The Vagabond's Legacy
by Charles Bice
Published by Wimabi Press
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Reviewed by Leslie Granier
Duncan Flowers is a high school math teacher whose life has not been going very well lately. His car was stolen and set on fire, but more importantly, the viola his grandfather passed down to him was destroyed in the fire as well. However, the loss of the instrument seems to open Duncan’s eyes to the lifestyle he has been living. He realizes he does not take care of things properly, including housekeeping, relationships, and items he treasures. He decides he finally needs to grow up and rethink what his definition of success should be. With the help of his colleagues and a special friend at the musical instrument store, he discovers his inner strengths and abilities, thus opening himself up to a whole new world.
The Vagabond’s Legacy chronicles various stages of Duncan’s life through a series of flashbacks. The reader learns the circumstances under which Duncan came into possession of the viola. You are also allowed to experience the details of Duncan’s short-lived marriage, including the passion he feels at being able to play in a philharmonic orchestra with his wife. These glimpses into Duncan’s past help explain his present behaviors and attitudes. It is interesting to watch Duncan recognize his faults and set out to correct them.
Charles Bice creates several memorable characters in this book. Although many of the characters are shady and unscrupulous, they are also quite clever. This is demonstrated in the ways each tries to outmaneuver the others to accomplish his goals. Parts of the story seem to move a little too slowly and other parts are wrapped up rather quickly. However, an unexpected twist at the end ties up all the details nicely.
The Vagabond’s Legacy will appeal to both men and women. It is a good story with well-developed characters. The author inserts a few surprises that keep the reader wondering what might happen next.
Armchair Interviews says: A very nice read.
Author’s Web site: http://www.CharlesBice.com