Fiction Review

Monroe's Redemption
by Elijah Bruce
ISBN-10: 1411621913
Review by Heather Froeschl

Where does madness lie? In the depths of despair, in the panic of failure, or in the shame of self-loathing? For Monroe Goolynabura, likely it is all three of these and more that pushes him into the darkness of madness. The black syrup that oozes around him is the sign that he's arrived. In "Monroe's Redemption," Elijah Bruce opens the door to a place none of us wish to be. Dare you come in for a visit?

Failure, in the form of making hundreds of people sick at last year's prestigious Union Square Fair, New York City's Chef olympics, haunts Monroe. He must redeem himself. His boss, the owner of Café Pacifica, is near financial ruin because of this blunderous Chef. Docking his pay was the beginning of the punishment, but verbal lashings and moral degradation continues to haunt him. One instance truly pushes him over the edge and the nightmares begin. His added stress at home, to put it mildly, is enough to make anyone crazy.

A chance for redemption seems impossible, yet his boss once again intends to have Monroe prepare an entry for this year's Union Square Fair. Trying to focus on his training, Monroe seeks the perfectly pure meat for his dish. The Utopia is a difficult goal but it is possible when beginning with the purest of ingredients. So pure, yet so horribly wicked. Monroe's madness goes beyond any acceptable behavior. Yet, what people will do for a taste of The Utopia is downright astounding.

This book is disturbing and raw. It is a twisted look at madness and intention; a written examination of a terrifying truth, that the brain is an unknown entity. What spurs triggers of insanity, or even focused evil sanity? Elijah Bruce seems to be giving an answer to that question. This is a strongly written work of fiction; it holds merit, but I can't say it is a relaxing or enjoyable read. It captures attention while smooth talking the reader to continue turning the pages.