Across From Lapeyrouse

by Nathalie Taghaboni

A Sizzling Caribbean novel, packed with Carnival, pan and nuff bacchanal. The Savanoy Series trilogy consists Book One, Across From Lapeyrouse. Book Two, Santimanitay. Book Three, Side By Side We Stand.

263 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2012

About the author

Nathalie Taghaboni was born in Trinidad and Tobago and raised in Toronto, Canada. She currently resides in the United States with her husband and two children.

She is a freelance photojournalist and the author of a collection of dialect short stories called Tales from Icebox Land, written under her pen name, Queen Macoomeh. You can follow Queen Macoomeh on Facebook!

Across From Lapeyrouse is her first fiction novel. Its sequel is called Santimanitay.

The third and final book in the trilogy is titled Side By Side We Stand.

In November 2022, she released a new novel Dark Night and Lace.

Reviews

[Renz]

This book was a page turner. You really get to know the characters and understand their struggles - you feel good when something good happens to them and you even want to cry for them when something bad happens... They become like people who exist outside of the pages and take on life.. Only good authors have the ability to make a book 3D . Good read

[Roxanne Smith]

This book felt like fan fiction that the author wrote to live vicariously through the character. The main character, after migrating, felt flat and undeveloped.

Although the book was short, it could have been shorter as there were times it offered descriptions and explanations that did not add to the story. Rather, it felt like filler or explanations for a non-Caribbean audience who never experienced Carnival.

The ending also felt rushed as it wanted to wrap the story up in a neat bow. I wish authors did not do that, but rather trust their audience to imagine an end and ruminate in the world after the story has ended.

[Stacey]

Enjoyed this tremendously. Immediately downloaded the sequel as soon as I was done reading this one. It appealed to the Jamaican in me with its Caribbean settings. In parts I found it overly descriptive - specifically when describing the Carnival costumes. Skimming over those parts doesn’t impact enjoyment of the book. I’m happy my friend suggested this one to me. Thanks Mesha 😄

[Jill]

This book really encapsulate of a true Trinidad and Tobago Culture. The story line was interesting with some real life situations. I normally don't read West Indian books, but this one had a universal feel to it. It is worth reading and I understand that it is trilogy; looking forward to reading the other 2 books.

[Kerri-Ann]

A must read!!!!!!!!

I was totally engrossed. The author held my attention ; from the colourful description of the carnival scenes and costumes to the emotional journey through Jenevas' life. It was wonderful!!!

[Gary Morrison]

I absolutely loved this book, it sort of pulls you into the world of the main characters and the vivid description of their challenges and the personal dynamics is utterly engaging. It is beautifully written, heartily recommend.

[Cheyvonne Cyrus-williams]

Even better on the second read....

Great read...love the way the characters come to life and make you feel you are right there with them watching it all happen.....can't wait to re-read Santimanitay.....

[Caron]

Great book!

Loved this book! As a native Trinbagonian, much of the story resonated with me. Full of family intrigue, secrets, bachannal, and "commess."

[Wani's World]

A thrilling page turner!

Makes me long to see the Bacchanal of Carnival. The characters were so vibrant and story flowed flawlessly. Getting ready to purchase the next book.

[Johni Johnston]

Loved this book. It is so descriptive of Trinidad and Carnival in Trinidad. I want to experience it first hand. The story line was captivating and interesting.

[Ansana]

That was really enjoyable. Would have probably read the whole book in one go if I could. Excited to get book two!