Kathryn in FL's Reviews > Circling the Sun

This novel is a fictionalized account of a remarkable woman, Beryl Markham, who lived in the early part of the 20th Century in Kenya as a horse trainer. The story is very captivating and maintains a solid pace throughout. Though I read this a couple of years ago, I thoroughly enjoyed it and it remains somewhat clear in my memory (I have recall issues from a Traumatic Brain Injury 9 years ago). So, it made a very positive impression!

I had read Beryl Markham's, autobiography/memoir prior to this publication's release and McLain obviously relied upon it as her framework on which the novel was built. Throughout this story, the novel stays focused on the actions of the key men in Beryl's life. She grew up on a horse farm and horses, dogs and wildlife were all very integral to her lifestyle. She even worked on Safari, guiding visiting game hunters to elephants. She would have probably been described by peers as very spirited and full of joie de vivre.

While she was popular in some ways (she was a business woman as well), she was also not highly regarded by some because she "didn't know her place" and she was far more adventurous than many of her contemporaries. Thus, to some men, she was very appealing, which in turn made other women insecure, particularly where their husbands or beaus were concerned. They had a right to be worried, as she was married three times and often had affairs. Even in the 1920's, her behavior was a bit extreme.

This story was exceptional and McLain did Ms. Markham's larger than life persona justice. I have no reservation in recommending this book. For me, McLain's work has been hit or miss. This definitely stands out as a book that you don't want to pass up.