|
Imperfect Acts
Imperfect Acts draws a middle-class family into a torrent of moral conflict, family upheaval, and murder Teenager Jason wants to become a priest, but is also in love with Cari, the girl next door. His almost idyllic existence disintegrates when his father witnesses a murder. Jason begins to question his beliefs and is most disturbed when Cari’s life may be threatened. What can he do when his faith and his sense of justice collide? The novel paints a dark canvas as it questions our concepts of right and wrong. It also portrays a rich tapestry of courage, loyalty, and the sustaining value of love. |
“Imperfect Acts by Peter Shianna is a profound yet fast-paced and gripping novel evocative of the classics of modern literature, including Theodore Dreiser’s An American Tragedy and Graham Greene’s A Burnt-Out Case. Shianna masterfully interweaves the themes of young love, evil, religious faith, and insanity. This superbly crafted novel is a must read for anyone interested in the best new American fiction.”
Malcolm McConnell, New York Times number-one bestselling author of American Soldier
“A young man of faith accepts good and evil as opposing intellectual principles until tragedy turns philosophical debate into a crucible. In that crucible he discovers that his faith requires action while his religion demands a passivity he cannot accept.”
Sarah Nell Sanders, Ph.D.
"Imperfect Acts is a most unusual and fascinatingly thought-provoking novel that defies genre assignment. Teenage Jason enjoys a normal, happy existence--an almost idyllic father/son relationship, a love for Cari, the teen next door, and a loving mother.... When his father witnesses a murder about which he is unable to act appropriately, Jason's world begins to come apart. Ensuing activities and circumstances [including] a threat to Cari's life, lead him to actions that compound his already deeply disturbing questions about the depth and direction of his beliefs.... Imperfect Acts delivers cogent and compelling arguments with respect to a number of subjects that will provide the thoughtful reader with many hours of reflective assessment."
Manhold Reviews
"The results of a man witnessing a brutal murder would make for a great mystery plot, but Peter Shianna has given his readers so much more in this short, fast-moving book. The hero is a boy who has sworn to become a Catholic priest but must confront all of his beliefs and ideals.
"Everything is open to question, and that is what makes this economically written book so fascinating. Not only has Mr. Shianna crafted a well thought-out plot and a terrifying resolution, he has also raised questions that even us non-Catholics must face at some point in our lives, questions about what we would do if those we love are threatened by others.... Some may not be satisfied with his answers, but after all aren't we all imperfects acts? I thoroughly enjoyed this book and believe most readers will too. I do warn you that some will not enjoy the necessary violence, but this book is for thinking adults, not children."
Mark Newhouse, Host of Author's Beat
“Life in a typical Midwestern town takes a sudden turn that leaves a path of ambiguity, confusion, anger, betrayal and broken trust. This book will take you to a place in your soul where you cannot stop pondering the questions that arise. It is not your typical mystery. It is a deeply spiritual reflection on the meaning of life and love. Don’t miss it!'
M.E.G.
“I started and finished this book on a Saturday. I’ve always been an avid reader and it’s not unusual for me to finish 200 pages in one sitting. Books are “good” in my opinion if they contain three elements: a well turned phrase (there were many), descriptive language, and the most important element, the ability to say, “Man, I never saw that coming!” And, in this book, I never did! Bravo."
Chris Krueger
- |Home|
