The Ivory Obelisk

by Eli Kale

Winner of Literary Titan's Gold Book Award

A new book from Eli Kale that's unlike anything he's written before!
In the late summer of 2007, Fabian Loxley is a conflicted man with a complicated past. On the cusp of merging his pharmaceutical company in order to save it, a turn of events thrusts him into circumstances he could never have imagined nor be prepared to handle. A series of grim developments exacerbate the situation, forcing him into a corner as revelations are made, questions are asked, and his past confronts him head-on. With his life in the balance, Fabian’s chances of saving himself dwindle as time ticks away — will his actions be enough in the end?

318 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 7, 2024

About the author

Eli Kale is an author, educator, and traveler who lives with his family in Ohio. He currently has four books published (2014-17) in a collection entitled "Faces of the War," where the Second World War is seen through the perspectives of different people. He also has two small volumes of short stories published as part of his "Short Story Collection," which are available on the Kindle. A fifth book titled "The Ivory Obelisk" was released in 2024.

Eli graduated from the University of Mount Union with a history degree and a teaching license. His short story entitled "At the Gates of Sevastopol" was published while in an intro to fiction course at Mount Union, which was what truly sparked his interest in writing.

Eli enjoys reading mostly historical non-fiction, but he also branches out to other genres from time to time. When not reading or writing, he likes to spend time with his wife and children. He has traveled to Europe a handful of times. He likes playing chess and Risk. His favorite European football club is Liverpool F.C.

Reviews

[Literary Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eli Kale’s The Ivory Obelisk delves into the life of Fabian Loxely, a man weighed down by a lifetime of regrets. When a near-death experience forces him to confront both his mortality and the haunting echoes of his past, Fabian embarks on a journey of redemption. Determined to heal himself and mend broken relationships, he transforms the titular ivory obelisk from a symbol of regret into one of hope, renewal, and reconciliation.

What sets The Ivory Obelisk apart is its exceptional narrative depth. The story intricately weaves Fabian’s encounters with figures from his past, each rendered with vivid detail and emotional resonance. This meticulous craftsmanship breathes life into every character and moment, creating a story as layered as it is poignant.

The novel’s emotional arc is profound. It offers a richly textured exploration of grief, regret, and forgiveness. It is far from a simple tale. Instead, it takes readers on a journey through complex emotions that are both heart-wrenching and uplifting. The author expertly captures these sentiments, creating a story that leaves a lasting impression. Few books manage to balance such raw, heartfelt moments with the delicate promise of healing, making this one an unforgettable experience.

While the pacing begins as a deliberate slow burn, it gradually builds into a gripping narrative that refuses to let go. Admittedly, the opening can feel a bit disorienting, but as the layers of the story unfold, everything comes together seamlessly in a satisfying and impactful conclusion.

There’s little to critique in this remarkable work, a testament to Kale’s skill as a storyteller. The Ivory Obelisk is a deeply moving tale that lingers in the mind and heart, and it’s left me eager to explore more of the author’s creations.

[Angela Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kale deviates from his back list of books here; rather than a straight historical fiction, you get something more nuanced and ethereal.

We meet Fabian Loxley, a conflicted man whose character walks the line of being labeled curmudgeonly. He's getting ready to complete a merger of his pharmaceutical company, a necessary means to save the company. He isn't thrilled about it - really he isn't thrilled about much of how his life turned out. But living with regrets and remorse weighing you down doesn't make for an easy time. Fabian gets into a serious car accident that leaves him in critical condition, in a coma and unresponsive. While his friends on earth watch him, praying he can fight his way back to life, inside his conscious a whole different universe unfolds.

What follows is a look into his conscious and moral compass. Fabian has to battle his own ego and come to terms with the decisions he's made in his life, forgiving himself as much as asking his friends and family for forgiveness.

I was taken aback by the new tone and emotion from this book. I think the author did an excellent job capturing a very intangible thing and bringing it to reality. The storyline has depth and excitement alike.

There were many characters to keep straight which sometimes lent to re-reading passages or taking notes but they all served enriching roles within the story. I particularly enjoyed once we started interacting with each character and how they came to know Fabian.

https://angelasepilogues.wordpress.co...

[Stenedria · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've read this arc in partnership with Independent Book Review. For my full review, please check out the following link:

https://independentbookreview.com/202...