Golden Boy
R. G. Lawrence
23Publishing
ISBN: 978-0-9846882-0-3
298 pages 

Many individuals have asked themselves what the outcome would be if they could travel into the future—or into the past.  In the well-written and fascinating novel by R. G. Lawrence, readers are allowed to watch through the author’s written words when a stranger who calls himself “traveler” seeks out a group of seven high school graduates.  The traveler—better defined as a wizard—intrigues most of the group with his offer to give each one of them a glimpse into his or her future.  

The night of high school farewells had proven much more exciting and challenging than what the youngsters anticipated when five of them escaped a farewell party at the local country club and headed to a beach party complete with music and beer. Later they were joined by two others, and readers sense this was no accident but an example of fate in action.  At first, most of the seven thought the traveler had to be crazy and yet his golden eyes, tall frame, flowing white beard, and ageless appearance were mesmerizing. He was there to collect his charge—one of the seven!  But, who would it be?  

Two of the main characters, Andy Webster and Rod Littleton, grew up together in the town of Radford and had been best friends since kindergarten.  They were as close as brothers, natural athletes, high school scholars and had been actively pursued by college recruiters.  They were proudly referred to as the “Golden Boys” by the town’s people.    The farewell party at the country club had been for them. 

Andy and Rod had shared the good times in life as well as a tragic situation in which Rod’s younger brother Tony had drowned in a farm pond; this was a tragedy that greatly impacted many lives.  Rod blamed himself but Andy’s strength had helped Rod and his mother survive the experience without losing their sanity.  Though Mrs. Littleton had lost a son, she loved Andy and was grateful that he was there for Rod as well as herself.   

The characters—both major and minor—are unique, lively and are given distinct personalities through the author’s excellent description and dialog. Readers definitely get to know each of the seven youngsters and can relate to their hopes and dreams for the future.  Those teens who chose to see a glimpse of the future appeared to make wiser choices in the present; however one of the seven requested that the wizard take him into the past.  The consequences were dire and changed the storyline instantly. 

This is one of those novels where you want to peek, not only to see how the story ends, but it is so enticing that I wanted to also turn the pages ahead to see the ending of each individual chapter.  The creativity and imagination of the author is evident throughout the entire novel. I can promise readers that they will travel quickly through the pages of Golden Boy into another dimension which is why I can honestly give this book my highest recommendation. 

Bettie Corbin Tucker
For Independent Professional Book Reviewers
www.bookreviewers.org.