Manayunk: A Novel

by Martin Deporres Kennedy

It’s 1984, and State Senator Tim Ryan is living his dream. He represents a gritty section of Philadelphia that hugs the Schuylkill River. Voters appreciate that he’s a solid family man. Colleagues in Harrisburg admire his skill and tenacity. Even those who’ve felt his sting don’t question his integrity. He’s intelligent, personable, and ambitious--a combination sufficient to catapult him into higher office. That is, until he’s enmeshed in a police investigation involving Terrence Gilmore, a black teen and nephew of a powerful city councilman. Then, rumors swirl about his relationship with Nicki Flynn, a young paralegal with dangling earrings, uncertain loyalties, and a secret she can’t contain. These looming scandals threaten Ryan’s career, reputation, and marriage. He’s a scrappy fighter, but the adversary is elusive. Or is the real enemy within? Bold, probing, and entertaining, Manayunk is the story of a good man under siege, whose torment is intensified by his own moral failings. His quest to uncover meaning in his suffering and to grow from it will inspire and delight you.

322 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 4, 2020

Reviews

[Hal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book which expresses reverence for life itself. I was almost uncertain of this book upon finding little description as to what it was about. In hindsight, that was the best preparation I could have for this book. I entered blind, uncertain as to what this story would be about, and came out feeling as if I had read not a novel, but a man's beautiful life story. This is a tale in which a man finds out who he is, and what his calling upon this earth is. His journeys take him through the world he lives in, to places he never planned on going, and eventually to a higher resolution of understanding. The chapters are nice and short, with unique and interesting characters, fast-pacing, and an overall love for storytelling and development. I love this book.

[Tim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Manayunk, we learn quickly, is a neighborhood in Philly. Though set in 1980s Philadelphia, Kennedy tells a timeless human story, one that wrestles with life's bigger questions while undergoing harsh challenges in his career and personal life. The characters, conversations and plot all transcend the particular time and place.

Good short chapters with crisp dialogue and dynamic characters help keep the pages turning. Several unexpected plot twists too. It never became predictable.

There's a depth to the story. I recommend it strongly. Buy a copy of this book for yourself, then buy copies for your favorite Philly-area friends.

[Rachel Simpson · Rating 5 out of 5]

History, religion, and philosophy woven into the type of writing that best educates the heart: fiction. You’ll experience every reaction from repulsion to empathy as you follow Tim Ryan’s thoughts and choices—the mark of a well-crafted character. Manayunk will keep you thinking long after you’ve closed its pages.