Menu

The Perpetual Now

Category: Fiction - Literary
Author: Jerome Bourgault
Publisher: Tellwell Talent
Publication Date: March 13, 2020
Number of Pages: 419
ISBN-13: 978-0-2288-2283-7

The Perpetual Now by Jerome J. Bourgault is a tale of murder with the setting in a small town full of dark secrets. Set in Ferguston, Ontario, the narrative follows a set of interesting characters. Twelve-year-old Justin Lambert is a bi-racial kid who prefers to keep to himself or immerse himself in books instead of being open to other people. He has developed a strong connection with Billie, the feisty and articulate girl. Justin lost his mother 10 years ago and David Raymond has been the prime suspect, even if the thug still walks the streets unperturbed. Now, when Justin and his father uncover evidence that might lead to the re-opening of the cold case, Raymond learns about it and his anger is piqued. Raymond is a dangerous person and just the fact that he knows about the new evidence already puts Justin’s life in danger. However, Billie has her own plans, but how much of what she plans is designed to help Justin?

This is a tale of a small town. The setting is well-written and it feels like a character in the story; the author offers a clear picture of a small town with its own secrets. The portrait of this town is beautifully painted and the author ensures that the imagination of the reader is aroused as they navigate the contours of this city. The story doesn’t fail in steeping readers in a world of mystery, a plot contains a compelling premise that features murder, and characters that are unforgettable. The bi-racial adolescent, Justin, is well-imagined and written with superior skill. While this story is infused with suspense and mystery, it doesn’t lack the humanity and realism that elevate the quality of good storytelling. This tale is at turns intriguing and unbearably sad, following the journey of a young protagonist who tries to understand the world he lives in while grappling with the mystery of his mother’s disappearance.  The emotional impact of The Perpetual Now is visceral and the author’s exploration of the psyche of the characters, the expert handling of themes of friendship, murder, and family, and the dazzling prose become elements that establish the strength of this tale. 

 

Reviewed By: Matthew Novak

|

Date: February 4, 2022

Featured

Weekly Top Picks

Hand-picked reviews our authors and readers are loving right now

The Book Commentary

The Read Down

Essays, author interviews and publishing advice for curious readers and writers.

How to Spot Trends in Popular Books Without Chasing Them
How to Spot Trends in Popular Books Without Chasing Them
Bestsellers

How to Spot Trends in Popular Books Without Chasing Them

By Romuald Dzemo  · 

For avid readers, being aware of these trends can enhance your reading experience, broaden your horizons, and, let’s be honest, help you sound like a literary genius at your next book club meeting.

Read the article →
Author Sanjay Sabnani Talks About the Power of Discomfort: Turning Pressure into Action, Learning to Receive, and Finding Peace Beyond Striving
Author Sanjay Sabnani Talks About the Power of Discomfort: Turning Pressure into Action, Learning to Receive, and Finding Peace Beyond Striving
Author Interviews Aug 10, 2026

Author Sanjay Sabnani Talks About the Power of Discomfort: Turning Pressure into Action, Learning to Receive, and Finding Peace Beyond Striving

By Sanjay Sabnani

Discover why your brain sabotages success and how to rewire your identity in this ActualizationOS interview on stillness, self-sabotage, and lasting change.

Read the article →