4 out of 4 stars
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Often in life, we are shaped by our surroundings and events in our lives, either positively or negatively. Juan is no exception. Juan is a promising Niño who grew up surrounded by nothing but hunger, alcohol, sex, poverty, and an irresponsible mother. Circumstances force him to grow into a man without enjoying a proper childhood. He takes responsibility for his siblings and displays maturity for his age. His naivety causes him to derive wrong morals from events happening to him, and he assures himself of one thing; he is a bad man.
The Making of Evil by C. Ross Dutton is a bildungsroman showcasing the growth and development of Juan into a symbol of everything evil. He embraces his destiny and is unapologetic about that fact. This novel is a captivating read that employs foreshadowing quite often, which gives readers a clue of what is to happen in the forthcoming chapters.
In pointing out the positive aspects of The Making of Evil, I would love to acknowledge the somewhat vague language and descriptiveness the author employed, bearing in mind the sexual subject matter the book treated. Most books with similar themes tend to do otherwise. I find this quite thoughtful and considerate of the author.
More so, the author exhibited quite a rich knowledge of drugs and human trafficking, weaponry, and planes, amongst others, through his vocabulary. Befitting the novel's setting in Columbia, mostly, Spanish words were thrown in. Not too much, not too sparse. This would impress potential readers of this novel greatly.
Also, as a bildungsroman, Juan’s character was well-developed and elaborate. I find no rush whatsoever in the mental and emotional development of the character. A full appreciation and understanding of the character are achieved because of this. The author vividly imprints on the readers the harsh realities of children born on the streets and in poverty. The risks they face ranging from sexual abuse, drug trafficking, and debauchery are succinctly dealt with.
Juan is presented as a victim of these. I see this work as a tool for public awareness of such evils. The workings, organization and operation of drug cartels and crime syndicates were also exposed. The bloodshed and atrocities they commit in order to get some money, especially from twisted rich perverts, are not excluded.
I could find no negative aspects to this novel. I would almost say it was perfect. However, I experienced a few momentary confusion of names towards the end of the book. It was professionally edited. I rate this novel 4 out of 4 stars. The novel is beautifully written and organized. I recommend this book to people who enjoy psychological thrillers and adventure fiction.
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The Making of Evil
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