I heard about Pale Truth by Daniel Alef through the grapevine while at a conference in San Francisco a couple weekends ago. I didn't think I had the time to fit recreational reading into my busy schedule but, as the cliche goes, from the moment I picked it, I couldn't put the novel back down. Alef describes the struggle of three incredible individuals striving against all odds to succeed in the cut-throat world of early California. Mary Ellen is a cunning woman who joins her lover to establish financial, political,and social power in San Francisco. As she endures everything from the fires that demolished lives to financial wars to relationship drama, the novel's main male characters engage in battles of their own. Both will stop at nothing to gain political power. However, no matter how hard each try to escape it, they are continually reminded of their painful, controversial, and dangerous pasts. Alef's vivid description and clever plot twists combine with history to tell a story true to both human desire and California's youth. Another unique detail is that his novel contains beautiful illustrations that gave me just the taste of visual enhancement needed. They are actual pieces from libraries and other collections throughout the nation. Not to mention, you should see the cover. My only complaint is that the ending left me a bit unsettled and I hate having to wait around for sequels. Enjoy!

I bought Pale Truth because of Dr. Fracchia's review in the Nob Hill Gazette. I'm glad I did. Pale Truth is a memorable and joyful story of early California and San Francisco. The characters are wonderful and, I understand, based on real people. Now, as I drive through San Francisco the streets names come alive. I may be prejudiced -- I love San Francisco -- but I've got to say that I challenge anyone to come up with a more fascinating history for a city. This novel is great, an easy read, and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys the kind of book that occupies all your attention.

A great book from cover to cover. I read a review about it in the American Library Association's Booklist and decided to get the novel. Pale Truth is one of the best books I have read in some time. Alef really develops his characters. They are not two-dimensional. He has a good grasp of hooking the reader from chapter to chapter. And the setting of the story in San Francisco in the gold rush era is nothing short of amazing. It's hard to imagine all the remarkable things that took place, the vigilantes, the Hounds, the political corruption, and the flow of inconceivable wealth. Alef really blurs the line between fiction and history, but the Afterword gives some clarification. I love a novel with illustrations, and Pale Truth has great ones. My only complaint: lack of sleep because I couldn't put the book down. Can't wait for the sequels.