NOVEL (Amazon 2021)
“Things standing thus unknown…
draw thy breath in pain
To tell my story”
Hamlet
Or Not To Be is an extraordinary novel. It is a literary-historical detective story unlike any other in English literature. Set during the reigns of Queen Elizabeth I and King James I, England looks outward to overseas expansion, while at home the struggle for power sees the presence of a large number of spies and informers who lurk in the shadows. Amidst religious and political intrigue, the Queen, a lover of literature and languages, promotes story-telling and theatrical performance. Writers are highly valued. But putting pen to paper is not a free for al. For a few who write poetry and plays, it is a dangerous vocation.
Authorship and publication were not straightforward matters. Nonetheless, out of this period in English history, comes a standard of writing hitherto unknown.
In this literary tapestry; an interweaving of verse, poetry, drama and prose, Ron Ramdin uses Artful Reason to unravel a centuries-old “mystery.” He tells the hidden story, not of a myth, but of a Man: England’s greatest Dramatist and Poet, William Shakespeare.
Above all, Or Not To Be, is a compelling novel ; a story of truth, humanity and hope.
It is a story to pass on …
Amazon Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars If I was offered one trip in a time machine I think I would choose to visit England in the early 17th century and try to find out everything I could about the life of the man who wrote Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets.
Failing that, the next best thing is this novel, ‘Or Not To Be’ by historian and literary analyst Ron Ramdin. I will not divulge any of its contents as this might spoil the anticipation of prospective readers. Suffice to say – “he writes with precise and well chosen words, with skillfully constructed and crystal clear sentences, and with every art of dignified rhetoric.”
The reader of this book is certain to want to reread the plays and sonnets of Shakespeare with renewed interest and curiosity. Alan B. 06 May 2022 read…
Be prepared to read a true account of whom WS really was. Years in the writing, it’s packed with factual material that even the most wisest judge would have to conclude is an overwhelming convincing argument for the true identity of WS. Thoroughly, extensively and forensically examined over several years through primary documents held at the British Library in London, this is a masterpiece of writing. Excellently outstanding! Colin 14 June 2022 read ……
Presented as a play with an epilogue and prologue this is an artfully reasoned novel offering an intriguing case for the true identity of William Shakespeare. And a rich tapestry it is that Ramdin weaves as we find ourselves transported to late 16th century England, its galaxy of great names and the gilded court of Queen Elizabeth, with all its sensibilities, rivalries and machinations. A tale of triumph and tragedy. David Karunanithy 22 Juy 2022 read….
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