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Pegasus to Paradise
Based on a true story. Ted and Florrie were childhood sweethearts who in 1936, married at the church on top of the Hill where they both lived, unaware of the dark rumblings from Europe, which in a few short years were to change their lives forever. Ted is called up in 1940 and joins an elite Airborne glider force tasked with attacking, capturing and holding bridges in enemy-held Normandy vital to the success of the D-Day invasion. His war continues, across the bloody Rhine Crossing, across Germany until finally meeting the Russian Army on the Baltic. Casualties are terrible. Ted is demobbed and returns to Florrie and his young family unscathed or apparently so, for Florrie doesn't know the man who returns. Soon the constant horror of death and battle takes its toll on him and both have to struggle to understand and come to terms with a problem that could destroy them both in the buttoned-up society of the 1940s and 50s. Pegasus to Paradise is an ode to both the extraordinary efforts of ordinary men and women during WW2 and a social commentary of the lives of real people from the grey fifties with the horse-drawn baker's van and black footprints of the coalman to a society recovering from the devastation of war. A moving portrait of trauma, survival, humour and the power of love in post-war Britain.
364 pages, Paperback
First published June 6, 2013
3 people are currently reading
395 people want to read
About the author
Michael Tappenden
2books21followersMichael Tappenden attended Sir Joseph Williamson's Mathematical Grammar School in Kent, England, achieved post graduate qualifications, became a Member of the Chartered Society of Designers and Principal Lecturer at the University for the Creative Arts. In between he also worked within a gang of Irish labourers, dug potatoes and picked hops in the fields of Kent, worked as an assistant grave digger, a gardener, and joined the Parachute Regiment of the British Army (including a tour as part of the United Nations peacekeeping force in a civil war in Cyprus and time in the mystical deserts of the Middle East as well as involvement with the Veterans Charity) He also found time to practise as a graphic designer and to play the tenor sax with more passion than expertise and to drive very fast cars at Thruxton circuit. At the evergreen age of seventy one, he decided the time had come to write his debut novel 'Pegasus to Paradise.' The explanation for this robust CV, probably lay with his father, Ted Tappenden who, soon after midnight on June 6th 1944, landed by glider deep within enemy territory to capture what was to become known as Pegasus Bridge. The first Allied action of D-Day. His critically acclaimed novel looks at that action and at the mental damage caused by war to both the combatants and their families.
His second novel 'A Long Dark Rainbow' again looks at relationships but this time at the issues surrounding new relationships in later life (much later life) that are often seen as embarrassing or inconsequential but which can be enriching despite the possibility of dark secrets, the spectre of sex and determining the rules.
His second novel 'A Long Dark Rainbow' again looks at relationships but this time at the issues surrounding new relationships in later life (much later life) that are often seen as embarrassing or inconsequential but which can be enriching despite the possibility of dark secrets, the spectre of sex and determining the rules.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
May 3, 2015
This story is based on the life of Ted and Florrie Tappenden. It is a story of contrasts moving from the sentimental writings of a young couple falling in love to the breath taking drama of WW2. It tells the reader how this couple and their friends coped during and after the war.
This is a story of how people struggled but kept their fears and emotions hidden even from those closest to them. It tells us about love, commitment, duty, fun, family and friends.
The story is written with great depth and emotion. I came to love Ted and Florrie. The flamboyant Florrie and the conservative Ted, she was his spark as he was her calming influence.
I loved this book and my words can't really do it justice. This is a book everyone should read.
I would like to thank ŷ and Michael Tappenden for my copy of Pegasus to Paradise in exchange for an honest review.
This is a story of how people struggled but kept their fears and emotions hidden even from those closest to them. It tells us about love, commitment, duty, fun, family and friends.
The story is written with great depth and emotion. I came to love Ted and Florrie. The flamboyant Florrie and the conservative Ted, she was his spark as he was her calming influence.
I loved this book and my words can't really do it justice. This is a book everyone should read.
I would like to thank ŷ and Michael Tappenden for my copy of Pegasus to Paradise in exchange for an honest review.
July 3, 2020
This book was an honest, touching look at life in the time leading up to World War 2, and the experience of settling down again and trying to return to normal life.
At times it made me laugh out loud, but then within a page or two it would be making me cry. That's the mark of a good book.
The writing style was a pleasure to read, with a real turn of phrase and an ability to capture a scene and pick out the important parts. The characters within the story really came to life, with their own various stories.
At times it made me laugh out loud, but then within a page or two it would be making me cry. That's the mark of a good book.
The writing style was a pleasure to read, with a real turn of phrase and an ability to capture a scene and pick out the important parts. The characters within the story really came to life, with their own various stories.
July 12, 2020
This is based on a true story .. Its a book to make you laugh and cry, and enjoyable one. My first for this author, but not my last. Many thanks to TBC for allowing me to review the book
July 5, 2020
A novel, and also an important social document.
The author has chosen the difficult subject of mental health for his debut novel.
Written in a literary prose that conjures vivid images he traces the lives of Ted and Florrie from their childhood days on ‘The Hill� in Chatham, Kent, in the 1920’s, on to their marriage in the 1930’s and the war. It is the war and Ted’s witnessing the horrors of war that provokes the mental illness. He comes home sound in body, but flawed in mind. PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) was unknown to medical science in the 1940’s. ‘Get a hold on yourself. Be a man,� was the likely advice given to those suffering this ailment � and there were so many of them. In Ted’s case, he withdrew into himself and appeared to shut out Florrie and his family � and this adversely affects her mental health and causes problems for his sons. The book’s highlighting of the transference of PTSD through the family makes this an important social document.
I confess to running hot and cold with Pegasus to Paradise.
Ted joined the elite ‘D� company of the 2nd Battalion of the Oxf. And Bucks Light Infantry, training to be the first organised body of troops to land in Normandy on ‘D-Day, with one objective, the seizure of the bridges across the River Orne and the canal running parallel to it � Pegasus Bridge.
The book held my attention absolutely for the first forty per cent of its text. I applaud the historical accuracy with which he records the events of the action.
He mentions individual feats and events correctly, but does not name the people. He must have known their names and I am at a loss to know why he did not mention them- was this by design or omission? Major John Howard led the only independent company to land on D-Day. These bridges afford scant economic benefit to Normandy today, but then, they were the only roads and bridges across which German troops could travel to push back the invasion. Yet he is only mentioned as ‘The major.� The platoon commander of No 1 platoon killed leading his platoon into action, is described in the text. He was Lt. Den Brotheridge, the first allied soldier to be killed on D-Day and deserving of being named. The glider pilots who brought No 1 Horsa almost onto the steps of the Gondree café who were flung unconscious from their cockpit on landing, were Staff Sergeants Jim Wallwork and John Ainsworth. Such was their skill that day, that Air Vice Marshall Leigh –Mallory � officer in charge of allied air forces- praised their airborne landing as the ‘the greatest piece of flying of World war 2.� Jim Wallwork was awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal. The Oxf. And Bucks are not mentioned until the book is 85% read- and then by a taxi driver taking Ted to a reunion in Cowley.
I wanted to read the names of these remarkable people in Michael Tappenden’s text when he describes their actions- particularly so, because he is the son of Ted Tappenden, Major Howard’s wireless operator on the operation.
Yet, that said, the author is not writing a military history. He is writing about the after effects of the action on the mental health in subsequent years. Since the author tells us this is based on facts, it has to be on his family. But, without Pegasus Bridge and the horrors endured until the 51 remaining men of the original 160 who landed by glider were withdrawn from action, the mental condition in Ted that led to Florrie’s reaction and loss of her mental stability and eventual falling for Alzheimer’s disease and demise would not have been produced. Pegasus Bridge is, therefore, at the core of this book and the lack of the names of the regiment and the men whose actions are recorded in the book is, to me, a serious omission.
There are some extremely vibrant characters portrayed and my favourite was ‘Paddy� Kelegher, the allotmenteer.
In the latter 50% of the book I found my mind wandering onto other things and began skipping some of the more lengthy descriptions.
Did I like it? Not as much as I hoped I would. It is well written in a fluid, almost poetic prose. But, I took something away from the read that explained much to me, and for that I am most grateful. My own father came back from the war with PTSD. His reactions, when set-off, were always violent My mother and I trod carefully around dad, so as not to provoke a violent outburst. The root cause of her failed mental health is now explained. I would ordinarily give the story three stars, but due to its importance in illustrating PTSD in returning service men and women, and its long term effects on family members. I give it four.
The author has chosen the difficult subject of mental health for his debut novel.
Written in a literary prose that conjures vivid images he traces the lives of Ted and Florrie from their childhood days on ‘The Hill� in Chatham, Kent, in the 1920’s, on to their marriage in the 1930’s and the war. It is the war and Ted’s witnessing the horrors of war that provokes the mental illness. He comes home sound in body, but flawed in mind. PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) was unknown to medical science in the 1940’s. ‘Get a hold on yourself. Be a man,� was the likely advice given to those suffering this ailment � and there were so many of them. In Ted’s case, he withdrew into himself and appeared to shut out Florrie and his family � and this adversely affects her mental health and causes problems for his sons. The book’s highlighting of the transference of PTSD through the family makes this an important social document.
I confess to running hot and cold with Pegasus to Paradise.
Ted joined the elite ‘D� company of the 2nd Battalion of the Oxf. And Bucks Light Infantry, training to be the first organised body of troops to land in Normandy on ‘D-Day, with one objective, the seizure of the bridges across the River Orne and the canal running parallel to it � Pegasus Bridge.
The book held my attention absolutely for the first forty per cent of its text. I applaud the historical accuracy with which he records the events of the action.
He mentions individual feats and events correctly, but does not name the people. He must have known their names and I am at a loss to know why he did not mention them- was this by design or omission? Major John Howard led the only independent company to land on D-Day. These bridges afford scant economic benefit to Normandy today, but then, they were the only roads and bridges across which German troops could travel to push back the invasion. Yet he is only mentioned as ‘The major.� The platoon commander of No 1 platoon killed leading his platoon into action, is described in the text. He was Lt. Den Brotheridge, the first allied soldier to be killed on D-Day and deserving of being named. The glider pilots who brought No 1 Horsa almost onto the steps of the Gondree café who were flung unconscious from their cockpit on landing, were Staff Sergeants Jim Wallwork and John Ainsworth. Such was their skill that day, that Air Vice Marshall Leigh –Mallory � officer in charge of allied air forces- praised their airborne landing as the ‘the greatest piece of flying of World war 2.� Jim Wallwork was awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal. The Oxf. And Bucks are not mentioned until the book is 85% read- and then by a taxi driver taking Ted to a reunion in Cowley.
I wanted to read the names of these remarkable people in Michael Tappenden’s text when he describes their actions- particularly so, because he is the son of Ted Tappenden, Major Howard’s wireless operator on the operation.
Yet, that said, the author is not writing a military history. He is writing about the after effects of the action on the mental health in subsequent years. Since the author tells us this is based on facts, it has to be on his family. But, without Pegasus Bridge and the horrors endured until the 51 remaining men of the original 160 who landed by glider were withdrawn from action, the mental condition in Ted that led to Florrie’s reaction and loss of her mental stability and eventual falling for Alzheimer’s disease and demise would not have been produced. Pegasus Bridge is, therefore, at the core of this book and the lack of the names of the regiment and the men whose actions are recorded in the book is, to me, a serious omission.
There are some extremely vibrant characters portrayed and my favourite was ‘Paddy� Kelegher, the allotmenteer.
In the latter 50% of the book I found my mind wandering onto other things and began skipping some of the more lengthy descriptions.
Did I like it? Not as much as I hoped I would. It is well written in a fluid, almost poetic prose. But, I took something away from the read that explained much to me, and for that I am most grateful. My own father came back from the war with PTSD. His reactions, when set-off, were always violent My mother and I trod carefully around dad, so as not to provoke a violent outburst. The root cause of her failed mental health is now explained. I would ordinarily give the story three stars, but due to its importance in illustrating PTSD in returning service men and women, and its long term effects on family members. I give it four.
June 29, 2020
This is the life stories of Ted and Florrie Tappenden, how friendship as children grow to love, their lives pre-war 1939, during and after. It is at times sweet, funny and heart-breaking but the paths of so many others like them too.
The childhood sweethearts were to marry before Ted went to fight for his King and Country, returning periodically and fathering two sons with Florrie. When he came home he would never be the man that had gone to war in 1939.
There is an innocence about them right way through the book, the things that they both put up with because you just didn’t talk about some issues. Women were thought of as weak in so many ways, too delicate to bear a shared burden of what their men went through in the war. The men returning with PTSD but with no support or help, seen as a weakness because they were expected to man up and just get on with life.
When a neighbour opens up to Florrie she recognises all the problems she and Ted are having too, but too proud to admit them. Unable even to speak to each other. It is really sad, such a waste of their lives and how different it may have been.
The story follows them into old age and even more mental health issues and pride that stops Ted asking for help. This is a beautiful story about devotion and never giving up on each other.
I wish to thank Steven Hayward of Eden Park Publishing for an e-copy of this book which I have reviewed honestly.
The childhood sweethearts were to marry before Ted went to fight for his King and Country, returning periodically and fathering two sons with Florrie. When he came home he would never be the man that had gone to war in 1939.
There is an innocence about them right way through the book, the things that they both put up with because you just didn’t talk about some issues. Women were thought of as weak in so many ways, too delicate to bear a shared burden of what their men went through in the war. The men returning with PTSD but with no support or help, seen as a weakness because they were expected to man up and just get on with life.
When a neighbour opens up to Florrie she recognises all the problems she and Ted are having too, but too proud to admit them. Unable even to speak to each other. It is really sad, such a waste of their lives and how different it may have been.
The story follows them into old age and even more mental health issues and pride that stops Ted asking for help. This is a beautiful story about devotion and never giving up on each other.
I wish to thank Steven Hayward of Eden Park Publishing for an e-copy of this book which I have reviewed honestly.
June 20, 2020
This book had me totally engrossed from the very first to last page.The writing was wonderfully descriptive and the storyline superb. This is a book that is totally complete in every way, it has Joy and laughter and a fair share of tears and sorrow. The writer has done an amazing job and I look forward to reading more of his work. Thanks to TBC for giving me the opportunity to read this book. A huge 5*
July 15, 2020
A different read for me and I found it both compelling and sad.
The book follows the lives of Ted and Florrie from childhood, through their marriage and life together, to their deaths. They lived through WW2 and Ted was in the army, taking part in the successful capture of Pegasus Bridge which played an important role in limiting the effectiveness of a German counter-attack in the aftermath of the Normandy invasion, thus the title of the book.
Florrie gave birth to both of their sons during the war. But when Ted came back he had changed and although he still lived Florrie he was unable to talk about the war and his experiences and couldn’t show affection. Florrie found other things to fill her life and although they stayed together their lives weren’t happy ones.
The book was a really emotional read and I felt a great sadness for both Ted and Florrie. He clearly had PTSD but that would not have been recognised then and his personality change affected Florrie who was full of life which had to find other outlets other than her family. In her later years she appears to suffer from dementia and her sons have to move her to a home. I really wanted her to find peace at last. She had much of the joy of life she felt taken away from her and i didn’t feel she had the happiness she deserved. Sad.
The book follows the lives of Ted and Florrie from childhood, through their marriage and life together, to their deaths. They lived through WW2 and Ted was in the army, taking part in the successful capture of Pegasus Bridge which played an important role in limiting the effectiveness of a German counter-attack in the aftermath of the Normandy invasion, thus the title of the book.
Florrie gave birth to both of their sons during the war. But when Ted came back he had changed and although he still lived Florrie he was unable to talk about the war and his experiences and couldn’t show affection. Florrie found other things to fill her life and although they stayed together their lives weren’t happy ones.
The book was a really emotional read and I felt a great sadness for both Ted and Florrie. He clearly had PTSD but that would not have been recognised then and his personality change affected Florrie who was full of life which had to find other outlets other than her family. In her later years she appears to suffer from dementia and her sons have to move her to a home. I really wanted her to find peace at last. She had much of the joy of life she felt taken away from her and i didn’t feel she had the happiness she deserved. Sad.
July 6, 2020
At times dark and disturbing but frequently warm and humorous, Pegasus to Paradise is not simply a poignant family album of times past but a rich social history of 20th century England; a sensitive commentary on wartime stoicism and duty, and of post-war culture in the suburbs of south London and northern Kent; and an enlightening portrait of mental illness in its various forms, conditions now recognised and better understood as post traumatic stress disorder and bi-polar disorder.
The semi-fictional characters, sympathetically embellished versions of the author’s parents and their neighbours, come to life as we witness a story of promise and love through the ominous lens of 1930s tranquillity, of separation, survival and heroism during World War II, and of the war’s devastating legacy that festers behind the veneer of assumed obligation for the rest of their lives. The relentless cultural upheaval through the fifties and sixties provides the backdrop for many fabulously evocative vignettes of urban and rural life, illustrating the great strengths of duty, family and neighbourliness prevalent at the time: the big society that we are all so keen to get back to! But viewed through the soft focus of nostalgia, it’s easy to forget that such qualities tend to come to the fore through adversity and who would want to return to such times?
The central character fills the pages with her acts of eccentricity and fun, but behind the façade is a tormented soul who wants the world to stay as it was, for people to be pleasant and know their place within it. Wants to blot out the horrors and have back the young man she married before the devastating experiences of war brought home a different person. But if Florrie was always centre-stage, the place she always felt most happy, then her husband Ted was surely one of life’s great cheerleaders. Thrust unprepared, as any would be, into the limelight of wartime heroism that he just considered to be his duty, he was thereafter destined to take only a supporting role in the drama that was Florrie. But it is his story that adds the real weight to this novel � his unrelenting sense of duty, honour and loyalty that on one level overcame so much but on another suppressed and stifled so much more. Florrie was right to think that Ted left something behind when he came back from the war. He lost his potential and spent the rest of his life, often against his better judgement, trying to help his wife achieve hers.
The writing style is poetic, free flowing and vividly embroidered - often quite literally a feast for all the senses - at times sentimental and structurally unconventional. But then surely that’s the point of this novel isn’t it? Florrie wouldn’t have had it any other way! There is a diverse audience for this glimpse back into a better time and not just those of us who can (just vaguely) remember the cake van, the travelling knife sharpener, the horse-drawn rag and bone cart and the ghostly black footprints of the coalman down the garden path.
The semi-fictional characters, sympathetically embellished versions of the author’s parents and their neighbours, come to life as we witness a story of promise and love through the ominous lens of 1930s tranquillity, of separation, survival and heroism during World War II, and of the war’s devastating legacy that festers behind the veneer of assumed obligation for the rest of their lives. The relentless cultural upheaval through the fifties and sixties provides the backdrop for many fabulously evocative vignettes of urban and rural life, illustrating the great strengths of duty, family and neighbourliness prevalent at the time: the big society that we are all so keen to get back to! But viewed through the soft focus of nostalgia, it’s easy to forget that such qualities tend to come to the fore through adversity and who would want to return to such times?
The central character fills the pages with her acts of eccentricity and fun, but behind the façade is a tormented soul who wants the world to stay as it was, for people to be pleasant and know their place within it. Wants to blot out the horrors and have back the young man she married before the devastating experiences of war brought home a different person. But if Florrie was always centre-stage, the place she always felt most happy, then her husband Ted was surely one of life’s great cheerleaders. Thrust unprepared, as any would be, into the limelight of wartime heroism that he just considered to be his duty, he was thereafter destined to take only a supporting role in the drama that was Florrie. But it is his story that adds the real weight to this novel � his unrelenting sense of duty, honour and loyalty that on one level overcame so much but on another suppressed and stifled so much more. Florrie was right to think that Ted left something behind when he came back from the war. He lost his potential and spent the rest of his life, often against his better judgement, trying to help his wife achieve hers.
The writing style is poetic, free flowing and vividly embroidered - often quite literally a feast for all the senses - at times sentimental and structurally unconventional. But then surely that’s the point of this novel isn’t it? Florrie wouldn’t have had it any other way! There is a diverse audience for this glimpse back into a better time and not just those of us who can (just vaguely) remember the cake van, the travelling knife sharpener, the horse-drawn rag and bone cart and the ghostly black footprints of the coalman down the garden path.
November 23, 2014
I was particularly excited to read a book which is set mainly in my local area. There aren't that many around. Even though I was not born in Kent, I do feel very much settled here and couldn't image living anywhere else.
This is the story of Ted and Florrie. They are young couple when World War II breaks out. 2 sons are born during the war years, and Ted is of of the lucky ones who does return. But he is not the same Ted. Still, lives goes on and the couple will have to cope.
In the early chapters, the book tells us about Ted's war adventures. I am usually not one for war and battle descriptions but here, it is firstly necessary for the story, and I also found myself quickly getting into it and rooting for the boys. It does not get too technical and easy to read and understand what actually went on. Ted returns, but after the initial euphoria he finds he now faces a different world, very different from the battlefield where he exactly knew what to do: 'Just kill the enemy and stay alive'.
What I really enjoyed about this book is relationship of Ted and his wife Florrie. Both are very different persons, and Florrie is certainly a real character. In later chapters, Florrie and her passions in life take the centre stage. But Ted is always there. Typical of a man of his generation, he just gets on with it, even when it does get difficult and both are facing physical and psychological problems as they get older. It was a very moving read, and certainly made me think about how a couple copes when they get older, maybe if one if the partners is not any more as able as the other.
I also enjoyed that Ted's mates from his war years a re-visited in later chapters during a veteran's meeting.
This book was written by Ted's son as a memory to his dad. He certainly has the balance right between providing a very interesting story, personal details and wonderful memory for future generation. I think it was a very good decision from the author that he mainly sticks with Ted and Florrie's story only in this book (not too many details are given about other family members and friends though we do follow a few neighbours and close friends through the book). Apart from an interesting and moving read, I would also recommend this book for someone who would like to write down their family history as an alternative to the usual 'autobiography and family story'.
This is the story of Ted and Florrie. They are young couple when World War II breaks out. 2 sons are born during the war years, and Ted is of of the lucky ones who does return. But he is not the same Ted. Still, lives goes on and the couple will have to cope.
In the early chapters, the book tells us about Ted's war adventures. I am usually not one for war and battle descriptions but here, it is firstly necessary for the story, and I also found myself quickly getting into it and rooting for the boys. It does not get too technical and easy to read and understand what actually went on. Ted returns, but after the initial euphoria he finds he now faces a different world, very different from the battlefield where he exactly knew what to do: 'Just kill the enemy and stay alive'.
What I really enjoyed about this book is relationship of Ted and his wife Florrie. Both are very different persons, and Florrie is certainly a real character. In later chapters, Florrie and her passions in life take the centre stage. But Ted is always there. Typical of a man of his generation, he just gets on with it, even when it does get difficult and both are facing physical and psychological problems as they get older. It was a very moving read, and certainly made me think about how a couple copes when they get older, maybe if one if the partners is not any more as able as the other.
I also enjoyed that Ted's mates from his war years a re-visited in later chapters during a veteran's meeting.
This book was written by Ted's son as a memory to his dad. He certainly has the balance right between providing a very interesting story, personal details and wonderful memory for future generation. I think it was a very good decision from the author that he mainly sticks with Ted and Florrie's story only in this book (not too many details are given about other family members and friends though we do follow a few neighbours and close friends through the book). Apart from an interesting and moving read, I would also recommend this book for someone who would like to write down their family history as an alternative to the usual 'autobiography and family story'.
January 10, 2017
this from J. Michael Dolan, author of < The Trumpets of Jericho: A Tale of the Holocaust >
There is no faulting the plotting of Mr. Tappenden's Pegasus. Apart from its high human-interest appeal, it is ambitious in that it spans both war and post-war, leading the reader from the loud drama of the former into that of the quieter, if here, just as turbulent latter. One is borne by this plot as on a boat, effortlessly, without work, albeit across dark waters.
Manning this boat is a crew as well-chiseled as you'll find, both inside and out. So strong is the characterization, in fact, I found myself assigning the personae, even faces of people I know in real life to people in the novel. Florrie was my favorite, but then I've a weakness for strong women. The main character in my own The Trumpets of Jericho is female, though like Florrie, as much or more a warrior as any man in it.
I've a soft spot for love stories, too-- the truer to life the better-- and there's a roller-coaster ride of a one in Pegasus. Indeed, all the more to his credit (love stories, honest ones, aren't easy to get right, trust me), it's the foundation on which the author builds this book of his. As for how it plays out, no spoiler alert here, except to say there's an emotional intensity to it that makes the physical pale in comparison.
Now for why I chose to write this review. The above is all well and good, and more than workmanlike, but what attracted me most to Pegasus was its style. To call it distinctive isn't enough-- try innovative on for size. If I had to describe it in one word, that word would be exuberant, a style its creator had to reach way down inside himself to find. Maybe too far down, for it does at times border on the excessive, especially in the adjective department. But then, of course, the question becomes, Is exuberance possible without a little excess? Or more incisively perhaps, Is there a difference between the two?
Suffice it to say there is poetry in Tappenden's prose, hardly that of his erstwhile Welsh neighbor to the west, Dylan Thomas, but close enough for me.
There is no faulting the plotting of Mr. Tappenden's Pegasus. Apart from its high human-interest appeal, it is ambitious in that it spans both war and post-war, leading the reader from the loud drama of the former into that of the quieter, if here, just as turbulent latter. One is borne by this plot as on a boat, effortlessly, without work, albeit across dark waters.
Manning this boat is a crew as well-chiseled as you'll find, both inside and out. So strong is the characterization, in fact, I found myself assigning the personae, even faces of people I know in real life to people in the novel. Florrie was my favorite, but then I've a weakness for strong women. The main character in my own The Trumpets of Jericho is female, though like Florrie, as much or more a warrior as any man in it.
I've a soft spot for love stories, too-- the truer to life the better-- and there's a roller-coaster ride of a one in Pegasus. Indeed, all the more to his credit (love stories, honest ones, aren't easy to get right, trust me), it's the foundation on which the author builds this book of his. As for how it plays out, no spoiler alert here, except to say there's an emotional intensity to it that makes the physical pale in comparison.
Now for why I chose to write this review. The above is all well and good, and more than workmanlike, but what attracted me most to Pegasus was its style. To call it distinctive isn't enough-- try innovative on for size. If I had to describe it in one word, that word would be exuberant, a style its creator had to reach way down inside himself to find. Maybe too far down, for it does at times border on the excessive, especially in the adjective department. But then, of course, the question becomes, Is exuberance possible without a little excess? Or more incisively perhaps, Is there a difference between the two?
Suffice it to say there is poetry in Tappenden's prose, hardly that of his erstwhile Welsh neighbor to the west, Dylan Thomas, but close enough for me.
February 4, 2016
This book has a lot of quality to it. I enjoyed it all throughout. Florrie is a very interesting character who is always determined to find a light despite the hardships. She is the type of person who never gives up, and sometimes reacts to problems in a hearty manner. I really liked her character. She encounters many interesting characters throughout the story, however the most interesting of them all is Ted. She meets Ted a few times, and they share numerous memories together, slowly getting closer and closer. They share laughs and smiles, and with time, they get married. The marriage ceremony is definitely such a beautiful sight, and is described and articulated beautifully by the author.
Ted is a man who had returned from the horrors of World War II, and slowly tries to adjust to the domestic life. He encounters trouble doing so, despite the fact that he is known as a hero. However, these scars and wounds are eventually healed and mended with his connection to Florrie, the love of his life. They share differences in the character which are quite interesting. Florrie has the strength and charisma of a boy while Ted is somewhat shy and reserved. At some point he wished that he could be as brave as Florrie. In short, they are truly an interesting couple!
Through the story, there are many hardships, yet the characters see it through with strength and perseverance. This is a story to share. I highly enjoyed it, and I recommend it to anyone looking for a loving and beautiful read.
Ted is a man who had returned from the horrors of World War II, and slowly tries to adjust to the domestic life. He encounters trouble doing so, despite the fact that he is known as a hero. However, these scars and wounds are eventually healed and mended with his connection to Florrie, the love of his life. They share differences in the character which are quite interesting. Florrie has the strength and charisma of a boy while Ted is somewhat shy and reserved. At some point he wished that he could be as brave as Florrie. In short, they are truly an interesting couple!
Through the story, there are many hardships, yet the characters see it through with strength and perseverance. This is a story to share. I highly enjoyed it, and I recommend it to anyone looking for a loving and beautiful read.
October 1, 2021
A fictionalised memoir of the author's parents. Ted Tappenden was the radio operator who sent the 'Ham and Jam' message reporting the capture of the bridges outside Caen in the 'Pegasus' operation, the first in the allied invasion of Normandy on D-Day. Like many men after the war, he suffered from his memories. Florrie, his wife, was a feisty individual who probably suffered from bipolar syndrome. Much of the book is taken up with the strains imposed on the marriage by these two psychologically damaged individuals.
The trouble with memoirs is that they deal with what happened and struggle to conform to the conventions of a novel; for example, the pacing may be uneven and the cast of characters may become unwieldy. But in this book the author has selected incidents which enable the characters to develop in all their real-life complexity. There are some wonderfully detailed descriptions - a strength of the author - which both add depth and advance the story. And, of course, there is incredible verisimilitude.
All of human life seems to be here. Not only is there the thrilling wartime exploits of Ted but also the frustrations of peacetime. Florrie gets involved in cub scouts, in charity concerts and in an allotment. There is the difficulty of communication between two people even when they are deeply in love. There is a wedding and a funeral, and the slow, sad decline into old age that those of us who do not die too early must face. All is told with love and respect. And, often, humour.
A beautifully written family saga.
The trouble with memoirs is that they deal with what happened and struggle to conform to the conventions of a novel; for example, the pacing may be uneven and the cast of characters may become unwieldy. But in this book the author has selected incidents which enable the characters to develop in all their real-life complexity. There are some wonderfully detailed descriptions - a strength of the author - which both add depth and advance the story. And, of course, there is incredible verisimilitude.
All of human life seems to be here. Not only is there the thrilling wartime exploits of Ted but also the frustrations of peacetime. Florrie gets involved in cub scouts, in charity concerts and in an allotment. There is the difficulty of communication between two people even when they are deeply in love. There is a wedding and a funeral, and the slow, sad decline into old age that those of us who do not die too early must face. All is told with love and respect. And, often, humour.
A beautifully written family saga.
October 3, 2020
A beautifully written book. Incredibly done so that you invest a huge amount of emotion into the story - sometimes funny and sometimes downright sad, but a great read and highly recommend. This is definitely a book I’d want to put in my “read again� piles
February 19, 2018
What a good read...
I have always had a liking for stories based on " ordinary " lives ...."Larkrise To Candleford" " Cider with Rosie" and all the " Little House" books of Laura Ingalls Wilder....to me they are fascinating and inspiring...
This is another book about people who while not kings or explorers or film stars led lives full of variety,happy,sad,amazing, heartbreaking,amusing...
As everyone has said two main characters,very different but lovingly drawn ,we live with them through their thoughts and feelings, suffer or rejoice....
To me there are three different sections and tones...first childhood and young adulthood, finding love and braving the war...
Second ,a light hearted period of most enjoyment centred on the doings of Florrie as seen by her sons ..this part really reminded me of Cider With Rosie, as Laurie Lee's mother, was also seen by some as rather eccentric...
Third old age...this part haunted me, and Ted's feelings in particular are so well written I am sure they come from the heart....or are brilliantly imagined as they were so real and raw.
Finally my Dad also read this book,he will not write a review as he says he is a scientist and does not know how...told him I don't either! ...but he agreed with me in the main,said it brought back memories of the war and after ,and summed up by simply calling it " Remarkable"
I have always had a liking for stories based on " ordinary " lives ...."Larkrise To Candleford" " Cider with Rosie" and all the " Little House" books of Laura Ingalls Wilder....to me they are fascinating and inspiring...
This is another book about people who while not kings or explorers or film stars led lives full of variety,happy,sad,amazing, heartbreaking,amusing...
As everyone has said two main characters,very different but lovingly drawn ,we live with them through their thoughts and feelings, suffer or rejoice....
To me there are three different sections and tones...first childhood and young adulthood, finding love and braving the war...
Second ,a light hearted period of most enjoyment centred on the doings of Florrie as seen by her sons ..this part really reminded me of Cider With Rosie, as Laurie Lee's mother, was also seen by some as rather eccentric...
Third old age...this part haunted me, and Ted's feelings in particular are so well written I am sure they come from the heart....or are brilliantly imagined as they were so real and raw.
Finally my Dad also read this book,he will not write a review as he says he is a scientist and does not know how...told him I don't either! ...but he agreed with me in the main,said it brought back memories of the war and after ,and summed up by simply calling it " Remarkable"
January 22, 2018
Won in the ŷ Giveaways
April 11, 2018
Interesting and very readable, great characters
August 27, 2016
This is an excellent book that captured my attention from the beginning, pulled me in, and never once let go- quite a feat considering how long it is! But I enjoyed every page. Each scene was engaging, imaginative, and flowed smoothly from one to the next� never a “dull part� where you get bored or want to skip ahead� in fact almost the opposite with the various interweaving plotlines and going from one character and event to the next. The descriptions were very strong, and I mean with the author’s word choice� unique and powerful, and with the conversations with the characters. Because of the literary style of the alternating chapter perspectives, I felt like I was genuinely inside the characters� heads experiencing their version of the world through their eyes, for better or worse. I suspect this may be a one-shot deal from Michael Tappenden based on the subject matter (real people from his family after WWII), but I hope not. I would love to read more from him in the future as he has a natural gift for creating a well-thought out story and bringing memorable characters to life in a profound and impactful way.
September 2, 2015
"Pegasus to Paradise is a poignant and moving book written in a lovely, sensitive style. Michael Tappenden is honest and sympathetic in his portrayal of Ted and Florrie, who fall in near-idyllic love pre-WWII but encounter emotional and psychological struggles living together in a post-war world. Despite the seeming broody, angsty nature of the above summary, Tappenden’s book is filled with lively relationships, friends, fun, and humor to offset the thread of melancholy present throughout. Ted and Florrie’s story is a tale of commitment and survival, not in a melodramatic fashion, but the gradual development of a 60+ year marriage. Clearly the book is very well-researched without the details becoming intrusive, instead creating a fully immersive reading experience. Highly recommended."
January 9, 2015
This is a wonderfully told story about life and love during WWII and the years following. It follows one young couple from the time they meet through their marriage and the births of their children and grandchildren. A poignant look at the bravery and heroics of both the infantrymen on the front lines and their loved ones back at home.
A beautifully woven tale of love, family, and commitment...all the things worth fighting for. Very well written and definitely one I highly recommend.
November 10, 2014
Beautiful story that holds you spellbound from start to finish. Written in a clear narrative one cannot help but become attached to the characters. I will be looking out for more books from this author.
March 17, 2014
Pretty though reading.not easy to get through!
January 5, 2014
Loved this story of a couple's life during and after WW2. In some parts serious in others humorous but showing us all that duty is foremost.
A pleasure to read.
A pleasure to read.
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