Gabriel, a middle-aged man
adopted from Ghana and living a humdrum life in London, is thrust into a world
of corruption, danger, and intrigue when he travels to Tobago to oversee the
sale of a family property. As he navigates the island's vibrant culture and
contrasting landscapes, Gabriel is forced to confront his values and morals in
the face of shocking encounters with drug dealers, corrupt officials, and his nemesis,
Pablo. Along the way, he meets three strong women who challenge him to break
free from his comfort zone and take control of his destiny. With its blend of
humor, action, and heart, this novel is a thrilling adventure that will leave
you breathless and inspired.
Angel in Tobago by Tim Bartholomew delivers
the perfect escape into the sun-kissed shores of post-colonial Tobago. It
examines human relationships, morality, and one man’s search for meaning in a dangerous
setting. Gabriel Cassidy, a Christadelphian, navigates his mundane life in
suburban London, grappling with the consequences of his recent retirement from
a successful insurance business. The novel’s opening chapter sets the tone for
the rest of the story, introducing Gabriel's struggles with marriage to Sarah and
his sense of purpose after decades of dedication to his work. His mundane
routine is disrupted by a call from his uncle, Neville, a cantankerous and
unpleasant individual who lives in a grand old house in the countryside. As
Gabriel arrives at Badger's End, Neville's sprawling estate, he is met with a
cast of intriguing characters — Mabel, Neville's nurse, who is kind and caring
despite her tough exterior; Max Gibson, Gabriel's old friend from university,
who has become a successful solicitor; and the enigmatic solicitor himself, who
seems to be hiding secrets.
Bartholomew expertly weaves faith, morality, and redemption
themes into this engaging narrative. Gabriel's struggle to come to terms with
his identity and purpose is mirrored in his interactions with those around him.
His relationships with Sarah and Neville are well-drawn, revealing the thrills
of family dynamics and the power of forgiveness. Bartholomew's writing is
descriptive and evocative, conjuring vivid images of suburban London and the
cultural settings of post-colonial Tobago. The plot is engaging and
unpredictable, with surprises around every corner. Angel in Tobago is a gorgeous novel spiced with humor, a page-turner with lovable
characters, and a setting that absorbs readers. It is an intelligently
accomplished literary fiction with an unforgettable hero and writing that feels
like music to the ears.