On the Precipice of the Labyrinth

By: Brian Snowden
Publication Date: January 21, 2022
ISBN: 979-8885250979
Reviewed by: Lily Andrews
Review Date: February 6, 2025

Brian Snowden's historical fiction work On the Precipice of the Labyrinth is an inspiring and educational story about a Spanish teacher and writer's passion and resolve to visit a high-risk country.

With little money, William Benning found himself hitchhiking from Charlottesville to Washington, D.C., and then to New York, from where he planned to travel to Spain. Talking with one of his father's university colleagues piqued his curiosity in traveling to Spain. The latter was a professor of international relations who had been studying Spain and Italy, as well as the rise of radical politics influenced by the Russian revolution. At the time of William’s trip, Spain was going through a very turbulent political period, and his father believed that he was entering into that adventure blindly and so it would not be prudent for him to go. Nevertheless, William yearned to witness the scenario firsthand and contribute to the country's recovery. He just had no idea how to do so.

With mixed thoughts and doubts about the prudence of his decision, William landed in Spain without a well-thought-out strategy for what he was going to accomplish, wondering if his grasp of the Spanish language would be enough. Nevertheless, he would soon understand the extent of the emotions when someone suggested that he was an agitator attempting to interfere in Spain's affairs, since no tourists were expected to be traveling there. Things would get even more perplexing for him when he witnessed a double murder, and for a man whose ambition to explore the country rose above all other considerations, this was an occurrence he never anticipated.

This is a story of bravery, unwavering resolve, powerful willingness, and great mental fortitude. Looking at the sequence of events, one can surely concur that "where there is a will, there is a way," which is incredibly inspiring. The story is elevated above the typical adventure tales by the choices made by a character who has an unquenchable burning desire to visit a hostile nation. His results remarkably confirm the power of positive as he exposes the actual situation in contrast to the people's perceptions of their own nation.

Reading this wonderfully told narrative transports you to the heart of Spain, where its varied cultures, weather, cuisine, and other events are vividly described. Readers are kept on the edge of their seats throughout the novel as they anticipate specific expectations that have been set by the supporting characters. With a hint of romance that challenges long-held positions and convictions, this novel evokes a wide range of feelings in readers and encourages reflection on what they should truly value.

Quill says: On the Precipice of the Labyrinth is a moving story that combines several literary themes, including a political dilemma—where some citizens desire to return to the heyday of having a monarch, while others want to bring the nation back to the twentieth century. It makes readers want to explore and pursue their ambitions while weighing the potential consequences of doing actions that are strongly discouraged.

For more information about On the Precipice of the Labyrinth, please visit the author's website at: www.brianfsnowden.com

Author Interview