Book Review: Slow Waltz in Ceder Bend by Robert James Waller

Yasmine Sami 


As far as romantic novels go, this book would definitely fall under that category. I know I'm reviewing a rather old book but personally I review what I want regardless of whether it is current or not. 

The book is beautifully well written and while the plot is predictable you don't seem to care because the writer's use of diction is perfect, pulling the reader into the essence of the novel. 

The writers ability to draw a stark contrast between India and Ceder Bend, Iowa is essentially how the writer builds the plot of the novel.  Ceder Bend, Iowa representing the protagonist Michael Tillman. A man stuck in his ways, who perceives himself as someone who is above it all but in reality he has never really lived, in the true sense of living. What is that true sense, I am referring to? True sense is what we now day consider YOLO (You Only Live Once). I am not talking about the idea of getting drunk, partying and the like, when I say YOLO I referring to the idea of taking real chances in life, risking everything for a dream that could change the rest of your life. The YOLO that walks into Michael Tillman's life comes in the form of Jellie Braden, who awakens him from his non-existent life and jolts him into doing what he has always wanted to do. Like a breath of fresh air, she pushes him to his brink and as you read, you are well aware that he is a man in love, with someone who he can't have. 

At first you believe he only wants what he can't have but when Jellie Braden leaves to go to India for unknown readers Michael Tillman goes after her to find her. The fact that her husband doesn't go after her, is meant to draw a comparison between both man and allow readers to see who really deserves Jellie Braden. She is a women who represents everything Michael Tillman has ever wanted but she also represents everything that is India. She is the exotic, just as India is and her presence in his life brings the exotic into his life. 

As I have mentioned before the plot is predictable, so like any romantic novel the author doesn't want to disappoint his audience so they must end up together but it is the twist at the end of the novel that takes readers by surprise. This in my opinion is the perfect summer read at the beach or for a cozy night alone in front of the fire place because it gives you a sense of comfort when you close the last few pages of the book. 

Number of pages: 197