Reviewed in the United States on June 9, 2023

As a discerning reader (and history buff), I was not sure I would like this book. I am a harsh critic, but I will tell you that by the sixth chapter, I was enamored, and my wall was down. I fully embraced the story and felt part of the action.

Everything these days seems to follow the same formula, it's hard for anything truly magical to make it through, but here it is. The author's passion for his family's story and the casual tone combine to make this the novel that breaks through the monotony. The monotony that now fills the place where creativity used to thrive in literature. This novel is not trying to be a literary masterpiece. Instead, it aims to educate, entertain, and open the reader's eyes to humanity's imperfections throughout time.

I love the preface in which the author is shocked to learn that his ancestors, the dependents of Africans, were enslavers themselves. It forced him to know the truth. For this reason, he felt compelled to unearth why his family would do something so despicable, only to understand that the world was different then and that he could not use his modern-day values to make sense of the world that once was.

Because this is a first edition and the author is telling us the story of his family (a first-time writer), expect some minor errors, though as I write this, there is probably a second edition.

I only learned a little about the Haitian revolution or life in Haiti. But we should. There are a lot of valuable lessons in our past.

I can't wait to read the next book. I anxiously await to learn more about it. Henry, Marie, Jean, and Jean Junior.

- Laura Ure -

Reviewed in the United States on July 26, 2023

A huge WOW!
This book was gifted to me and although I am not a fan of historical works I decided to give it a try. A wise choice! The story is juicy and pulls you right in, coupled with the deeply thorough and expertly woven history of Haiti, I hated having to put it down! I learned so much about the politics of the time, the social climate and structure of Haiti. After reading this novel, my grasp of Haitian history is vastly changed and my perspective changed forever. For a debut novel, I am deeply impressed and anxiously awaiting the next edition. Bravo, Mr. Bayard!

- Laura A. Fiumara -

Reviewed in the United States on July 26, 2023

The plot in the book captivated me from beginning to end. The details, the drama, the way the author captured each character is award winning!! I would definitely recommend this book to my family and friends.

- Grisette -

Reviewed in the United States on July 26, 2023

Riveting historical-fiction novel that captures an untold story of Haitian history and their triumphant revolution.

- Jordan Kremer -

Reviewed in the United States on July 17, 2023

This book was gifted to me and I had no desire to read it as I am not into history at all! I decided to pick it up and start reading it and to my surprise, this book is written in a such a way that I couldn’t put it down!

The romance is written so beautifully , each character is described in such a way that you feel that you are part of the story!

I simple loved reading it and can’t wait for a second part to come out!

— Maria

Reviewed in the United States on July 17, 2023

Worthwhile read which kept me involved and realistic.

Now about today’s world……nice change!

- John Mark -

Reviewed in the United States on July 21, 2023

I received this book as a gift and thoroughly enjoyed it. The writing captivated my attention, and the character development was great. It was a truly transformative experience, reaffirming my love for the written word.

- B Teubner -

Reviewed in the United States on August 3, 2023

Triumph to Tragedy is a masterpiece! Daniel Bayard takes us on a journey to learn the rich history of Haiti and it’s proud people - a love story in the midst of turmoil. This is a must read for those who know the story of Haiti, and for the many that need to be enlightened. A triumph from start to finish.
Highly recommend!

- Tony Garcia -

Reviewed in the United States on July 26, 2023

Great read with a captivating story. Looking forward to future installments in this series!

Reviewed in the United States on August 3, 2023

Fascinating!
Thanks so much for exposing, in such artistic manner, the brilliant history of our country and its ancestors….a must read…. Brilliant…

Reviewed in the United States on August 3, 2023

Action, suspense, romance...and all based on a part history just a short hop from FL that many will learn for the first time reading it. Can't wait for part 2!!!

- Ron B -