A Victorian Justice

By Patricia C. Behnke

No Synopsis Available.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1883938821
• ISBN13: 9781883938826
• Release Date: January 2000
• Publisher: Dry Bones Pr
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 0.68 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.8" x 0.5" x 5.5"

Customer Reviews

A wonderful and important book

This book surprised me; it was not what I thought it would be when I first started it. The subject of race relations in the 1970s is volatile in and of itself, but complicate it with a love story that is tainted with abuse and this drama takes on a realism that is thought-provoking. The young couple in this book have a lot going against them. Can they overcome the obstacles the members of a small town with a social hierarchy and a penchant for furtive gossiping have put in front of them? Read this book, not only for the story, but for the excellent writing. Behnke keeps you turning the pages.

This book is Oprah Book Club Material!

I recently attended one of Patricia Behnke's book signings and purchased "A Victoria Justice". When I began to read it, I literally could not put it down until I was finished. I cannot believe that this is her first novel. I cannot wait until she publishes her second. It will be a 5 Star without a doubt! She has been encouraged to send it to the Oprah Show, since the subject matter involves much of what Oprah likes to discuss: ~deals with issues of racism and prejudices~examines hypocrisies of small minds ~takes a nostalgic look back at the '70s while still examining contemporary issues ~explores the coming of age of one woman who endures many hardships ~examines the dynamics in an abusive relationship Don't hesitate for one minute to buy this book from a fresh, new author.

Real and memorable characterizations

Patricia Behnke has written a compelling first novel about small town life and the effects of hypocrisy, racism, and hidden abuses stemming from all quarters of the community, not just the protagonists. Beverly and James, the main characters, are vividly characterized as very real people with obvious strengths and weaknesses. Behnke writes honestly and gives both Beverly and James negative and positive character traits, making the novel work for the reader on all levels. One is even able to sympathize with the abuser, because the hypocrisy in this small town is rampant, and the reader begins to understand how one thing leads to another.....and another.....and another. If you like strong characterization and a readable, flowing story, you'll love A Victorian Justice!

Twisted, and Twisting--from begining to end!

Patricia C. Behnke is the kind of writer I admire. From the first chapter, until the end of the book, her twisted tale of deceipt, murder and mayhem held my interest. What is unfortunate is that she has no other books out there for me to read! For a first attempt, I have no doubt that new Behnke books will be on demand from her publisher--and lining the walls of my personal bookshelves! I can not wait for the next shocking, small town mystery (and would love to see some of the characters return, too!)

THE BEST KIND OF SHOCKING

A VICTORIAN JUSTICE is shocking in the best way: shocking events, heart-wrenching scenes, vivid characterizations, and seamless writing that caries the reader from one gripping chapter to the next. Pat Behnke's autobiographical novel depicts the people of the small town in which she was raised. Many a writer can include biographical information in his or her story, but it takes a writer of exceptional skill to recreate such vivid and distinct characters. A VICTORIAN JUSTICE is a book where there's scandal and intrigue on each page. But not just scandal for scandal's sake, but as a finely crafted story, illuminating the hypocrisy of not only small towns, but, more importantly, small minds. The character of James made my skin crawl with his physical and mental abuse of Beverly. And May and Hollis' love for each other sang out from the pages with Behnke's tender touch for heart-felt emotion and natural dialogue. In the end, justice is served not only to the hypocritical characters, but the lucky reader who was held spellbound by a gifted storyteller.