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To Live Out Loud
In 1895, France was torn asunder by a scandal that rocked the nation and divided the country. An innocent Jewish military officer, Alfred Dreyfus, was unjustly sentenced to life imprisonment on a desolate island. The news that could exonerate him was leaked to the press, but was suppressed by the military. Anyone who sought to reopen the Dreyfus court-martial became victimized and persecuted and was considered an enemy of the state. Émile Zola, a popular journalist, determined to bring the truth to light, undertook the challenge to publicaly expose the facts surrounding the military cover-up. This is the story of Zola’s battle to help Alfred Dreyfus reclaim his freedom and clear his name. Up against anti-Semitism, military resistance, and opposition from the Church of France, Zola committed his life to fighting for justice. But was it worth all it cost him, to those around him, and to France? This is a narrative of friendship, courage, and love in the face of the adversity and hatred. It is a story of how one man’s courageous actions impacted a nation. From the award winning author of The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap comes a book that will leave you examining your notions about heroism, courage, and your role in social change long after you read the last sentence.
100 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 28, 2015
28 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
About the author
Paulette Mahurin
13 books247 followersPaulette Mahurin is a best selling literary fiction and historical fiction novelist. She lives with her husband Terry and two dogs, Max and Bella, in Ventura County, California. She grew up in West Los Angeles and attended UCLA, where she received a Master’s Degree in Science.
Her first novel, The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap, made it to Amazon bestseller lists and won awards, including best historical fiction 2012 in Turning the Pages Magazine. Her second novel, His Name Was Ben, originally written as an award winning short story while she was in college and later expanded into a novel, rose to bestseller lists its second week out. Her third novel, To Live Out Loud, won international critical acclaim and made it to multiple sites as favorite read book of 2015. Her fourth book, The Seven Year Dress, made it to the top ten bestseller lists on Amazon U.S., Amazon U.K. and Amazon Australia. Her fifth book, The Day I Saw The Hummingbird, was released in 2017 to rave reviews. Her sixth book, A Different Kind of Angel, was released in August, 2018.
Semi-retired, she continues to work part-time as a Nurse Practitioner in Ventura County. When she’s not writing, she does pro-bono consultation work with women with cancer, works in the Westminster Free Clinic as a volunteer provider, volunteers as a mediator in the Ventura County Courthouse for small claims cases, and involves herself, along with her husband, in dog rescue. Profits from her books go to help rescue dogs from kill shelters.
Her first novel, The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap, made it to Amazon bestseller lists and won awards, including best historical fiction 2012 in Turning the Pages Magazine. Her second novel, His Name Was Ben, originally written as an award winning short story while she was in college and later expanded into a novel, rose to bestseller lists its second week out. Her third novel, To Live Out Loud, won international critical acclaim and made it to multiple sites as favorite read book of 2015. Her fourth book, The Seven Year Dress, made it to the top ten bestseller lists on Amazon U.S., Amazon U.K. and Amazon Australia. Her fifth book, The Day I Saw The Hummingbird, was released in 2017 to rave reviews. Her sixth book, A Different Kind of Angel, was released in August, 2018.
Semi-retired, she continues to work part-time as a Nurse Practitioner in Ventura County. When she’s not writing, she does pro-bono consultation work with women with cancer, works in the Westminster Free Clinic as a volunteer provider, volunteers as a mediator in the Ventura County Courthouse for small claims cases, and involves herself, along with her husband, in dog rescue. Profits from her books go to help rescue dogs from kill shelters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
August 28, 2017
A while ago, I read another novel about the mysterious Dreyfus Affair, and it left such an impression, I was thrilled to find To Live Out Loud, a truly fascinating, well-researched account of this story.
The story begins in the late 19th century, when Dreyfus is sentenced for passing France's secrets to Germany. It was so interesting to read about the build up of tension between the countries in parallel to the tension the individual characters experienced. The sentenced man is Jewish and at this time, this sadly created even more distrust towards him, and probably encouraged public mistrust. Dreyfus' case quickly garners quite a bit of attention, and evidence of his innocence surfaces. However, the army is not willing to accept any guilt in the unlawful jailing of the man, and sends him overseas to a penal colony of sorts.
The story is about more than Dreyfus, however, it is also the tale of the writer, Emile Zola, who is wrapped up in it, and faces a libel case. I was not previously familiar with Zola's J'accuse letter, but this story has certainly encouraged me to research the case even further. Zola's stance against anti-semitism in France and his questioning of the use/abuse of legal powers of the state are important and really serve to paint a picture of the man. Mahurin, however, does not make him or anyone out to be one-dimensionally heroic or villainous. Zola has a mistress, as well as a wife - something that seemed to be relatively acceptable at the time, but when it comes down to it, he stays very true to his ideals, even sacrificing a promising career. Zola's insistence of fair-trials and treatment of prisoners, as well as religious freedom, emphasize the way of thinking of a respected, enlightened Frenchman at this time. I also liked his quotes, which appear at the start of each chapter.
For such a short read, I feel it explored this story with great depth and an elegant language.
I look forward to reading more about this subject and by this author!
Find more reviews and bookish fun at http://www.princessandpen.com
The story begins in the late 19th century, when Dreyfus is sentenced for passing France's secrets to Germany. It was so interesting to read about the build up of tension between the countries in parallel to the tension the individual characters experienced. The sentenced man is Jewish and at this time, this sadly created even more distrust towards him, and probably encouraged public mistrust. Dreyfus' case quickly garners quite a bit of attention, and evidence of his innocence surfaces. However, the army is not willing to accept any guilt in the unlawful jailing of the man, and sends him overseas to a penal colony of sorts.
The story is about more than Dreyfus, however, it is also the tale of the writer, Emile Zola, who is wrapped up in it, and faces a libel case. I was not previously familiar with Zola's J'accuse letter, but this story has certainly encouraged me to research the case even further. Zola's stance against anti-semitism in France and his questioning of the use/abuse of legal powers of the state are important and really serve to paint a picture of the man. Mahurin, however, does not make him or anyone out to be one-dimensionally heroic or villainous. Zola has a mistress, as well as a wife - something that seemed to be relatively acceptable at the time, but when it comes down to it, he stays very true to his ideals, even sacrificing a promising career. Zola's insistence of fair-trials and treatment of prisoners, as well as religious freedom, emphasize the way of thinking of a respected, enlightened Frenchman at this time. I also liked his quotes, which appear at the start of each chapter.
For such a short read, I feel it explored this story with great depth and an elegant language.
I look forward to reading more about this subject and by this author!
Find more reviews and bookish fun at http://www.princessandpen.com
August 2, 2015
This is a fabulous read! Combining real events that have been wonderfully researched with a fictional character to narrate the story, the author has brought to life the 1895 story of Dreyfus condemned to life imprison and branded a traitor for a crime he didn't commit. This takes place in France and we follow the attempts of Emile Zola to prove his innocence. Zola writes a headline newspaper story revealing the truth but is then sued for libel and the authorities do everything possible to prevent the truth coming out.
It is the story of how one man risked everything to help a fellow human being who had been unjustly accused and for no personal gain, simply having the courage to speak out against the army and government for the sake of his beliefs. Brilliantly written, as I have come to expect from this author, I read the book in one sitting and felt very uplifted at the end that there are people in the world who will risk all for what is right.
As relevant today as in 1895 this is a great book and an easy 5*.
It is the story of how one man risked everything to help a fellow human being who had been unjustly accused and for no personal gain, simply having the courage to speak out against the army and government for the sake of his beliefs. Brilliantly written, as I have come to expect from this author, I read the book in one sitting and felt very uplifted at the end that there are people in the world who will risk all for what is right.
As relevant today as in 1895 this is a great book and an easy 5*.
November 24, 2018
When I reviewed A Different Kind of Angel by Paulette Mahurin last month , I thought that I would be getting to Mahurin's 19th century homophobia novel, The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap, soon. Yet I had Mahurin's Zola novel, To Live Out Loud, on my Kindle. Yes, I actually purchased it. Sometimes I do review books I bought. 😄
A more cogent reason to prioritize To Live Out Loud is because it now seems so urgently necessary to remind people about what happened in late 19th century France. Right wing military officials inflamed an antisemitic hysteria by court-martialing loyal Jewish officer Alfred Dreyfus in 1894 and condemning him for treason based on falsified evidence. For American Jews, this is a travesty of justice that echoes through history.
Dreyfus had a defender in the French press. He was Émile Zola who wrote a searing editorial commentary called "J'Accuse!" which became famous. I knew about "J'Accuse!", but it was To Live Out Loud that made me aware that Zola was subjected to violent attacks afterward. Today journalists who expose injustices are no more safe than Zola had been. There is a hostile atmosphere that encourages persecution of journalists. So I very much appreciate that Paulette Mahurin focuses on journalists who were social activists such as Émile Zola in this book, and Nellie Bly in her most recent novel, A Different Kind of Angel.
To Live Out Loud was a meticulously researched novel that speaks to our times. Zola's courage and integrity are memorialized through this book.
For my complete review see https://shomeretmasked.blogspot.com/2...
A more cogent reason to prioritize To Live Out Loud is because it now seems so urgently necessary to remind people about what happened in late 19th century France. Right wing military officials inflamed an antisemitic hysteria by court-martialing loyal Jewish officer Alfred Dreyfus in 1894 and condemning him for treason based on falsified evidence. For American Jews, this is a travesty of justice that echoes through history.
Dreyfus had a defender in the French press. He was Émile Zola who wrote a searing editorial commentary called "J'Accuse!" which became famous. I knew about "J'Accuse!", but it was To Live Out Loud that made me aware that Zola was subjected to violent attacks afterward. Today journalists who expose injustices are no more safe than Zola had been. There is a hostile atmosphere that encourages persecution of journalists. So I very much appreciate that Paulette Mahurin focuses on journalists who were social activists such as Émile Zola in this book, and Nellie Bly in her most recent novel, A Different Kind of Angel.
To Live Out Loud was a meticulously researched novel that speaks to our times. Zola's courage and integrity are memorialized through this book.
For my complete review see https://shomeretmasked.blogspot.com/2...
March 1, 2018
This book has received a Discovering Diamonds Review:
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
"the author has placed together the facts of the Dreyfus affair with great accuracy and passion."
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
"the author has placed together the facts of the Dreyfus affair with great accuracy and passion."
November 3, 2018
I admit ignorance of French history and the circumstances covered in this book but boy, do I know about it now. The Dreyfus affair covers dark times of anti-semitism in the 1890s and the brave intervention of the writer Emile Zola who put his own life and reputation at risk by standing up for the man. This historical fictional account of those events is a real eye-opener and one cannot help but admire Emile Zola who risked all to follow his conscience.
August 19, 2015
The Dreyfus affair and Emile Zola's "J'Accuse!" provide the theme for this short book. I was roughly aware of the facts and seized the chance to better my understanding of the matter. As I read, it seemed to me that at any point since, we could point to this tale and say that it is particularly relevant now, because our society is currently...
The story starts in 1895 as an artillery officer is court martialled and hastily found guilty of passing France's secrets to Germany. The man came from Alsace-Lorraine and Germany has recently annexed Alsace. Thus relations between the two nations are fraught. France has a constitution, since the overthrow of the monarchy, which states that all citizens are to be treated equally. However, a Jewish officer, Dreyfus, is not treated with respect and fairness but is picked on as a likely culpable person and swiftly consigned to jail.
The narrator is an engineer and friend of the family of Emile Zola, a man of letters who has gained work as a journalist. While Zola is not wealthy he in true French fashion supports a wife and mistress with their children. A key phrase which struck me is that these were "educated men, critical thinkers." They choose not to believe the convenient court martial finding and look for evidence. A man comes forward with opposing evidence to the army, but he is swiftly transferred overseas and the officer he had accused is as swiftly exonerated. The army does not want to admit that it got things wrong.
Deciding that the hidebound Catholic influence, and intervention by the Papal Nuncio, inflame the time of hatred and need to be countered, Zola spends much effort to write a letter to the President and people, accusing France of having betrayed its own ideals. This is published in a prominent Parisian newspaper and a writ for libel ensues. Much of the rest of the story is concerned with the prejudiced court cases which follow, verdicts and appeals.
Largely this book is based upon conversations, with a few spare words for scene setting and personal description. I'm more comfortable with a little more movement and living in the moment, but our narrator is in his seventies by the time the affair is trundling between courts so this was never going to be an action adventure. Guns, swords, stone-throwing mobs and a possible case of murder do however appear, leaving us in no doubt of the anger and peril upon the Paris streets.
What I thought might be helpful to include, would be an explanation of the fact that France and most of the European continent uses Napoleonic code of law. This means that a person accused of a crime is considered guilty until proven innocent. In Ireland, Britain and elsewhere, the reverse is the case.
Also under Napoleonic code, the presiding judge is the one who controls all aspects of the case from investigation to the decision to take the matter to a courtroom to what may be shown to a jury - in some cases there is no jury. In a British or Irish case the judge's influence does not begin until the investigation is ready to be prosecuted, though evidence and procedures must adhere to standards to be admissible.
An example can be found in the factual 'Fatal Journey: The Murder of Trevor O'Keefe' by Eroline O'Keeffe.
Zola's words are quoted to us above each chapter, with great variety from humour to philosophy.
"One forges one's style upon the terrible anvil of daily deadlines."
"The truth is on the march and nothing will stop it."
We need more of such heroes and I thank author Paulette Mahurin for once more bringing Emile Zola and the nation-changing Dreyfus affair to our generation.
The story starts in 1895 as an artillery officer is court martialled and hastily found guilty of passing France's secrets to Germany. The man came from Alsace-Lorraine and Germany has recently annexed Alsace. Thus relations between the two nations are fraught. France has a constitution, since the overthrow of the monarchy, which states that all citizens are to be treated equally. However, a Jewish officer, Dreyfus, is not treated with respect and fairness but is picked on as a likely culpable person and swiftly consigned to jail.
The narrator is an engineer and friend of the family of Emile Zola, a man of letters who has gained work as a journalist. While Zola is not wealthy he in true French fashion supports a wife and mistress with their children. A key phrase which struck me is that these were "educated men, critical thinkers." They choose not to believe the convenient court martial finding and look for evidence. A man comes forward with opposing evidence to the army, but he is swiftly transferred overseas and the officer he had accused is as swiftly exonerated. The army does not want to admit that it got things wrong.
Deciding that the hidebound Catholic influence, and intervention by the Papal Nuncio, inflame the time of hatred and need to be countered, Zola spends much effort to write a letter to the President and people, accusing France of having betrayed its own ideals. This is published in a prominent Parisian newspaper and a writ for libel ensues. Much of the rest of the story is concerned with the prejudiced court cases which follow, verdicts and appeals.
Largely this book is based upon conversations, with a few spare words for scene setting and personal description. I'm more comfortable with a little more movement and living in the moment, but our narrator is in his seventies by the time the affair is trundling between courts so this was never going to be an action adventure. Guns, swords, stone-throwing mobs and a possible case of murder do however appear, leaving us in no doubt of the anger and peril upon the Paris streets.
What I thought might be helpful to include, would be an explanation of the fact that France and most of the European continent uses Napoleonic code of law. This means that a person accused of a crime is considered guilty until proven innocent. In Ireland, Britain and elsewhere, the reverse is the case.
Also under Napoleonic code, the presiding judge is the one who controls all aspects of the case from investigation to the decision to take the matter to a courtroom to what may be shown to a jury - in some cases there is no jury. In a British or Irish case the judge's influence does not begin until the investigation is ready to be prosecuted, though evidence and procedures must adhere to standards to be admissible.
An example can be found in the factual 'Fatal Journey: The Murder of Trevor O'Keefe' by Eroline O'Keeffe.
Zola's words are quoted to us above each chapter, with great variety from humour to philosophy.
"One forges one's style upon the terrible anvil of daily deadlines."
"The truth is on the march and nothing will stop it."
We need more of such heroes and I thank author Paulette Mahurin for once more bringing Emile Zola and the nation-changing Dreyfus affair to our generation.
August 2, 2015
A story that will stay with me forever, To Live Out Loud was a touching, terrifying book at times. So well written. Terrifying as it makes me realize, once again, that mankind has learned nothing from history and mistakes are repeated over and over again. I’m sad to see prejudice and narrow mindedness, the main themes of Mrs. Mahurin’s novel are so valid in our modern times, and so called ”democratic” countries. The principle of the freedom of the individual subordinated to that of national security is tackled in a masterful way in the story.
Told in the first person by Charles Mandonette, lifelong friend of Emile Zola, the novel presents in a fictionalized form the great scandal that divided the French society during the Third Republic, because of the fixation in the minds of French nationalists that there was a conspiracy to destroy France’s Catholic identity. The most easily identifiable enemies were the Jews, because many were rich and their talents had led to a disproportionate presence in the judiciary, the civil service, the press and even the army.
To Live Out Loud is a message novel, hatred or judgmental attitude highlighted in the smooth flowing story. Documents of that time are interspersed with fiction which makes the book a very special one. I read Zola’s books but I must confess my ignorance on this aspect of his great character – his courage and determination, his belief that truth must be defended no matter the consequences, and his dedication in fighting against injustice and prejudice. Even if defending the truth may jeopardize his own reputation and name.
The pace and quality of the writing kept me anxiously flipping pages to see what would happen to Dreyfus and Zola. I wasn’t familiar with this critical event in the history of France so To Live Out Loud was a captivating view on the events.
As I read all books written by this author, I can say that Mrs.Mahurin has an art in writing that just captivates you and you get sucked into the story.
Told in the first person by Charles Mandonette, lifelong friend of Emile Zola, the novel presents in a fictionalized form the great scandal that divided the French society during the Third Republic, because of the fixation in the minds of French nationalists that there was a conspiracy to destroy France’s Catholic identity. The most easily identifiable enemies were the Jews, because many were rich and their talents had led to a disproportionate presence in the judiciary, the civil service, the press and even the army.
To Live Out Loud is a message novel, hatred or judgmental attitude highlighted in the smooth flowing story. Documents of that time are interspersed with fiction which makes the book a very special one. I read Zola’s books but I must confess my ignorance on this aspect of his great character – his courage and determination, his belief that truth must be defended no matter the consequences, and his dedication in fighting against injustice and prejudice. Even if defending the truth may jeopardize his own reputation and name.
The pace and quality of the writing kept me anxiously flipping pages to see what would happen to Dreyfus and Zola. I wasn’t familiar with this critical event in the history of France so To Live Out Loud was a captivating view on the events.
As I read all books written by this author, I can say that Mrs.Mahurin has an art in writing that just captivates you and you get sucked into the story.
July 30, 2015
In 1895 France was rocked and divided by the biggest anti-Semitic scandal in its history. When a young Jewish military man is falsely accused of treason and no one wants to risk stepping up to combat the might of military to expose its coverup, one courageous man steps up to expose the truth, fact by fact, that has leaked to the press. This is a story of courage against all odds and how one popular author and well respected journalist, Emile Zola, gave his life over to fight the good fight of righting an injustice and defending the truth. But at what cost to him, his friends and family, and to France? This fictionalized story takes on a very novel approach on how the author presents the facts intermingled with scenes to moves this along in a storyline that reads like an excellent thriller. Page after page, one hopes and deflates, only to rise up again, not knowing where it will all land. Courtroom scenes are taken from transcripts of Emile Zola's libel trial, notes from Alfred Dreyfus to his wife are mentioned in the text and Lucie Dreyfus's letter to the court are but a few of the things the author uses to lend authenticity and tension to the scenes. I couldn't put this book down. And now that I've read it I can stop thinking about it and my own thoughts on morals, courage, heroism, justice, and love. Not just the love of another human being but of my country and does freedom really matter? So many thoughts and feelings have been provoked in me from this read, all inspiring and awesome, that I am sure the story will continue to linger for days to come. I know I will read it again. And again.
August 2, 2015
So I finished reading this book yesterday.
I am glad I could not write my review directly because yesterday I was still thinking that this book is a very strong 4* read.
It is a novel yes but it is foremost a historical novel. Which is something I love. However it is a short read with the emphasis on the historical aspect leaving little in the way of character development. And for me, identifying with a character is extremely important. So more than 24 hours later I keep playing the story over and over in my mind. And I have changed my mind.
I cant relate so well with any of these characters because;
I am not this selfless.
I have never been so effused by a cause that I literally put my life on hold for it. Offered my life for it.
I have never met a person whom is so utterly human and at the same time such a true hero whom I could admire.
My own fallacies is the reason I had difficulty relating.
I have heard the term - The Dreyfus affair before but honestly I assumed it was simply another American scandal and I was too lazy to look into it or question it. I am not sure what the curriculum is in other countries but in South Africa we have only touched on the French Revolution and learned about France's role in WWII as a side note. Loving history as much as I do I now realize that I have an entire country to study up on.
I loved the French location etc giving the book some more depth and more to love.
I can only hope to find a person I can admire this much. That in a very small way I can live my life out loud like this. Taking a stand. Making life better.
I am glad I could not write my review directly because yesterday I was still thinking that this book is a very strong 4* read.
It is a novel yes but it is foremost a historical novel. Which is something I love. However it is a short read with the emphasis on the historical aspect leaving little in the way of character development. And for me, identifying with a character is extremely important. So more than 24 hours later I keep playing the story over and over in my mind. And I have changed my mind.
I cant relate so well with any of these characters because;
I am not this selfless.
I have never been so effused by a cause that I literally put my life on hold for it. Offered my life for it.
I have never met a person whom is so utterly human and at the same time such a true hero whom I could admire.
My own fallacies is the reason I had difficulty relating.
I have heard the term - The Dreyfus affair before but honestly I assumed it was simply another American scandal and I was too lazy to look into it or question it. I am not sure what the curriculum is in other countries but in South Africa we have only touched on the French Revolution and learned about France's role in WWII as a side note. Loving history as much as I do I now realize that I have an entire country to study up on.
I loved the French location etc giving the book some more depth and more to love.
I can only hope to find a person I can admire this much. That in a very small way I can live my life out loud like this. Taking a stand. Making life better.
December 13, 2015
It would be good advice to any writer I expect: “If you follow your passion, using prudence and wisdom and an ethical conscience, with your gift you might find luck.” The narrator of Paulette Mahurin’s To Live Out Loud, gives this advice to young Emile Zola as, fresh out of college, the younger man struggles to make ends meet. But perhaps the wisest advice, and that most relevant today, is, “The past doesn’t have to dictate the future.”
In 1985, when Dreyfus, the only Jew to make it so far in the French army, was wrongly accused and found guilty of spying, Zola, already famous as a writer, only complained in private. When rumors of a cover-up surfaced, his complaints against the vagaries of military politics became more public, thus falling foul of social politics too.
To Live Out Loud follows the travesty of Zola’s subsequent trial, revealing a world of patriotic lies, political expediency, and blatant untruths repeated to fire up emotions of uneducated masses -- a world that seems, despite its much smaller media presence, not so different from our own. But this short novel concerns far more than politics, revealing how everyone watches through eyes of past experience, surrounding culture, and historical assumption. Even our own valued sense of injustice might be bound in personal bias. And the influential will always speak louder than the wise.
I was eager to read this book as I’d often heard of Dreyfus during my childhood in England. I’ve learned much more from this book, sharing that “moment in the history of human conscience” through the characters' eyes, and really enjoying the read.
Disclosure: I was given a free ecopy and I offer my honest review.
In 1985, when Dreyfus, the only Jew to make it so far in the French army, was wrongly accused and found guilty of spying, Zola, already famous as a writer, only complained in private. When rumors of a cover-up surfaced, his complaints against the vagaries of military politics became more public, thus falling foul of social politics too.
To Live Out Loud follows the travesty of Zola’s subsequent trial, revealing a world of patriotic lies, political expediency, and blatant untruths repeated to fire up emotions of uneducated masses -- a world that seems, despite its much smaller media presence, not so different from our own. But this short novel concerns far more than politics, revealing how everyone watches through eyes of past experience, surrounding culture, and historical assumption. Even our own valued sense of injustice might be bound in personal bias. And the influential will always speak louder than the wise.
I was eager to read this book as I’d often heard of Dreyfus during my childhood in England. I’ve learned much more from this book, sharing that “moment in the history of human conscience” through the characters' eyes, and really enjoying the read.
Disclosure: I was given a free ecopy and I offer my honest review.
September 10, 2015
I don't think I've ever read an historical novel that seemed less like a novel than To Live Out Loud by Paulette Mahurin.
What this talented author has done has taken the famous J'Accuse letter of Emile Zola's to the President of France, in the late nineteenth century and woven a fictional account of his life during this period.
This book is impressively accurate in the details that surround the libel case faced by Zola when he had the temerity to accuse the powerful French Army of a cover-up. The author has gathered her facts well and wound them around the tale of a bystander, a friend of Zola's, who watches his friend commit political and professional suicide simply because he is not prepared to stand by and watch an innocent man be incarcerated for a treason he did not commit.
The writing is stunning and although at only 170 odd pages on Kindle, I was left wanting so much more. This was a compelling read that had me riveted from the first line.
I think more important than the tale of Zola's brave stand against anti-semitism in France and the entrenched powers that be that conspired to cover up the truth, are the big questions that are raised in the book; The rights of the individual to a fair trial, the importance of religious freedom and the separation of church and state.
This is truly is a wonderful read and I continuously had to remind myself that this was essentially fiction, so accurate was the historical detail. A real credit to Mahurin and absolutely deserving every one of the five stars I gave it.
What this talented author has done has taken the famous J'Accuse letter of Emile Zola's to the President of France, in the late nineteenth century and woven a fictional account of his life during this period.
This book is impressively accurate in the details that surround the libel case faced by Zola when he had the temerity to accuse the powerful French Army of a cover-up. The author has gathered her facts well and wound them around the tale of a bystander, a friend of Zola's, who watches his friend commit political and professional suicide simply because he is not prepared to stand by and watch an innocent man be incarcerated for a treason he did not commit.
The writing is stunning and although at only 170 odd pages on Kindle, I was left wanting so much more. This was a compelling read that had me riveted from the first line.
I think more important than the tale of Zola's brave stand against anti-semitism in France and the entrenched powers that be that conspired to cover up the truth, are the big questions that are raised in the book; The rights of the individual to a fair trial, the importance of religious freedom and the separation of church and state.
This is truly is a wonderful read and I continuously had to remind myself that this was essentially fiction, so accurate was the historical detail. A real credit to Mahurin and absolutely deserving every one of the five stars I gave it.
July 30, 2015
The author has chosen a memorable moment in history to illustrate the need for tolerance. The novel focusses on a world famous scandal and miscarriage of justice in France and the subsequent, long winded attempt to clear the name of a man falsely accused of treason.
Told from the perspective of an outsider, a family friend, we see Dreyfus, his wife and the man who takes on their case with loving and caring eyes. This creates an intimacy for us reader that makes the politically motivated incident and the anti-Jewish sentiments of the time all the more tragic and despicable.
Written with a smooth and continuous flow this story wastes no time and sticks to the relevant events. The quotes from Emile Zola that run through the chapter headings show what a man he was - as does Mahurin with her great characterisation with all the people in this precious novel. Few authors can say so much in so little words.
Prepare to be moved by this wonderfully told piece if historic fiction and the sense of humanity that the author brings to the pages so vividly. The book is a testament to the strong ones who stand up for their beliefs and work hard to make the world a better place. We must never forget what the world would be like without those heroes who continue to force the world forward into a more human society.
A real treat of a novel, convincing, important and utterly enjoyable.
Told from the perspective of an outsider, a family friend, we see Dreyfus, his wife and the man who takes on their case with loving and caring eyes. This creates an intimacy for us reader that makes the politically motivated incident and the anti-Jewish sentiments of the time all the more tragic and despicable.
Written with a smooth and continuous flow this story wastes no time and sticks to the relevant events. The quotes from Emile Zola that run through the chapter headings show what a man he was - as does Mahurin with her great characterisation with all the people in this precious novel. Few authors can say so much in so little words.
Prepare to be moved by this wonderfully told piece if historic fiction and the sense of humanity that the author brings to the pages so vividly. The book is a testament to the strong ones who stand up for their beliefs and work hard to make the world a better place. We must never forget what the world would be like without those heroes who continue to force the world forward into a more human society.
A real treat of a novel, convincing, important and utterly enjoyable.
September 17, 2015
I suspected I might enjoy this book and I was right. In my earlier years I was a student of European history and came to this book very familiar with the story of Emile Zola and the Dreyfus affair. Many people have heard of his open letter to a Paris newspaper 'J'accuse' without ever knowing the story behind the story and the French Naturalist writer who was responsible for it. The late 19th century was a time of turmoil, suspicion and anti-Semitism and Paulette Mahurin captures the essence of the time here perfectly. This book is based on actual events but uses a fictional friend and narrator to bring it to life and in the process playing with some of the more interesting facts. That Emile Zola died in suspicious circumstances is relatively well known, some accept that it was an accidental misfortunate death but because of his lifestyle, writing and politics, he had many enemies so conspiracy theories have always surrounded his passing. This is a hard hard book to pull off, but the author has done it with ease, turning a period of history that many will not have accessed into an enjoyable book. Even though I pretty much already knew much of the finer detail, (I suspect most won't ) that didn't detract from my enjoyment of this book. A great story from the past , perfectly crafted into an entertaining and enjoyable read.
October 31, 2015
I don't mind admitting that I knew very little about Emile Zola, with regard to the Dreyfus affair, before reading this book. The title, ' To Live Out Loud' is a quote from Zola and, as is so admirably illustrated in book, the principle by which Zola lived his life, When a man is wrongly accused and dishonoured Zola proved himself not only willing to stand up for justice but to make great sacrifices in order to see justice done.
The story is sad in part, but uplifting and a reminder that we should all speak out in our own way against the wrongs, large and small, commited against people, animals and the planet we live on. All deserve our interest and attention and Zola's example shows what a worthy cause individual actions can be.
I very much enjoyed To Live Out Loud, I learned a great deal and the writing was immaculate.
The story is sad in part, but uplifting and a reminder that we should all speak out in our own way against the wrongs, large and small, commited against people, animals and the planet we live on. All deserve our interest and attention and Zola's example shows what a worthy cause individual actions can be.
I very much enjoyed To Live Out Loud, I learned a great deal and the writing was immaculate.
August 13, 2015
This is a well written and researched dramatisation of factual events. I was reminded of To Kill a Mocking Bird. The court case in this instance, revolves around prejudice;both racial and religious. Emile Zola wanted to hi-light the case of Alfred Dreyfus, a French artillery officer unjustly accused and convicted of treason.However, the man in question is not on trial but Emile, his supporter as he fights the French government, the military, and the Catholic Church.
Paulette Mahurin skilfully builds up the tension as the story unfolds. To Live Out Loud is a book that will enrich your life and leave you concious of not only the world's past prejudices, but also of its present ones.
Paulette Mahurin skilfully builds up the tension as the story unfolds. To Live Out Loud is a book that will enrich your life and leave you concious of not only the world's past prejudices, but also of its present ones.
July 12, 2017
In fiction there are absolutes. Good vs Evil is a simply concept. To Live Out Loud takes a true injustice that happened to a real person and simplifies it to its base qualities for an introduction to an audience that may never have learned about the Dreyfus Affair in their primary level history class. In a truth being stranger than fiction sense, Mahurin takes the facts of the case and lays them out in an easy to follow format with the ultimate result being more of Zola’s involvement in the case and his ploy to free the falsely convicted Captain.
Mahurin’s writing style is very direct. Her simplistic style allows the author to tell a complete and very complicated story in a scant 178 pages. Fiction allows leeway for human motivations and conclusions but while Mahurin does add her own take on Zola’s motivations she sticks fairly close to the generally accepted narrative. Mahruin’s word picture of the environment of antisemitism and no holds barred suppression of those that knew the truth is both awful and factual. Historically speaking the Dreyfus Affair was a intricate and insidious conspiracy. What Zola did, he did to bring the case to light despite those desperately trying to keep it under wraps to force the government to do the just thing through public exposure. People suspect today that his ultimate passing as a consequence of involvement though experts consider that unlikely despite the multiple attempts made on his life during the height of his fervent involvement in Captain Dreyfus’ case.
To Live Out Loud is an outstanding work of historical fiction and a must read for everyone, especially those interested in a the history of human rights violations. Pick it up today.
Mahurin’s writing style is very direct. Her simplistic style allows the author to tell a complete and very complicated story in a scant 178 pages. Fiction allows leeway for human motivations and conclusions but while Mahurin does add her own take on Zola’s motivations she sticks fairly close to the generally accepted narrative. Mahruin’s word picture of the environment of antisemitism and no holds barred suppression of those that knew the truth is both awful and factual. Historically speaking the Dreyfus Affair was a intricate and insidious conspiracy. What Zola did, he did to bring the case to light despite those desperately trying to keep it under wraps to force the government to do the just thing through public exposure. People suspect today that his ultimate passing as a consequence of involvement though experts consider that unlikely despite the multiple attempts made on his life during the height of his fervent involvement in Captain Dreyfus’ case.
To Live Out Loud is an outstanding work of historical fiction and a must read for everyone, especially those interested in a the history of human rights violations. Pick it up today.
January 3, 2018
To Live Out Loud takes an actual event in human history, The Dreyfus Affair, and lays it out in clear, concise terms that any reader can understand. More importantly, the reader can relate to what is happening and becomes involved in the search for truth and the desire for change. So often history repeats itself, and although this story takes place in 1895 France, it could easily be today, right here in America. It is a remarkable historical fiction that truly should be a must read for everyone.
September 6, 2015
‘Terror descended on the streets of Paris. In the attack on the newspaper headquarters, twelve died and eleven were injured; hours later, five more were shot down at a Jewish supermarket.’
No, this is not a quotation from Paulette Mahurin’s novel ‘To Live Out Loud’ which recounts what happened in the French capital when an article was published in ‘L’Aurore’ newspaper accusing the government of a miscarriage of justice involving a Jewish army officer. Those events took place over one hundred years previously, at the end of the 19th century. The events recounted in the first sentence were witnessed live on television in January this year (2015) prompting an upsurge of global solidarity for the victims with a slogan taken from the name of the newspaper (Charlie Hebdo): ‘I am Charlie’.
Author Paulette Mahurin wrote ‘To Live Out Loud’ as a fictionalised account of those historical facts that shook France in the 1890s. The bare, dismal bones of the ‘Dreyfus Affair’ can be recounted in a couple of sentences. In 1898 famous author Emile Zola took up the cause of Alfred Dreyfus, who in 1894 was unjustly convicted of spying, humiliated in a public ceremony and banished to life imprisonment on Devil’s Island. For the next twelve years, by which time Zola would be dead, the controversial judgement was hotly debated, and France was bitterly divided between the ‘Dreyfusards’- mainly anti-clerical, pro-Republican intellectuals, and the ‘anti-Dreyfusards’, supporting the Establishment, the Army and the Catholic church. Underlying this terrible divide was a current of anti-Semitism which resulted in riots, destruction of property, violence and death threats.
Ms Mahurin focuses on the moment when Zola decides to enter the fray, dropping a media bombshell with his front page article and banner headline ‘J’accuse’. And here, in the skilful hands of the author, the bare bones of history are fleshed out to become a living breathing human story in this beautifully written, perfectly paced novel.
Zola is depicted as an ordinary man; a prestigious writer, but no hero, no politician, no orator. He enjoyed a comfortable lifestyle, a solid literary reputation, had a fulfilling family and social life. All this was put at risk when, after considerable inner turmoil, he finally took the decision to stand up and be counted, denouncing the injustice of Dreyfus’ conviction in ringing prose that could not be ignored. The price he paid was heavy. Sham trials, personal suffering, death threats and finally his decision to flee France in order to avoid imprisonment.
Such is the weight of empathy in Ms Mahurin’s account of all this that we are by turns impressed, outraged, and overwhelmed by this story of amazing courage in the face of a judicial and political system which made a mockery of the rule of law. And though Zola is first in the firing line, others too impress by their bravery–his friends and family, the family of Dreyfus, Georges Clemenceau, the editor of ‘l’Aurore’, Colonel Piquart, who produced evidence of Dreyfus’ innocence and in particular the lawyer Labori, who survived an assassination attempt. The research is impeccable; the distillation of the most poignant and telling details into a tense dramatic narrative leaves the reader breathless.
One of the first victims in the Paris attacks of 2015 was journalist Charb. He had long been aware of the risks of publishing a controversial satirical paper. The offices had been firebombed and he was living under police protection. Asked if he wasn’t afraid to continue he replied ‘...it may sound pretentious but I’d rather die on my feet than live on my knees’. In Paulette Mahurin’s novel, the narrator Charles says Zola’s choice was based on the reasoning that ‘one man’s action impacts us all’ and the title is from Zola’s own words ‘If you ask what I came into this life to do, I will tell you: I came to live out loud’.
We read in the introduction that Paulette Mahurin was ‘inspired and deeply moved by those who have endured intolerance and adversity’. Finishing the book, her readers too will be inspired and deeply moved, not only by the story she tells, but by her ability to bring it so dramatically to life at a time when it is still needed. Thank you Paulette–'chapeau'!
No, this is not a quotation from Paulette Mahurin’s novel ‘To Live Out Loud’ which recounts what happened in the French capital when an article was published in ‘L’Aurore’ newspaper accusing the government of a miscarriage of justice involving a Jewish army officer. Those events took place over one hundred years previously, at the end of the 19th century. The events recounted in the first sentence were witnessed live on television in January this year (2015) prompting an upsurge of global solidarity for the victims with a slogan taken from the name of the newspaper (Charlie Hebdo): ‘I am Charlie’.
Author Paulette Mahurin wrote ‘To Live Out Loud’ as a fictionalised account of those historical facts that shook France in the 1890s. The bare, dismal bones of the ‘Dreyfus Affair’ can be recounted in a couple of sentences. In 1898 famous author Emile Zola took up the cause of Alfred Dreyfus, who in 1894 was unjustly convicted of spying, humiliated in a public ceremony and banished to life imprisonment on Devil’s Island. For the next twelve years, by which time Zola would be dead, the controversial judgement was hotly debated, and France was bitterly divided between the ‘Dreyfusards’- mainly anti-clerical, pro-Republican intellectuals, and the ‘anti-Dreyfusards’, supporting the Establishment, the Army and the Catholic church. Underlying this terrible divide was a current of anti-Semitism which resulted in riots, destruction of property, violence and death threats.
Ms Mahurin focuses on the moment when Zola decides to enter the fray, dropping a media bombshell with his front page article and banner headline ‘J’accuse’. And here, in the skilful hands of the author, the bare bones of history are fleshed out to become a living breathing human story in this beautifully written, perfectly paced novel.
Zola is depicted as an ordinary man; a prestigious writer, but no hero, no politician, no orator. He enjoyed a comfortable lifestyle, a solid literary reputation, had a fulfilling family and social life. All this was put at risk when, after considerable inner turmoil, he finally took the decision to stand up and be counted, denouncing the injustice of Dreyfus’ conviction in ringing prose that could not be ignored. The price he paid was heavy. Sham trials, personal suffering, death threats and finally his decision to flee France in order to avoid imprisonment.
Such is the weight of empathy in Ms Mahurin’s account of all this that we are by turns impressed, outraged, and overwhelmed by this story of amazing courage in the face of a judicial and political system which made a mockery of the rule of law. And though Zola is first in the firing line, others too impress by their bravery–his friends and family, the family of Dreyfus, Georges Clemenceau, the editor of ‘l’Aurore’, Colonel Piquart, who produced evidence of Dreyfus’ innocence and in particular the lawyer Labori, who survived an assassination attempt. The research is impeccable; the distillation of the most poignant and telling details into a tense dramatic narrative leaves the reader breathless.
One of the first victims in the Paris attacks of 2015 was journalist Charb. He had long been aware of the risks of publishing a controversial satirical paper. The offices had been firebombed and he was living under police protection. Asked if he wasn’t afraid to continue he replied ‘...it may sound pretentious but I’d rather die on my feet than live on my knees’. In Paulette Mahurin’s novel, the narrator Charles says Zola’s choice was based on the reasoning that ‘one man’s action impacts us all’ and the title is from Zola’s own words ‘If you ask what I came into this life to do, I will tell you: I came to live out loud’.
We read in the introduction that Paulette Mahurin was ‘inspired and deeply moved by those who have endured intolerance and adversity’. Finishing the book, her readers too will be inspired and deeply moved, not only by the story she tells, but by her ability to bring it so dramatically to life at a time when it is still needed. Thank you Paulette–'chapeau'!
August 14, 2015
To Live Out Loud
is an extremely compelling fictionalization of the story of convicted French spy/traitor, Alfred Dreyfus (Jan. 1895), and the part in his exoneration played by French author/journalist, Émile Zola. Dreyfus, a French Jew, had climbed up in the military at a time when anti-semitic feelings were running high. Despite the fact that France had passed a Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen in 1789 which guaranteed freedom of religion, the Catholic church, some newspapers, and definitely, the military establishment, saw the Jews as a threat to French security and the Catholic religion. When a document was uncovered revealing that someone highly placed was passing information to the German embassy, army intelligence leaped to the assumption that Dreyfus was guilty because he was a Jew. Émile Zola was present when
Zola questioned why someone who had risen so high in the army would risk it all by turning traitor. To find out the truth, Zola risks everything: his career, his livelihood, his reputation, and his freedom. While he followed leads, discovering that documents that could have cleared Dreyfus had been kept from his defence attorney, layer upon layer of cover-up injustices became heaped one on top of the other. It became a deep conspiracy, the revealing of which shook the French justice system to its core.
Told through the eyes of a fictional friend of Zola's, Charles Mandonette, an engineer who had worked with Zola Sr., and had known Émile since he was a child, the facts of the case are woven together in a riveting fashion. This story is extremely well-researched and many of the statements and documents are quoted verbatim from historical accounts: the tender line from a letter written from Dreyfus from his prison on Devil's Island in French Guiana to his wife, Lucie, her letter to the court during Émile's libel trial, letters and articles written by Zola in the Paris newspaper. Transcripts from the libel trials are included in excerpt to convey the court's total disregard for uncovering the truth of the matter, and the vicious anti-semitic behaviours typical of the time.
Paulette would ask you to purchase this book because all the proceeds go to rescuing dogs from kill-shelters, which is a great cause, but you should buy this novel because it is an amazing story, well-told, which will keep you reading to the end in one sitting. It is that moving. The characters come to life. Each chapter begins with an appropriate quote from Zola. You could go to Wikipedia and find out how the story comes out but you would miss out on what made Zola a great writer and humanitarian. If this book doesn't make you want to read more about and by him, nothing will. Great historical fiction.
Dreyfus was paraded out into the courtyard of the École Militaire on the Champ de Mars . . . ceremoniously degraded in public by having rank insignia, buttons, and braid cut from his uniform, and his dress sword broken. The crowd cheered as he was made to march around the grounds in his tattered uniform with his head bowed.
Zola questioned why someone who had risen so high in the army would risk it all by turning traitor. To find out the truth, Zola risks everything: his career, his livelihood, his reputation, and his freedom. While he followed leads, discovering that documents that could have cleared Dreyfus had been kept from his defence attorney, layer upon layer of cover-up injustices became heaped one on top of the other. It became a deep conspiracy, the revealing of which shook the French justice system to its core.
Told through the eyes of a fictional friend of Zola's, Charles Mandonette, an engineer who had worked with Zola Sr., and had known Émile since he was a child, the facts of the case are woven together in a riveting fashion. This story is extremely well-researched and many of the statements and documents are quoted verbatim from historical accounts: the tender line from a letter written from Dreyfus from his prison on Devil's Island in French Guiana to his wife, Lucie, her letter to the court during Émile's libel trial, letters and articles written by Zola in the Paris newspaper. Transcripts from the libel trials are included in excerpt to convey the court's total disregard for uncovering the truth of the matter, and the vicious anti-semitic behaviours typical of the time.
Paulette would ask you to purchase this book because all the proceeds go to rescuing dogs from kill-shelters, which is a great cause, but you should buy this novel because it is an amazing story, well-told, which will keep you reading to the end in one sitting. It is that moving. The characters come to life. Each chapter begins with an appropriate quote from Zola. You could go to Wikipedia and find out how the story comes out but you would miss out on what made Zola a great writer and humanitarian. If this book doesn't make you want to read more about and by him, nothing will. Great historical fiction.
August 10, 2015
Paulette Mahurin took her unusual title for this powerful little book from Emile Zola: “If you ask me what I came into this life to do, I will tell you: I came to live out loud.” In the aftermath of the travesty of Alfred Dreyfus’ 1895 trial and conviction for treason, Emile Zola is driven to use the power of his words, reputation, health and financial status to undo the injustice that tears at his soul. He is a devout Frenchman at heart and to see the anti-Semitism, lies, cover-ups and intrigue in the army, the judiciary and political camps is more than he can tolerate. He must find a way to redeem Dreyfus. The task he sets himself pulls on the strength of family and friends as assaults are made on his name, his allies, his home and his safety.
Mahurin uses the literary device of the fictional friend, Charles Mandonette, as narrator, interpreter and observer to follow Zola in his life and efforts. Charles, a father figure to Zola, guides, supports and agonizes over Zola as the writer digs into the matter of Dreyfus’ case. A noted novelist, playwright and liberal journalist, Zola hopes his article, J’Accuse , will result in a charge of libel against him, allowing Zola to introduce evidence on behalf of Dreyfus. He, sadly, underestimates the deep veins of corruption and power at work through the army, the government and the Catholic Church. Zola’s attorney is unable to secure their goal in the suit or in appeal and Zola ultimately flees to England for his safety as venom pours from the mouths and actions of Parisians. In 1899, the new government unseats the corrupt politicos, the power of the church and the army until Zola’s new trial gains the goal of freedom for Dreyfus by way of a presidential pardon.
In the generous use of Zola’s own words, a letter to the court by Lucie Dreyfus and other resources, Mahurin draws the reader into the intrigue and anguish of this historically true story. Her use of dialog and ruminations by both men are done in the spirit of the day, with speech patterns in a cadence reflective of the setting and era. The reader experiences the conflict, angst and courage of Zola as he paces, drinks his teas and wines, seeks fresh air. Seen through Charles’ eyes, Zola is drawn as a compassionate risk-taker who wants justice above all else. It will be more years before Dreyfus is exonerated and Zola does not live to see it.
Paulette Mahurin is a risk-taker in that she writes of challenging subjects: Lesbian relationships in The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap; the devastation that is cancer in His Name Was Ben; and, now, anti-Semitism and political corruption in To Live Out Loud. Mahurin’s two historical fiction books, set over 100 years ago, speak to the present. In a world increasingly marred by violence, pessimism easily takes root. Mahurin shows us that courage, hope and trust in humankind is not to be lost when such as Mildred, and Zola follow their hearts and beliefs. Each found support from others to champion their causes and prevail.
Mahurin uses the literary device of the fictional friend, Charles Mandonette, as narrator, interpreter and observer to follow Zola in his life and efforts. Charles, a father figure to Zola, guides, supports and agonizes over Zola as the writer digs into the matter of Dreyfus’ case. A noted novelist, playwright and liberal journalist, Zola hopes his article, J’Accuse , will result in a charge of libel against him, allowing Zola to introduce evidence on behalf of Dreyfus. He, sadly, underestimates the deep veins of corruption and power at work through the army, the government and the Catholic Church. Zola’s attorney is unable to secure their goal in the suit or in appeal and Zola ultimately flees to England for his safety as venom pours from the mouths and actions of Parisians. In 1899, the new government unseats the corrupt politicos, the power of the church and the army until Zola’s new trial gains the goal of freedom for Dreyfus by way of a presidential pardon.
In the generous use of Zola’s own words, a letter to the court by Lucie Dreyfus and other resources, Mahurin draws the reader into the intrigue and anguish of this historically true story. Her use of dialog and ruminations by both men are done in the spirit of the day, with speech patterns in a cadence reflective of the setting and era. The reader experiences the conflict, angst and courage of Zola as he paces, drinks his teas and wines, seeks fresh air. Seen through Charles’ eyes, Zola is drawn as a compassionate risk-taker who wants justice above all else. It will be more years before Dreyfus is exonerated and Zola does not live to see it.
Paulette Mahurin is a risk-taker in that she writes of challenging subjects: Lesbian relationships in The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap; the devastation that is cancer in His Name Was Ben; and, now, anti-Semitism and political corruption in To Live Out Loud. Mahurin’s two historical fiction books, set over 100 years ago, speak to the present. In a world increasingly marred by violence, pessimism easily takes root. Mahurin shows us that courage, hope and trust in humankind is not to be lost when such as Mildred, and Zola follow their hearts and beliefs. Each found support from others to champion their causes and prevail.
October 11, 2015
The backdrop of Paulette Mahurin’s gripping new novel, “To Live Out Loud,” is late 19th century France but the dark premise of political expediency taking precedence over justice and accountability could just as easily be juxtaposed against the corruption of contemporary Washington D.C.
Likewise, the anti-Semitic sentiment which convicted Alfred Dreyfus on false charges of treason is little different from the escalating mantra in modern times that if you’re (fill in the blank), then you automatically must be (fill in the blank). As anyone who has ever tried in the context of an intellectual dialogue to challenge the myopia of this mindset, there is risk of becoming a social pariah and, accordingly, unfriended on Facebook.
In the time of writer Emile Zola, a key player in the Dreyfus tableau, the choice to champion an imprisoned Jew carried even more dire consequences. Not the least of this was incurring the wrath of the French government for suggesting that a grievous mistake had not only been made but was also made on purpose. As Zola – coupled with Dreyfus’ wife and brother – works tirelessly to prove the prisoner’s innocence in order to facilitate his release, disturbing evidence threatens to derail their plans. From the viewpoint of the government, to admit wrongdoing during the Dreyfus trial proceedings might cause the populace to start wondering just how many other things were being lied about. And goodness knows, we can’t have that, can we? In a nutshell, it’s job security to steadfastly stick to the fabricated story.
As in her previous work, Mahurin does not shy from intensive research and clearly establishes herself as an accomplished history detective in stitching together all that is known about the Dreyfus case. The conversations that transpire are so plausible in scope and cadence that we, the readers, almost feel as if we are eavesdropping in a Paris café. Her character development is thoughtful and multi-layered and we come away with a deeper understanding and respect for a man who felt compelled to take up a cause no matter the ripple effect that might damage – or destroy – his own standing in the community.
Each chapter begins with a Zola quote, my favorite of which was “If you shut up truth and bury it under the ground, it will but grow, and gather to itself such explosive power that the day it bursts through it will blow up everything in its way.”
Wise words to ponder in what promises to be an ugly upcoming presidential election in which voters must attempt to discern whether the lips that are moving are not only issuing substance but are also speaking the truth.
Likewise, the anti-Semitic sentiment which convicted Alfred Dreyfus on false charges of treason is little different from the escalating mantra in modern times that if you’re (fill in the blank), then you automatically must be (fill in the blank). As anyone who has ever tried in the context of an intellectual dialogue to challenge the myopia of this mindset, there is risk of becoming a social pariah and, accordingly, unfriended on Facebook.
In the time of writer Emile Zola, a key player in the Dreyfus tableau, the choice to champion an imprisoned Jew carried even more dire consequences. Not the least of this was incurring the wrath of the French government for suggesting that a grievous mistake had not only been made but was also made on purpose. As Zola – coupled with Dreyfus’ wife and brother – works tirelessly to prove the prisoner’s innocence in order to facilitate his release, disturbing evidence threatens to derail their plans. From the viewpoint of the government, to admit wrongdoing during the Dreyfus trial proceedings might cause the populace to start wondering just how many other things were being lied about. And goodness knows, we can’t have that, can we? In a nutshell, it’s job security to steadfastly stick to the fabricated story.
As in her previous work, Mahurin does not shy from intensive research and clearly establishes herself as an accomplished history detective in stitching together all that is known about the Dreyfus case. The conversations that transpire are so plausible in scope and cadence that we, the readers, almost feel as if we are eavesdropping in a Paris café. Her character development is thoughtful and multi-layered and we come away with a deeper understanding and respect for a man who felt compelled to take up a cause no matter the ripple effect that might damage – or destroy – his own standing in the community.
Each chapter begins with a Zola quote, my favorite of which was “If you shut up truth and bury it under the ground, it will but grow, and gather to itself such explosive power that the day it bursts through it will blow up everything in its way.”
Wise words to ponder in what promises to be an ugly upcoming presidential election in which voters must attempt to discern whether the lips that are moving are not only issuing substance but are also speaking the truth.
August 23, 2015
“To Live Out Loud” is a story about Emile’ Zola who is a novelist and writer living in the 1800’s. The back story of this book is a tale of Alfred Dreyfus, a Jewish man and an officer in the French Military. Through an elaborate dog-and-pony-show ignited and propagated by the French public and military, Dreyfus is court marshaled and sent to prison for being a traitor. The military court has found him guilty of providing secret military intelligence to Germany. Some in the public have their doubts about Dreyfus’s guilt, including Zola who believes that Dreyfus has been wrongly convicted and is actually an innocent man. In my mind, the main story of this novel is how Zola and his lifelong friend Charles Mandonette weigh out the dangers of writing a newspaper article that says Dreyfus is innocent and what will happen after it is published. Zola wants to tell the people of France that Dreyfus is indeed innocent and another officer is the actual traitor. Zola and Mandonette meet many times to discuss the implications of writing such an article while anti-Semitism runs rampant in France and determine being imprisoned for liable will likely be the outcome. Even with the threat of imprisonment, Zola publishes the article which infuriates the French public and military who label him a “Jew-Lover”. Soon after, Zola is arrested and tried in a kangaroo court for liable and sent to prison for a stint. While in prison, the leaders of France change and Alfred Dreyfus is given a retrial. I can’t tell you anymore about the story because it might ruin the ending for you.
“To Live Out Loud” is very well written. The sentence structure is very elaborate and very interesting to read. It draws you in and won’t allow you to skip a word and miss any of the story. There are quite a few characters in the novel that intertwine throughout the story so you have to follow closely and remember who is who. But the variety of characters brings fullness to the storyline and provides a closer look at the French people and their beliefs as well as the world at that period of time. My emotions ran from full-on-anger in some chapters to heart breaking sadness in others. The author has written some power stuff in “To Live Out Loud”. Stuff that pulls your thoughts away from going to the grocery store or that you still need to clean the bathroom. A good book should do that. It should pull you away from your normal, everyday life and that’s exactly what this novel does.
I liked this book. It was well worth my time to read it.
“To Live Out Loud” is very well written. The sentence structure is very elaborate and very interesting to read. It draws you in and won’t allow you to skip a word and miss any of the story. There are quite a few characters in the novel that intertwine throughout the story so you have to follow closely and remember who is who. But the variety of characters brings fullness to the storyline and provides a closer look at the French people and their beliefs as well as the world at that period of time. My emotions ran from full-on-anger in some chapters to heart breaking sadness in others. The author has written some power stuff in “To Live Out Loud”. Stuff that pulls your thoughts away from going to the grocery store or that you still need to clean the bathroom. A good book should do that. It should pull you away from your normal, everyday life and that’s exactly what this novel does.
I liked this book. It was well worth my time to read it.
July 31, 2015
What does it mean to have courage? Who are the heroes in any struggle? Are they only the ones in the public eye who take a stand and suffer the consequences of colliding with the status quo? Or could the heroes be those who work unfailingly behind the scenes, supporting, encouraging, and giving sustenance to those outspoken leaders of “the cause?”
Beyond these compelling philosophical questions, Paulette Mahurin’s newest book tackles the unfortunately ageless human tragedy of prejudice and the concomitant social injustices that inevitably follow. She uses the infamous Dreyfus Affair, set in late 19th century France as her entre into exploring both the best and the worst in humankind. While Alfred Dreyfus (an officer in the French military who was also Jewish) was unjustly imprisoned for treason, he is not the central character of this novel. Emile Zola, a notable French writer and journalist who adamantly believes in justice takes up the cause of exposing the injustice that was done to Dreyfus. Mahurin deftly tells this historically accurate tale through the eyes of Zola’s lifelong friend, mentor, and father-figure—a man named Charles.
Meticulously researched (with passages from actual court records), passionately written, and told in the fashion of other novels that make history read like fiction (Laura Hillenbrand’s “Seabiscuit” or “Unbroken”), Mahurin’s book is a must-read. I not only learned a great deal about this historical episode of government corruption and cover-up, but I gained an appreciation for the deep roots of global anti-Semitism. These problems are not only the stuff of current events. This book illustrates the disheartening reality of how the darkest elements of human society endure through the centuries.
Mahurin’s book also reminds the reader that countervailing forces to this bleak historical orbit of political corruption and hatred exist. There are heroes—both outspoken and quiet—among us. All are working in their own ways toward a just and better world. Mahurin is one of those heroes.
Beyond these compelling philosophical questions, Paulette Mahurin’s newest book tackles the unfortunately ageless human tragedy of prejudice and the concomitant social injustices that inevitably follow. She uses the infamous Dreyfus Affair, set in late 19th century France as her entre into exploring both the best and the worst in humankind. While Alfred Dreyfus (an officer in the French military who was also Jewish) was unjustly imprisoned for treason, he is not the central character of this novel. Emile Zola, a notable French writer and journalist who adamantly believes in justice takes up the cause of exposing the injustice that was done to Dreyfus. Mahurin deftly tells this historically accurate tale through the eyes of Zola’s lifelong friend, mentor, and father-figure—a man named Charles.
Meticulously researched (with passages from actual court records), passionately written, and told in the fashion of other novels that make history read like fiction (Laura Hillenbrand’s “Seabiscuit” or “Unbroken”), Mahurin’s book is a must-read. I not only learned a great deal about this historical episode of government corruption and cover-up, but I gained an appreciation for the deep roots of global anti-Semitism. These problems are not only the stuff of current events. This book illustrates the disheartening reality of how the darkest elements of human society endure through the centuries.
Mahurin’s book also reminds the reader that countervailing forces to this bleak historical orbit of political corruption and hatred exist. There are heroes—both outspoken and quiet—among us. All are working in their own ways toward a just and better world. Mahurin is one of those heroes.
August 23, 2015
Just finished reading To Live Out Loud and felt moved to write this review. Ms. Mahurin writes about Emile Zola and his role in the infamous Dreyfus Affair. It divided the masses but ultimately resulted in massive changes in the criminal justice system. The author tells the story from the perspective of Zola’s good friend, Charles. The book chronicles Zola's fight to free an innocent soldier, Alfred Dreyfus, from a treason charge. His ordeal was orchestrated by two military officers to protect another by the name of Esterhazy. Zola wrote about the case in a piece entitled. J'accuse. He found support among the leftist politicians but quickly developed political, religious opponents who subsequently charged Emile with a crime. Zola eventually escape to England in order to avoid imprisonment.
The story of this crucial case in French history is well written and told from a sympathetic point of view. Her style of writing seems forthright and clear. The author conveys the spirit of justice that fueled Zola’s work and the times he lived in (at the turn of the last century). It’s clear that Mahurin’s relied on careful research and in-depth biographical material. This sort of historical novel can be used in a number of scholarly settings (history classes, legal studies, courses on social and political change). At the start of each chapter, the author includes telling quotes from Zola's writing. This technique brings to life his vision and character in a toucing manner. Aside from the value of understanding the historical context, the social and political influence of journalists of his stature, and the legal system of that time, it’s a fascinating story of courage and hope. I strongly recommend To Live Out Loud.
The story of this crucial case in French history is well written and told from a sympathetic point of view. Her style of writing seems forthright and clear. The author conveys the spirit of justice that fueled Zola’s work and the times he lived in (at the turn of the last century). It’s clear that Mahurin’s relied on careful research and in-depth biographical material. This sort of historical novel can be used in a number of scholarly settings (history classes, legal studies, courses on social and political change). At the start of each chapter, the author includes telling quotes from Zola's writing. This technique brings to life his vision and character in a toucing manner. Aside from the value of understanding the historical context, the social and political influence of journalists of his stature, and the legal system of that time, it’s a fascinating story of courage and hope. I strongly recommend To Live Out Loud.
November 26, 2015
Historical novels need a delicate blend of sufficient factual information to add authenticity to the story but at the same time to not over burden the reader. To Live out Loud is spot on, I am left in awe at the amount of research that must have been necessary. As the author states in the Foreword this novel is loosely based on historical facts. No doubt a few embellishments have been added, the result is an intriguing snapshot of French history.
Time: 1895, sensitive military secrets have been leaked to the Germans. This is an embarrassment not only for the military but to the whole country. The real perpetrator is known but disclosure would also embarrass the military. Alfred Dreyfus is the perfect scapegoat. He is Jewish who are already disliked in France and his parents live in Germany. An indecently hurried trial sees Dreyfus convicted and banished to Devil's Island. All hope of establishing his innocence seems to be lost; you need to fight the establishment who created this sham. Well regarded writer Emile Zola undertakes to expose the truth and those responsible even though it will surely destroy his career.
The novel traces the struggles and pitfalls Zola endures in his tortuous quest for justice. I know very little of this part of French history but I found myself mesmerized by this enthralling novel. Who would like this novel? Obviously it is a must read for lovers of historical novels. Anyone who enjoys a gripping story regardless of the historical aspect should take a look. And if you have a particular interest in French history it's a done deal.
I was given a copy of 'To Live out Loud' in return for an honest review. Perhaps the name was the only part I struggled to relate to but I know how hard it is to come up with original titles.
Time: 1895, sensitive military secrets have been leaked to the Germans. This is an embarrassment not only for the military but to the whole country. The real perpetrator is known but disclosure would also embarrass the military. Alfred Dreyfus is the perfect scapegoat. He is Jewish who are already disliked in France and his parents live in Germany. An indecently hurried trial sees Dreyfus convicted and banished to Devil's Island. All hope of establishing his innocence seems to be lost; you need to fight the establishment who created this sham. Well regarded writer Emile Zola undertakes to expose the truth and those responsible even though it will surely destroy his career.
The novel traces the struggles and pitfalls Zola endures in his tortuous quest for justice. I know very little of this part of French history but I found myself mesmerized by this enthralling novel. Who would like this novel? Obviously it is a must read for lovers of historical novels. Anyone who enjoys a gripping story regardless of the historical aspect should take a look. And if you have a particular interest in French history it's a done deal.
I was given a copy of 'To Live out Loud' in return for an honest review. Perhaps the name was the only part I struggled to relate to but I know how hard it is to come up with original titles.
October 19, 2015
I’m a futurist by nature, and so reading sci-fi and fantasy and anything to do with the near and far future occupies the bulk of my leisure time. But every once in a while a writer comes along to connect me to the past in such a way that it’s every bit as much fun to time travel back in time. This is one of those authors and one of those books. I found Emila Zola, as a fellow writer and artist, upon whose life To Live Out Loud is based, quite the kindred spirit. He is if anything a bolder soul, braver, more uncompromising, and a hero not just in his writing but in real life, but it is impossible for any artist not to feel a strong affinity for him. He risks all in this story to champion the injustice done to a Jewish military officer in a time in France when the largely catholic population demonized Jews. His tireless investigations and pursuit of the truth amidst lies, shams, public deceits, all enacted on the part of the government and the military, wielding all their tools of oppression against one solitary individual, serve to inspire us all that hope is never lost even when facing such a corrupt and all-powerful foe. This tale, as timely today as it was in the late 1800s in which the story is set, should serve to inspire the reader to live a more activist lifestyle and to champion their own causes, fighting injustice wherever they may find it. The premise of this fact-based story on its own is quite moving, but the writing is every bit up to the task of conveying such a tale, strong, confident, lean and journalistic, itself an homage to Zola’s own career as a journalist.
August 7, 2015
To Live Out Loud
By Paulette Mahurin
6 August 2015
As I began to read this book I was drawn in to a world captured in history, sprinkled with fiction and together makes a story that captures your attention while rupturing your very soul.
To read the struggle of the main characters told through the eyes of their friend was not only telling, but truly moving. To be so utterly betrayed is overwhelming just to read about it much less be the one to experience it. But to have someone one in your corner to care so much that even at the cost of their own comfort, stability and possibly their life is truly incredibly selfless.
Author Paulette Mahurin brilliantly weaves her story with such eloquence and talent that you find yourself emotionally drained by the time you've gotten through most of it. You can almost feel it physically, the prejudice, injustice and blatant disregard for the human depicted not only in the book but in history.
"To Live Out Loud" will steel your soul and touch you in a way that will leave you forever changed, but fully integrated with the knowledge of humanities failures and what the love and friendship of someone can bring to the forefront the failures of humanity with an outcome of purpose. A truly special and well written read!!! An Absolute 5 Star Read!!! ~WaAr~
Reviewed by: De Ann~Native Townes Jr. Author of "Peer Inside My Soul and See Me" and "A King Among Prince"
http://www.amazon.com/Live-Out-Loud-N...
By Paulette Mahurin
6 August 2015
As I began to read this book I was drawn in to a world captured in history, sprinkled with fiction and together makes a story that captures your attention while rupturing your very soul.
To read the struggle of the main characters told through the eyes of their friend was not only telling, but truly moving. To be so utterly betrayed is overwhelming just to read about it much less be the one to experience it. But to have someone one in your corner to care so much that even at the cost of their own comfort, stability and possibly their life is truly incredibly selfless.
Author Paulette Mahurin brilliantly weaves her story with such eloquence and talent that you find yourself emotionally drained by the time you've gotten through most of it. You can almost feel it physically, the prejudice, injustice and blatant disregard for the human depicted not only in the book but in history.
"To Live Out Loud" will steel your soul and touch you in a way that will leave you forever changed, but fully integrated with the knowledge of humanities failures and what the love and friendship of someone can bring to the forefront the failures of humanity with an outcome of purpose. A truly special and well written read!!! An Absolute 5 Star Read!!! ~WaAr~
Reviewed by: De Ann~Native Townes Jr. Author of "Peer Inside My Soul and See Me" and "A King Among Prince"
http://www.amazon.com/Live-Out-Loud-N...
August 17, 2015
To Live Out Loud is a fascinating and thought-provoking account of the French journalist Emile Zola and his involvement with the Alfred Dreyfus affair. Dreyfus was a Jewish French army officer falsely convicted of treason in the late 19th century. In 1898, Zola put himself and his family in grave danger by publishing an open letter to the president accusing the French army of anti-Semitism and the obstruction of justice. I knew very little about Zola before I began this book, but found myself very quickly drawn into the story through Mahurin's vivid recreation of 19th century Paris.
Paulette Mahurin tells Zola's story through the eyes of his fictitious friend Charles Mandonette. Mandonette cleverly functions as a kind of voice of the common person; asking himself that which many of us would wonder about ourselves: would we be brave enough to risk our safety in the pursuit of what is right?
Mahurin effortlessly weaves together fact and fiction, using real court transcripts from Zola's trials. The book is meticulously researched and detailed; Mahurin proving herself a great historian as well as writer. Tension builds steadily throughout and I was left angry and frustrated at the incredible perversion of justice by the French army and the Catholic Church. I highly recommend this book as I believe Zola and Dreyfus's story is one we all need to hear.
(All proceeds from the sale of this book also go help rescue dogs, so just another great reason to read it!)
Paulette Mahurin tells Zola's story through the eyes of his fictitious friend Charles Mandonette. Mandonette cleverly functions as a kind of voice of the common person; asking himself that which many of us would wonder about ourselves: would we be brave enough to risk our safety in the pursuit of what is right?
Mahurin effortlessly weaves together fact and fiction, using real court transcripts from Zola's trials. The book is meticulously researched and detailed; Mahurin proving herself a great historian as well as writer. Tension builds steadily throughout and I was left angry and frustrated at the incredible perversion of justice by the French army and the Catholic Church. I highly recommend this book as I believe Zola and Dreyfus's story is one we all need to hear.
(All proceeds from the sale of this book also go help rescue dogs, so just another great reason to read it!)
August 31, 2015
Stories about social justice deserve to be heard, especially when based on truth. ‘To Live Out Loud’ is no exception. In 1895 Alfred Dreyfus a young Jewish artillery officer was falsely accused of treason and court martialled in France and condemned to a life sentence on Devil’s Island in French Guiana. The trial and retrial, characterised by anti-Semitism, and political and military cover-up and deception, deeply divided French society and attracted international outrage. A French journalist, Émile Zola fought for Dreyfus’ liberty by penning J’Accuse, which named the officers responsible for the conspiracy. Paulette Mahurin reveals the heroic courage of Zola, who in his selfless bid to uncover the truth and free Dreyfus, exposes himself to libel, abuse and physical danger. The author tells Zola’s story through the eyes of an older fictionalised friend who has known him since he was a young boy, helping readers to fully understand and appreciate Zola.
I loved the quotes from Zola heading the chapters which revealed his talent and insight with lines such as ‘how fragile the ethics of civilised conduct are when involved in self-preservation’ and ‘respectable people ... What bastards’.
This short but powerful story is told simply but with overwhelming humanity and deep empathy. You can’t help but feel for the characters’ plights and feel the outrage of injustice. Everyone should hear stories like this and remember them.
I loved the quotes from Zola heading the chapters which revealed his talent and insight with lines such as ‘how fragile the ethics of civilised conduct are when involved in self-preservation’ and ‘respectable people ... What bastards’.
This short but powerful story is told simply but with overwhelming humanity and deep empathy. You can’t help but feel for the characters’ plights and feel the outrage of injustice. Everyone should hear stories like this and remember them.
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