Review I

A Poetic Odyssey into the Human Condition: John Bernhard’s Drift of Fate

In Drift of Fate, John Bernhard takes a bold step into the world of fiction with a novel that masterfully intertwines philosophical introspection and vivid storytelling. Known for his evocative work in photography and visual arts, Bernhard's narrative lens translates seamlessly into prose, creating a richly textured exploration of identity, destiny, and the interconnectedness of human experience.

At its core, Drift of Fate grapples with profound existential themes—free will versus fate, the burden of choices, and the elusive nature of truth. Through a cast of intricately drawn characters, Bernhard constructs a tapestry of lives bound by seemingly random events that reveal themselves to be intricately choreographed. His protagonist's journey echoes the existential wanderings found in the works of Camus and Hesse, yet Bernhard’s voice is distinctly his own, infused with a lyrical sensitivity honed through decades of artistic practice.

The novel’s pacing is deliberately contemplative, offering moments of both tension and stillness. Bernhard paints his settings with the meticulous care of a visual artist, immersing readers in landscapes that feel simultaneously real and dreamlike. This atmosphere heightens the emotional resonance of the story, as key scenes evoke a sense of déjà vu—a thematic nod to the circular nature of fate itself.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its ability to straddle the line between reality and metaphor. Bernhard’s background as a photographer shines through in his ability to capture fleeting moments with a sense of permanence. His characters are haunted by the ghosts of their pasts, yet they also find themselves propelled toward transformation, echoing motifs from his visual works, such as his Transformation and Metamorphs series.

While the novel is ambitious in scope, it does at times demand patience from readers as it delves into dense philosophical reflections. However, those willing to engage with its deeper themes will find themselves richly rewarded. Drift of Fate is less about providing answers than posing questions—questions that linger long after the final page.

In this remarkable debut into fiction, John Bernhard proves that his artistic prowess extends far beyond the visual. Drift of Fate is a testament to his ability to illuminate the human soul in all its complexity, offering readers a deeply personal yet universally resonant narrative. It is a story that dares us to confront the mysteries of our existence and, in doing so, perhaps glimpse the fragile threads that bind us to one another.

Review II

Surrender to the Drift

By Morgan Cronin

In his novel “Drift of Fate,” John Bernhard begins by situating readers in the heart of West Texas. We are introduced to Brett Beasley, a wandering man in the throes of divorce and tragedy. Brett, a middle-aged Ad-Executive and former Navy SEAL originally from Houston, finds himself stranded in the West Texas desert near the fictional town of Yellow Spring. In Yellow Spring, Brett meets a fellow traveler, a beautiful young woman named Kathy, who is set on hitchhiking to California. For the few days that Brett is stranded in Yellow Spring, he and Kathy foster a passion and romance that, little do they know, sets in motion the story and unfolding of their interconnected lives.

When we meet Brett in the middle of the West Texas desert, we are presented with a mirror that reflects not only the vast landscape, but the complex interior of Brett’s inner life. “I had almost become a living corpse, alive only under the influence.” This is a man who has suffered some blows from a brutal divorce. Understandably, Brett feels as barren as the terrain, that is until he meets Kathy. “Kathy was a complex woman, a blend of society and artistry.” It is Kathy who gives Brett a glimmer of hope and serves as a North star, always too far to touch, but bright enough to navigate in the dark.

After Yellow Spring, we follow Brett to sunny San Diego where he reconnects with his Navy SEAL friends and starts a new life and career as a writer, drawing inspiration from greats like Hemingway. In writing Brett contextualizes his past experience. He produces a best seller that opens doors, bestows new opportunities, and puts his life on a different path, a path that intersects with Kathy’s. 

Through a series of fortunate twists, Brett finds his way back to Kathy and their story unfolds with a poignant realization—life's crucial moments often defy our expectations, and destiny has a way of revealing itself in unexpected ways. Brett and Kathy reunite when Brett is asked to cover an up-and-coming artists’ Gallery opening. As fate would have it, the up-and-coming artist is none other than Kathy, but instead of picking up where they left off in Yellow Spring, we learn that Kathy is married and that fate is not quite ready to deliver the two of them to their destiny.

Brett and Kathy take an overnight trip to Carmel and tour an old mission where they meet a priest who tells them the story of Jacob and Rachel from the Bible. The priest says “despite the challenges, their love endured. Their story is a reminder that true love can withstand even the most difficult trials and tribulations.” It is this moment that makes Brett and Kathy realize they want to be together.

From San Diego, we follow Brett and Kathy to Houston. In Houston, we see the love between Brett and Kathy blossom into a life. Brett continues writing and has one of his novels adapted into a movie. Kathy continues her art and the two become more enmeshed.

The novel's strength lies not only in its narrative arc but also in the layers of inspiration that influenced its creation. The first layer, a deep love story, serves as a guiding light for those in pursuit of love. Bernhard's prose delicately captures the enduring strength of love, urging readers to fearlessly chase their dreams. Through Brett's journey, love emerges as a transformative force that transcends time and circumstance.

“Drift of Fate” by John Bernhard takes readers on a journey through an intricate tapestry of love and marriage, the storm of divorce and grief, and the foundational pillars of life that inevitably lead each of us to our fate and fortune. Though there may be missteps along the way, these are the footprints that guide us toward our most profound experiences. “Drift of Fate” succeeds not only as a love story but as a nuanced exploration of the human experience.

Review III

Critical Review of John Bernhard’s Drift of Fate

 John Bernhard’s Drift of Fate is a compelling exploration of human resilience, the unpredictability of life, and the intricate web of choices that shape our destinies. The novel weaves together themes of love, loss, and redemption, set against a backdrop of vividly described landscapes and emotionally charged encounters. While the book succeeds in capturing the reader’s imagination with its lyrical prose and complex characters, it occasionally falters under the weight of its own ambition.

Strengths:

1. Lyrical Prose and Atmosphere:
   Bernhard’s writing is undeniably beautiful, with a poetic quality that immerses the reader in the story’s world. His descriptions of nature and setting are particularly striking, evoking a sense of place that feels almost tangible. Whether it’s the haunting stillness of a snow-covered forest or the chaotic energy of a bustling city, Bernhard’s ability to paint scenes with words is a standout feature of the novel.

2. Complex Characters:
   The characters in Drift of Fate are richly drawn, each grappling with their own inner demons and external challenges. The protagonist’s journey is particularly compelling, as they navigate a series of life-altering events that test their resolve and force them to confront their past. Supporting characters are equally well-developed, adding depth and nuance to the narrative.

3. Themes of Fate and Free Will:
   The novel’s central theme—the tension between fate and free will—is explored with thoughtfulness and depth. Bernhard raises poignant questions about the extent to which we control our lives versus being swept along by forces beyond our understanding. This philosophical underpinning gives the story a layer of intellectual intrigue that lingers long after the final page.

Weaknesses:

1. Pacing Issues:
   While the novel’s introspective nature is one of its strengths, it also leads to pacing problems. Certain sections feel overly drawn out, with lengthy passages of internal monologue that slow the narrative momentum. A tighter edit could have helped maintain a more consistent rhythm throughout the story.

2. Predictable Plot Twists:
   Some of the plot twists, while emotionally impactful, feel somewhat predictable. Readers familiar with the genre may find themselves anticipating key developments before they occur, which diminishes the element of surprise. A more unconventional approach to the storyline could have elevated the novel’s impact.

3. Overambitious Scope:
   Bernhard attempts to tackle a wide range of themes and subplots, from environmental concerns to familial estrangement. While these elements add richness to the story, they sometimes feel underdeveloped, leaving the reader wishing for more depth and resolution in certain areas.

Conclusion:

Drift of Fate is a thought-provoking and beautifully written novel that showcases John Bernhard’s talent for crafting evocative prose and complex characters. While it occasionally struggles with pacing and predictability, its exploration of universal themes and its emotional resonance make it a worthwhile read. Fans of literary fiction and introspective narratives will likely find much to appreciate in this ambitious work.

Rating: 3.5/5 stars