Bedlam: The Pale Beauty

by Kurt Knittel

Elias is now far away from the problems that plagued him along the pristine Cuban shore. Greedy businessman, evil gangsters and strange unearthly sounds: footsteps against the sand, disembodied voices and a tapping against the metallic walls of his home. As far as he was concerned, his former life along that haunted Havana beach was all part of a past that he would prefer to forget.

Now he is happy and beginning to fall in love with Maria, a kind woman who nursed him back to health. But something from the beach is chasing him. A strange voice only he can hear followed him inland. Every time Elias hears that airy hiss, he can somehow remember a forgotten memory from his past: he was once in love, joined a dangerous Cuban revolutionary group and was betrayed.

Elias convinces himself that the voice wants him to confront his past and seek revenge against those that wronged him. He believes it is his only hope to have a normal life with Maria. Yet that voice has not revealed everything. There is still one devastating memory that shattered him long ago and explains what made all those noises along the beach each night.

Spanning thirty three years, Bedlam is set during three tumultuous periods in Cuban history: the Cuban revolution, the Castro dictatorship and the fall of the Soviet Union. Blending mythology with a tragic story of love and loss, Bedlam is a 76,000-word literary novel with elements of magical realism.

Excerpt 1:
Ignacio’s cheeks rose in disgust as he knelt to leer straight into my eyes. “What are you looking at you dirty thing?”
At that moment, I wasn’t interested in engaging him, instead, I was too distracted. That strange erratic light had now come closer. The size of a baseball, the orb moved like a wild bumble bee just twenty feet away. It fluttered to and fro, up and over as it streamed across the palm trees, floor and sky. Was it a large firefly? A group of fireflies?
Stranger yet, it seemed like I was the only one distracted by its presence. Everyone else ignored the pulsating orb while it repeatedly, and hectically, flew right past or hovered near them. At an angle above the water it suddenly stopped. The object spiraled and turned in place until it grew still. For some reason, I got the feeling that it was staring right at me.
Eventually, I became more certain as it slowly moved in my direction.

Excerpt 2:
For you see, my muse is pink hair bouncing off the sun. Tender kisses that hum’” I love you,” long after they’re gone. It’s a song, a beat, a rhythm. It’s a butterfly that speaks pigeon in a world full of penguins. Mine is the fantastic; it’s the world when it skips a beat: click, click, ti-click. And me? All I wanted was to rip you away, steal you from some beautiful reverie only to see the expression I must have had so long ago.

About the author:
A first generation American, Kurt's family emigrated from Cuba and Germany. He grew up immersed in American, Cuban and German culture. Bedlam is his first novel.

338 pages, Paperback

First published June 8, 2022

Reviews

[Natalie Blank · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Pale Beauty was a really powerful book. It’s told in first person, and I felt really connected to the main character, Elias, the whole way through. The chapters switch between the present and the past, but it was easy to follow and didn’t feel confusing at all. I liked the pacing and how the story unfolded piece by piece. The writing had a lot of great imagery, and I especially liked the references to Greek gods and goddesses, which gave it a poetic, bigger feel.

Elias’s journey was emotional. He’s aging and trying to make sense of what happened to his girlfriend and his past. Some parts were really sad and tragic, and I felt bad for him. But I also learned a lot about Cuban history — what it was like when people had their land taken and were struggling to survive. It was a great story and also really eye-opening. Definitely recommend.

[Lubov Leonova · Rating 4 out of 5]

Emotional Read

Initially, the story took a bit of time to gain momentum, but once it did, it gripped me with its emotional intensity. This story is a captivating work of literary fiction that blends elements of magical realism and mythology with historical commentary.

The novel follows the dramatic journey of Elias, a homeless man who exists in the shadows of life rather than truly living it. Elias's life takes a transformative turn when he meets a mysterious young woman who desperately needs help. This encounter serves as a catalyst for change, offering Elias a second chance at life. The question looms: will he seize this opportunity and mend the fragmented pieces of his existence?

Knittel’s portrayal of Elias is both poignant and thought-provoking. The author poetically explores the fragile soul of a man who has endured love's beauty and the harshness of those driven by power. The novel is set against the backdrop of three tumultuous periods in Cuban history—the Cuban Revolution, the Castro dictatorship, and the fall of the Soviet Union. It offered a unique perspective on these critical events through Elias's eyes.

The incorporation of mythology alongside magical realism works perfectly within this narrative, enriching the reading experience. If you enjoy learning history through fiction, this novel is a must-read!

[Lydia Efobi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bedlam: The Pale Beauty is a terrific read by Kurt Knittel. This book is told using first-person narrative and revolves around Elias’ traumatic past and him reliving his experiences. It scours the metaphysical world and has a sweet medley of fable with a grim love saga. 

The writing style Kurt implements is narrative and very descriptive. He brings to light the toxicity of love and what having a self-centered, spoiled, and egotistical partner like Elias did to Eva. As a reader, you can see the conflicting love story between Elias and Maria. Because deep down, Elias still feels a deep connection with his beloved, Eva. Kurt’s explanation of losing someone was so lucid. He describes death as slippery, panicking, and an endless wandering. Kurt's narration has varied exhibitions of emotions that merely reading makes you feel the sadness, collapsing defeat, choking despair, and anxiety faced by Elias. The ending of the book was very satisfying. Its climax left me with bewildering passions.

With the setting executed in the chaotic periods in Cuban history, there's tension, suspense, and surprising composure in the book. The intrigue is excellently presented, especially with the mystery of identity in the first instance of reading. The author skillfully brings readers' intellect into conformity with abstract truth and the prevalent poetics in the book.

Similarly, I must commend the flawless editing and very appealing cover art. It expressed the story at first glance. I recommend this book to enthusiasts of paranormal romance and magical realism. I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. 

Read more reviews on my blog: https://tinyurl.com/2mysykne

[Lizet Algras · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first-person narrative in Bedlam: The Pale Beauty is straightforward, well-written, and filled with vivid descriptions. It evolves around the secretive and turbulent period in Cuban history in the 1950s between President Fulgencio Batista's corrupt administration and his overthrow by communist law student Fidel Castro. The side stories are rich, diverse, and infused with a wonderful combination of history, mythology, and realistic romance.

[Kay Elle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb writing skills. I was fascinated about Elias story in Cuba and his past. One of the scenes that shocked me was when he told Eva to leave with her baby to America. I don't want to give out too many details, but this story is well written, the descriptions of places, the dialogue and the drama are amazing. I fell in love with the writing style. This is book has an A+.

[Books for Humanity Global · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Kurt Knittel’s "Bedlam: The Pale Beauty," readers are invited on an extraordinary journey through the turbulent landscapes of Cuban history, where mythology intertwines seamlessly with a poignant tale of love and betrayal. From the opening page, Knittel's lyrical prose captures the reader's imagination, drawing them into the world of Elias, a man whose life is steeped in both enchantment and sorrow.

"Bedlam: The Pale Beauty" tells the story of Elias, a man rediscovering a past filled with both beauty and trauma. As he walks with the gods, Elias reflects on his involvement with a perilous Cuban revolutionary group, his experience of love, and the ultimate betrayal that left him for dead. The narrative is rich with emotional depth and explores themes of revenge, redemption, and the enduring human spirit.

The book excels across several criteria. The content is compelling and weaves historical events with magical realism in a way that feels both authentic and otherworldly. Knittel’s writing style is poetic and evocative, and paints vivid images that stay with the reader long after the final page. The book’s appeal to its target audience—fans of literary fiction and magical realism—is undeniable and offers a narrative that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. Its uniqueness lies in the seamless blend of mythological elements with the gritty reality of Cuban history, all of which creates a story that feels both timeless and relevant. The editing is meticulous, ensuring a smooth and engaging reading experience. The book’s marketability is high, given its rich narrative and the universal themes of love, loss, and redemption.

My favorite part of the book is Elias's interactions with the gods, which are beautifully rendered and imbued with a sense of wonder and melancholy, and highlight the fragile human soul against the backdrop of divine expectations.

While I searched for flaws, I found none; the book's execution is nearly flawless and reflects the author’s dedication to his craft.

Those who prefer straightforward historical fiction without elements of magical realism might find this book less appealing. However, readers who enjoy the works of Gabriel Garcia Marquez or Isabel Allende will find much to love in Knittel's narrative.

In conclusion, "Bedlam: The Pale Beauty" is a remarkable contribution to the literary world, as it offers a deeply moving exploration of human resilience amidst the chaos of history. Its potential to hook and inspire readers is immense, which makes it a must-read for anyone seeking a beautifully crafted, thought-provoking novel.

[Dee Osah · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the very first chapter of Bedlam: The Pale Beauty, I was enchanted. Kurt Knittel’s writing is nothing short of magical, with lyrical prose that draws readers into a world set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Cuban Revolution, featuring a rare glimpse of Fidel Castro. What’s not to love?
The narrative alternates between the present and the past, creating a rich tapestry that is at times masterful. Other moments resemble what the title suggests—meandering like a runaway stream—before ultimately returning to the heart of the story and hitting you with a much-needed emotional gut punch.
Knittel’s talent for weaving a tale of love lost and the struggle to find one’s way in the endless flow of life is evident throughout. The amnesiac main character, while intriguing, often feels like a passive observer, going along with what’s in front of him even when faced with choices that could alter his fate. His puzzling decisions linger until the end, yet the engaging storyline and striking descriptions effectively mask this passivity, and the interplay between dreams and reality, along with his divine encounters, adds layers of complexity to his sometimes hairpulling journey to the truth.
For fans of literary fiction, this book is a must-read. But even if that’s not your usual genre, I encourage you to give it a try. Bedlam: The Pale Beauty offers profound depth without sacrificing entertainment—an increasingly rare combination in contemporary literature.

[François G · Rating 4 out of 5]

"This" Pale Beauty hooked me right from the start. The opening chapter plunges you straight into a world that feels both beautiful and quite unsettling.

Here is how it goes: The main character, alone on a caramel-colored beach in Havana, battles his own ghosts while meeting aggressive strangers and strange figures. I could feel his isolation in every sentence, like standing on an empty shore with only the waves for company. Good job!

The writing style is incredibly atmospheric, I would say. I could practically hear the ocean’s restless sighs and feel the weight of silence pressing down on the protagonist. One moment that really stuck with me was the appearance of a mysterious young woman standing by the sea. It reminded me of my time in the college when I was discovering Jane Eyre and other classical English authors. One word comes to mind: haunting. You have to know that the sea in this novel is more than just a backdrop. It’s a real character by itself, a force that calls, threatens and comforts all at once.

By the time I reached Chapter 28, I felt completely pulled under by the novel’s emotional weight. The protagonist’s heartbreak over Eva, his lost love, was devastating. When he finally... STOP... I'd rather not deliver a spoiler here. Not if you want to enjoy the reading full-blown.

[J.E. Spears · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bedlam: The Pale Beauty took me by surprise in the best way. It’s not your typical historical fiction or even magical realism—it’s something more intimate, more soul-deep. From the very beginning, I felt like I was being pulled into Elias’s world, one filled with both real-life horrors and something eerily mystical simmering just beneath the surface.

The way Kurt Knittel writes is poetic without trying too hard. There's a quiet rhythm to it that made me slow down and actually feel what the characters were going through. Elias’s trauma, his grief, the way he’s hunted by his past and haunted by something larger than himself—it all felt visceral and raw.

I loved how the story wove together Cuban history, political upheaval, and personal heartbreak without losing focus. The magical elements are subtle—more spiritual than fantastical—but they linger. They made me question what was real and what was symbolic, and I liked that blurred line. It reminded me a little of García Márquez or even early Isabel Allende.

If I had to nitpick, the pacing does slow in spots, and there were moments I wanted the magical thread to be more defined. But honestly, the emotional payoff was worth it.

If you're looking for something that blends history, heartbreak, and a touch of the unexplainable, this one’s worth your time. It stayed with me long after I finished the last page.

[readingisforever1 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm always a sucker for mythology, history and first person narratives, so I was primed to like Bedlam: The Pale Beauty from the get go. Plus, great title. This book mostly delivered. I enjoyed its cross-genre blend and the dreaminess of the narrative, as well the lush vocabulary. The first person POV works well for Elias's story, that of a man broken by love, betrayal, and political upheaval. And I loved that the book's backdrop spanned Cuba's history from the Cuban Revolution through Castro’s dictatorship and the collapse of the Soviet Union. My only small quibbles are that sometimes the author leans too far into descriptions which pull you from the story, and that occasionally the dreaminess leans into vagueness. But the novel's strengths as a work of lyrical, poetic fiction overcome those, as does its emotional weight and narrative ambition. Definitely worth the read.

[Melissa Cantrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Story of Revolutionary Cuba

The book takes place in revolutionary Cuba over a period of about twenty years. Communism causes protest and a citizen's revolt, and without law and order, Cuba has become somewhat of a purged country. Elias is the main character, and from my perspective he is a narcissist sociopath. He thrives well enough in a country that is known for stealing, sexual assault, knife fights, and deranged authoratitive figures. Alone, Elias is in survival mode. He often has a pattern of finding couples, killing the boyfriend or husband, uncle or father, and then the female, left alone to fend for themselves in a warlike country, decides perhaps of Stockholm Syndrome to take Elias in and mother him, protecting Elias as if he is the violent one that is their own chance of survival. After Elias goes through a number of women, he believes these women admire his masculinity. I believe the women despise him and the first chance they get to leave him, they do. In which, he justifies his rejected stance by killing them.

From reality it goes into this dreamlike trance. Elias ages and is following the old footsteps, trying to reclaim his youth and then gets caught by the police where he is rightfully imprisoned. Each person he loves, he betrays. He turns and twists reality in his own mind so he can feel like, even as a serial killer, he is a good human being. Definitely my mind was blown, a must read.

[Alex Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bedlam: The Pale Beauty is a surprising read. At its core, this is a story about the duality of man: the capacity for good and evil within all of us. The first thing that caught my attention was that it's written in first person. I'm used to this with other genres, particularly romance novels, where it's common, but I'm not sure I've seen it before with magic realism. Fortunately, author Kurt Knittel mostly pulls it off here, so that after a while I forgot about the perspective (bad first person really grates for me).

The narrator, the 'I' in this book (Elias) is an interesting character, in that he's sometimes inscrutable. This feels like a deliberate choice, adding to the mystical but equally brutal nature of some of the action. The decision to set the book against the backdrop of cold war Cuba (it's a period of history I'm not super familiar with) adds to the intrigue.

There's a lot of rich description and color here. Maybe a tad too many adjectives at times, which occasionally slows the prose. But Knittel is a solid enough writer to have hooked me in, and to have kept me turning pages right to the very end.

If you're into magic realism, Cuban history, or just interesting fiction writing, it's worth checking out.

[Ann Birdgenaw · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written with a flare of literary fiction and mysticism.

Sad and tragic journey of Elias as he allows his memories to resurface after suffering a life of pain and betrayal in Cuba. Author Knittel weaves his beautiful prose against the stunning setting of the lands, beaches and the people of Cuba during the turbulent times, spanning 30 years. Elias is haunted by his dreams and hallucinations of people and events that happened, as the story unfolds, and he slides into psychosis.  He struggles to figure out what is real and what stems from his dreams of figures from Greek mythology who seem to be guiding him to his destiny. Written with a flare of literary fiction and mysticism, the pacing sometimes gets a little slow and cumbersome. I had to skim parts of the story, but the plot is poignant and gives the reader a glimpse into the lives of Cubans suffering through the turmoil of the revolution and cruel Castro dictatorship.

[Adarsh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bedlam: The Pale Beauty is a powerful story that explores Cuban history through a mix of myths and facts. The main character, Elias, faces betrayal and love, while also dealing with trauma as he searches for redemption. His encounters with gods add a dreamlike and emotional aspect to his quest for a more meaningful life.

The story sometimes slows down due to lengthy descriptions, but the deep themes of love, power, and revenge keep the reader thinking. The emotional payoff makes the journey worthwhile.

However, the book is challenging to read at first. Although the writing seems appealing initially, there are many long and heavy descriptions that make it hard to get into the story.

[Shyler Tibbs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kurt Knittel's "Bedlam: The Pale Beauty" is a captivating blend of magical realism and historical fiction. Following an amnesiac protagonist navigating through revolutionary Cuba, the story interweaves divine encounters with mortal struggles. While occasionally overindulgent in its lyrical prose, this debut novel successfully marries the mystical with the political, creating an enchanting tale of love, memory, and redemption that will particularly appeal to fans of Gabriel García Márquez.

[E.B. Hauk · Rating 3 out of 5]

I started reading this book with the expectation that it would surprise me. The premise sounded interesting, like an opportunity to explore an intriguing period in history through a flawed protagonist. And it did surprise me... but not in the ways I hoped.

This was a difficult book to get into. Though the prose seems promising at first blush, there are frequent moments of turgid description. A character's appearance stretches several paragraphs. And there are frankly baffling word choices like 'beautiful confusion.' Moments of peculiar wording happen often enough to interrupt the flow. But this would be forgivable.

What made this novel difficult for me to access was "I." Our main character. It takes forever to find out who he is. We aren't given a name. An amnesiac could be an incredible and unreliable narrator, but details of the identity he lacks should shine through in snippets of deja vu and muscle memory from skills he once had. We get a scene of his life in the second chapter, but it's brief. Compounding the scant character of our narrator, we have little in the way of character reactions to the increasing insanity of his life. The emotionally neutered tone alienates us from our narrator.

These two details and slipshod pacing often make you wonder what's happening. Which could be a good thing for a story about a man with an unreliable memory, but instead comes across as confusing.

Here's an example of what happens in two chapters: Here's what happens in two chapters: the M.C. beats up the mayor's son, a supporting character kills the mayor's son, M.C. robs his corpse and throws it into the ocean, and then M.C. smuggles out the supporting character on a ship to America. All of that happens within an hour. Later that same day, our M.C. burns down his shack, walks for ages, remembers he was stabbed, is abducted by a truck driver who rescues him, tries to rob him, and then tries to murder him for having no money. M.C. falls down the cliff and meets more people who try to murder him. All of this could've been very intense and compelling, but with a main character we don't know and who has a little emotional stake in the story, it seems like a lot of insanity in a short period.

Others might enjoy this. But in the end I just couldn't get invested.

[James Field · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Bedlam: The Pale Beauty" by Kurt Knittel is an interesting journey that expertly combines the elements of historical fiction, magical realism, and human emotion. Set against the tumultuous backdrop of Cuban history from the revolution against Batista, through Castro's dictatorship, and up to the fall of the Soviet Union, this novel follows Elias, a complex and enigmatic protagonist navigating a world where myth and reality collide. The story is rich with vibrant descriptions and beautifully lyrical prose that immerses readers in Elias's struggle with his past and present.

Knittel's choice of first-person narrative adds a unique, intimate layer to the storytelling, making Elias's journey feel personal and immediate. The protagonist's experiences, from his involvement in revolutionary activities to his encounters with mythical elements and lost loves, unfold in a dreamlike sequence that blurs the lines between memory and imagination. At times, the flow of the story is disrupted by overly long descriptions, but the atmospheric writing pulls you back in, reflecting the chaos and beauty of the era.

The magical realism elements are woven skilfully throughout, adding a mystical dimension that complements the gritty historical setting. The interactions with gods and spirits feel natural, almost poetic, providing a fascinating contrast to the brutal political reality of the time. The narrative challenges readers to think deeply about the dualities of good and evil, love and loss, and the impact of power on the human spirit.

While some passages could benefit from tighter editing to improve pacing, "Bedlam: The Pale Beauty" remains a thought-provoking read that will captivate fans of literary fiction and magical realism. If you enjoy novels that dive deep into the human psyche while offering a vivid historical backdrop, this book is worth a read. Kurt Knittel has crafted a story that is both timeless and timely, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an emotional and imaginative adventure.

[Wendy Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bedlam is a great title for this book. It describes perfectly the MMC’s mind and life, and how confused and even delusional he is. I love the descriptive writing and in places, it was almost poetic which is a favorite of mine. I also enjoyed the mystical vibe with whispering voices and alien lights, but the Greek mythology appearances were a bit lost on me. Elias’ story was heartbreaking though I didn’t feel he got bitter, or had too much self-pity he just did what he had to do. He slogs through his life in a state of amnesia, victim of several accidents, threats, jail, and mishaps having his hopes toyed with repeatedly. There is a kind of nobility to his character that shows through his thoughts and actions though he is an assassin. It could be argued that he does the jobs for humanitarian reasons, removing the bad people from hurting innocent people in society but he did it without conscience. The way he helped Pearla was commendable and poor Eva’s end went bad despite his best intentions, which made me like and pity him. As more women entered his life like Maria, he handles each situation with a bit of innocent hope but caution and knows when to walk away.

The story had an overall sad, dreamlike quality, and I sometimes was confused if he was dreaming or in reality. I had high hopes that he would get over his trauma and find a good life. I am a fan of the lost love and mystical realism tropes though I struggled a bit with the pacing and story structure. I must believe that is part of the chaos of the MMC’s character life and choices. I think it is a good debut novel with an interesting premise that develops concern and interest for the main character but there was a lot going on in this book. Because of some slight continuity issues and the fact that I really couldn’t pinpoint a genre, I’d give it 3.5 stars but still recommend it for readers who like history and mystical themes.

[Bella Nicholson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bedlam: The Pale Beauty by Kurt Knittel is a wonderfully fascinating, unique, and unusual literary read. It’s historical yet paranormal, thrilling and romantic, sometimes all at once.

As a history buff, I really enjoyed the different segments, dreams, and paranormal themes of the story. Bedlam takes us from Cuba’s Batista era to the revolution, then the downfall of Russia, all from a Cuban's perspective. How Knittel interweaves mythology with dreams, memories, and a man trying to piece together his (literally) forgotten past is not only well-executed but highly original.

In some ways, you can’t compare how Knittel mashes genres with other works, yet if I had to push it for some reason, Khaled Hosseini's Kite Runner comes to mind. Also, the way he incorporates the recurring theme of revolution reminds me of the forgotten Souvenirs de la Bataille d'Alger, by Saadi Yacef. Very intense and realistic. Bedlam seems “lived in.”

The fact that our main character is a heartless hitman who kills with ease, yet still has a human touch and with romantic desires, is a fascinating dichotomy that is usually a better fit for novels rather than film. Knittel’s Elias can be an unsympathetic main character at times, but this is a journey to be ridden without judgment. If you're looking for a story about road trips with your favorite little kitty, perhaps this isn’t for you.

If you're looking for a literal work with supernatural elements that turns corners you can’t see around, you’ll thoroughly enjoy this compelling read.

[Nathan Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bedlam: The Pale Beauty is a blend of history, mythology, and raw emotion, delivering a poetic and immersive exploration of love, power, and redemption. Set against the backdrop of Cuban history, the novel spans three decades—tracing the Cuban Revolution, Castro's dictatorship, and the fall of the Soviet Union—while weaving in elements of magical realism that elevate the narrative into something dreamlike yet profoundly human.

The story follows Elias, a man haunted by both the beauty and trauma of his past. He once joined a dangerous revolutionary group, fell in love, and was ultimately betrayed. Now, as he walks with gods and reflects on his life, he is faced with a question: Can revenge offer him redemption, or will it lead to further despair?

What stands out immediately is Knittel’s lyrical prose. His descriptions dp a great job of pulling readers into the rich Cuban landscape and the emotional turmoil of his protagonist. The novel merges reality with myth, giving readers moments of ethereal beauty—like Elias’s encounters with divine beings—while never losing sight of the grim political and social realities that shaped his life. The novel's pacing can, at times, feel slowed by overly descriptive passages, though these moments are redeemed by the sheer beauty of Knittel’s writing and the emotional depth they convey.

If you’re a reader who enjoys exploring the intersection of history and myth, of beauty and brutality, this is a book that should be on your list.

[Mia Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bedlam: The Pale Beauty opens in Havana with beautiful descriptions of the ocean and beach. An unknown narrator explains it has been “so long since I saw another person.” As a reader, that opening grabbed me and I was immediately curious as to who this person is and how they landed on this beach. When a woman shows up, the speaker is equally curious about her presence, mirroring the readers’ thoughts. As he watches her, a group of thugs led by Ignacio, shows up with ill intentions. As our beach dweller watches, a bright orb of light catches his attention and when Ignacio kicks him, this light is the last thing he sees. Author Kurt Knittel uses various writing devices such as this one to ensure that you want to keep turning the pages.

Chapter two opens with descriptions of love and how it first appears to the narrator. Again, we don’t know this narrator, but his descriptions of the woman who first attracts his attention are beautiful and we are drawn in to his wish that he has the confidence to approach her. Each story carries a similar theme of admiration for a love interest coupled with the mystery of who these people are. And yet, in spite of the ambiguity, the stories feel rich and complete. The descriptions are beautiful and the prose is poetic in an almost dream-like quality. This was a wonderful read.

[Lucy Brighton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kurt Knittel’s Bedlam: The Pale Beauty is a compelling exploration of memory, grief, and love, woven through the haunting lens of magical realism. Set during the turbulence of Cold War-era Cuba, the novel follows Elias, an enigmatic narrator grappling with personal loss and fractured identity. Told in first person, the narrative oscillates between past and present, blending myth and reality in a dreamlike, often unsettling fashion.
Knittel’s prose is lyrical and atmospheric, at times lush with description, immersing the reader in both physical and emotional landscapes. The story’s emotional weight is considerable, particularly in its portrayal of Elias’s complex relationship with Eva, and the slow unravelling of his past. Themes of death, longing, and the duality of human nature are handled with poetic sensitivity.
Though the protagonist occasionally feels passive, the richly layered storytelling, philosophical undertones, and artful tension sustain momentum. The novel’s editing and cover design also deserve praise for their polish and evocative presentation.
For readers who enjoy literary fiction, magical realism, or historical backdrops with a metaphysical twist, Bedlam: The Pale Beauty is a rewarding, thought-provoking read.

[Kindle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beauty on Paper

I loved "Bedlam: The Pale Beauty" by Kurt Knittel. This novel is a captivating blend of literary fiction and magical realism, following Elias as he revisits his traumatic past and lost love while navigating a world influenced by gods and revolutionary turmoil in Cuba. Knittel’s prose is beautifully poetic, vividly describing Elias's emotional journey and the brutality of those who seek power.

I appreciated how Knittel intertwines mythology with a poignant love story, creating a narrative that is both thought-provoking and enchanting. The characters are deeply developed, and the exploration of love and loss is profoundly moving. The historical backdrop of the Cuban revolution and Castro's dictatorship adds layers of tension and intrigue.

The book's editing is flawless, and the cover art perfectly captures the story's essence. For fans of paranormal romance and magical realism, "Bedlam: The Pale Beauty" is a must-read. It’s a literary gem that will leave a lasting impression. Highly recommended!

[Aaron Goodall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bedlam: A Pale Beauty by Kurt Knittel tells the story of Elias, a traumatised man recounting his history during a turbulent time in Cuba’s history. Relying upon mythology and legends, and mystical undertones, this book certainly has a unique charm to it which was a very pleasant surprise.

I liked Elias as a flawed character. His involvement with the gods seemed to make his flaws even more pronounced, as they seemed to play on them and highlight his insecurities. It was a good build up to watch a character grow. The use of the past and present timelines was well crafted, and I could ultimately see how he became the way he was from the betrayal he suffered early on.

The author spends a lot of time crafting his world, and teaching the reader about Cuba’s troubled history. I found this as interesting as I did the story, and would like to know more about this. The vivid writing only highlights the beauty and turmoil the country suffered, and the author certainly did it justice.

I really recommend this book to all. It is a joy to have read through.

[Vladimir Stepanov · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Bedlam: The Pale Beauty" by Kurt Knittel is a mesmerizing journey into the depths of the human soul. This novel, perfect for fans of literary fiction and magical realism, weaves a poetic narrative that explores the delicate balance between love's beauty and the ruthless pursuit of power. Knittel's prose is both lyrical and evocative, drawing readers into the fragile world of the protagonist who grapples with profound emotions and existential questions.

What truly sets this book apart is its ability to blend the surreal with the poignant, creating a story that is as thought-provoking as it is enchanting. The characters are richly developed, their struggles and triumphs resonating on a deeply human level. Knittel's exploration of love and power is timeless, offering readers a poignant reminder of the enduring strength of the human spirit. "Bedlam: The Pale Beauty" is a literary gem that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who delves into its pages.

[Eric · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great blend of historical fiction, romance, and magical realism set against the tumultuous backdrop of Cuban history. Elias is a complex protagonist haunted by his traumatic past and supernatural encounters. Spanning three decades from the Cuban Revolution to the fall of the Soviet Union, the story explores themes of love, betrayal, and redemption. The author's lyrical prose transports you through time, merging mythological elements with the harsh political realities of Cuba. Elias's journey is deeply personal and universally resonant, as he grapples with divine intervention, revolutionary violence, and the lingering pain of lost love. The book includes poetic language and intricate storytelling, and offers a profound exploration of human resilience and the complex nature of identity. As a whole, it's a compelling read that fans of literary fiction and magical realism will greatly appreciate.

[Chris Schneider · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bedlam: The Pale Beauty by Kurt Knittel is a fast-paced historical thriller that follows the sad trajectory of 20th century Cuba from military dictatorship to communist revolution through the soviet client-state period. The author has built an intriguing world filled with relatable characters. The dialogue is well-written and helps the book flow smoothly, despite some of the heavier topics addressed. Bedlam is not the easiest read; the central plot makes many twists and turns with a constantly shifting chronology that must be followed attentively. The patient reader will be rewarded for their efforts. Kurt Knittel shows off their writing skills with some clever asides from the main story. I particularly enjoyed some of the poetry: "Past shades that steal/and silhouettes far gone/through savage field/toward sullen dawn." I also enjoyed the clever re-telling of the story of Psyche and Eros from Greek mythology. This book is a fun ride for those that can keep up, highly recommend!

[Discomaniac · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bedlam: The Pale Beauty is an intense journey through the lands of Cuban history, interlocking mythology with fact. Elias's story is riddled with instances of betrayal and love, alongside trauma, for which he now seeks redemption-a complex character as both the gods, whom he runs into throughout, feel surreal as well as poignant in their path in search of something more meaningful for him.

The writing is poetically beautiful, rendering the essence of Cuba's revolutionary years as well as feelings in its characters. While the narrative sometimes slows down over dense descriptions, it is worth it for the eventual emotional payoff. The themes of love, power, and revenge are very intricately developed and thoughtful.

The blend of magical realism with gritty historical context made for a strong backdrop, and though it was a little uneven in pacing, the evocative prose and exploration of human resilience made the book an unforgettable read

[James Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished the book "Bedlam: The Pale Beauty" that was written by Kurt Knittel. It is a captivating and emotional story that mixes history, magic, and love. The story follows Elias, a man struggling with painful memories from his past during the Cuban Revolution. His life was full of love, betrayal, and difficult choices, and now he is trying to understand what happened. As Elias reflects on his life, he is visited by gods and other magical beings, which adds an extra layer of mystery to his journey. The book does a decent job of blending real history, like the rise of Fidel Castro and Cuba's revolution, with elements of fantasy. The writing is poetic and paints beautiful pictures of Cuba's landscapes and the emotions Elias feels. While some parts of the story can be hard to follow, the mix of history, magic, and raw feelings makes it an interesting and different kind of a read. I think there will be people who enjoy reading this book.

[Athena LeChat · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun ride, beginning to end. The twists kept coming, right to the very end. At no point did I anticipate what was coming, yet every turn made logical sense and fit with the story. Very fun.
This being magical realism, there is a very thin line between reality and magic. Combined with the narrator's memory problems, it gives the book a dreamy quality that was both frustrating and beautiful.
The writing is a bit unpolished: a little vagueness in the descriptions, cliches here and there. But it's very readable and full of evocative language.
I found the setting fascinating. It takes place in Cuba in the 1980s, with frequent jumps back in time to the Cuban Revolution in the 1950s. So we experience the contrast between the troubled dictatorship that brought on the revolution, the violence during and after it, and the later deprivation and corruption of communist Cuba.
Overall, a good read: lovely and dream-like.