Title: Savage Days Haunted Nights
Author: Bennett Kremen
Publisher: Page Vision Press
ISBN: 978-1960946492
Pages: 334
Genre: Romance / Historical Fiction
Reviewed by: Jack Chambers
Hollywood Book Reviews
Life rarely ever plays out the way we expect it to. The truth is that no matter how many times we plan something out, or how many times we outline the trajectory of our own lives, life has a way of throwing out speed bumps meant to derail us from our project paths. It is how we rise above those inevitable challenges and either continue on our desired path or how we adjust and find a new path which truly defines us.
For many people who start out in a life of crime, this change in trajectory often comes to a head at one point or another. Deciding to either stay on that path or veer off completely, is a choice many young or aspiring criminals have to decide for themselves. In author Bennett Kremen’s Savage Days Haunted Nights, that decision is what changes the life of protagonist Dorian. Growing up as a wannabe gangster living in the crime ridden streets of early 20th century Chicago, a whirlwind of crimes leads to a shocking moment in Dorian’s life when he is tasked with taking the life of another person. Facing a resurgence of his morality, Dorian goes on the run, ending up in New York and determined to overcome his dyslexia to become a writer. Twists and turns, from romance unexpectedly blossoming to financial debt turning to another run-in with the mob, makes this an unexpected life for Dorian.
The author did such an incredible job of immediately capturing the atmosphere and setting of the era perfectly. The tension which mounted as a result of Dorian’s early actions and his subsequent life on the run from the Chicago mob was so engaging, and left the reader’s heart pounding as the situation intensified more and more. The almost poetic and lyrical style of writing really did a great job of utilizing imagery to paint a picture in the reader’s mind of this story, both the amazing world-building which captured the historical tone and the character development which makes readers really become invested in the protagonist’s struggle.
This is the perfect novel for those who enjoy fictional stories, especially those who enjoy a hearty blend of historical fiction and romance all built into a strong plot. The themes of redemption and overcoming great odds plays a significant role in the story, primarily in Dorian’s overall journey. The haunting nature of Dorian’s early life and the shocking realities he faced – even after leaving it all behind – is remarkable to behold, and the love that blossomed for Dorian later on in the story will keep the readers engaged in his personal growth. I recommend this wonderful historical fiction and romance novel.