Book Review: An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge by Ambrose Bierce

 

Title: An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge

By: Ambrose Bierce

Genre: Historical Fiction

Pages: 36

Release Date: January 1st, 1890

Publisher: St. Petersburg

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:

The condemned man stands on a bridge, his hands bound behind his back. A noose is tied around his neck. In a moment he will meet his fate: DEATH BY HANGING. There is no escape. Or is there? Find out in . . . An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge.

 

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Review:

In the blink of any eye... This story unfolds in a flash. What could happen, or not happen within the seconds before death.

I could almost feel the deep breaths of the main character Peyton Farquhar as the rope was lowered over his head. The panic and the desperation. It sucked me into this mans story.


Most the action took place on or near the bridge, painting a picture of rushing water below and the wild sound of a roaring tyrant lapping at the rocks. It was easy to picture the scene unfolding in my mind. It wasn't until the end that I realized not all was as it seems. And BOOM! Just like that, the story ended.

 

Favorite Quote:

“Death is a dignitary who when he comes announced is to be received with formal manifestations of respect, even by those most familiar with him. In the code of military etiquette silence and fixity are forms of deference.”


I gave this read a 4 out of 5 stars for that rousing ending. I'm not going to give away the surprise, but just know this short book is worth the read for that twist.

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