Affliction

By: Russell Banks

Narrated by: Richard Ferrone

""Banks has taken on a profound theme, the ruinous and awful affliction of violence that seems to live like a secret blood-disease handed down in men like Wade. . . . He turns it into a living art that can bring recognition and awe."" — Los Angeles Book Review

""A masterwork of contemporary American fiction"" (Chicago Tribune) from one of the most acclaimed and important writers of our time

Wade Whitehouse is an improbable protagonist for a tragedy. A well-digger and policeman in a bleak New Hampshire town, he is a former high-school star gone to beer fat, a loner with a mean streak. It is a mark of Russell Banks's artistry and understanding that Wade comes to loom in one's mind as a blue-collar American Everyman afflicted by the dark secret of the macho tradition. Told by his articulate, equally scarred younger brother, Wade's story becomes as spellbinding and inexorable as a fuse burning its way to the dynamite.

Brilliant prose

Such good writing. You really get to know the characters and feel transported to Wade's small town.

Really good listen

Really good listen. I do not find many I enjoy, this book kept my attention.

The Enigma of Human Life

Great book! A wonderful account of toxic masculinity and venomous machismo running through the veins of the typical American everyman, which is to say America itself. Wonderful story that rings true with every word. Glad to have finally read it! Definitely recommend. 4/4

Beautiful writing and excellent voice artistry.

Mesmerizing tale. Hauntingly beautiful and compelling. Well characterized by author and voice artist. Brilliant story.

Intense family drama

The story was a psychological, small town family, community drama. Main anti-hero character was multi faceted, likeable but with deep childhood scars. Now, middle aged and having to care for him abuser elderly father...
Narration was fantastic!