Barry Raebeck Releases New Historical Fiction, CROOKED ROAD

In his new historical novel, "Tyger on the Crooked Road: William Blake - Poet, Painter, Prophet" (published by iUniverse), author Barry Raebeck blends fact with fiction in a reimagining of the life of celebrated 18th century visionary, William Blake.

Blake's life in 18th century London, from the age of 12 to 38, is an emotionally charged tale of a powerful genius who overcame extreme resistance. The art form he achieved is, according to Raebeck, celebrated now more than ever, and there is even an entire wing of London's Tate Modern Museum of Art devoted to it. The story is one of romance, political intrigue, the challenges of the creative experience, friendship, loyalty, drunkenness, brawling, riot, disease, disaster, enduring marriage, spiritual visions and a measure of triumph.

An excerpt from "Tyger on the Crooked Road":

"Dissenters would hold their Sunday meetings in taverns, disguising hymns as beer songs lest the religious authorities, who condemned any such gatherings outside of church, be provoked. At the same time, these people were politically astute and ever prone to the radical politics of the age. Republican rumblings were heard throughout London and beyond, and the rule of kings and the power of warriors were subject to increasing scrutiny by the learned and crafts folk alike."

Raebeck believes readers will enjoy the authentic portrayal of historic London, but he hopes the book sparks readers' imaginations as well. "Blake's life is a testament to the eternal power of creative thought," he says. "He remains an extraordinary inspiration to artists, writers and all those who believe that, 'What is now prov'd was once only imagin'd.'"

"Tyger on the Crooked Road" has been selected for inclusion in the iUniverse Editor's Choice program, which recognizes excellence in writing.

"Tyger on the Crooked Road"
By Barry Raebeck
Hardcover | 6 x 9 in | 364 pages | ISBN 9781475990782
Softcover | 6 x 9 in | 364 pages | ISBN 9781475990775
E-Book | ISBN 9781475990799
Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

About the Author
Barry Raebeck is a high school English teacher whose novel "In the Center of the Doughnut" received high honors at Wesleyan University. He holds a Ph.D. in educational leadership from the University of Virginia and is also the author of two books on educational innovation. He lives with his wife, Susan, in East Hampton, N.Y. They have three adult daughters.

iUniverse, an Author Solutions, Inc. self-publishing imprint, is the leading book marketing, editorial services, and supported self-publishing provider. iUniverse has a strategic alliance with Indigo Books & Music, Inc. in Canada, and titles accepted into the iUniverse Rising Star program are featured in a special collection on BarnesandNoble.com. iUniverse recognizes excellence in book publishing through the Star, Reader's Choice, Rising Star and Editor's Choice designations - self-publishing's only such awards program. Headquartered in Bloomington, Ind., iUniverse also operates offices in Indianapolis. For more information or to publish a book, please visit iuniverse.com or call 1-800-AUTHORS. For the latest, follow @iuniversebooks on Twitter.

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