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The Reach of the Banyan Tree
Chip Carson intends to marry a young Vietnamese woman named Thuy until a tragic accident lands him in prison, forever altering the outlook of their relationship. As he struggles to cope with their strained love, a mysterious stranger appears, bearing a journal about Chip’s grandfather who parachuted into French Indochina at the end of World War II. As the words of the journal reveal a life that Chip never knew, he begins to understand the depth of love and sacrifice needed in order to have a second chance with Thuy.
Part historical fiction, part contemporary love story, The Reach of the Banyan Tree explores the effects of war, love, culture, and family obligation in twentieth century Vietnam through the eyes of three generations of American men, who each lost their soul in the tangled reach of the banyan tree.
Part historical fiction, part contemporary love story, The Reach of the Banyan Tree explores the effects of war, love, culture, and family obligation in twentieth century Vietnam through the eyes of three generations of American men, who each lost their soul in the tangled reach of the banyan tree.
Kindle Edition
First published June 29, 2014
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754 people want to read
About the author
Mark W. Sasse
27 books96 followershttps://www.mwsasse.com
https://www.facebook.com/markwsasse
Mark is a proud Western PA native but has lived most of the last twenty years in Vietnam, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia. His overseas experiences have redefined everything including his palate, his outlook on life, and naturally his writing.
He has written ten novels, including his brand new Forgotten Child Trilogy.
His interests cast a wide net - from politics to literature - to culture and language - to history and religion - making his writing infused with the unexpected as he seeks to tell authentic and engaging stories about people from all walks of life. His writing is straightforward and accessible to all, especially those who enjoy writing injected with doses of culture, history, adventure, and delightful humor. You never know what you might get when you pick up a Sasse novel.
Besides novel-writing, Sasse is a prolific dramatist, having written and produced more than a dozen full-length dramatic productions. He especially is fond of the short play format and has twice won the Best Script award at the Short & Sweet Theatre Festival Penang. His plays and short musicals have also been produced in New York City, Kuala Lumpur and Sydney. His play "The Last Bastion" was awarded the Greywood Arts Winter Residency 2018 in Ireland. Performances of his scripts also won Gold and Bronze medals at the Southeast Asian Forensics Competition 2014.
His professional background is as diverse as his writing. He holds Master's degrees from California State University Dominquez Hills and Azusa Pacific University in Humanities and TESOL respectively. His undergraduate degree was in English, which helped him develop his passion for creative writing. He has extensive experience in teaching English, history, and drama.
On top of all of this, he loves to cook everything from gourmet pizzas, to Mexican, to various Asian dishes. Flavor is the key of both his cooking and his writing. He very much hopes you enjoy the taste.
Published Novels and Short Stories of Mark W. Sasse
2021 A Diamond for Her: Myths and Tales of the Winasook Iron Horses
2020 Moses the Singer
2019 The Forgotten Child (Book 3)
2018 The African Connection (Forgotten Child Trilogy Book 2)
2017 A Man too Old for a Place too Far (Forgotten Child Trilogy Book 1)
2016 Which Half David: A Modern-day King David Story
2015 A Love Story for a Nation (coming in July) - Kindle & Paperback
2014 If Love is a Crime: A Christmas Story - Kindle only
2014 The Reach of the Banyan Tree - Kindle & Paperback
2013 The Recluse Storyteller - Kindle & Paperback
2012 Beauty Rising - Kindle & Paperback
https://www.facebook.com/markwsasse
Mark is a proud Western PA native but has lived most of the last twenty years in Vietnam, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia. His overseas experiences have redefined everything including his palate, his outlook on life, and naturally his writing.
He has written ten novels, including his brand new Forgotten Child Trilogy.
His interests cast a wide net - from politics to literature - to culture and language - to history and religion - making his writing infused with the unexpected as he seeks to tell authentic and engaging stories about people from all walks of life. His writing is straightforward and accessible to all, especially those who enjoy writing injected with doses of culture, history, adventure, and delightful humor. You never know what you might get when you pick up a Sasse novel.
Besides novel-writing, Sasse is a prolific dramatist, having written and produced more than a dozen full-length dramatic productions. He especially is fond of the short play format and has twice won the Best Script award at the Short & Sweet Theatre Festival Penang. His plays and short musicals have also been produced in New York City, Kuala Lumpur and Sydney. His play "The Last Bastion" was awarded the Greywood Arts Winter Residency 2018 in Ireland. Performances of his scripts also won Gold and Bronze medals at the Southeast Asian Forensics Competition 2014.
His professional background is as diverse as his writing. He holds Master's degrees from California State University Dominquez Hills and Azusa Pacific University in Humanities and TESOL respectively. His undergraduate degree was in English, which helped him develop his passion for creative writing. He has extensive experience in teaching English, history, and drama.
On top of all of this, he loves to cook everything from gourmet pizzas, to Mexican, to various Asian dishes. Flavor is the key of both his cooking and his writing. He very much hopes you enjoy the taste.
Published Novels and Short Stories of Mark W. Sasse
2021 A Diamond for Her: Myths and Tales of the Winasook Iron Horses
2020 Moses the Singer
2019 The Forgotten Child (Book 3)
2018 The African Connection (Forgotten Child Trilogy Book 2)
2017 A Man too Old for a Place too Far (Forgotten Child Trilogy Book 1)
2016 Which Half David: A Modern-day King David Story
2015 A Love Story for a Nation (coming in July) - Kindle & Paperback
2014 If Love is a Crime: A Christmas Story - Kindle only
2014 The Reach of the Banyan Tree - Kindle & Paperback
2013 The Recluse Storyteller - Kindle & Paperback
2012 Beauty Rising - Kindle & Paperback
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 31, 2014
I was a goodreads first reads winner of the book "The Reach of The Banyan Tree" I would give this a 4.5. this is a very good story. Chip Carson is living in Vietnam. He has fallen in love with a woman named Thuy they wish to Marry. Not an easy request by tradition the father of the bride to be has to give permission. After a tragic accident, Chip ends up in jail. he meets a man who knew his grandfather who had been in Vietnam in 1945. the elderly man hands Chip a journal written by Chip's grandfather.Chip comes from money in the oil business. soon his billionaire father comes to Vietnam to try and rescue his son. this book focuses on loyalty and love. what will become of Chip? will he do the right thing? Remain loyal to his girl Thuy? a very good story about caring for those you love, the loyalty involved. I liked this book very much. The storyline was very good. It kept me hanging on until the end to know what happened to the characters.
January 4, 2016
http://maniparna5002.wordpress.com/
The Vietnam war still works as an inspiration for novelists . On my first glance to Mark W. Sasse's historical fiction/contemporary romance novel The Reach of the Banyan Tree , I took it as another war story. But with the turning of every page my heart leaped up with new wonders , it's not only a book about war , it's a narration of life , of love , of friendship and destiny.
The story covers a span of almost seventy years , starting from the World War II and ending in 2014 , not at a stretch though. Charles Regal Carson III , the son of American billionaire Charles Regal Carson II , owner of Carson Oil , arrives in Vietnam as he wants to live his own life , away from the grandiose of his father. He meets Thuy, a Vietnamese girl and both of them are head over heels for each other. While visiting a historical site , Phuong Hoang Cave in North Vietnam , Chip suddenly discovers his grandfather's name ,Charles Regal Carson , etched on the stone wall connected by a heart sign with another name , Mai. The mention of the" The Flying Dutchman" phrase after the name makes him sure of his ancestral connection. A plethora of thoughts ransack his minds as he tries to connect the loose end that is related with the name Mai , of whom he knows nothing.
In the meantime , Thuy's father clearly states his acrimony towards Americans and firmly discards Chip to be his daughter's betrothed lover. Things do change when Chip tells Thang (Thuy's father) about his lineage and his enormous property and Chip and Thuy definitely could hear the merry ring of the wedding bells. Destiny comes taking control once again and an accident occurs that makes Chip an accused , a convict and a person whom Thuy's family abhor from their hearts.
It is during this time when Chip is rotting in his solitary cell , that he comes to know of the connection which his grandpa shares with Vietnam. A log-book or diary reaches him which enlightens him about different unknown facets of Charles Regal Carson and his stay in Vietnam during the World War II. The story of a soldier who had impeccable manners, ethics and humanly emotions.
Sasse likes to spread different coloured strings at the beginning of his narration ,only to bind them up as a perfect garland in the end. The book utters very little about love or romance , has almost no amorous or intimate dialogue which the readers generally expect from a love-story , still the aroma of romance hovers all along the book. Love in its different forms, requited or unrequited , lost or found.
The country of Vietnam, its struggle for independence,hatred for the French and the Americans , the leader Ho Chi Minh and the current socio-political and economic conditions all have come alive in this book. And so veracious are the descriptions that it sometimes becomes difficult to discriminate between historical facts and fiction.
There are several major characters in the story apart from Chip and Thuy. Depiction of all the characters are accurate enough to take them for real , one can easily relate any average American billionaire with Carson II who genuinely thinks that money can buy everything and everyone on earth. While there are persons like Long and Mai who keep friendship and gratitude over anything and everything.
And there is the Banyan tree, standing high above the mortal beings in Tan-Trao , a witness of the past and present , of all that is done and undone...a tree which "sees all, knows all, and keeps many secrets. It knows a time of bondage and a time of freedom. Its reach never stops; it keeps growing and expanding regardless of circumstances, regardless of difficulties. Time and destiny are on its side.... " The Banyan tree is a character here which encompasses the other ones.
The language is simple . No ostentatious display of vocabulary , no sashaying along the rhetorical roads and thus its beauty lies in its simplicity. If you want to read a story which you'll find hard to put down and must finish in one go , The Reach of the Banyan Tree is perfect for you . Absolutely recommended for all.
From my side it's 4.5/5
The Vietnam war still works as an inspiration for novelists . On my first glance to Mark W. Sasse's historical fiction/contemporary romance novel The Reach of the Banyan Tree , I took it as another war story. But with the turning of every page my heart leaped up with new wonders , it's not only a book about war , it's a narration of life , of love , of friendship and destiny.
The story covers a span of almost seventy years , starting from the World War II and ending in 2014 , not at a stretch though. Charles Regal Carson III , the son of American billionaire Charles Regal Carson II , owner of Carson Oil , arrives in Vietnam as he wants to live his own life , away from the grandiose of his father. He meets Thuy, a Vietnamese girl and both of them are head over heels for each other. While visiting a historical site , Phuong Hoang Cave in North Vietnam , Chip suddenly discovers his grandfather's name ,Charles Regal Carson , etched on the stone wall connected by a heart sign with another name , Mai. The mention of the" The Flying Dutchman" phrase after the name makes him sure of his ancestral connection. A plethora of thoughts ransack his minds as he tries to connect the loose end that is related with the name Mai , of whom he knows nothing.
In the meantime , Thuy's father clearly states his acrimony towards Americans and firmly discards Chip to be his daughter's betrothed lover. Things do change when Chip tells Thang (Thuy's father) about his lineage and his enormous property and Chip and Thuy definitely could hear the merry ring of the wedding bells. Destiny comes taking control once again and an accident occurs that makes Chip an accused , a convict and a person whom Thuy's family abhor from their hearts.
It is during this time when Chip is rotting in his solitary cell , that he comes to know of the connection which his grandpa shares with Vietnam. A log-book or diary reaches him which enlightens him about different unknown facets of Charles Regal Carson and his stay in Vietnam during the World War II. The story of a soldier who had impeccable manners, ethics and humanly emotions.
Sasse likes to spread different coloured strings at the beginning of his narration ,only to bind them up as a perfect garland in the end. The book utters very little about love or romance , has almost no amorous or intimate dialogue which the readers generally expect from a love-story , still the aroma of romance hovers all along the book. Love in its different forms, requited or unrequited , lost or found.
The country of Vietnam, its struggle for independence,hatred for the French and the Americans , the leader Ho Chi Minh and the current socio-political and economic conditions all have come alive in this book. And so veracious are the descriptions that it sometimes becomes difficult to discriminate between historical facts and fiction.
There are several major characters in the story apart from Chip and Thuy. Depiction of all the characters are accurate enough to take them for real , one can easily relate any average American billionaire with Carson II who genuinely thinks that money can buy everything and everyone on earth. While there are persons like Long and Mai who keep friendship and gratitude over anything and everything.
And there is the Banyan tree, standing high above the mortal beings in Tan-Trao , a witness of the past and present , of all that is done and undone...a tree which "sees all, knows all, and keeps many secrets. It knows a time of bondage and a time of freedom. Its reach never stops; it keeps growing and expanding regardless of circumstances, regardless of difficulties. Time and destiny are on its side.... " The Banyan tree is a character here which encompasses the other ones.
The language is simple . No ostentatious display of vocabulary , no sashaying along the rhetorical roads and thus its beauty lies in its simplicity. If you want to read a story which you'll find hard to put down and must finish in one go , The Reach of the Banyan Tree is perfect for you . Absolutely recommended for all.
From my side it's 4.5/5
February 10, 2015
Mark Sasse never disappoints. He writes with heart and soul and sucks you right into his characters' world…wherever and whenever it is.
This story starts out to all intents and purposes as what you think is going to be a simple love story between Chip, the son of a wealthy corporate type, who has turned his back on involvement in his father’s business, and Thuy, a beautiful young Vietnamese woman. But ‘simple’ is the last word that can be used to describe the journey of love when Chip is involved in a dreadful accident, which lands him in prison. What follows is heartache, the devastating impact of cultural differences and of past wars, and a struggle to overcome the constraints of obligations that tie a family together.
This is a powerful story that examines a romance stretched to the absolute maximum by tragedy, culture and history; it’s ably and movingly penned by Sasse and is set in a historically troubled country. It yo-yos between 1945 and the present, but the transitions are seamless; the dramatic backdrop of an exotic and breathtakingly beautiful country reflects the deep and varied emotions experienced by all the characters.
It’s an excellent story, beautifully written, quite possibly his best book yet. Highly recommended.
This story starts out to all intents and purposes as what you think is going to be a simple love story between Chip, the son of a wealthy corporate type, who has turned his back on involvement in his father’s business, and Thuy, a beautiful young Vietnamese woman. But ‘simple’ is the last word that can be used to describe the journey of love when Chip is involved in a dreadful accident, which lands him in prison. What follows is heartache, the devastating impact of cultural differences and of past wars, and a struggle to overcome the constraints of obligations that tie a family together.
This is a powerful story that examines a romance stretched to the absolute maximum by tragedy, culture and history; it’s ably and movingly penned by Sasse and is set in a historically troubled country. It yo-yos between 1945 and the present, but the transitions are seamless; the dramatic backdrop of an exotic and breathtakingly beautiful country reflects the deep and varied emotions experienced by all the characters.
It’s an excellent story, beautifully written, quite possibly his best book yet. Highly recommended.
October 5, 2014
This was a First Reads win for me ... and I really enjoyed it. This is a novel of Vietnam about a romance between a young Vietnam girl,Thuy, and an American boy, Chip. Everything was going great until a tragic accident happened ... Then the relationship changed. As he tried to cope with losing his chance at true love, a stranger who knew his grandfather at the end of World War II appeared with a journal that his grandfather had written. His grandfather's words revealed a life that he didn't know about. At that time Chip knew he had to try for a second chance with Thuy. The best line in the book was "A banyan tree sees all, knows all, and keeps many secrets." Mark Sasse has the potential to be a really great author. Also the cover was beautiful. I would highly recommend this book.
December 28, 2015
Love lost and found.
Very well-written. This is a story that will keep you reading. Fate and destiny weave a binding and truly interesting story.
Very well-written. This is a story that will keep you reading. Fate and destiny weave a binding and truly interesting story.
May 25, 2020
The Reach of the Banyan Tree by Author Mark W. Sasse
I am fast becoming a huge fan of talented Author Mark W. Sasse. "The Reach of the Banyan Tree" is the third fictional novel that I've read by him and I have thoroughly enjoyed all three. I can certainly see his love and fascination for Vietnam because as in Beauty Rising the setting for this novel takes place there as well. As usual the description of the landscape and surroundings are phenomenal and easy to picture in one's own mind.
The protagonist is Charles Regal Carson III, better known as Chip to his friends. His father is the owner of the Carson Oil Company in Texas which Chip wants no part of, therefore, he decides to work in Thai Nguyen, northern Vietnam for a more noble cause. While there, he meets the love of his life, Thuy. After two years of getting to know each other and eventually falling in love, Chip asks Thuy to marry him. She is more than willing but not without the approval/consent of her father whom she knows will not look favorably upon this union. He fought against the Americans during the Vietnam War and feels this marriage would bring nothing but grief to his little family. Thuy is very loyal to her family with only one younger brother by the name of Quat who is very taken with Chip. He sees him as his big American brother and has every desire to be just like him. His love and admiration for Chip is returned by Chip as he takes Quat under his wing and treats him much the same. After a celebration for Thuy's twenty second birthday when much revelry and rice wine are enjoyed, most of the celebrants jump on their motorcycles and head home regardless of their drunken state. Although he has some misgivings in doing so, Chip is one of them. Then, the unthinkable occurs and the story-line unfolds in a mesmerizing way...
This well-written and captivating romantic novel with a large dose of history thrown in is both captivating and unpredictable. Once I got started I could hardly put it down. The wide cast of characters masterfully added to the story line by Author Mark W. Sasse only serves to prove what a great writer he is. If this makes sense, I had the mixed feelings of wanting to get to the end of this novel and also not wanting it to end. It would be most enjoyable if there was a sequel to this novel as this one adeptly demonstrates the combination of both heart-wrenching and heart-warming events at the same time. "The Reach of the Banyan Tree" certainly left me wanting more!
Inspirational Author & Book Reviewer ~ Dolores Ayotte
https://www.amazon.com/Dolores-Ayotte...
I am fast becoming a huge fan of talented Author Mark W. Sasse. "The Reach of the Banyan Tree" is the third fictional novel that I've read by him and I have thoroughly enjoyed all three. I can certainly see his love and fascination for Vietnam because as in Beauty Rising the setting for this novel takes place there as well. As usual the description of the landscape and surroundings are phenomenal and easy to picture in one's own mind.
The protagonist is Charles Regal Carson III, better known as Chip to his friends. His father is the owner of the Carson Oil Company in Texas which Chip wants no part of, therefore, he decides to work in Thai Nguyen, northern Vietnam for a more noble cause. While there, he meets the love of his life, Thuy. After two years of getting to know each other and eventually falling in love, Chip asks Thuy to marry him. She is more than willing but not without the approval/consent of her father whom she knows will not look favorably upon this union. He fought against the Americans during the Vietnam War and feels this marriage would bring nothing but grief to his little family. Thuy is very loyal to her family with only one younger brother by the name of Quat who is very taken with Chip. He sees him as his big American brother and has every desire to be just like him. His love and admiration for Chip is returned by Chip as he takes Quat under his wing and treats him much the same. After a celebration for Thuy's twenty second birthday when much revelry and rice wine are enjoyed, most of the celebrants jump on their motorcycles and head home regardless of their drunken state. Although he has some misgivings in doing so, Chip is one of them. Then, the unthinkable occurs and the story-line unfolds in a mesmerizing way...
This well-written and captivating romantic novel with a large dose of history thrown in is both captivating and unpredictable. Once I got started I could hardly put it down. The wide cast of characters masterfully added to the story line by Author Mark W. Sasse only serves to prove what a great writer he is. If this makes sense, I had the mixed feelings of wanting to get to the end of this novel and also not wanting it to end. It would be most enjoyable if there was a sequel to this novel as this one adeptly demonstrates the combination of both heart-wrenching and heart-warming events at the same time. "The Reach of the Banyan Tree" certainly left me wanting more!
Inspirational Author & Book Reviewer ~ Dolores Ayotte
https://www.amazon.com/Dolores-Ayotte...
September 11, 2025
What a beautiful love story. Not about passion and lust, but true love that spans over three generations. It starts with Chip in the present, then goes back to his grandfather in 1945. I will definitely read more books by this author.
June 12, 2017
Enjoyed!
Good book from the first word to the last. Poignant story of life coming full circle . Loved backdrop of Vietnam.
Good book from the first word to the last. Poignant story of life coming full circle . Loved backdrop of Vietnam.
June 14, 2014
Mark Sasse’s historic novel/contemporary romance takes place in Vietnam during two time periods, World War II and present day. Estranged from his father Charles Regal Carson II of Carson Oil, Chip (Charles Regal Carson III) travels to Tan Trao, North Vietnam and discovers a connection to his paternal grandfather, the Flying Dutchman, an American soldier on a mission to help repel Japanese aggression. Chip and his fiancé Thuy explore the Phuong Hoang Cave Historical Site. Vietnam wasn’t something his grandfather talked about, and when Chip comes across a carving in stone – his grandfather’s name linked to the name of a woman Mai, Chip finds himself wondering who Mai was. The discovery opened a vault of questions that wouldn’t be answered until Chip, through a life changing mishap, was given the key to unearthing the mystery.
“This banyan tree is many centuries old. It stands a sacred test of time…not just because of its beauty and majesty. It is a symbol of life coming from death…the branches never forget where they came from. This is the land of Vietnam.” (From The Reach of the Banyan Tree – p. 70) There are many references to the banyan tree throughout the book. Its importance to the village of Tan Trao never waned through the years; it was as relevant during the Chip’s story as it was during the time of his grandfather.
Sasse’s depiction of Vietnam during both eras was accurate, though the characters are fictitious. His story focuses on the coming together of two different cultures, American and Vietnamese, at different times, and shows that love knows no political boundaries.
The plot explores the complexities of then and now Vietnam and the lives of two Americans living there. The characters are well defined, and so believable it is difficult to separate historical fact from fiction. Add the elements of romance and mystery, and you have a book that is hard to put down.
Mark W Sasse was born in western Pennsylvania, but has spent nearly two decades living, teaching, and writing overseas in Vietnam and Malaysia. He has advanced degrees in Humanities and English. His debut novel, Beauty Rising, was released in December 2012 which was followed xby The Recluse Storyteller in October 2013. He is also an enthusiast of live theatre. He writes and directs for the drama troupe The RLT Players. He won the award for "Best Script" in 2013 Penang Short & Sweet Festival for his script "No In Spite of Itself." His short play "Drive All Night" won the Audience Choice award at the 2012 Penang Short & Sweet Festival. The Reach of the Banyan Tree is his third novel.
The Reach of the Banyan Tree is due out July1, 2014.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
“This banyan tree is many centuries old. It stands a sacred test of time…not just because of its beauty and majesty. It is a symbol of life coming from death…the branches never forget where they came from. This is the land of Vietnam.” (From The Reach of the Banyan Tree – p. 70) There are many references to the banyan tree throughout the book. Its importance to the village of Tan Trao never waned through the years; it was as relevant during the Chip’s story as it was during the time of his grandfather.
Sasse’s depiction of Vietnam during both eras was accurate, though the characters are fictitious. His story focuses on the coming together of two different cultures, American and Vietnamese, at different times, and shows that love knows no political boundaries.
The plot explores the complexities of then and now Vietnam and the lives of two Americans living there. The characters are well defined, and so believable it is difficult to separate historical fact from fiction. Add the elements of romance and mystery, and you have a book that is hard to put down.
Mark W Sasse was born in western Pennsylvania, but has spent nearly two decades living, teaching, and writing overseas in Vietnam and Malaysia. He has advanced degrees in Humanities and English. His debut novel, Beauty Rising, was released in December 2012 which was followed xby The Recluse Storyteller in October 2013. He is also an enthusiast of live theatre. He writes and directs for the drama troupe The RLT Players. He won the award for "Best Script" in 2013 Penang Short & Sweet Festival for his script "No In Spite of Itself." His short play "Drive All Night" won the Audience Choice award at the 2012 Penang Short & Sweet Festival. The Reach of the Banyan Tree is his third novel.
The Reach of the Banyan Tree is due out July1, 2014.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2014
Mark W. Sasse is one of my favorite Authors, and his new book ‘The Reach of the Banyan Tree’ is a stunningly written and deeply moving story. It takes place in Vietnam, where he lived for ten years, and his writing reflects his passion and respect for the country and its people. He weaves his extensive knowledge of Vietnam and the splendor of the countryside into his writing, as he did in ‘Beauty Rising;’ and with such vivid narratives, I could see the story unfolding in my mind. I love the compassion and complexity he puts into his writing. He has the ability to weave together a complex story filled with emotion and beauty, as well as hardship and turmoil.
Chip has moved to Thai Nguyen, Vietnam to get away from everyone, especially his father. In Vietnam he meets Thuy, who he will eventually ask to marry him. She agrees but must have the approval of her father. Initially, old family traditions and past emotions get in the way until Chip reveals that his father is the owner of the Carson Oil Company in Texas, and knowing that Chip has money, her father agrees. When all seems to be going well, a tragic accident happens that will threaten their love and Thuy’s loyalty to her family.
The characters in this book are so finely tuned and complex that they make the story come alive, making this book hard to put down. I was drawn into their lives by their interactions and compelling emotions. Their lives are intertwined in a way you won’t see coming, and it will leave you wanting more.
I just can’t say enough about this book, the writing is so amazing and it will draw you into the story in an emotional way. The backdrop of Vietnam is beautifully displayed, and its history is woven into the story giving the reader a learning experience that is both tragic and heart-warming.
I absolutely recommend this book to all readers; it is truly an experience you don’t want to miss!
Chip has moved to Thai Nguyen, Vietnam to get away from everyone, especially his father. In Vietnam he meets Thuy, who he will eventually ask to marry him. She agrees but must have the approval of her father. Initially, old family traditions and past emotions get in the way until Chip reveals that his father is the owner of the Carson Oil Company in Texas, and knowing that Chip has money, her father agrees. When all seems to be going well, a tragic accident happens that will threaten their love and Thuy’s loyalty to her family.
The characters in this book are so finely tuned and complex that they make the story come alive, making this book hard to put down. I was drawn into their lives by their interactions and compelling emotions. Their lives are intertwined in a way you won’t see coming, and it will leave you wanting more.
I just can’t say enough about this book, the writing is so amazing and it will draw you into the story in an emotional way. The backdrop of Vietnam is beautifully displayed, and its history is woven into the story giving the reader a learning experience that is both tragic and heart-warming.
I absolutely recommend this book to all readers; it is truly an experience you don’t want to miss!
July 21, 2016
*** I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ***
“The Reach of the Banyan Tree” is one of those rare romances that remind you that love sometimes comes with a cost.
Chip Carson is living in Vietnam and in love with Thuy. Getting her fathers blessing to be married to her is all that he wants in life but when tragedy hits; their lives are ripped apart and forever changed. Because of history that even Chip is unaware of his story has more complexity then he imagined. This is a love story that spans three generations and has many secrets to be revealed.
“A banyan tree sees all, knows all, and keeps many secrets. It knows a time of bondage and a time of freedom. Its reach never stops; it keeps growing and expanding regardless of circumstances, regardless of difficulties. Time and destiny are on its side. In the end, the grand banyan tree, with its thirty-foot expanse, will once again sense order restored to the universe.”
Nguyen Van Vinh, 1945, French Indochina
This is a quote in the very beginning of the book and the Banyan tree’s branches reach right to the heart of the story.
I found the Vietnamese culture to be extraordinarily written which gave this story a solid basis and colorful backdrop. The characters all have multilayer depth that shows their strengths and flaws. The historical references are fascinating and show how love can blossom regardless of the situation.
This story does flip flop from the current to the past but is done seamlessly and the stories entwine beautifully. There really is a little of everything in this story – besides an epic love story there is historical fiction, family obligation, mystery, intrigue and action. This is a book that I could easily recommend to anyone and I look forward to reading Mr. Sasse’s next extraordinary work.
“The Reach of the Banyan Tree” is one of those rare romances that remind you that love sometimes comes with a cost.
Chip Carson is living in Vietnam and in love with Thuy. Getting her fathers blessing to be married to her is all that he wants in life but when tragedy hits; their lives are ripped apart and forever changed. Because of history that even Chip is unaware of his story has more complexity then he imagined. This is a love story that spans three generations and has many secrets to be revealed.
“A banyan tree sees all, knows all, and keeps many secrets. It knows a time of bondage and a time of freedom. Its reach never stops; it keeps growing and expanding regardless of circumstances, regardless of difficulties. Time and destiny are on its side. In the end, the grand banyan tree, with its thirty-foot expanse, will once again sense order restored to the universe.”
Nguyen Van Vinh, 1945, French Indochina
This is a quote in the very beginning of the book and the Banyan tree’s branches reach right to the heart of the story.
I found the Vietnamese culture to be extraordinarily written which gave this story a solid basis and colorful backdrop. The characters all have multilayer depth that shows their strengths and flaws. The historical references are fascinating and show how love can blossom regardless of the situation.
This story does flip flop from the current to the past but is done seamlessly and the stories entwine beautifully. There really is a little of everything in this story – besides an epic love story there is historical fiction, family obligation, mystery, intrigue and action. This is a book that I could easily recommend to anyone and I look forward to reading Mr. Sasse’s next extraordinary work.
March 28, 2016
This review is by Bob Boze on behalf of Truth About Books.
The Reach of the Banyan Tree is an historical fiction, romance novel. Personally, I would place it more in the romance genre, although I found much of the World War II history of Viet Nam interesting and informative.
The story spans three generations of an American oil baron family and is actually two loves stories; one involving the grandfather and the second the grandson: Both of whom fall in love with Vietnamese women, eras apart.
The story is told through the eyes of Chip Carson, the grandson, who wants to marry a Vietnamese girl from a family whose father seethes hatred for Americans. After an accident lands him in jail, he discovers, through a mysterious visitor, that his life parallels his grandfathers in many ways.
As the story bounces back and forth between the two generations, you’ll find yourself caught up in both, as well as wondering how each relationship will end. Both are full of twists and turns and will keep you trying to guess what will be around the next turn of their journey.
The Reach of the Banyan Tree is exceptionally well written and will hold your interest from beginning to end. The characters are well developed and believable and both stories will give you insight into how different, and deep, family values in Asian cultures are, compared to ours.
Frankly, I’m still not sure I got the connection to the Banyan Tree (other than symbolism) but it really isn’t important to the story.
Recommendation: A very well written story that will hold your interest from beginning to end. Definitely a must read.
The Reach of the Banyan Tree is an historical fiction, romance novel. Personally, I would place it more in the romance genre, although I found much of the World War II history of Viet Nam interesting and informative.
The story spans three generations of an American oil baron family and is actually two loves stories; one involving the grandfather and the second the grandson: Both of whom fall in love with Vietnamese women, eras apart.
The story is told through the eyes of Chip Carson, the grandson, who wants to marry a Vietnamese girl from a family whose father seethes hatred for Americans. After an accident lands him in jail, he discovers, through a mysterious visitor, that his life parallels his grandfathers in many ways.
As the story bounces back and forth between the two generations, you’ll find yourself caught up in both, as well as wondering how each relationship will end. Both are full of twists and turns and will keep you trying to guess what will be around the next turn of their journey.
The Reach of the Banyan Tree is exceptionally well written and will hold your interest from beginning to end. The characters are well developed and believable and both stories will give you insight into how different, and deep, family values in Asian cultures are, compared to ours.
Frankly, I’m still not sure I got the connection to the Banyan Tree (other than symbolism) but it really isn’t important to the story.
Recommendation: A very well written story that will hold your interest from beginning to end. Definitely a must read.
June 8, 2014
The Reach of the Banyan Tree by Mark W. Sasse
Chip Carson is in Vietnam and plans on marrying a local woman (Thuy). Things turn bad when he ends up in a Vietnam jail cell. This puts a lot of pressure on his relation ship, due to her cultural beliefs on marriage.
While in jail he is given an old journal of his grandfathers that was written at the end of WWII. While reading the journal many times, Chips starts to understand the meaning of love, war, family and sacrifice.
I really enjoyed this story. Chip was everything a young woman would want, Thuy was young, naive and torn between family obligations, I really liked her a lot. Those who love historical fiction with romance will enjoy this fantastic read.
Enter to win The Reach of the Banyan Tree on Good Reads: Giveaway dates, May 31 - Jul 10, 2014
I also recommend The Recluse Storytellerby Mark W.Sasse.
Chip Carson is in Vietnam and plans on marrying a local woman (Thuy). Things turn bad when he ends up in a Vietnam jail cell. This puts a lot of pressure on his relation ship, due to her cultural beliefs on marriage.
While in jail he is given an old journal of his grandfathers that was written at the end of WWII. While reading the journal many times, Chips starts to understand the meaning of love, war, family and sacrifice.
I really enjoyed this story. Chip was everything a young woman would want, Thuy was young, naive and torn between family obligations, I really liked her a lot. Those who love historical fiction with romance will enjoy this fantastic read.
Enter to win The Reach of the Banyan Tree on Good Reads: Giveaway dates, May 31 - Jul 10, 2014
I also recommend The Recluse Storytellerby Mark W.Sasse.
January 29, 2016
Cross-cultural conflict meets the generation gap
Many intriguing images of life in Vietnam enliven this story of personal connection and struggle between Americans of wealth and peasant farmers of Vietnam. The author has good material to work with.
Sometimes the exposition got in the way of the storytelling, however. The author could have let the big conclusions be implied by the actions of the characters instead of his stating the obvious. This was especially true when expressed as a triple series of ideas. One platitude was maybe acceptable, but the second was weaker, and the third just killed the idea dead. Occasional words were used inappropriately, where the author needed a different, more precise one. He didn't seem to understand the meaning of the word he used a couple of times.
Characters seemed believable, although Carson II's change of style seemed a bit abrupt toward the end.
Overall, I enjoyed the book, though it didn't prompt me to want another similar one.
Many intriguing images of life in Vietnam enliven this story of personal connection and struggle between Americans of wealth and peasant farmers of Vietnam. The author has good material to work with.
Sometimes the exposition got in the way of the storytelling, however. The author could have let the big conclusions be implied by the actions of the characters instead of his stating the obvious. This was especially true when expressed as a triple series of ideas. One platitude was maybe acceptable, but the second was weaker, and the third just killed the idea dead. Occasional words were used inappropriately, where the author needed a different, more precise one. He didn't seem to understand the meaning of the word he used a couple of times.
Characters seemed believable, although Carson II's change of style seemed a bit abrupt toward the end.
Overall, I enjoyed the book, though it didn't prompt me to want another similar one.
June 19, 2016
Chip has moved to Thai Nguyen, Vietnam to get away from his father. In Vietnam he meets Thuy, who he will eventually ask to marry him. She agrees but must have the approval of her father. Initially, old family traditions and past emotions get in the way until Chip reveals that his father is the owner of the Carson Oil Company in Texas, and knowing that Chip has money, her father agrees. When all seems to be going well, a tragic accident happens that will threaten their love and Thuy's loyalty to her family which is in sharp contrast to the loyalty Chip shows for his family.
I thought the story was helpful in understanding the history and culture of Vietnam. Although the story unfolds mixing the present with the past, it was still easy to follow the parallel love stories. The banyan tree was symbolic of family and ancestors in that it’s branches are far reaching and new roots extend from the branches.
I thought the story was helpful in understanding the history and culture of Vietnam. Although the story unfolds mixing the present with the past, it was still easy to follow the parallel love stories. The banyan tree was symbolic of family and ancestors in that it’s branches are far reaching and new roots extend from the branches.
January 6, 2016
This is one of those books in which the characters become very real and the reader can identify with them and the story. I enjoyed the similarities between the story of the grandfather that took place in 1945 and the grandson in 2000. The culture of the Vietnamese and their fight for freedom first against the French and then the Americans brings the story of the people themselves in focus. We see the war from their point of view and that in reality things didn't change too much, only the adversaries. I read this book to broaden my understanding the people and their culture and it didn't disappoint. I hope to read more from this author.
June 22, 2014
Mark has hit a home run with the bases loaded with this book! Absolutely his best book yet. As a person who lived through the Vietnam War I appreciated the history presented. The love stories were deeply loaded with symbolism and timely messages. Mark has lived and worked in Vietnam and demonstrated his love for the people and the culture. Superbly written novel with a historical context. It is always a pleasure to recommend Mark's books but without a doubt this one is his best yet.
November 19, 2014
3.5 stars. I don't read romance novels, typically, but this isn't a typical romance novel. It provides an in-depth view of Vietnamese culture and I found it very helpful in supplementing my admittedly superficial knowledge of the Vietnam war era. However, the writing was a bit stiff in parts and I liked Sasse's previous novel (The Recluse Storyteller) better. This one didn't hold my interest as much..
September 13, 2014
I just finished reading The Reach of the Banyan Tree and it was a deeply written novel. It was heart wrenching and moving. It is also a story of love, family loyalty, and forgiveness. I could not put it down until I finished it, I had to find out what happened at the end. I give this book a 5/5. I was given this book for the purpose of a review and all opinions are my own.
December 19, 2015
I don't usually read this kind of book. The beginning and the ending were pretty cliche, it was the middle story that caught me. Interesting book set in Vietnam Nam. Three generations of men and what the country brought to each life.
November 7, 2016
Vietnam background
Not always predictable, a twist here and there, links to non fiction history, a relaxing read. I had fun imagining the scenes and the descriptions were fairly good.
Not always predictable, a twist here and there, links to non fiction history, a relaxing read. I had fun imagining the scenes and the descriptions were fairly good.
October 23, 2014
3.5 stars. Very fast enjoyable read!
February 13, 2015
Great historical fiction love story!
January 2, 2016
Nothing special.
January 31, 2016
This was a terrific novel set in Vietnam. Rich boy meets local girl - but with lots of twists.
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