THE LAST MOON
ReaderTestimonies
A riveting read. The Last Moon is a novel set against the 1902 eruption of Mount Peleé on the West Indies island of Martinique that resulted in the death of some thirty thousand people and the seaport town of St. Pierre consumed by fire - an impressive historical novel, author DeAnn Lubell has paid careful attention to detail and accuracy with respect to historical facts including the Creole language spoken there, the culture, lifestyles, geography, and the geological phenomena that occur with respect to the eruption of a volcano. Deftly written from beginning to end. The Last Moon is very highly recommended for community library historical fiction collection. Midwest Book Review
The Last Moon is a fascinating story that will make you long to have seen St Pierre, Martinique before the devastating volcanic eruption of 1902. You will have a vivid picture of this exotic island and an intimate relationship with the Chevalier family by the time you finish the book. I highly recommend this beautifully written work of historical fiction that delivers drama, a coming of age story, political scandal, and a sense of how day to day life was in a different time and place than many of us are accustomed. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Gwen Ramstead Heredia- Borders General Manager
The authenticity with which DeAnn Lubell fictionalizes the actual events in her novel The Last Moon gives the reader the sense of being an eyewitness to historical events. The manner in which she captures the real character of the people, their struggles, the political intrigues and betrayals makes this a truly riveting dramatic read with the added bonus of all the history and culture…You can’t come away from this book without feeling this is an author passionate about her story. Andrew Neiderman, the international best-selling author of: The Dark, The Devil’s Advocate, In Double Jeopardy, The Curse, and The Magic Bullet to name a few, as well as the highly acclaimed writer of the V.C. Andrews series
Having been born in the French West Indies and the niece of the island’s mayor, I found DeAnn Lubell’s gripping tale of Martinique’s mysterious characters and intriguing, eruptive society most compelling. Not unlike what I at times experienced as a child in the islands, such as the undertow of social racism and the overflow of selfish hypocrisies, the political power struggle between blacks and whites, and then again, between those of island birth versus the newcomers, all very familiar, yet told here with new spice. This story brought to surface a well of vivid memories and information passed onto me during my youth by my elders, black and white alike. A road taken, a sight described, a food eaten, a mood felt through DeAnn’s descriptions took me back on a well-known journey through my own past while still enticing me onward with its intricate plot and building mood of doom to come. Albeit we know, through recorded history, of the story’s inevitable outcome—the eruption and devastation of the Mont Pelée volcano—we are, none-the-less, swept on into the story, transported especially by the vivid characters. The Last Moon is a delightful novel told by an artful storyteller, DeAnn Lubell. Once started, it is a compelling read.” Tish Martinson, French West Indies born and raised, and the Author of: The Last Lover
In The Last Moon, DeAnn Lubell has captured a sense of place and time and imbued it with characters that are good and evil and all shades in between. The reader may not know how many of her characters are based on real people, but one suspects it's more than one suspects. That makes the book an even more pleasurable read. There's also gritty realism. I would love to see this book adapted as a movie. Meanwhile, we have the written word in which Lubell reminds us of the cause-and-effect (both in nature and human form) extending well beyond the ash and lava of the volcano. When I finished reading this book, I felt that I had been educated as well as entertained. Janice Kleinschmidt (aka Jan St. Louis), Deputy Editor Palm Springs Life Magazine and Author of the novel: Earth the Musical
The Last Moon, DeAnn Lubell’s historical novel The Last Moon grips you from the moment you open the book. I finished it in one day because I couldn’t put it down. Little known facts leading to the devastation of St. Pierre, Martinique from the 1902 volcanic eruption of Mt. Pelee, is in itself dynamic reading material. To this add the author’s carefully drawn and researched description of the era, the land, its people, and lifestyles including betrayals, racism, and family entanglements - and you have a searing story filled with intrigue and romance. Authenticity and an understanding of the physical and emotional backgrounds of the people of the West Indies at the turn of the Century flavor every page. Amazing story - beautifully written. Gloria Greer, Palm Springs Life Society Editor and Conversations with Gloria Greer Television Show and Classic Conversations & Exploring the Arts KVCR TV PBS
Once I started reading The Last Moon, I couldn’t put it down, it is riveting. I was completely carried away to another place and another time. DeAnn tells the story so vividly that I felt I was there. The character development was so thorough and the tapestry into which they were woven was intricate and entertaining. That this was based on historical facts made it even more intriguing. I’ve given it to several friends to read already. Denise Dubarry Hays, Entrepreneur, Film Producer, and Television Actress
DeAnn Lubell's historic novel The Last Moonperfectly transports the reader to the French Caribbean island of Martinique in 1902. Plantation life on the island, with its heady mix of passionflowers and bougainvillea, the sounds of Creole-accented French and the pungent scents of garlic and burnt sugar, which all mark the blurring of racial and class lines, is alluring in a land so removed from the social restraints of the mother country. Lubell's endlessly resourceful and beautiful mixed-race heroine struggles admirably throughout the story with her hatred-filled half-brother. But the fully-rendered characters in local government, businesses and the church are likewise fascinating, many exhibiting extraordinary courage as well as a dismaying measure of greed and fear. All the while, a time bomb is ticking; Mt. Pelee will become one of the most deadly volcanic blowouts in recorded history. It is the Western Hemisphere's Pompeii. I couldn't put it down. Carla Breer Howard, Editor of: Desert Sun Desert Magazine and Palm Desert Style Palm Springs
As a journalist myself, I'm eager to commend you on a historic event/story well told. From the first word to the last, The Last Moon tells a tale of love, resentment, innocence and the hardships of many in that era. Numerous times I found myself on the island with the characters trying to decide should I stay or should I leave. DeAnn Lubell’s description of the characters brought each one to life, and the dialogue was fast, captivating and exciting. I thoroughly enjoyed The Last Moon, but must admit I'll be reading this book again. Why? Because I want to be certain I didn't miss even one small twist, or plot in my excitement to read on. Françoise Rhodes, Owner/Producer/Host of: Traveling With Françoise! LLC
DeAnn Lubell’s new novel The Last Moon is a fascinating, beautifully told story, meticulously researched for historical accuracy and integrity. The reader will be captivated by the colorful history and locale intertwined with the play of human emotions leading to the devastating volcanic eruption on the island of Martinique in 1902. No less intriguing are the author’s own synchronistic experiences, which led her to chronicle this little known tragedy. Barbara McClure, past-Publisher/Owner of: The Desert Woman
DeAnn Lubell has done a wonderful justice to the people who perished in the 1902 eruption of Mt. Pelée. She has successfully recorded in (almost too) vivid detail the events surrounding the tragedy of St. Pierre. She does so many things well – painting the gay atmosphere of turn-of-the-century Martinique, catching the flavor of the West Indies, as well as faithfully recreating the horror of natural and manmade disaster alike. The Last Moon is a wonderful, sad history lesson wrapped in a beautifully wrought epic romantic novel. The late Barbara Seranella, National Bestselling Mystery Writer of: No Human Involved, No Offense Intended, and Unwanted Company
I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Last Moon. I know the book was based on a true story, and it was exciting and interesting book. This book tells the engrossing story of a catastrophic volcanic eruption in Martinique in 1903 and skillfully weaves in a mosaic of love, politics, race, history and culture. Lubell has created an engaging protagonist named Yvette who is strong, intelligent and cultured, and despite her privileged upbringing refuses to abandon her homestead and the precious plantation where she was raised by her father. I, in particular, liked the ending. The letter from Yvette to Indigo was really terrific. It made it feel so real! This is a thoroughly engrossing, always fascinating novel. It should be on everyone's "must read" list. I'll pass it on to friends. Tere Britton PSWIFT Membership Chair, Coachella Valley BookPALS Coordinator (Performing Artists for Literacy in Schools) Screen Actors Guild Foundation
DeAnn Lubell’s The Last Moon is a fictionalized account of the actual 1902 eruption of Mt. Pelée on the Caribbean Island of Martinique. It is wonderfully written - filled with period detail and characters that truly come to life. The vivid descriptions of lives forever altered by this historic story draw the reader into a story that is both suspenseful and heartbreaking. The late Fred W. Renker Author of: Conversations in the Lobby.
Finished reading The Last Moon by DeAnn Lubell. Volcanic eruptions, political scandal, lust, murder, beauty, and much suspense. I love historical novels because of the freedom to embellish the truth. It is a fascinating story and a great read. Bravo, DeAnn!!! Susan Stein, Fashion Editor of: Palm Springs Life Magazine
I just finished reading The Last Moon, and I'm so impressed with (DeAnn Lubell’s) wonderful book. The research she must have done is overwhelming with attention to such detail. I loved Yvette, such a strong and interesting character! (Lubell) took me back in time and to a place I've never been, but allowed me to experience it as though I was actually there. I'm still dusting the volcanic ash off myself! Congratulations for a beautifully written story! The Last Moon is a masterpiece! Dee Wambaugh, Animal Advocate and spouse of Bestselling Author Joseph Wambaugh
I have to tell you that I hardly ever have time to read and starting (DeAnn’s) book, The Last Moon, on Mother’s Day was my present to myself. I had a hard time putting it down. Never have I been so glued to a book since Atlas shrugged by Ann Rand. (DeAnn) is a master. Finished (DeAnn’s) book last night and, as DeAnn knows, I absolutely adore her, but that aside, the book was terrific, every sentence, every page, every chapter, the whole darn thing was spell binding. I can never stay awake after ten and found myself still reading at midnight. How did (DeAnn) ever learn all that? Loved it and now my husband, Geno, wants to read it. Wow! Lindi Biggi, Animal Advocate and Founder of: Loving All Animals
The Last Moon, like TITANIC, focuses on how disaster brings human drama to memorable characters. By far the most important character in DeAnn Lubell's volcanically riveting tale is the island of Martinique in the early 1900s. The island has a colorful cast to compete with, from Yvette, biracial daughter of a plantation owner, and her utterly debauched by wickedly intelligent half-brother Andre; Indigo, born into wretched circumstances and determined to make a business career; David, a sea captain taken with Yvette; Aza, the voodoo priestess; Father Roche, a volcanologist priest, and the politicians locked in the struggle to win a racially charged blacks vs. whites election that may doom the island's chances of surviving the volcano that Roche warns is erupting. When the novel opens, David is desperate to reach Martinique--Lubell draws us in from page one, enchanting us with story as well as the vivid portrait of the Caribbean. The author draws her characters in detail and portrays the island life, especially the graceful, hardworking carrier women (porteuses), voodoo and brothels, and is a master storyteller to boot. Yvette, Andre and Indigo, with their tangled stories, spearhead the action as the volcano crisis unfolds. While politicians distort and outright deny the crisis, the entire island is locked in a fight to survive that will have you holding your breath until the final pages. Kristin Johnson, Award-winning Author and Playwright
I just returned from one of the best trips I have ever taken and (DeAnn Lubell) was my travel-guide in her book The Last Moon. There were times when I related to things that are transpiring today: volcano, oil spill, and politics. What a good time to publish this story. The friends I urged to read the book were impressed with (Lubell’s) detail of the history of the time. I loved the pace of the book and did not want it to end. Could see where (Lubell) could take her characters forward in another story of recovery. MaryAnn Barbeau
The world is devastatingly aware of the massive disruption that a natural calamity, such as the volcanic eruption of Mount Eyjafjalla-jokull can cause. Now, you can read about the cruel and tragic events that unfold into a truly nightmarish ending, when nature and mankind unleash its bad side at the same time. DeAnn Lubell's historical novelette The Last Moon takes the reader on a magnificent literary ride to the time that Mont Pele last awoke with a mighty eruption. Dan McAllister, co-Owner of: Storybook Productions
Prepare to stop your life when you pick up this well written historical novel. I love to learn as I read and I loved learning about this Island, its people and the great drama surrounding the natural disaster that really did happen in this paradise. The characters are so believable--there is not a false move. The Last Moon will satisfy book club types as well as poolside readers. Brenda Thayer
(DeAnn Lubell’s) grasp of the island and description make it most interesting. Separating fact and fiction is well put together. Our imagination is what makes the story very interesting. Good luck on the sales, I have been telling friends of mine of the story and they should go buy the book. Ronnie Marra
The Last Moon! The characters are marvelous. (Lubell’s) writing is eloquent, descriptive, and beautiful. I'm almost finished. Can't put it down. Trying out my French? Loved the book, loved the characters. Really loved what (Lubell) did with the characters. An excellent historical read. I hope they make a movie about the book. I loved the book The Last Moon by DeAnn Lubell. If you don't finish it in one sitting, you just can't wait to get back to it. The characters are so real, unusual and memorable. I'm still thinking of them and how they would handle a real, encountered current situation that we may have. It's a great summer vacation read. Enjoy, I did. Hooray!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Roberta Schechter, Soft Doll Designer
I devoured The Last Moon! Did not want to put it down, even when it was over.....I wanted more. I felt like I became a member of the town and felt the love and the pain of - and with - these characters. Take a trip with The Last Moon - and enjoy this ride! Leanna Bonamici, Owner Casablanca Studios and Creator of the on-line: Shorts Showcase
Even knowing the outcome of this tale is based on an historical event didn't prevent me from finishing The Last Moon in one marathon read. If I just turned one more page, somehow the wonderfully, evil villain would do something, anything to redeem his existence in this paradise. Compelled, I just kept hoping, if I read a little more, the arrogant, self serving politicians would somehow care more about the people than their own political interests. But alas, the author stayed true to the facts and yet, still created enough interest in these all too human characters to keep me reading and hoping for a miracle to the very last moment. Angela T. Allen, Personal Assistant and Creator/Designer of: Siren’s Song Shoes
The Last Moon draws you in and takes you on a fantastic adventure. The historical aspect is interesting and enlightening - the family story is riveting. I highly recommend this wonderful book. Hopefully there will be a sequel. Teresa Whipple, Vice President/Exe Dir Comprehensive Cancer Center
Historical novel is not my normal read but the author really captured the feel of the place and the moment in time. (The Last Moon) is a perfect summer page turner. Phil Klatchcho, Esq
Literally had to pry myself away from this book, only to look forward to reading it before bed the next day. Incredibly descriptive, one can feel, smell, and sense all that the characters are experiencing. I can only hope that there will be. More of The Last Moon. Please. aka Desert Cyn
Great Book! If you enjoy novels that are based on historical facts, you should pick up The Last Moon by local author DeAnn Lubell. The characters were well defined, the history fascinating. Set in the West Indies, the story is based on composites of real people at the turn of the century. Voodoo, whorehouses, plantations, insanity, corruption all intertwine as the volcano Mt. Pelee begins to erupt. Carol Corcoran, Realtor - Greater Palm Springs Realty
I am nearly half way through The Last Moon and I’m impressed and also captivated. (DeAnn Lubell) is one talented lady. Barbara Ady, Associate Director Society News Desert Sun
This magnificent book tantalizes the senses to the extent, that the reader is drawn to the feeling of actually experiencing the sounds, smells, and emotions put forth. It would be a disappointment, if The Last Moon was not considered for the visual medium, for it would be cheating the reader of a true eye-popping experience. I look forward to more good reading from Ms. Lubell. aka Bumkin of Palm Springs
In The Last Moon, DeAnn Lubell has captured a sense of place and time and imbued it with characters that are good and evil and all shades in between. The reader may not know how many of her characters are based on real people, but one suspects it's more than one suspects. That makes the book an even more pleasurable read. There's also gritty realism. I would love to see this book adapted as a movie. Meanwhile, we have the written word in which Lubell reminds us of the cause-and-effect (both in nature and human form) extending well beyond the ash and lava of the volcano. When I finished reading this book, I felt that I had been educated as well as entertained
- Janice Kleinschmidt (aka Jan St. Louis), past Deputy Editor Palm Springs Life Magazine and Author of the novel Earth the Musical
The Last Moon, DeAnn Lubell's historical novel The Last Moon grips you from the moment you open the book. I finished it in one day because I couldn't put it down. Little known facts leading to the devastation of St. Pierre, Martinique from the 1902 volcanic eruption of Mt. Pelee, is in itself dynamic reading material. To this add the author's carefully drawn and researched description of the era, the land, its people, and lifestyles including betrayals, racism, and family entanglements - and you have a searing story filled with intrigue and romance. Authenticity and an understanding of the physical and emotional backgrounds of the people of the West Indies at the turn of the Century flavor every page. Amazing story - beautifully written.
- Gloria Greer Palm Springs Life Society Editor, Conversations with Gloria Greer Television Show, and Classic Conversations & Exploring the Arts KVCR TV PBS
Once I started reading The Last Moon, I couldn't put it down, it is riveting. I was completely carried away to another place and another time. DeAnn tells the story so vividly that I felt I was there. The character development was so thorough and the tapestry into which they were woven was intricate and entertaining. That this was based on historical facts made it even more intriguing. I've given it to several friends to read already.
- Denise Dubarry Hays entrepreneur, film Producer, and television actress
As a journalist myself, I'm eager to commend you on a historic event/story well told. From the first word to the last, The Last Moon tells a tale of love, resentment, innocence and the hardships of many in that era. Numerous times I found myself on the island with the characters trying to decide should I stay or should I leave. DeAnn Lubell's description of the characters brought each one to life, and the dialogue was fast, captivating and exciting. I thoroughly enjoyed The Last Moon, but must admit I'll be reading this book again. Why? Because I want to be certain I didn't miss even one small twist, or plot in my excitement to read on.
- Françoise Rhodes Owner/Producer/Host of Traveling With Françoise! LLC
I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Last Moon. I know the book was based on a true story, and it was exciting and interesting book. This book tells the engrossing story of a catastrophic volcanic eruption in Martinique in 1903 and skillfully weaves in a mosaic of love, politics, race, history and culture. Lubell has created an engaging protagonist named Yvette who is strong, intelligent and cultured, and despite her privileged upbringing refuses to abandon her homestead and the precious plantation where she was raised by her father. I, in particular, liked the ending. The letter from Yvette to Indigo was really terrific. It made it feel so real! This is a thoroughly engrossing, always fascinating novel. It should be on everyone's "must read" list. I'll pass it on to friends.
- Tere Britton PSWIFT member, Coachella Valley BookPALS coordinator (Performing Artists for Literacy in Schools)
The Last Moon is a gripping story told with brilliantly articulated passion. The characters are so real that I felt like I knew them personally. The rich descriptions of the island's vibrant beauty painted images that I visualized as if they were seen through my own eyes. The thread of the plot is woven with intrigue and suspense so compelling that I felt as if I were a participant. Read it when you have no other plans; it's hard to put down.
- Ronald M. Sharrow Author of Sword of Justice
I devoured The Last Moon! Did not want to put it down, even when it was over.....I wanted more. I felt like I became a member of the town and felt the love and the pain of - and with - these characters. Take a trip with The Last Moon - and enjoy this ride.
- Leanna Bonamici CCO & Co-Founder, CV Studios Entertainment, Inc. Producer/Director
DeAnn Lubell writes the perfect amalgam of vivid fictional characters and factual events set against the backdrop of the volcanic eruption of Mont Pelée on the island of Martinique in the early 1900s. The Last Moon explores the political corruption, racial discriminations, mystical cultures, and exotic romances in the idyllic seaport town of St. Pierre. Once you set sail on the Silver Eagle steamship navigating the ocean currents, littered with burnt human remains and animal carcasses, you'll be hooked…and you'll be on board one of the most intrepid, dark and dazzling adventures of your life.
- Kim Waltrip: producer, director and president of Wonderstar Productions