldier of fortune. What starts as a rescue mission quickly evolves into a complicated relationship that bears two sons, Autie and Rory. The narrative weaves together the lives of these characters and many others, including Laura Eklund, Lois, Margaux du Pret, Procter Darlington, and Gregory Haines, each with their own storylines that intersect and diverge across the pages.
The novel's grand scope allows it to delve into various themes, such as love, war, and societal change, offering readers a glimpse into the moral complexities and emotional turmoil of the time.
Characters
Miller’s strength lies in his ability to craft compelling characters. Alice Sheffield, with her resilience and depth, anchors the story, while Andrew Croft's unpredictable nature adds tension. Autie, a Princeton dropout, and Rory, a morally adrift playboy, represent the new generation’s struggle to define themselves amidst the remnants of their parents' world.
Other characters, such as the troubled Margaux du Pret, and the disfigured war veteran Gregory Haines, add layers of complexity to the story. Each character is intricately tied to the era's socio-political landscape, making their journeys feel both personal and historically resonant.
However, the novel’s vast cast can be overwhelming. With so many perspectives to follow, the narrative sometimes feels scattered, making it challenging to stay fully invested in each storyline. While some readers may enjoy this broad approach, I found myself gravitating towards a few favorite characters and wishing the author had focused more on them.
Setting & Time Period
Miller’s portrayal of the setting and time period is one of the novel’s most impressive aspects. His descriptions of the Gilded Age’s opulence, the horrors of World War I, and the excesses of the Roaring Twenties are immersive and transportive. The historical context is not just a backdrop but an integral part of the characters’ lives, shaping their decisions and destinies.
For readers who love diving into detailed historical settings, Tidewater does not disappoint. Miller’s meticulous research and vivid descriptions make the past come alive, offering a rich tapestry of the time.
What I Liked
I appreciated Miller's ability to capture the essence of the Gilded Age and the Roaring Twenties, two of my favorite historical periods. His characters are well-drawn and complex, with Alice Sheffield, Elijah Brown, and Autie standing out as particularly memorable. The novel's scope is impressive, and the intertwining stories keep the reader engaged, especially when focusing on the more dynamic characters.
What I Didn't Like
My main critique of Tidewater is its extensive cast of characters. While each character is interesting in their own right, the sheer number of perspectives can be overwhelming, leading to a somewhat disjointed reading experience. Personally, I found myself skimming through some parts to follow the arcs of my favorite characters, which speaks to the challenge of balancing such a large ensemble. A more focused narrative, perhaps split into two books, might have allowed for a deeper exploration of the characters without overwhelming the reader.
Conclusion
Tidewater by Eric B. Miller is a richly woven historical novel that will appeal to fans of epic, character-driven stories. Its detailed depiction of a transformative era in history, combined with a diverse cast of characters, offers a complex and immersive reading experience. However, the broad scope of the narrative and the multitude of characters may be a bit much for some readers, as it was for me. Despite this, Tidewater is a commendable effort and a solid read for those who enjoy diving into the intricacies of history and human relationships.
Thanks for sharing about the book, it sounds good.
This looks really interesting. Thanks for sharing.
Sounds interesting.
Sounds interesting.