Crossing the Bridge Book

I have concluded that I am a fan of Michael Baron. This state of fandom started with When You Went Away and has continued with Crossing the Bridge. There is something intoxicating about Mr. Baron's writing as his style brings me right into the story. I found myself mesmerized by the smoothness and flow of the words. I would re-read passages not because I didn't understand but because of the complete beauty and simplicity of the words. The way the words were strung together would give me pause and then I would want to re-read not willing to let go of the moment. The language and flow of the writing kept a nice steady pace that gave me a sense of belonging to the story. I loved that throughout the story, the author seamlessly weaved music related tidbits such as band names and songs. This touch added a nice flair to the reality of Hugh as I was swept into his world. A world that I did not want to leave.

Crossing the Bridge immersed my thoughts and emotions into the lives of the characters, most especially with Hugh as this story is told from his perspective. He is a soul who lost his center with the death if his brother, Chase. With that sense of loss, Hugh has wandered through life. Still, I found him very appealing even with his wandering nomadic way of living. His thoughts and feelings struck my core. I was captured by Hugh's remembrances of his brother,his life wanderings, his inability to forgive himself and move on from his brother's death. I was also captured by Hugh's take on the one woman in his life that truly captivated him. The woman who produced in Hugh a broad range of feelings including love. His relationship with Iris was touching and very moving.
Hugh felt real. He felt like he could be a friend, a relative, a neighbor.

This is a beautiful story that makes a compelling read with richly written characters. Their interactions, dialogue and thoughts brought a deep sense of satisfaction for me as I felt drawn to them as if they were tangible people.

Simply, Crossing the Bridge touched my being through the everyday life struggles and triumphs that encompass Hugh. A heartfelt story of remembrance, loss, forgiveness and love that satisfied me to my core.

Yes, I am a fan of Mr. Baron's. I will keep his books on my shelf for future re-reads. I am looking forward to his next book, The Journey Home, to be released May 11, 2010.

Polishing Mud Balls