Exiles
L.J. Ambrosio
GENRE
Literary Fiction/Coming of Age
In this final chapter, Ron's story concludes from Reflections on the Boulevard (2023). Michael's wish was for Ron to exile himself in the heart of Paris with its beautiful culture and citizens as they protest and fight for the soul of the city. Ron's journey is met with life-affirming friendships and lessons along the way. The final book in the Reflections of Michael Trilogy, which started with A Reservoir Man (2022).
Excerpt
Louie noticed a sign over the door that read, “Be not inhospitable to strangers, lest they be angels in disguise.”
Ron pointed to it. “That is the best sign in the store, works that paranoia up. Everyone tries to be nice after they read it. It's good for business.”
Ron explained that the bookstore had had two lives. After World War 1, it attracted artists such as F. Scott Fitzgerald, Hemingway, James Joyce and so many more from the “Lost Generation.”
Joyce’s’ Ulysses was published by the owner of the bookstore, because no one else would publish the book. The style, the length, and the subject matter were not attractive to any publisher.
After World War 2, the store re-opened again with a new owner. The store then attracted many artists from the Beat Generation like Henry Miller, Alan Ginsberg, Boroughs, and so many more writers and artists. The store became a fixture in Paris and, as the years progressed, it became a tourist attraction. More importantly, it became a safe harbor for many artists.
Ron and Louie walked out of the bookstore after three hours in the store. Louie looked exhausted; Ron rejuvenated. Ron invited Louie for another coffee and croissant at the bookstore near the cafe.
Over their coffee, Louie asked if he could come back to the store more often.
“You could live here if you want but you must work here, you know, tend to the store. Louie, what hours can work for your shift?”
Louis J. Ambrosio ran one of the most nurturing bi-coastal talent agencies in Los Angeles and New York. He started his career as a theatrical producer, running two major regional theaters for eight seasons. Ambrosio taught at 7 Universities. Ambrosio also distinguished himself as an award-winning film producer and novelist over the course of his impressive career.
Thank you so much for featuring this exclusive excerpt from EXILES.
ReplyDeleteYou are welcome!
DeleteThis sounds like an interesting book and I also like the cover.
ReplyDeleteIt is intriguing !
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