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Anemone
After his failed rescue of his brother Wyatt in a suspicious house fire, sixteen-year-old Russell Cobb wakes up from a coma, strangely mistaken for him and thrust into the middle of an arson investigation. Russell’s only hope, before his bandages come off, is to deduce the likeliest suspect in his troubled past or risk being charged with homicide. In view of his brother’s death, he begins to see his family, Wyatt’s enigmatic girlfriend Edie, and a school gang in a darker light, colored by deceit and possibly his own paranoia, until Edie turns the tables, tying his brother to an unimaginable crime.
Set against the idyllic backdrop of Aqua Verde, a mid-60s California beach town, ANEMONE addresses society at a moral crossroads when what went on behind closed doors was nobody’s business. Russell flees to a condemned seaside hotel where he joins a draft-dodging surfer, and later, a fugitive Edie, with whom he falls in love. Through a tangle of twists and traumatic revelations, and mentored by the surfer, Russell discovers more than he could have bargained for about her, his family, and the real target of the fire.
Brutal, gripping, and tragic, ANEMONE is a coming-of-age tale that deals with issues still relevant today. At its core is betrayal, emotional survival, and revenge within two ordinary families whose misdeeds bring about a reckoning from which no one emerges unscathed.
www.jim-frazee.com
Set against the idyllic backdrop of Aqua Verde, a mid-60s California beach town, ANEMONE addresses society at a moral crossroads when what went on behind closed doors was nobody’s business. Russell flees to a condemned seaside hotel where he joins a draft-dodging surfer, and later, a fugitive Edie, with whom he falls in love. Through a tangle of twists and traumatic revelations, and mentored by the surfer, Russell discovers more than he could have bargained for about her, his family, and the real target of the fire.
Brutal, gripping, and tragic, ANEMONE is a coming-of-age tale that deals with issues still relevant today. At its core is betrayal, emotional survival, and revenge within two ordinary families whose misdeeds bring about a reckoning from which no one emerges unscathed.
www.jim-frazee.com
420 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 20, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
July 28, 2024
Against the backdrop of a conservative 60s California beach town, this work of fiction fuses elements of mystery and crime as well as coming-of-age. Sixteen-year-old Russell Cobb is at the centre of the story and wakes up from a coma only to be mistaken for his dead brother Wyatt. This sudden twist throws readers into a full-scale investigation on arson where Russell has to get through the mess of his troubled past to avoid being wrongfully accused of murder.
The calm setting in Aqua Verde contrasts with all other dreadful occurrences. The author portrays hidden secrets that were so common and this gives the story its realistic feel. Because of its beautiful scenery and carefree surfers, this beach-coloured town is an ideal setting for a tale about human nature and subtleties in family relationships.
Russell’s journey is poignant and fascinating. As he unravels layers of deceit involving his brother’s mysterious girlfriend Edie, his family, and a gang at school, one wonders about each character’s real motives thus keeping us on edge throughout. The reader will see how much it adds suspense when Russell learns that his brother has committed an atrocious act; coupling it with existing palpable paranoia.
Edie is a character who is very fascinating. The story takes a different dimension when from being a suffering girlfriend, she turns into an outlaw with her dark secrets. In the novel, topics of love, betrayal and emotional resilience are explored; Russell’s story testifies to this. It is set up at the backdrop of an abandoned beach hotel.
Overall, this is a well-written book that keeps readers engaged right from start to finish by telling a tale of survival and redemption. A variety of characters who are interestingly developed as well as a lively place and style of writing make this book unique in dealing with universal themes that still matter nowadays.
The calm setting in Aqua Verde contrasts with all other dreadful occurrences. The author portrays hidden secrets that were so common and this gives the story its realistic feel. Because of its beautiful scenery and carefree surfers, this beach-coloured town is an ideal setting for a tale about human nature and subtleties in family relationships.
Russell’s journey is poignant and fascinating. As he unravels layers of deceit involving his brother’s mysterious girlfriend Edie, his family, and a gang at school, one wonders about each character’s real motives thus keeping us on edge throughout. The reader will see how much it adds suspense when Russell learns that his brother has committed an atrocious act; coupling it with existing palpable paranoia.
Edie is a character who is very fascinating. The story takes a different dimension when from being a suffering girlfriend, she turns into an outlaw with her dark secrets. In the novel, topics of love, betrayal and emotional resilience are explored; Russell’s story testifies to this. It is set up at the backdrop of an abandoned beach hotel.
Overall, this is a well-written book that keeps readers engaged right from start to finish by telling a tale of survival and redemption. A variety of characters who are interestingly developed as well as a lively place and style of writing make this book unique in dealing with universal themes that still matter nowadays.
August 30, 2024
"Anemone," written by Jim Frazee, is a gripping coming-of-age story that captivates readers from the very first pages and keeps them on the edge of their seats until the end. The novel explores themes of betrayal, emotional survival, and revenge through a suspenseful narrative filled with unexpected twists.
The book features Russell Cobb, a 16-year-old who wakes up from a coma after failing to save his brother from a suspicious fire and is mistaken for him. As he seeks the truth, Russell begins to perceive everything around him, including his family, his brother's girlfriend, and a school gang, in an increasingly dark and dangerous light. Frazee builds a tense and mysterious atmosphere where the secrets of family and those nearby are gradually revealed, confronting Russell with shocking truths.
The author’s narrative style is notable for its ability to create a sense of unease and uncertainty, reflecting the protagonist's inner turmoil. The characters are well-developed, each with their own motivations and secrets, which contributes to the overall tension of the novel. The dialogues feel authentic, and the relationships between characters are complex and nuanced.
Another noteworthy aspect is how Frazee addresses the theme of emotional survival. Russell faces not only the external pressures of the investigation but also his internal struggle to understand who he truly is and what really happened on that fateful night. In this sense, "Anemone" is more than just a mystery; it is a profound exploration of identity and the devastating impact that betrayal and lies can have on a person.
"Anemone" by Jim Frazee is a book worth reading, not only for its captivating intrigue but also for the way it tackles universal themes in an original and profound manner.
The book features Russell Cobb, a 16-year-old who wakes up from a coma after failing to save his brother from a suspicious fire and is mistaken for him. As he seeks the truth, Russell begins to perceive everything around him, including his family, his brother's girlfriend, and a school gang, in an increasingly dark and dangerous light. Frazee builds a tense and mysterious atmosphere where the secrets of family and those nearby are gradually revealed, confronting Russell with shocking truths.
The author’s narrative style is notable for its ability to create a sense of unease and uncertainty, reflecting the protagonist's inner turmoil. The characters are well-developed, each with their own motivations and secrets, which contributes to the overall tension of the novel. The dialogues feel authentic, and the relationships between characters are complex and nuanced.
Another noteworthy aspect is how Frazee addresses the theme of emotional survival. Russell faces not only the external pressures of the investigation but also his internal struggle to understand who he truly is and what really happened on that fateful night. In this sense, "Anemone" is more than just a mystery; it is a profound exploration of identity and the devastating impact that betrayal and lies can have on a person.
"Anemone" by Jim Frazee is a book worth reading, not only for its captivating intrigue but also for the way it tackles universal themes in an original and profound manner.
October 3, 2024
Anemone is a coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of 1960s Southern California, weaving together themes of family, sibling rivalry, and the consequences of hidden truths. The novel follows two brothers, Russell and Wyatt, as they navigate a volatile home life dominated by their stern, military father, Frank. The story picks up when Russell begins to unravel dark secrets surrounding the disappearance of his brother’s girlfriend, Edie, and the mystery of a fire that changes their lives forever. At its core, the novel explores identity, guilt, and the complex dynamics of sibling relationships, all while keeping the reader hooked with a slow-burning suspense.
One thing I appreciated was Frazee’s ability to build tension from everyday moments. The opening chapter, where Frank is casually briefing his sons at breakfast about naval maneuvers, is subtle yet packed with an undercurrent of foreboding. It’s as if the family’s entire life is simmering just under the surface, waiting for something to erupt. I was drawn to how the novel lingers in the uncomfortable silences and exchanges between Russell and Wyatt, like when Wyatt callously dismisses Russell's concerns about Edie’s absence. This emotional distance between the brothers, especially in moments like when Wyatt takes Russell’s watch, feels real and painful.
Frazee’s writing shines most in the way he handles the emotional and psychological complexities of his characters. The relationship between Russell and his father is especially poignant. Frank's stern demeanor and military pride permeate the household, and Russell’s attempts to seek his approval make for some emotional moments. The scene where Russell, eager for his father's recognition, cleans and polishes the family car only for Frank to give a dismissive acknowledgment is heartbreaking. It's a simple moment, but it speaks volumes about how children can feel invisible in their parents' eyes.
The novel spends a great deal of time building the atmosphere and setting the stage. While I loved the character development and backstory, there were moments when I felt a little lost in the details, particularly when the narrative would drift into flashbacks of Frank’s military past. Though these moments were important to the overall story, I sometimes found myself eager to get back to the central mystery and the unraveling of the fire incident.
Anemone is a haunting and thoughtful exploration of family dynamics, guilt, and the struggle to come to terms with the past. I recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of suspense. It's not a fast-paced thriller but rather a novel that rewards patience and emotional investment.
One thing I appreciated was Frazee’s ability to build tension from everyday moments. The opening chapter, where Frank is casually briefing his sons at breakfast about naval maneuvers, is subtle yet packed with an undercurrent of foreboding. It’s as if the family’s entire life is simmering just under the surface, waiting for something to erupt. I was drawn to how the novel lingers in the uncomfortable silences and exchanges between Russell and Wyatt, like when Wyatt callously dismisses Russell's concerns about Edie’s absence. This emotional distance between the brothers, especially in moments like when Wyatt takes Russell’s watch, feels real and painful.
Frazee’s writing shines most in the way he handles the emotional and psychological complexities of his characters. The relationship between Russell and his father is especially poignant. Frank's stern demeanor and military pride permeate the household, and Russell’s attempts to seek his approval make for some emotional moments. The scene where Russell, eager for his father's recognition, cleans and polishes the family car only for Frank to give a dismissive acknowledgment is heartbreaking. It's a simple moment, but it speaks volumes about how children can feel invisible in their parents' eyes.
The novel spends a great deal of time building the atmosphere and setting the stage. While I loved the character development and backstory, there were moments when I felt a little lost in the details, particularly when the narrative would drift into flashbacks of Frank’s military past. Though these moments were important to the overall story, I sometimes found myself eager to get back to the central mystery and the unraveling of the fire incident.
Anemone is a haunting and thoughtful exploration of family dynamics, guilt, and the struggle to come to terms with the past. I recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of suspense. It's not a fast-paced thriller but rather a novel that rewards patience and emotional investment.
August 8, 2024
Are you interested in stories about growing up and dealing with tough family situations? ‘ANEMONE’ by Jim Frazee is a gripping tale that dives deep into these themes through the eyes of Russell, a young man severely injured in a house fire. Awakening in a hospital, Russell faces an uncertain recovery, compounded by the devastating news of his brother Wyatt’s death. As suspicions swirl around him, Russell must navigate the agony of being labeled a suspect merely for surviving the arson that claimed his brother.
Frazee skillfully weaves a narrative that evokes deep empathy for Russell. The book delves into his troubled childhood, exploring his strained relationship with Wyatt, who often belittled him, and his father, whose harsh discipline only added to Russell’s sorrows. Wyatt’s girlfriend, who also suffered from parental abuse, becomes a surprising source of solace for Russell, complicating his already fraught emotional landscape.
The story’s heart lies in its exploration of Russell’s innocence and the heavy price he pays to prove it. His relationship with Wyatt’s girlfriend adds layers of complexity to the narrative, intensifying the emotional stakes. Edie, a supportive neighbor, offers a glimmer of hope in Russell’s darkest moments, highlighting the importance of compassion and understanding.
Frazee’s poetic writing style enhances the story, making it easy to flow with and deeply resonate with the characters' emotions. The ocean setting is a perfect metaphor for the unfolding events, with each wave mirroring the ups and downs of Russell’s journey.
Frazee skillfully weaves a narrative that evokes deep empathy for Russell. The book delves into his troubled childhood, exploring his strained relationship with Wyatt, who often belittled him, and his father, whose harsh discipline only added to Russell’s sorrows. Wyatt’s girlfriend, who also suffered from parental abuse, becomes a surprising source of solace for Russell, complicating his already fraught emotional landscape.
The story’s heart lies in its exploration of Russell’s innocence and the heavy price he pays to prove it. His relationship with Wyatt’s girlfriend adds layers of complexity to the narrative, intensifying the emotional stakes. Edie, a supportive neighbor, offers a glimmer of hope in Russell’s darkest moments, highlighting the importance of compassion and understanding.
Frazee’s poetic writing style enhances the story, making it easy to flow with and deeply resonate with the characters' emotions. The ocean setting is a perfect metaphor for the unfolding events, with each wave mirroring the ups and downs of Russell’s journey.
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September 27, 2024EDITORIAL REVIEWS
★★★★★
“A masterful debut… a poignant, lyrical, coming-of-age tale… Like Steinbeck’s masterpiece, EAST OF EDEN, ANEMONE grapples with themes of betrayal, redemption, emotional survival, and the brutal reckonings that follow hidden misdeeds. Somber, romantic, and emotionally raw, ANEMONE intertwines the intimate dramas of its characters with the larger elemental forces of nature. Frazee’s writing in ANEMONE is as ethereal and enigmatic as its title, with passages that elevate the narrative to a realm of poetic transcendence.”
- Edward Sung, IndieReader
★★★★
“Prepare to be captivated by a story that explores the devastating effects of parental absence, the complexities of young adulthood, and the resilience of the human spirit.”
- Maria Yinks, San Francisco Book Review, San Diego Book Review
★★★★★
“This page-turner had me hooked from the start, and the suspense kept me on the edge of my seat. With all the twists and turns, I never knew what to expect next and had a hard time putting the book down.”
- Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
★★★★★
Anemone is a poignant, haunting and thoughtful exploration of complex family dynamics and sibling relationships, guilt, identity, and the struggle to come to terms with the past, all while keeping the reader hooked with a slow-burning suspense. It’s subtle yet packed with an undercurrent of foreboding… and full of emotional and psychological complexities.
- Thomas Anderson, editor, Literary Titan
★★★★★
“A masterful debut… a poignant, lyrical, coming-of-age tale… Like Steinbeck’s masterpiece, EAST OF EDEN, ANEMONE grapples with themes of betrayal, redemption, emotional survival, and the brutal reckonings that follow hidden misdeeds. Somber, romantic, and emotionally raw, ANEMONE intertwines the intimate dramas of its characters with the larger elemental forces of nature. Frazee’s writing in ANEMONE is as ethereal and enigmatic as its title, with passages that elevate the narrative to a realm of poetic transcendence.”
- Edward Sung, IndieReader
★★★★
“Prepare to be captivated by a story that explores the devastating effects of parental absence, the complexities of young adulthood, and the resilience of the human spirit.”
- Maria Yinks, San Francisco Book Review, San Diego Book Review
★★★★★
“This page-turner had me hooked from the start, and the suspense kept me on the edge of my seat. With all the twists and turns, I never knew what to expect next and had a hard time putting the book down.”
- Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
★★★★★
Anemone is a poignant, haunting and thoughtful exploration of complex family dynamics and sibling relationships, guilt, identity, and the struggle to come to terms with the past, all while keeping the reader hooked with a slow-burning suspense. It’s subtle yet packed with an undercurrent of foreboding… and full of emotional and psychological complexities.
- Thomas Anderson, editor, Literary Titan
August 5, 2024
Sibling rivalry is something that really stands out for me in this book Anemone written by Jim Frazee. Wyatt and Russell have the same mother but different fathers. However, this is something that they do not know until later on life. The two brothers are very different in that Wyatt is the bad kid due to the friends he hangs out with. On the other hand, Russell is the good kid but unfortunately, he is viewed otherwise by his parents and peers. In addition, Wyatt’s dislike of his brother is very evident. Due to this, Russell always finds himself in the bad books with his family as well as other people. He goes through a lot of mistreatment which I can say is very heart-wrenching. When Wyatt dies in a fire in their home, Russell is accused of killing his brother because after all, he is the bad one. Later on Russell finds out about his real father and this is hard for him to grapple with. I can say that this is a story that will evoke many emotions. I love the flow of events and it is a fairly long read with the author portraying exceptional writing skills. This is a book that I can highly recommend if you enjoy literary fiction!
September 4, 2024
Ready for a psychological story that’ll make your heart race and your head spin? 😲 Anemone is a wild ride with Russell Cobb, a teen who wakes up from a coma and finds himself tangled in a fiery mess that he didn’t even start! With a backdrop of a laid-back California beach town and a cast of shady characters, this book serves up mystery, love, and jaw-dropping twists that'll keep you guessing until the last page. Grab your copy and get ready to be blown away! 🌊🔥📖
September 5, 2024
In Anemone you will follow sixteen-year-old Russell Cobb, who finds himself caught in a web of deceit after his brother’s tragic death. Mistaken for his brother following a suspicious house fire, Russell is forced into an intense investigation where he uncovers dark secrets about his family and his own past. I found the book’s suspenseful narrative and rich character development both gripping and emotionally charged, making it an unforgettable read that kept me on the edge of my seat.
October 7, 2024
EDITORIAL REVIEWS
★★★★★
“A masterful debut… a poignant, lyrical, coming-of-age tale… Like Steinbeck’s masterpiece, EAST OF EDEN, ANEMONE grapples with themes of betrayal, redemption, emotional survival, and the brutal reckonings that follow hidden misdeeds. Somber, romantic, and emotionally raw, ANEMONE intertwines the intimate dramas of its characters with the larger elemental forces of nature. Frazee’s writing in ANEMONE is as ethereal and enigmatic as its title, with passages that elevate the narrative to a realm of poetic transcendence.”
- Edward Sung, IndieReader
★★★★
“Prepare to be captivated by a story that explores the devastating effects of parental absence, the complexities of young adulthood, and the resilience of the human spirit.”
- Maria Yinks, San Francisco Book Review, San Diego Book Review
★★★★★
“This page-turner had me hooked from the start, and the suspense kept me on the edge of my seat. With all the twists and turns, I never knew what to expect next and had a hard time putting the book down.”
- Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
★★★★★
Anemone is a poignant, haunting and thoughtful exploration of complex family dynamics and sibling relationships, guilt, identity, and the struggle to come to terms with the past, all while keeping the reader hooked with a slow-burning suspense. It’s subtle yet packed with an undercurrent of foreboding… and full of emotional and psychological complexities.
- Thomas Anderson, editor, Literary Titan
"ANEMONE supersedes any definition of a coming-of-age experience. It’s transformative, complex, and readers will be especially delighted by the interplays of action and reflection which keep all characters evolving, growing, and changing. The novel simmers with tension and unexpected twists and turns."
- D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
★★★★★
“A masterful debut… a poignant, lyrical, coming-of-age tale… Like Steinbeck’s masterpiece, EAST OF EDEN, ANEMONE grapples with themes of betrayal, redemption, emotional survival, and the brutal reckonings that follow hidden misdeeds. Somber, romantic, and emotionally raw, ANEMONE intertwines the intimate dramas of its characters with the larger elemental forces of nature. Frazee’s writing in ANEMONE is as ethereal and enigmatic as its title, with passages that elevate the narrative to a realm of poetic transcendence.”
- Edward Sung, IndieReader
★★★★
“Prepare to be captivated by a story that explores the devastating effects of parental absence, the complexities of young adulthood, and the resilience of the human spirit.”
- Maria Yinks, San Francisco Book Review, San Diego Book Review
★★★★★
“This page-turner had me hooked from the start, and the suspense kept me on the edge of my seat. With all the twists and turns, I never knew what to expect next and had a hard time putting the book down.”
- Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
★★★★★
Anemone is a poignant, haunting and thoughtful exploration of complex family dynamics and sibling relationships, guilt, identity, and the struggle to come to terms with the past, all while keeping the reader hooked with a slow-burning suspense. It’s subtle yet packed with an undercurrent of foreboding… and full of emotional and psychological complexities.
- Thomas Anderson, editor, Literary Titan
"ANEMONE supersedes any definition of a coming-of-age experience. It’s transformative, complex, and readers will be especially delighted by the interplays of action and reflection which keep all characters evolving, growing, and changing. The novel simmers with tension and unexpected twists and turns."
- D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews