The Carousel

Like a ride on a carousel, the story deals with the unforeseen 'ups and downs' we are all faced with in a lifetime. It reveals how many of the characters struggle to conquer indecision, uncertainty, doubt and despair in their attempt to overcome the tough times. At the same time, the book delivers a hidden message illustrating how we as individuals can grow and actually become better people as a result of those unpleasant experiences that seemingly aim to rip our happy and peaceful lives to shreds.I've read all of Richard Paul Evans' books and this one is right up there on top. Many successful authors seem to rest on their laurels after a few best sellers and amazingly continue to sell books despite their lukewarm slipshod offerings. It is refreshing to note that Mr. Evans does not fall into this category. It's as though he becomes more seasoned and strives to improve with each novel he writes. Unlike some of his previous novels, he delves into many ugly issues and problems we are faced with in today's world -- for example, child abuse, suicide, AIDS, sexual harassment, and drug abuse. However, as in his prior books, the realities are exposed but without the unnecessary overuse of expletives and explicit graphic detail.The male protagonist, Michael Keddington, who was first introduced in The Locket, has a dream about his lovely girlfriend, Faye Murrow. In the dream she is on a carousel riding a handsome jeweled Arabian horse. On the first turn, she is smiling and happily waving to him while beckoning him to join her. On the second turn, she mysteriously vanishes from sight. Michael is troubled by his haunting dream and wonders whether it was just that...a dream, or a portent of things to come.Prior to the two young lovers going their separate ways off to colleges 2000 miles apart, they decide to elope on the spur of the moment. From that time on they are faced with difficult challenges and a course of tragic circumstances that cut into their seemingly blissful relationship like a fresh wound. Many people of different walks of life and diverse backgrounds enter the scenario as if by destiny or fate. It shows how each helps the other in their own special way, whether by kind deeds, actions or words.My favorite passage reveals a thought provoking message so beautifully expressed and is found in the introduction to Chapter 13 -- "...we do not walk alone in this life. There are others, fellow sojourners, whose journeys are interwoven with ours in seemingly random patterns, yet in the end, have been carefully placed to reveal a remarkable tapestry. I believe God is the weaver of that loom." This illustrates that although there are times we would like it to be so, no man or relationship is an island. Clearly put, people do indeed need people!I highly recommend this book not only for an entertaining read but also for the inspirational powerful messages contained within the story that can be applied to our own lives.

This is the first book I have read by Richard Evans (aside from the children's book "The Dance"). I was not disappointed. While usually a reader of non-fiction, I am very "picky" when it comes to novels and work of fiction. This story was extremely satisfying. This book read very well, the story flowed nicely, the characters were well-defined, and everything happened for a reason. While some people may call this a "sappy love story", I choose to look at it as a painful, but must-have lesson about life and love. Growing up and coming of age - you know - the twenty-something years where you are no longer a child, but not yet a "real" grown-up. I will definitely go back and read some of Mr. Evans' other pieces - beginning with the prequel to this story. I highly recommend!!!

I can't begin to explain how I just couldn't put this book down! I have read other books by Richard Paul Evans in the past, but this one touched my heart in places deeper than the other books seemed to go. I felt for Michael, in every instance, and felt myself rooting for him with each turn of the page. A must read and a great Christmas gift that truly captures the spirit of that season: Love.

Whoever wrote the review that this book was "boring", has surely not read Mr. Evans' copy of THE CAROUSEL, perhaps with their intellect, they've mistaken it for a copy of a children's book about a carousel they read. This book is the BEST that Richard Paul Evans has written to date. Like fine wine and cheese, he just gets better and better with age (and experience in writing). The real life issues that this book addressess on depression, suicide and multiple sclerosis will help our society realize that these do not have to be hidden "closet" issues. Finally someone teaches us that these are true diseases and not just a person's "problem". Thank you Richard Paul Evans for opening the door for thousands to see the truth. I would HIGHLY recommend this book to everyone to read. Definatley a 5+ Star Novel.

Each Fall I await two things--the turning of the leaves and a new book from Richard Paul Evans. The leaves are obvious, so I call around to make sure that Mr. Evans' new book is out, and am delighted when I find outthat it's time to buy it!I bought one copy of THE CAROUSEL for myself, and 12 more to put away for holiday presents (no one is ever disappointed when they open up a gift and it's one of his books). The best treat is to have the time to sit down and read it all in one sitting--and this year I put aside a day to do justthat. Was that ever a good way to spend an afternoon/evening!Once again, while reading one of his books, I laughed and I cried, and did it all over again. I came away from this book feeling a renewed faith in love. I looked around att hose I love and wanted to share so many emotions with them--and I did. I took extra time to tell my family I love them and have been thinking on ways I can be a better person.This book is a great love story. The writing is beautiful, and I just wish there were more love stories with this much LOVE!!!Thank you Mr. Evans for another great read!