Yesteryear

by Stephen G. Eoannou

"A magical, magnificent novel strung on the threads of a real man's quest to fight evil...There's no way to read this book and not find yourself moved to tears. I absolutely loved it."
—Ashley Warlick, Author of The Arrangement
 
"This is one of the most entertaining novels I've read in years...it will capture your imagination and not let it go!"
—Fred LeBron, Author of Welcome To Christiania

Return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear, when from out of the past come the thundering hoofbeats of the great horse Silver! The Lone Ranger rides again! 
But who was that masked man....?

It's 1930s Buffalo, and the Great Depression rages. Playwright Fran Striker needs to write the pilot for a new radio show but, first, he must overcome writer's block, defeat a curse, foil a plot to assassinate FDR, and recover stolen diamond rings belonging to alcoholic boxing champion.
Based on the controversial true-life story of Lone Ranger creator Fran Striker, Yesteryear takes us on a magical journey leading to an icon's debut, a show that provided hope to Americans during the country's darkest days. Populated by characters of the era—radio actor John Barrett, Mafioso Stefano Magaddino, former lightweight champion Jimmy Slattery, and president-elect Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Eoannou's latest novel breathes new life into the immortal Lone Ranger and the man who struggled to create him and will appeal to fans of W.P. Kinsella, Bernard Malamud, and Daniel Wallace's.

Genres: Historical Fiction

319 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 3, 2023

Reviews

[Barb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a ride wild story…

Yet another wonderful yarn spun up by Mr. Eoannou. Every time I picked it up, I was sad when I had to set it down. In between those two moments, I was lost in the wonderful prose of this book. Steve proves time travel is possible, in book form. Pick it up.. you won’t be sorry.

[S. Jeyran Main · Rating 5 out of 5]

In “Yesteryear,” Stephen G. Eoannou crafts a captivating narrative that pays homage to the golden age of radio and the imaginative spark behind some of America’s most iconic characters. Drawing inspiration from the likes of W.P. Kinsella’s “Shoeless Joe,” Bernard Malamud’s “The Natural,” and Daniel Wallace’s “Big Fish,” Eoannou delves into the life of Fran Striker, a name synonymous with “The Lone Ranger,” “The Green Hornet,” and “Sergeant Preston of the Yukon.” Set against the backdrop of 1930s Buffalo, New York, this novel is a testament to the magical and often serendipitous journey of creative inspiration. The story unfolds in a speakeasy, introducing readers to a colorful cast of historical and fictional characters—from the down-and-out fighter Jimmy Slattery to the mafia boss Stefano Magaddino and the soon-to-be president Franklin Delano Roosevelt. It’s in this rich historical tapestry that Striker’s adventure begins, with the loss of Slattery’s diamond rings setting off a chain of events that weave together the fates of thieves, actors, and mobsters.

Eoannou’s narrative is a masterful blend of fact and fiction, imbuing the genesis of “The Lone Ranger” with a sense of whimsy and wonder. The novel beautifully captures the essence of a bygone era, where radio waves carried tales of heroism into the homes of millions, sparking imaginations and inspiring dreams. Through Striker’s journey, Eoannou explores themes of friendship, perseverance, and the indefinable magic that fuels creative genius.

The encounters Striker has on his quest—a cursed Gypsy brothel owner, a storyteller with tales of the Old West, and a radio station owner with a vision—serve as pivotal moments that shape not only the future of radio entertainment but also Striker’s understanding of his own potential. Each character plays a role in steering Striker towards his destiny, illustrating the interconnectedness of our lives and the unexpected sources of inspiration that lie in our interactions.

“Yesteryear” is more than a historical novel; it’s a celebration of the creative process and the indomitable spirit of storytelling. Eoannou’s prose is both evocative and engaging, transporting readers to a time when storytelling was both an art and a means of connection. The novel’s vivid characterizations and atmospheric settings make the world of 1930s Buffalo come alive, providing a captivating backdrop for Striker’s transformative journey.

In conclusion, Stephen G. Eoannou’s “Yesteryear” is a magical and deeply moving ode to the legends of radio and the enduring power of stories. It reminds us that behind every great creation lies a story of human struggle, perseverance, and the serendipitous moments that lead us to our destinies. This novel is a must-read for anyone who cherishes the golden age of radio, believes in the magic of storytelling, or simply seeks inspiration in the journey of a creative mind navigating the complexities of life and art.

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is the winter of 1933, prohibition is still the law of the land and the Great Depression rages on. People struggle to find work, to feed themselves and their families, to keep a roof over their heads. In Buffalo, NY, writer Fran Striker is better off than most...he has a job writing radio plays for WEBR, but even he is beginning to struggle as more and more of his extended family move in and become dependent upon his earnings. His solution is to send out his scripts to radio stations around the nation, hoping to multiply his earnings. All he needs it to imagine a new hero, one who will bring hope to a hopeless nation. But when Striker discovers that his father, a heroic police lieutenant, appears to be working for the local organized crime boss, his belief in heroes is shaken and he cannot quite bring his new character to life.

The characters in this highly entertaining novel are based on historical figures, and while elements of this story are clear fantasy, it is fun reimagining of how the "Lone Ranger" came to be, had the world work somewhat differently. This story feels deeply authentic, even with the elements of magic or supernatural, drawing the reader into the period and place. The economic struggles of everyday people are heartbreakingly presented, as is the deep cruelty of those that still somehow managed to hold onto both money and power during those dark years. And the choices Striker makes ultimately reaffirm his own belief in heroes and show the reader the importance of making sacrifices for the benefit of others.

[Amys Bookshelf Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Grand Read

Steven Eoannou writes a reminiscent tale with Yesteryear. I really enjoy reading this author's work. The Buffalo New York native author discovered the legend of the life of the real the man who created the Lone Ranger, which started out as a radio show in the 1930s. Who would've thought that a playwright would have such controversy, including who really is the Lone Ranger. I think everyone has heard of the Lone Ranger, and may only think of him as the character on the old television of the same name, but there is more to the story behind that, and how it got started. It's a very interesting and intriguing tale about the Fran Striker, and this author puts his spin on the story, while keeping the reader entertained, and informed about such a grand journey of his research, and his imagination. The characters are so real, it's like being with them within the story. This journey was very unpredictable. I really like this story because it's not just about the characters, but you can tell that the author is so interested in the history of another writer, and turns him into a legend. Don't we all want to become a legend, especially those of us who write our stories? This read is more than just words on a page. Yesteryear is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book, to also write a review.

[Tom Godfrey · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is nearly impossible to categorize, being an amalgam of actual events, never-happened events, and pure fantasy events. It uses the creation of The Lone Ranger radio series as its base. The real writer, Paul Striker, and the would-be radio magnate, George Trendle, who first produced the shows, are leading characters, along with John Barrett, the very first actor to voice The Lone Ranger. In addition to this there is a plot to assassinate Franklin Roosevelt just prior to his inauguration, a gypsy bearing curses, a local mafioso, and voices coming out of the ether. You might well wonder how all this ties together, but consider what was at the heart of the series, and the era in which was born.
The Depression was raging, and there were thousands of people who had lost everything and had absolutely no idea how they could keep on. In the midst of this came The Lone Ranger, who had survived a deadly ambush, who brought truth and justice to those most in need. So, the book itself is also rich in mythic tropes, where men who aren't heroic become heroes, where the evildoers are brought down, where those who might have done wrong are redeemed. The book tells the story and is the story.

[Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Yesteryear" is a captivating blend of historical fiction, humor, mystery. Stephen Eoannou loves his hometown of Buffalo, NY and uses it again as the setting for the adventures of radio writer Fran Striker during the Great Depression. Stryker grapples with financial challenges, an attempt on the life of President Roosevelt and the search for missing jewels as he struggles to create what would become the iconic The Lone Ranger series. The book sheds light on Striker's overlooked contributions. It reflects Steve's signature attention to historical detail and is both informative and humorous. Yesteryear is an entertaining read and another addition to Steve's growing body of excellent work.

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wanted to read this book because of its setting in Buffalo, NY during the 30's. My parents were raised in Buffalo during the depression and thought this book might give me some insight into their lives during this time period. Unfortunately, I think their experiences were quite different from this book but I still enjoyed reading about Buffalo.

I gave the book four stars because it was a historical fiction book married with some fantasy/magic. I had a hard time getting my head around that. It was very hard to know which parts of this book

were historically accurate.

That being said, it was a fun, fast paced read with well developed characters.

[Eric Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was good, I liked how it was written and how the author flowed with his prose. It was nice to see short and sweet descriptions that weren’t overworded and were to the point, leaving little to the imagination for the reader. The only thing I didn’t like was the transitioning of some of the characters in the story. It wasn’t separated enough to differentiate when the previous character was ending, and the new character was being described. Again, that’s just a small point in an otherwise good book and good writing. And the characters were believable and not too described for the book to work, and the reader to grasp the character when described.

[Moona · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Yesteryear" by Stephen G. Eoannou is a captivating historical novel set in 1930s Buffalo during the Great Depression. The story follows playwright Fran Striker, who is tasked with writing the pilot for the iconic radio show, The Lone Ranger. Striker faces numerous challenges, including overcoming writer's block, breaking a curse, thwarting an assassination plot against FDR, and recovering stolen diamond rings. Based on the true-life story of The Lone Ranger's creator, this novel intertwines real historical figures and events, offering a magical journey that breathes new life into a beloved American icon. The book has received praise for its engaging narrative and rich historical detail.

[Roxanne Cordonier · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book read like the script for a period film noir. Gangsters, whores, undertakers, radio stars, regular joes all are vividly drawn characters in this book. It's based on the real creator and writer of the Lone Ranger series which began on radio and moved to TV. The iconic character was born in the depth of the depression and that period is the backdrop for this story. The interwoven plot lines got a bit confusion midway through but the author resolved it all in the end.

[Jim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great work that ties historical fact to colorful and well built characters in a wild ride through depression era America.

You come for the story of an icon and learn the heart and soul behind him and what it takes to build a hero, while becoming one.

You’ll be pulled through the (of course) snow covered streets of Buffalo as the Lone Ranger’s foundation is laid.

[Mike Nettleton · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's always iffy, reading a book highly touted by a friend. There's always the chance you won't like it and that'll make talking about it with the recommender awkward. But this book, given to me by Steve, turned out to be a jewel. Fast-moving, funny and rich in detail and characterization. Definitely one of my 2024 faves.

[Joanne · Rating 1 out of 5]

A long drawn out and way too detailed story about the people and situations leading up to the creation of The Lone Ranger. I think I skipped over more than I read!

[Adam Al-Sirgany · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute romp! Nothing quite like it, and yet it’s so familiar clomping in on coconut shells. For the sheer pleasure of plot, comedy and adventure, few writers stand next to Eoannou.

[SqueakyChu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Upon receiving this book from an indie publisher, I was worried that I might not like it due to its genre. I started reading it rather slowly, but after I discovered that some of the characters were actual historical figures, I became more interested in completing the story.

The main character was Fran Striker, creator of the Lone Ranger, whom I remember from watching television as a child. Another character in this book was John Barrett, who had been the original radio voice actor for the Lone Ranger. This book's author presented a creative story in imagining how Striker might have come up with the idea for the Lone Ranger. Overall, I found this story to be a terrific combination of 1930s nostalgia, colorful characters from Buffalo, New York, a sad glance at Depression era living, plus just the right amount of magic to make this story work.