The Jealous Kind
- Authors: James Lee Burke
- Series: Book 2 in the Holland Family series
- Genres: Mystery
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- Release Date: August 30, 2016
- Print length: 400 pages (Hardcover)
About the book
New York Times bestselling author and ‘the reigning champ of nostalgia noir’ (TheNew York Times Book Review) James Lee Burke returns with a powerful novel in the Holland Family series set in 1950s Texas, as the specter of the Korean War looms.
Despite the nostalgic facade of 1950s Houston with its stoic fathers, restless teens, drive-in movies, and souped-up Cadillacs, high school junior Aaron Holland Broussard finds himself navigating a world in flux. The deep-rooted class divide between the affluent and the struggling is steadily intensifying, compounded by the growing tensions of the Korean conflict looming on the horizon. This tumultuous backdrop shapes Aaron's journey into manhood.
However, everything changes when Aaron intervenes in a confrontation between the beautiful Valerie Epstein and her volatile boyfriend, Grady Harrelson, at a drive-in. His newfound courage catches Valerie's attention, sparking a romance between them. But Grady's unpredictable nature poses a looming threat to Aaron's newfound happiness.
Through 'this dark, atmospheric story' (Publishers Weekly), readers will rekindle the emotions and transformative power of first love, while also experiencing Aaron's struggles to protect himself and his loved ones in the midst of adversity. The Jealous Kind delves into how the dynamics of love, friendship, aggression, and influence can reshape the conventional ideals of American life for individuals navigating a changing society.