The Gates of Paradise - Softcover

Cravens's fascinating novel is an honest portrayal of one long day in the life of the Reverend Melpomene Gilman and her husband, James. They both suppress the desire to be reunited with former lovers, only to discover to their anguish that they both want the same thing. Complicating the story line, Melpomene counsels people in the same situation as she--but, unfortunately, she does not really see the connection: "Each day Melpomene could close the door behind her, sigh, and congratulate herself on once again turning in an excellent performance. Once again she had escaped judgment." Cravens finely weaves a tale showing that no one can really escape judgment in the affairs of the heart. This is an intense picture of the extraordinary things that can happen to human beings on any ordinary day. Highly recommended.
- Vicki Cecil, Johnson Cty. P.L., Greenwood, Ind.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Hypocritical Reverend Melpomene Gilman calmly attends to her parish but rages at her wimpish husband. Cravens ``has eschewed subtlety in delineating the minister's neurotic personality,'' said PW. ``This hermetic portrait of one day in a rapidly disintegrating marriage is a trial to read. '' (Jan.) 3

Copyright 1991 Cahners Business Information, Inc.