ARA Review by Sarah Russell 4 of The Tarantulas Best Season

[Sarah Russell 4]

[Following is an OnlineBookClub.org ARA Review of the book, The Tarantulas Best Season.]

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3 out of 5 stars

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In , The Tarantulas of Tupequena, four American minor league baseball players are sent to Mexico to join the Tarantulas, a struggling team in the Central American Baseball Association. Owned by the Sanchez family, the Tarantulas face a hostile takeover by an Arabian conglomerate led by El Aya Fat Kabat. Meanwhile, archaeologist Liberty LaChance arrives in Tupequena to research a bizarre case of accidental cannibalism, which leads her into the heart of the town's mysteries and its only successful baseball season.

The novel masterfully combines the worlds of sports, local politics, and quirky historical mysteries into one cohesive narrative. At first glance, the story might appear to be a simple underdog sports tale, but author deftly expands its scope to explore themes of corporate greed, cultural preservation, and community pride. The fight between the Sanchez family and El Aya Fat Kabat is emblematic of the broader struggle to maintain local control in a world increasingly dominated by outside forces. The town of Tupequena, with its matriarchal structure, adds a fresh and vibrant setting that feels both distinct and deeply rooted in tradition.

Liberty LaChance’s subplot provides a unique twist, adding mystery and comic relief. Her investigation into a case of accidental cannibalism offers strange but compelling historical intrigue that meshes surprisingly well with the unfolding sports drama. Through her interactions with the town and the Tarantulas, LaChance becomes an essential part of the team’s journey, providing depth and levity in equal measure.

Overall, The Tarantulas of Tupequena, delivers a charming and unexpected story about resilience, perseverance, and the power of small communities to fend off overwhelming odds. Its combination of humor, heart, and quirky history makes it an engaging read for a wide range of readers.
3 out of 5

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