I've read four of Sasse’s novels…four very different novels, four very enjoyable reads. Naturally, I dived eagerly into what is now my fifth Sasse read. This is not only different from his other books, it’s also hugely different from anything I’ve read before. It’s quite extraordinary. It’s a rich tapestry of many different threads: history, politics, courage, determination, love, passion, compassion, commitment, loss, heartbreak, tragedy, death, friendship, grief, surprise, sadness, joy, perseverance, hardship, danger, hope. Phew! But I’m not lying. They’re all in there.

How on earth can a story encompass all that? you may ask. Well, it does, uniquely…this tapestry is very cleverly woven and blended. You are drawn compellingly into Gerald Sanpatri’s simple, meagre life—that he lives without rancour or resentment—under the tyrannical rule of an evil dictator. It’s virtually impossible not to be smitten with this gentle, humble, compassionate and tolerant man, who fell in love with the perfect woman when he least expected it. And when tragedy strikes in a cruel way—in many ways, in fact—his quiet and gentle determination never wavers as he strives to fulfil his hopes and dreams...for himself and his country.

There are many surprises in this book tucked into the each of its many layers. It started out as a ten-minute sketch, the author tells us, but he was encouraged to develop it, and so was born a novel of some sixty thousand words.

A unique novel that is as heart-rending as it is heart-warming.

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Slip into the pages of history as you step into another place and time where order exists by the totalitarian rule of a dictator. It is a struggle to live with such a meager existence until Gerald Sanpatri, an ex-writer meets Rosia, the love of his life. It is Rosia’s devotion and love that enables him to begin writing again. Gerald pours all of his pain and heartache into his tales, writing stories of a brave child who was not afraid to stand up for what he believed in to save the people of his land from the terrible despot that ruled over them.

After the last regime change, Gerald Sanpatri stopped writing because the dictator forbade it. Instead, he performed the duties required of him while sinking into oblivion, burying his past behind him. Little by little, as his past begins to resurface, Gerald is thrust to the forefront of a stealthy movement to overthrow the dictator of which he is not even aware.

In my mind’s eye, I kept searching for a country to place these horrific events into. Several came to mind and I questioned why the author did not specify a country in the writing of this novel. Finally, I realized that the place was not the main concern. It was the message that events like these occur all over our world today that finally resonated deep within me. It wasn’t the place, it wasn’t the dictator. It was Gerald’s peaceful response that motivated a country to change.

Lovers of historical literature and fiction will lose themselves in the events that Mark Sasse has woven around these characters. I finished reading this novel on the Fourth of July while, outside my window, fireworks were exploding celebrating the freedoms of all Americans. It was a poignant moment.

RATINGS
Realistic Characterization: 4/5
Made Me Think: 5/5
Overall enjoyment: 4/5
Readability: 5/5
Recommended: 4/5
Overall Rating: 4.5 ( )

A Love Story for a Nation by Mark W. Sasse

Gerald Sanpatri an ex-writer is encouraged by his loving wife Rosia to write again. Although a war is going on she wants him to write a love story for an entire nation.

We watch one man face many obstacles, love, loss, danger and (shocking) secrets are revealed. I really liked Gerald, a humble proud man, struggling within himself to do what he feels is right for himself, and his country.

A well written story of love, loss and courage. The story flows at an even pace, with a great blend or drama, secrets, decision, and surprises. The characters are well developed, the plot is original and intense.

A definite, heart-felt page turner. I was hooked from the first page, this story will stay with me for a long time. I highly recommend A Love Story for a Nation to readers of all genres. ( )

Mark W. Sasse's fourth novel, A Love Story for a Nation, is situated in Reoux in a fictional republic. Gerald Sanpatri's life changes, when Rosia Salez enters his life. She inspires the ex-writer to take up his pen again after twenty years. Though Gerald's loses his job as guard in a bank due to a stolen ID card, he starts writing a stories for his unborn child Jonny. 6 months pregnant however Rosia dies after getting a seizure. The unborn Jonny couldn't be saved either. Out of grief en passion for his nation, Gerald starts a one man revolution by standing firm every day in the capital city, opposite the president's building, meeting friends and writing poems and stories about Jonny. A Love Story for a Nation is a great novel about friendships, courage, refound love, and grief. Discover the connections between Gerald and his friends, the audience asking questions to this lonely man standing, and the non-violent power that Sanpatri shows towards soldiers. We are the change, and could sparkle a revolution today. ( )