tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67464629845397380652024-03-27T02:35:38.908-04:00Toni Osborne's Corner: a niche for readersA place where opinions are freeToni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.comBlogger1257125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-57636948444633982682024-03-23T09:57:00.000-04:002024-03-23T09:57:06.558-04:00"Never Fall Again", by Lynn H. Blackburn<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSUHzaHNV5P7Zs-q24OtAxsSuDwR05-eooZ6wJxO3XJjeLNdDiq3juxZ3doeJTUC1bRRWBhg9btoTLy6VfthS1rpcixF8ulgbkczZUB2tGloP6q5D6cRtBKnfnjYKgJ0TnBqFSaIlKp3NUurNRXRJlF3tNJ_3IT9IXrhtkRPcqo7SxDuTNuhCKjB-2_wXy/s445/182092951.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="288" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSUHzaHNV5P7Zs-q24OtAxsSuDwR05-eooZ6wJxO3XJjeLNdDiq3juxZ3doeJTUC1bRRWBhg9btoTLy6VfthS1rpcixF8ulgbkczZUB2tGloP6q5D6cRtBKnfnjYKgJ0TnBqFSaIlKp3NUurNRXRJlF3tNJ_3IT9IXrhtkRPcqo7SxDuTNuhCKjB-2_wXy/s320/182092951.jpg" width="207" /></a></div></div><b><br />Gossamer Falls book #1</b><div><b><br />A Romance Novel<br /><br />This story is set in a fictional mountain town in North Carolina where Landry Hutton, a window and single mother to a five year old daughter, Eliza, set roots after moving from Arizona. They live at The Haven, an exclusive resort where Landry creates and set pottery. But what seemed to be a sweet and peaceful place at first glance may not prove to be so.....<br /><br />Landry wants to give her daughter a safe home to grow up in and hires Callum Shaw to handle the construction. But in Gossamer Falls there is family feud between neighbours that is raging on and her arrival just adds fuel.....<br /><br />I read a few books by this author and I enjoyed them quite a bit, this latest is a soft mystery that takes it merry time to move along and gives us a quick romance to spice the atmosphere. This town has a deep family history and the backstory alludes to a wide range of troubles between clans. The squabbles of the past are affected the present but eventually things worked out. Landry and Callum although had been hurt by their relationship in the past were attracted to each other and their slow romance was what made this story interesting. Of course the mystery was good to follow: strange and dangerous occurrences, including fire, break-in and kidnapping but who wanted to destroy “The Haven” and Landry’s studio? ...Finding out was a big surprise.... but what happened to the bad guy? No answer there...I didn’t see myself on the edge on my seat biting my nails here but rather keeping my mind from wandering too much. As for the characters I loved their sense of humour.<br /><br />Although a good story it wasn’t my favourite by this author.<br /><br />This ARC was provided by Revell via Netgalley</b></div>Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-66329563965225612052024-03-19T10:09:00.002-04:002024-03-19T10:11:53.949-04:00"Don't Ask, Don't Follow", by Mary Keliikoa<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0xouQFLSWPrNZMyhVatU1tghGVoJ14-6AeSAl0mA1SYPv4nQk6s05kCKy26LY_CUwmKHjm39lQNxaY6r4iXlbdvIoAU3AytkAfOz_ERIsseCIw1eB9vphznp7Qch6w8zNYTOE67LIKpvLfmuVLKatfmUlaxMoGa2_M8Uc0FQ2zSoym1DTYYiR58sHwrvc/s1500/195229116.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1013" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0xouQFLSWPrNZMyhVatU1tghGVoJ14-6AeSAl0mA1SYPv4nQk6s05kCKy26LY_CUwmKHjm39lQNxaY6r4iXlbdvIoAU3AytkAfOz_ERIsseCIw1eB9vphznp7Qch6w8zNYTOE67LIKpvLfmuVLKatfmUlaxMoGa2_M8Uc0FQ2zSoym1DTYYiR58sHwrvc/s320/195229116.jpg" width="216" /></a></div><p>This mystery brings us in the world of Beth Ralston, a paralegal in Portland, Oregon; she is one that prefers working rather than partying with office colleagues anytime. But she is forced to assist and after making an appearance Beth returns to her office to find that her boss who had left the party moments before murdered...waiting for the police she noticed her sister Lindsay phone’s was left behind with a text message displayed...Don’t ask. Don’t follow....What was Lindsay, an investigative journalist doing in her boss office. What happened here? Beth is set to find out the answers.</p><p><br />In a few words, my thoughts:<br /><br />Murder, dark family secrets, and the bond of sisterhood<br /><br />When it is well done the first person narrative brings you in the characters’ mind and slowly you will be following them through their heartaches and joys. This mystery starts out with a bang but slows down a bit as it went along, although it did not deter me from enjoying the story at its maximum. We have a few twists and turns keep the suspense going and push the drama forward and with its many great layers to follow, it is imperative to stay with it. I particularly loved how Beth retraced Lindsay’s steps into the adoption scheme. Trying to guess the outcome is almost impossible and what a surprise the author spring on us at the end. I made so many hypothesizes of course all of them wrong.<br /><br />“Don’t Ask, Don’t Follow”, has a unique theme with legal intricacies woven throughout and provides us with an engaging “who-done- it” plot played out by strong characters.<br /><br />This is a pulse-pounding read I enjoy quite a bit.<br /><br />My thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss and Oceanview Publishing for this ARC</p>Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-79940726181953115762024-03-15T09:50:00.005-04:002024-03-15T09:50:48.876-04:00"Once Upon a Villa", by Andrew Kaplan<br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFyETQ3BNoKJMKdglr5n2FPnSaCXE952E9YEOUa_J2tehAi35T5ENciMbmdUkVrieM1lnfZ_RAqm4Tu869AedNpAJMFHUIPlXnUg0SD6_dSOzbVfthoFisKlFSsDCmYNVbEgCYRhz7GNJGttxoMM4WNo2RBtqTi-NVe5CncWPtoM8PT6WqiACC8gfhXvZS/s500/204168540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFyETQ3BNoKJMKdglr5n2FPnSaCXE952E9YEOUa_J2tehAi35T5ENciMbmdUkVrieM1lnfZ_RAqm4Tu869AedNpAJMFHUIPlXnUg0SD6_dSOzbVfthoFisKlFSsDCmYNVbEgCYRhz7GNJGttxoMM4WNo2RBtqTi-NVe5CncWPtoM8PT6WqiACC8gfhXvZS/s320/204168540.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />Adventures on the French Riviera</div><div><br /></div><div>This is a LOL hilariously funny true account written by Andrew Kaplan telling us what it was like when he, his wife and two year-old son decided to leave everything behind and live the fantasy life on the Cote d’Azur. In the French Riviera the Kaplan matched wits with French bureaucrats, searched for the perfect French cuisine, met with con men, eccentric ex-pats, Monaco’s royals, attended Onassis’ parties, made friends with a police chef and had adventures with the rich and famous.....as the story goes....pour yourself a glass of wine and enjoy this wise, warm and witty story.<br /><br />For most parts I loved this account. It is written to bring us into his world and makes us feel we are sharing a meal, playing at the casino, partying with the rich and famous along with him. Also interesting is the journey getting to the Riviera and the struggles to find housing and trying to fit in. The Kaplan did well and even managed to rent Roman Polanski’s estate. Of course being in France it is inevitable the French language is spoken and Mr. Kaplan makes great use of his knowledge and seasoned his thoughts throughout with words and long sentences. If you know some French, you will feel right at home.<br /><br />It is evident that rubbing shoulders with the upper class Mr. Kaplan is well-off and is used to the finer things. But ¾ into, I lost interest in the excessive partying, drinking, eating, and the name dropping of designer clothes and of famous people.....enough was enough. Mr Kaplan is clever, along the way why not promote his other books and he did so with finesse simply slide this in during a conversation....Ok...I am interested.<br /><br />The author touches panoply of subject that happened during his stay that brought back events that happened a long time ago: ex. the Challenger disaster and Chernobyl and the bombing of Libya. He expresses mostly the widespread sympathy from people around him.<br /><br />It is a good book although the beginning was by far much more captivating then the last ¼.<br /><br />This ARC was provided by The Book Whisperer via Netgalley for my thoughts.</div><br />Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-46549907392243949792024-03-09T10:37:00.002-05:002024-03-09T10:37:35.281-05:00"Watching the Dark", by Peter Robinson<br /><br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwWscFsJ4chwn58_RCZmv0b_1hG6W1R4jbkzYfOIJ2Nabt1l44H9CNFvGNgue1wd3EJHQeTOjFOCKuPo0i4sFVCpT9_l88-o7lH2tZqGEnzHIf6MrFjegzKyf7E0aaEeW6b4NxIxmBzd_oBsJmGscjQlPnX2QNHG5sid50751paKB3GnsKucgIodF68tVw/s475/13331170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="308" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwWscFsJ4chwn58_RCZmv0b_1hG6W1R4jbkzYfOIJ2Nabt1l44H9CNFvGNgue1wd3EJHQeTOjFOCKuPo0i4sFVCpT9_l88-o7lH2tZqGEnzHIf6MrFjegzKyf7E0aaEeW6b4NxIxmBzd_oBsJmGscjQlPnX2QNHG5sid50751paKB3GnsKucgIodF68tVw/s320/13331170.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><div>Inspector Banks #20</div><br />I dung out an old book hiding deep into my library “Watching the Dark” was first published in 2012, it was far time to give it a go. This book is my introduction to this author and now I know why people say he is a grandmaster of mystery fiction. Everything is smoothly said and the story immediately pulls you in. This installment was an excellent place to begin.<br /><br />It kicks off with the murder of a policeman DI Bill Quinn convalescing at a treatment center and found dead on the grounds, pierced through the heart with an arrow. Bank is brought in to investigate and soon discovers compromising photos of Quinn with an underage woman....Working the case not only with his partner DI Annie Chabot but also imposed to him is the enigmatic Joanna Passero from the Professional Standards...her presence is anything but welcome....One search brings another and DI Bank ends up in Estonia to unravel not only this mystery but also one that crossed his path decade ago and has haunted him ever since.<br /><br />I zipped through this story in no time; it is very active and moves along without needless violence and meaningless sex scenes. The mystery develops bit by bit and teases us along while offering several clichés of people in high places. Well a bit of humour well placed is refreshing. The author has written a very believable scenario of human trafficking and immigrant slave labour into an intriguing police procedural and has set his drama both in the UK and in Estonia. As a Canadian some expressions was a challenge at first but I overcame this and soon was immersed into this excellent story and enjoyed every moment.<br /><br />In brief: An excellent story, great characterization and well described settings.</div><br /><br />Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-51589882685427709082024-03-05T09:28:00.001-05:002024-03-05T09:28:39.984-05:00"Chained Guilt", by Terry Keys<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZIJfdFU6F-nObuJvLrA69LD1CySd-xS2tsK17T9ALeZNYNSdmz-7U4hYeeFtfEuOX352talMIp0gq3mO8TMZjX10GhnYJo4t3BanWemAkkQ-sc-IlkR-tFPLcMOhUtzwuY6tUH2lOLKwURdH7CykxFPhcSh3wER30SXMeegD3xeC6BIjgNx-9QUyqIYoT/s2560/55500463.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZIJfdFU6F-nObuJvLrA69LD1CySd-xS2tsK17T9ALeZNYNSdmz-7U4hYeeFtfEuOX352talMIp0gq3mO8TMZjX10GhnYJo4t3BanWemAkkQ-sc-IlkR-tFPLcMOhUtzwuY6tUH2lOLKwURdH7CykxFPhcSh3wER30SXMeegD3xeC6BIjgNx-9QUyqIYoT/s320/55500463.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><b><br /><br /> Hidden Guilt book #1</b><div><b><br />This is the kind of page-turner thriller I love to pass my time with. It pulls you in from the start and never let’s go. Some even say this story is in the tradition of James Patterson., it may be so but Mr. Keys has his own style and as a first time reader of his, I definitely could say he has penned a very captivating story peppered with twists and turns and provided us with suspense galore to satisfy the most committed thrill seekers. What a drama he gave us. The characters are realistic and well- developed. The prose makes everything flow smoothly and in a logical manner.<br /><br />There is nothing complicated in what is said, so I let myself be transported into the world of Detective David Porter as he come to face the harsh reality that a loved one is missing. As a Detective is primary task is chasing a cunning serial killer who brutally murders every child he could get his hands on. So his skills are put to test in this fast-paced cat and mouse game. But the killer was an expert....<br /><br />I love this story but leaving us hanging at the end so we buy the sequel is something that annoys me to no end....</b></div>Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-59333584850017762162024-03-02T10:29:00.000-05:002024-03-02T10:29:36.009-05:00"Embers in the London Sky", by Sarah Sundin<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbeEH89K1ffg_HXfkbUR8p_S1BuX6JojAIyr49u-2-4K_Xlk3wS8Fxq9Av_WSnrSO-Tg3jqf0CYCMvCjOAQKZVapurZCNCDanvSOtJ-TEkUyEEPzuev663oB65rqGRuFUFWIxz3JWgQbwCVapkHUB0j9q7hKp7gpLEVvCfAj6z9SpS5GeNHFnkgHCEop1/s1024/182093333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="663" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbeEH89K1ffg_HXfkbUR8p_S1BuX6JojAIyr49u-2-4K_Xlk3wS8Fxq9Av_WSnrSO-Tg3jqf0CYCMvCjOAQKZVapurZCNCDanvSOtJ-TEkUyEEPzuev663oB65rqGRuFUFWIxz3JWgQbwCVapkHUB0j9q7hKp7gpLEVvCfAj6z9SpS5GeNHFnkgHCEop1/s320/182093333.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div>If you want a WW11 historical fictions with mystery, lots of suspense and a little bit of romance you will enjoy this one.</div><div><br /></div><div>Germany and London in 1940<br /><br />As Germany invades the Netherlands Aleida Martens escapes to London to wait out the occupation. In the confusion she has been separated from her three year old son, Theo, who was born with a congenial limb defect. In London Aleida finds a job at the ministry of health which brings her in contact with Hugh Collingwood, a BBC correspondent. Hugh is determined to tell the human stories of the Blitz and the heartbreaking search for the missing Theo. Thus a romance starts.....<br /><br />With the war raging in the background, this story tells more about the life of two individuals trying to do their best under the harsh circumstances. Aleida does all that she can to locate her son. She knows he has been taken to London but where and how to find him takes most of this story. Her struggles and her disappointments are heartbreaking, very poignant. Crossing path with Hugh was what she needed. As a correspondent he had contacts and wanted to help and be with her. But he had his own story to say and does it with interest. With time they came closer even fell in love. The plot doesn’t leave us without having some of the characters murdered and looking for the killer also took a good part of this captivating story, the tension left me on the qui vive till everything wrapped up. The story is very well-said and well-done.<br /><br />Thank you Revell and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and enjoy this book.</div><br />Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-69393146864730673752024-02-26T09:18:00.000-05:002024-02-26T09:18:36.251-05:00"Rio", by Ty Patterson<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQistYSFtvtK5tSS7QlC5YKvYXvIbTVYCGnnEuZCcuMa8Oexl1ZBEXczmHPFua0aASx4RlJ2AViGaiOJ3grhYwvMfhK1axD7AoCZrlt0gkE2oPiRvE4OrkWk5brX0jvi5yxhUAuHxkUJQn_7T8xlajvjWKXpAqYINLCrzX3MPtGoVnyMzAiNhqBkNrMwn9/s445/204235270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="288" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQistYSFtvtK5tSS7QlC5YKvYXvIbTVYCGnnEuZCcuMa8Oexl1ZBEXczmHPFua0aASx4RlJ2AViGaiOJ3grhYwvMfhK1axD7AoCZrlt0gkE2oPiRvE4OrkWk5brX0jvi5yxhUAuHxkUJQn_7T8xlajvjWKXpAqYINLCrzX3MPtGoVnyMzAiNhqBkNrMwn9/s320/204235270.jpg" width="207" /></a></div>Zeb Carter, book # 13<br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>The story in a few words parts I have copied from the overview.<br /><br />Zeb and his team are unwinding in Rio during the carnival. Their vacation is upended when the parades are disrupted by a deadly shooting. What was a well-deserved R&R in the most welcoming city in the world turns into a deadly race for survival against the deadliest assassins in the world.<br /><br />My thoughts:<br /><br />Although the suspense could have pulled me through the streets of Rio with its beautiful sceneries, this story if there was one lack in depth, apart from endless action and the presence of powerful criminal gangs, Cartels and Bondes and gloom and core with endless shooting, kidnapping and wild action scenes such as leaping from branches and off roof top, we have total nonsense. After 12 thrillers of action packed Zeb Carter and his team doing extraordinary tasks I think enough is enough time to put more efforts into a plot with less action and more diversity and give us a story that won’t be forgotten the moment we reach the last page.<br /><br />Yes I am harsh in my assessment but I do give the author high marks for the action scenes he knows how to pen them with aplomb and doesn’t hesitate to shock us at every pages. So to be fair I will stay on the fence with this one and hope that the next Zeb carter will be more to my taste.<br /><br />Some story are meant to please and other not so much.</div><br /><br />Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-70511240152501469492024-02-18T10:23:00.000-05:002024-02-18T10:23:20.466-05:00"Fatal Witness", by Patricia Bradley<br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYGPv-bS8qkiOpRZ4dqxUUbX7oOn0hl3MAR3ckpFaJvi72CQGqGhC39PDx3GzA80k7KuQtY6UJ86a1_Somb9Ogph8xJQ7LIDTEMG5PuqfesNkIcE083URKD20Qf808rCAeKYNgX2qm1dgIlpA7_Hl5QdyFBmNCCkzuUYS4NwPN5ywxGSyzODQg-vtBl8i-/s2000/182094275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1294" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYGPv-bS8qkiOpRZ4dqxUUbX7oOn0hl3MAR3ckpFaJvi72CQGqGhC39PDx3GzA80k7KuQtY6UJ86a1_Somb9Ogph8xJQ7LIDTEMG5PuqfesNkIcE083URKD20Qf808rCAeKYNgX2qm1dgIlpA7_Hl5QdyFBmNCCkzuUYS4NwPN5ywxGSyzODQg-vtBl8i-/s320/182094275.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><br />Pearl River #2</div><div><br /></div><div>Hidden away in Montana for the past 25 years Dani Bennett has no recollection of her past. As a child she had witnessed the brutal murder of her parents and has no memory of the incident or her true identity. After receiving a call from Officer Mark Lassiter of Pearl Springs who track her down telling that Mae Richmond, her grandmother, was looking for her. Dani sets out on a journey to uncover the truth.<br /><br />I like this soft romantic suspense and enjoyed the cold case this story spins and particularly how it teases us to guess the whodunit from the time Dani reaches Pearl Springs till we finally have the answer at the closing page. What a surprise finding out. The characterization is well done and the romance is very clean, no graphic sex. The language is polished and the smooth prose moves along with a steady stroke. Mixed with the suspense and romance is a message of faith as well. Of course why not please animal lovers; we have 2 loveable K9 to entertain us: one a police dog and the other a loveable mutt. Every page is filled with exciting action<br /><br />Of course my thoughts are only a snippet of the activities going on. The experience is entertaining and passing time with this story enjoyable. It’s a page turner and not a taxing read. Well-said and well-done.<br /><br />This ARC was provided by Revell via Netgalley</div><br />Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-34244062358903967042024-02-15T10:38:00.003-05:002024-02-15T10:38:44.228-05:00"The Woman", by Kristin Hannah<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjZCfg8xmnnAOoELCqU88gdmF22Wwsnl7g9DLdsYWHbGa_fqu-MP48srYULNzFbtpMgT3XlV4OIcWzIL8_3HRdctEWOby0Lslm4EWLO__ICGnoupsFt6-BGVNQ26OpOtJF8u7vpEIt07oDNJnqNJxgKMVkiIH_RWQHVQxIlowyl-IXzIJlPddGK3I7QLkf/s2560/127305853.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="1684" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjZCfg8xmnnAOoELCqU88gdmF22Wwsnl7g9DLdsYWHbGa_fqu-MP48srYULNzFbtpMgT3XlV4OIcWzIL8_3HRdctEWOby0Lslm4EWLO__ICGnoupsFt6-BGVNQ26OpOtJF8u7vpEIt07oDNJnqNJxgKMVkiIH_RWQHVQxIlowyl-IXzIJlPddGK3I7QLkf/s320/127305853.jpg" width="211" /></a></div><br />In Vietnam and in the USA in late 1960s and beyond</div><div><br /></div><div>In vivid details this drama brings to life aspects rarely discussed of the Vietnam War: The experiences of those brave women who joined the Army Nurse Corps and serve their tours of duty in Vietnam, in the public eyes they were never there and their service to the nation never recognised.<br /><br />After her brother’s death, Frankie McGrath enlists as an Army nurse and sets off for Vietnam and this turn of events was just the beginning of a roller coaster ride. The first part of the book is set in gore-drenched hospital wards, terrible housing conditions and boozy officer’s clubs. Frankie fast turns into a crack of a surgical nurse and was highly regarded. Inevitable a lone woman among thousands of men Frankie started a platonic romance with a married man but it was not to be and all ended when his helicopter was shut down and he returned in a body bag. Soon her passion brings her into a wild affair with her brother’s best friend. In the background is a war raging and men returning to camp mangled or dying. In the second part Frankie is home where the population is rioting and war vets are spit and yield at. USA is against the war and wants its men back...forget about the women they were never there. Home is not fun, her father is ashamed of her service, her mother is a pill- popping individual and Frankie’s passion brings various love interests.....But most of all Frankie will discover the true value of female friendship and the heartbreak that love can cause....<br /><br />The is a masterfully constructed story that will trigger memories of the time and place in all its sadness....what were the Americans doing in Vietnam, why were they treated badly on their return and why insist women were never there. Finally in March 1982 the Vietnam Veterans Memorial honored the service members of the US armed forces.<br /><br />This novel hooked my attention from start to finish. It is well said and the events vividly described. I loved it...<br /><br />Thank you St- Martin’s Press and Netgalley for this ARC</div><br />Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-29570588327249781972024-02-11T11:52:00.002-05:002024-02-11T11:52:45.954-05:00"Margot"s Secret", by Roberta Kagan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6zTktSgX037FWb1Ix3Ex1q0BmEXh91coI-CCi-IJg2RYsrWJnxU5hhHBPr6uzY55wZjRbJTDWp-xvbPIfNXjH3fEh-STDlzS-5hdQvMsgCSsnnf8p6OKM9i1M2CDWrAcASDHUKc7PujLlfJi8MsGldT5iJbfUDYbpjiDglhW04KKuPZVxaiFt0WGPhYlt/s500/201914273.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6zTktSgX037FWb1Ix3Ex1q0BmEXh91coI-CCi-IJg2RYsrWJnxU5hhHBPr6uzY55wZjRbJTDWp-xvbPIfNXjH3fEh-STDlzS-5hdQvMsgCSsnnf8p6OKM9i1M2CDWrAcASDHUKc7PujLlfJi8MsGldT5iJbfUDYbpjiDglhW04KKuPZVxaiFt0WGPhYlt/s320/201914273.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><br />Margot’s Secret book #3<div><br />Warning:<div><br />Before you pick up this book you need to have read the previous books, “The Secret They Hid” and “An Innocent Child” first to enjoy this one at its fullest. “Margot’s Secret” continues where book #2 finishes and gives us only snippets of what happened previously letting our imagination roam in order to piece things together.<br /><br />The story in a few words:<br /><br />Margot, now a fugitive and grieving a lost pregnancy, is hiding both from the Nazis and her own sister who is threatening to expose her as a Jew. She seeks solace with Ben, a Jewish man she has always loved. As the war peaks, the characters face critical choices between love, loyalty and survival.....<br /><br />My thoughts:<br /><br />This book was engaging although I found it to be repetitive in many ways. I mostly dislike the abrupt ending that leaves us hanging...so many questions are unanswered.... The story is a real melodrama set during war time with some murders, family squabbles, sexual hanky-panky, and some atrocities. Ok soap opera it is but set this aside and let your imagination be transported into the lives of the well- drawn characters some good, bad and very evil we inevitably cross path with. They do entertain us from the opening sentence telling us from their own perspective what is going on. The pacing is steady and smoothly moves along with no dull moments to let our mind get off the track....<br /><br />In all, the story appealed to me and I enjoyed the many hours I spent reading it. I almost did not accept the invitation to read this novel from Book Whisperer, the publisher, in retrospect I am happy I did. Thank you.</div></div>Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-38350268567824698512024-02-07T10:18:00.000-05:002024-02-07T10:18:37.453-05:00"A Promise" , by Amelia Martin<div><br /></div><div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbBlwfV0oZ-UiFp9n1-TZe12ldPhyphenhyphenPmMOj1vHPz6kBRJLiezHCmg0qhuJzyps_hIrwBbgtB2AtH7NAyN11FldOxokJbhKH15cxij8axsUHFmBQd5WenUyOx0r54v5QcVyq8hzrZBhyiTuPCVRm0ITBLQ1me3JObZgj5j2skQB-JB7ZL0zjWl_NqRHh0ARy/s500/203370399.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="322" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbBlwfV0oZ-UiFp9n1-TZe12ldPhyphenhyphenPmMOj1vHPz6kBRJLiezHCmg0qhuJzyps_hIrwBbgtB2AtH7NAyN11FldOxokJbhKH15cxij8axsUHFmBQd5WenUyOx0r54v5QcVyq8hzrZBhyiTuPCVRm0ITBLQ1me3JObZgj5j2skQB-JB7ZL0zjWl_NqRHh0ARy/s320/203370399.jpg" width="206" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Germany:</div><div><br /></div><div>This historical fiction opens in years leading to WW11 and moves along during the war and some years later. It tells us the story of three friends: Elizabeth, Adam and Hannah who sought comfort in each other as they grew up during these turbulent times. They lives will ever by changed with the rise of Adolf Hitler.<br /><br />In alternate chapters, the voice of each character brings to life their experience as they try to survive the horrors imposed by the Nazi to the German population. This story is very touching but very predictable I read multiple books from that time so imagining the outcome was easy. Of course it still a difficult read, the story through the characters dabbles in a multitude known evens such as the ocean liner that was denied entry to Central and North America to its Jewish passengers and the organization that took Jewish children to safety as examples, you will find more cringing accounts as the story moves towards its conclusion. Not all outcomes were good, not everyone survived. Years later, some of the survivors found each other and “A Promise” to stay in touch was made. Their friendship will last for ever....<br /><br />Although this subject is one of my favourite I admit to have struggled staying with it. The writing style and presentation somewhat choppy: short and disjointed paragraphs at time, some even read like a chopping list. It did not flow smoothly and this distracted me. As for the characters Ms. Martin penned them with a solid stroke, they are we well rounded, charismatic and brilliantly represent those who were present during this terrible time. So I can’t say I love this novel but I also can’t say I hated it, so I stand on the fence and will let you enjoy it. Don’t take my words for it judge for yourselves.<br /><br />My thanks to the publisher Book Whisperer and Netgalley for this ARC</div><br /></div><br />Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-5175954927307323082024-02-03T12:13:00.002-05:002024-02-03T12:17:09.035-05:00"His Heart of Darkness", by Melinda Woodhall<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj00yiD1l_mudSGPlxlY4Jnwhdugmn9gwlPHI4K8WuUiPT4f9Cp5va4rOABRhhzaAWlGNwYQyw4_LAKf-I26KM3MPs6WJ6tICDtLbkLecNdMQBGVkZ49f3xzaVxUKQeT3AkYgt4-qEs4vznl2ZI54SvcevENyS1P76sAtcHEANLgUZoZjdLsaxjzzSZ0K7j/s500/202726420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="313" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj00yiD1l_mudSGPlxlY4Jnwhdugmn9gwlPHI4K8WuUiPT4f9Cp5va4rOABRhhzaAWlGNwYQyw4_LAKf-I26KM3MPs6WJ6tICDtLbkLecNdMQBGVkZ49f3xzaVxUKQeT3AkYgt4-qEs4vznl2ZI54SvcevENyS1P76sAtcHEANLgUZoZjdLsaxjzzSZ0K7j/s320/202726420.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><br />Frankie Dawson, P.I Mystery book #2</div><div><br /></div><div>Has Frankie begins his new life in Memphis, he takes a cold case of a young reporter who had vanished decades earlier and soon finds himself at the heart of a serial murder and he needs to take him into custody before he strikes again.<br /><br />This prolific writer knows how to spins a tale that keeps her reader riveting to the plot. Her stories are well-written, exciting and hard to put down. In this latest we have Frankie discovered a link between his present investigation and past crimes and the disappearance his father many years ago. While he investigates he jumps through hoops to get his answers and while he does that we are kept entertained. Along the way, Frankie crosses paths with FBI task force and the local police and soon rekindles with Peyton, his estranged wife. Josie, his biological daughter plays a good part in this mystery and adds a touch only a teenager can do. The pacing is steady and more intense than some of her books but this only had to the excitement the story provides. I also like the characterization: the players are well defined and have good roles.<br /><br />In a few words: the plot is solid and entertaining. The action packed and filled with drama, twists and turns...<br /><br />Well-done as usual.<br /><br />I received a free copy of this book and I leave a voluntary review, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.</div><br />Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-68354096270340892302024-01-29T10:34:00.000-05:002024-01-29T10:34:44.251-05:00"The Diabolical", by David Putnam<div><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE3Z4BV4sHNrvFTusLsCJjKBdJZLNUAxanwztJ_tydNtupNJ9YtkwLstIdkfEZdIRAYpB8C1pdFDT_CAmNROdckIJHRzb2MJFwNkupxRdTuUtN-tUyevomGsso-Qyo2pzxqcBDMQe5ICXLXMhK6N5VQ9TgltI1vHKKfyVWzY6PHSdJWwndREnAlq4lAOeC/s500/125636596.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE3Z4BV4sHNrvFTusLsCJjKBdJZLNUAxanwztJ_tydNtupNJ9YtkwLstIdkfEZdIRAYpB8C1pdFDT_CAmNROdckIJHRzb2MJFwNkupxRdTuUtN-tUyevomGsso-Qyo2pzxqcBDMQe5ICXLXMhK6N5VQ9TgltI1vHKKfyVWzY6PHSdJWwndREnAlq4lAOeC/s320/125636596.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><b><br /><br /> Bruno Johnson # 11</b><div><b><br />I discovered this author not long ago and I fast became a huge fan. I simply love how he tucks in some soft humour between the lines while he keeps the suspense moving at a fast pace. This is a twisty ride that had me on the edge of my seat from the opening page...I simply loved it. The plot is well crafted and with its well-developed characters: Bruno, ex-cop/ex-con now a bartender at a trendy hotel, in Costa Rica, has a lot to content with especially his boss the Ice Queen, my favourite character is Waldo, a Rottweiler with a mind of his own....with the many drunken tourists we have a lot to keep us fascinated. Of course Bruno has a lovely family his wife Marie and his thirteen children there to support him. he also has to content himself with a chief of police that is shady and to spice the story and gives us the shivers Mr Putman makes him face Russian gang and a few general thugs...What a complicated and unpredictable development Mr. Putnam penned in “The Diabolical”.<br /><br />It opens as a shooting just occurred at El Gato Gordo nightclub, the victim is a prominent local figure and Bruno’s close friend. Bruno is asked to help by the chief of police finding the shooter and if he doesn’t, the chief will turn him over to US authorities.<br /><br />Don’t drop the ball Bruno or you are out....<br /><br />This series can be read in any order all books stand on their own and can be read in any order.<br /><br />My thanks to Oceanview Publishing and Netgalley for this ARC</b></div>Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-28492316106131069942024-01-22T11:25:00.000-05:002024-01-22T11:25:20.097-05:00"Mission Churchill", by Alex Abella<br /><br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoKazW1oQ7yFTz7KlouKPcSFw10Ne2UCQUUKjRlXrleOnEj6A42QB_yT7uyGdrEvchCJY-lmY5PrxAgOOXfgSV_1EZDGTd2kQC_8Sj58v0K9y3yynLTSTsgss8-K-yICPgNTbTW0WRjAE_Fg_Y8Fsl_3hCHmDTjhgMQ2tRWkLnD2sXX3-GmkviEPPXl28f/s2700/198970746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2700" data-original-width="1800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoKazW1oQ7yFTz7KlouKPcSFw10Ne2UCQUUKjRlXrleOnEj6A42QB_yT7uyGdrEvchCJY-lmY5PrxAgOOXfgSV_1EZDGTd2kQC_8Sj58v0K9y3yynLTSTsgss8-K-yICPgNTbTW0WRjAE_Fg_Y8Fsl_3hCHmDTjhgMQ2tRWkLnD2sXX3-GmkviEPPXl28f/s320/198970746.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div>Inspired by another book written by Warren Adler “Target Churchill”, this thriller involves the assassination attempts against Winston Churchill in 1933 Cuba and during the German Blitz on London by IRA sharpshooter, Marcus Riley, who was looking for revenge for the poor treatment of the Irish by the British. His orders came from Germany. But Winston was never alone, everywhere he went, tenaciously shadowing him was Walter Thompson, his thrusted bodyguard.</div><div><br /></div><div>This intriguing plot explores the lack of popularity of Churchill and the plans assassinations on his life. It read much as nonfiction however it is definitely fiction, although multiple attempts were made during his time has Prime Minister, those describes in this story did not occurred.<br /><br />Following Thompson trying to find Riley is quite a ride, action packed and exiting and the gripping narrative brings everything alive and is a joy to read. The author recreated scenes in England during the Blitz that is chilling and heartbreaking. The atmosphere, characterization and the presentation are top notch.<br /><br />This taut thriller should please most historical fiction buff. I for one was glued to every word as the story unfolded eager to see if Riley would reach his target and end his mission...I like this determined villain...<br /><br />Thank you to the Book Whisperer for providing me with this ARC</div><br /><br />Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-83418815726636499672024-01-19T10:12:00.000-05:002024-01-19T10:12:20.973-05:00"Churchill's Triumph", by Michael Dobbs<div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbMQys-GPOxu3U32C0O8C3atX6H2HgriOGnLHlyWRGBGxhiqL62gGi1fdKzLDrmbh85uRtjXwFLlAvdq3gf3fPDUfBK-4SLMcX6KTQRZTuMHPcgXlEnwEQICqYrywKcXdKjJWPlD0G4U75APsD23GP6TQ_SM0bEiGSMzqoYllQUhIGf7ivlgVeOGc8EqLX/s400/115214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="261" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbMQys-GPOxu3U32C0O8C3atX6H2HgriOGnLHlyWRGBGxhiqL62gGi1fdKzLDrmbh85uRtjXwFLlAvdq3gf3fPDUfBK-4SLMcX6KTQRZTuMHPcgXlEnwEQICqYrywKcXdKjJWPlD0G4U75APsD23GP6TQ_SM0bEiGSMzqoYllQUhIGf7ivlgVeOGc8EqLX/s320/115214.jpg" width="209" /></a></div><br />A novel of Betrayal</div><div><br /></div><div>The most powerful men in the world: Roosevelt, Churchill and Stalin met in a Russian Resort town of Yalta, Crimea, these Allies leaders were to make important decisions regarding the future progress of the war and the postwar world. The place where they preceded to divide up Europe....the future of Germany, Eastern Europe and the United Nations...<br /><br />This fictional account brings to live one of the chilling moments when the fate of Europe was decided. Mr. Dobbs takes us behind the scenes and brings us into the mind and hearts of the big three leaders. This drama traces as well the human side of the leaders and reminds us that war is about people.<br /><br />Joseph Stalin’s mission is to expand the Soviet Empire while the ailing and fragile Roosevelt is willing to make compromises to bring Stalin into the Pacific campaign and Churchill, the least powerful, could not count on Roosevelt as his ally and could not tame the avaricious Russian. Reading what went on during these monumental negations was an eye opening, totally outraged by their attitude. . With their bellies full they had no regards towards the heroic struggle of millions who died and fought in the war... The statesmen fiddled while the tragedy in Poland was going on. Mr. Dobbs writes about the country with passion, transferring to his fictional village Piorun, the rape, murder and savage enforcement by the Germans and Russians. These events actually happened. His words are powerful and furiously told and compelling but he rambles a lot...<br /><br />On the down side not only that the title is misleading I couldn’t find anything coming close to a triumph. We have a sub-plot: a Polish storyline that is interesting on its own but add little to nothing here. But what I found most annoying is the picture left in my mind of our supreme leaders: what was done at Yalta I am certain it still happening these days...A big party with lots of food, champagne, caviar and luxury accommodation...not to mention the extra service rendered.....<br /><br />I read Mr. Dobbs before and have enjoyed his spin on history but this one written some years back left me cold and “Churchill’s Triumph” was less than enjoyable.</div></div><br />Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-17525009550447152512024-01-14T09:40:00.000-05:002024-01-14T09:40:31.893-05:00"The Conductor", by John W. Mefford<br /><br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqgEiPfsdsL07T1VDdI4UTCj4X4Hce2nX96jHKkj7dWcl5Us97hNMDDhICMMRmNhCoiuR_mUg99rnGQ9SgfBMSbEilXEr_GD7zo4i4mcElgXMZS2vRBcoIhB7BfC500HRNavT-KCJAzK0pKy_Y4oUyhts986khffscrT8ae-eQJjJG1WbWgeAg3iXYCVoY/s500/198626188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="314" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqgEiPfsdsL07T1VDdI4UTCj4X4Hce2nX96jHKkj7dWcl5Us97hNMDDhICMMRmNhCoiuR_mUg99rnGQ9SgfBMSbEilXEr_GD7zo4i4mcElgXMZS2vRBcoIhB7BfC500HRNavT-KCJAzK0pKy_Y4oUyhts986khffscrT8ae-eQJjJG1WbWgeAg3iXYCVoY/s320/198626188.jpg" width="201" /></a></div><br />Jack Whitfield Thriller book # 7</div><div><br /></div><div>This is another high-stakes thrill ride that kept me on my toes till I flipped the last page. Action packed as always and an exciting puzzle to plunge our teeth into and try to solve.<br /><br />A coded letter.<br />A hit team.<br />And a shocking revelation.<br /><br />The story in a few words:<br /><br />When Karman learns of her father death ruled as a suicide she is certain it is not the case her dad definitely did not commit this act, she is positive he was murdered. She asks CLASS to investigate and to prove she is right. Jack looks into it and his research brings out another questionable death in Washington DC that may be linked to the days of the Cold War. Off he goes on a journey of intrigue, discovery, subterfuge and death.....<br /><br />More thoughts:<br /><br />Not a dull moment, action packed till the very end. It seems that someone is killing Russian defectors but where does Karman’s father’s death come in to play, we eventually find out. I found this saga to be very captivating following every movement with its many twists and deceptions was very hard not to be pulled in, it moves along so fast and has so many surprises for us it is difficult not to enjoy the comings and goings....The narration fast and furious just like the action.<br /><br />Another great addition Mr. Mefford keep them coming. Thank you for the hours of enjoyment.</div><br />Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-50648564941726100182024-01-12T09:39:00.001-05:002024-01-12T09:39:53.839-05:00"Double Take", by Lynette Eason<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Ksr3GfaVKe-WkOpwps8fzUgiGZ2t8Mxv7I2Cq4dr49HjjiK77qJoZ1QCbuQh4b8pT54-Cg_YvajWIYutDS_DQvsNFE82OBrGsA73tYvt85d7xpM6r8FCm1zRbsnpJ7vNf7nElkMSdA1bEFUf1DqFaCdpksxOPMn5hRF8tf1Py8v1LzAssG3FcIulTQnW/s2000/181857579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1294" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Ksr3GfaVKe-WkOpwps8fzUgiGZ2t8Mxv7I2Cq4dr49HjjiK77qJoZ1QCbuQh4b8pT54-Cg_YvajWIYutDS_DQvsNFE82OBrGsA73tYvt85d7xpM6r8FCm1zRbsnpJ7vNf7nElkMSdA1bEFUf1DqFaCdpksxOPMn5hRF8tf1Py8v1LzAssG3FcIulTQnW/s320/181857579.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><br /><b><br /><br /> A romantic suspense novel</b><div><b><br />Lake City Heroes book #1<br /><br />This is the story of Lainie Jackson who ended shooting her ex after he attempted to kill her. But when it appeared he had survived and is now set to finish the job, Detective James Cross sprang into action and together, he and Lainie must find out whom is after her and why he wants her dead.<br /><br />This story is packed with action and the suspense is skillfully maintained throughout. The emotional depth is touching: James and Lainie not only needed to face the external threats but also their personal struggles. I came to sympathized and understand the challenges they both faced. To add a layer of complexity James is Lainie’s best friend’s brother and since childhood has a crush on him. They play this little attraction game from the get-go and witnessing how this develops is heartwarming. The game of cat and mouse is well played out, not knowing who the villain actually is for a great part of the novel leaves us in suspense till drop by drop the clues are revealed and we know the motives and identity of the antagonist. The narrative is very active and definitely has kept my attention till I flipped the last page. Well said and well played out.<br /><br />Nicely done<br /><br />This ARC was provided by the publisher Revell via Netgalley for my thoughts.</b></div>Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-14345659005003083352024-01-08T09:05:00.000-05:002024-01-08T09:05:15.296-05:00"Trans-Mongolian Express", by David l. Robbins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMQNc7xltqn9O5hblNTnK44rwqNZc5xW92kjW5kq1mMHIS9k4Ia-6YdgHWxyT_i5bum9bAl07arxL2ZuF32MocLNLmZxnvE71haBS2SatofmaIrtQffIJSA00SVIwIHfk4TduUpV53-Dplr_YtRhOjkaNOTIowu9FEGrbPK4ilDpg7zrg_E8UKeOR9szbr/s2700/198970942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2700" data-original-width="1800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMQNc7xltqn9O5hblNTnK44rwqNZc5xW92kjW5kq1mMHIS9k4Ia-6YdgHWxyT_i5bum9bAl07arxL2ZuF32MocLNLmZxnvE71haBS2SatofmaIrtQffIJSA00SVIwIHfk4TduUpV53-Dplr_YtRhOjkaNOTIowu9FEGrbPK4ilDpg7zrg_E8UKeOR9szbr/s320/198970942.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><b><br /><br /> This story brings an immense train journey across Asia, Chernobyl, China, Mongolia, the USSR, and Chechnya it also dabbles into nuclear fission. It is a kind of thriller-adventure-travelogue-comedy-action-romance-mystery...you take your pick this novel brings a little maybe even more to the plate. According to M. Robbins his story roots was inspired by Warren Adler “Trans-Siberian Express” and he simply added his own personal touch after doing intense research.</b><div><b><br />In the harrowing aftermath of Chernobyl’s meltdown in 1986, the fate of Eastern Europe hangs by a thread. Scientist Lara, a thorn in the Russian mob is drawn back to the Soviet Union on the Mongolian Express. She is not alone Anton, a Soviet scientist exiled for predicting the catastrophe, Timur, a Chechen , plots to destroy the Soviet Union, Gang, a reluctant assassin is also among them and joining the group are a Chinese, Swedish and English personalities. All assigned to the same compartment...Till suddenly, a murder trusts them into a deadly cat and mouse game...and Chief Sheriff Bat races to solve the murder.<br /><br />This is quite a hard book to read, it moves very slowly as the “Express” stops at many locations across the continent 9,289 km of railway line, about 60 stations from Beijing to Moscow, a 5 day journey. The conversations between the characters are rehashed at every stop and are so packed with technical stuff about fusion and particles fallout and some other technical and political language I find staying tuned was overwhelming. Although quite interesting, along the way we are treated with detailed descriptions of the territory. The plot got better when it escalated into a seemingly exciting one after the body of a Russian overseer was found and Mongolian Sheriff Bat joined the group....“Trans Mongolian Express” is not your standard mystery you know what the crime is, who got murdered and who did it but most of all you are into one of those very slow burning plot.<br /><br />I stay on the fence with this one...at times in felt like simply closing the book and other times so deeply engaged I simply couldn’t abandoned it. I stuck with it till the end.<br /><br />I received an ARC of this book from The Book Whisperer via Netgalley</b></div>Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-89691083699275987882024-01-05T10:12:00.000-05:002024-01-05T10:12:06.935-05:00"Firetrap", by Otho Eskin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZean8vIVC4ncN28KdDNEsXNBNi33T_2gxVDFj82PAEhryW-Y4Re-_I1eLcXl10iV7cuPMrn2UBdHONkz8xBJSreGhyJCR-OiCI__EceCW1f03B_9HnIPUQBYvjv4TmuDIcRYGLvDYPc6cIXQ8kZmD5G7-UZMOvAGaRGkupRg3-8Gy1OyitC-bn4cGY7FZ/s1000/178810865.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="637" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZean8vIVC4ncN28KdDNEsXNBNi33T_2gxVDFj82PAEhryW-Y4Re-_I1eLcXl10iV7cuPMrn2UBdHONkz8xBJSreGhyJCR-OiCI__EceCW1f03B_9HnIPUQBYvjv4TmuDIcRYGLvDYPc6cIXQ8kZmD5G7-UZMOvAGaRGkupRg3-8Gy1OyitC-bn4cGY7FZ/s320/178810865.jpg" width="204" /></a></div><br /><b><br /><br /> Marko Zorn book #3</b><div><b><br />A more deadly narcotic than fentanyl spreads across Washington, D.C. homicide detective Marko Zorn search for whom is behind this off-label drug brings him to a Big Pharma company run by psychopathic brothers with killer instincts. Marko will need all his wits and skills to shut down the brothers’ criminal drug empire.<br /><br />While this novel stands on its own I am told the novels in this series can be read in any order. “Firetrap” is my first experience reading Eskin Otho and it will not be my last.<br /><br />This story has a little bit of everything: action galore with many twists and turns, police forensics to educate us, lots of suspense and intrigue to keep us on our toes, played out by a compelling and brilliant protagonist who is also witty, wise and eloquent. The story is also filled with clever personalities and shady power players .With its fast and furious pacing, a tempo that never let go it was hard not to stay captivated from the get-go. “Firetrap” is a chilling political drama hard to put down and quite a page-turner. I could go on and on, but no spoilers from me.<br /><br />Excellently written, entertaining story well played out by great characters. What is not to like....<br /><br />My thanks to Oceanview Publishing and Netgalley for the advanced copy</b></div>Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-26080181892459179772024-01-01T09:28:00.000-05:002024-01-01T09:28:03.677-05:00"Broadcast Blues", by R.G. Belsky<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOOsW7jseywO2Q4LuRKfCDlLFxY9YZchE1U83s5GiWLivJi0sM91QPtvPzZan-so5mKXx5r3NnP9WwQeYkjF4bCfgdjCXOlVd221yFDE2cmy-F6md1QjgrLfxG-xrntAo1biFNDYnvkxjhgoNZ17VN1V5qM86Fu-q6D73zonaLofFGPHh0NSz-L69v0Y18/s500/125637341.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="325" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOOsW7jseywO2Q4LuRKfCDlLFxY9YZchE1U83s5GiWLivJi0sM91QPtvPzZan-so5mKXx5r3NnP9WwQeYkjF4bCfgdjCXOlVd221yFDE2cmy-F6md1QjgrLfxG-xrntAo1biFNDYnvkxjhgoNZ17VN1V5qM86Fu-q6D73zonaLofFGPHh0NSz-L69v0Y18/s320/125637341.jpg" width="208" /></a></div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Book#6 in the Clare Carlson Mystery</div><div><br /></div><div>This mystery about a TV newswoman Clare Carlson held me captive from the opening pages. What a refreshing and captivating read. It starts with a bang when an explosive device planted in a car detonates killing Wendy Kyle, a private investigator catering to women who suspected their husbands of cheating. Undoubtedly Wendy had angered many people with her work: the list of suspects is endless. Clare knows it will be a huge story for her and sets out to find the truth.<br /><br />What a page-turner this turned out to be, once started I simply couldn’t put it down. The story is witty, clever and mostly engaging. We are taken on a wild cat and mouse chase through the streets of New York while a television reporter provides us with a fascinating lens into the media along with the murder case. The pacing and plotting are excellent. In fact you couldn’t ask for a more exciting drama. Clare is smart, spunky and persistent: once she gets a scoop she is like a Pitbull she will never let go till she says so. I like the tone it makes you feel part of the TV newsroom with all its craziness and back stabbing.<br /><br />With its snappy dialog and exciting plot “Broadcast Blues” is one of my favourite mysteries I read this year. Have no fear if you haven’t read the previous installment this one stand solid by itself.<br /><br />This ARC was provided by Oceanview Publishing via Netgalley</div><br />Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-73634965320277915342023-12-28T09:22:00.000-05:002023-12-28T09:22:25.494-05:00"Dirt Dealers", by A.W. Kaylen<br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiraqEWxnUZxNdFYfJJSDum-R-bab_z9fPV7ErAOUt6_p7U4HggXTrJKRRU56uN6n3oiisFmxtvE8bcqY5QCEpBhcdJ2XHE6JCom6zYy3g8g0__xqQO8VcBYUhvl77Q1BA1u2Y6JV_E6ZErfn2imZgI8VTQoblbopii_uhlF8kB10lnmNKRiVS94XFuMQUw/s565/135980316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="565" data-original-width="353" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiraqEWxnUZxNdFYfJJSDum-R-bab_z9fPV7ErAOUt6_p7U4HggXTrJKRRU56uN6n3oiisFmxtvE8bcqY5QCEpBhcdJ2XHE6JCom6zYy3g8g0__xqQO8VcBYUhvl77Q1BA1u2Y6JV_E6ZErfn2imZgI8VTQoblbopii_uhlF8kB10lnmNKRiVS94XFuMQUw/s320/135980316.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;">Heather Chase FBI # 0.5</span></div><br />This novella of 85 pages or so was a promotion to introduce us to the author and his series. I received this prequel through Bookfunnel at no cost.<br /><br />This sort story has quite a punch and is said in somewhat crude and choppy language while Heather tries to work with her fellow Agents. She seems smarter than them, analysing the situation before jumping to conclusion. This mystery is about sex scandal, a string of murders and a secret no one wants to reveal, an ordinary case of course given to a female Agent....something is not right and Heather uses her instinct to solve the puzzle and wrap up the murder case...<br /><br />The storyline is captivating enough, active and provides some twists to derail us, suspense is there to keep the guessing game on and manages to do so till the very end. So-so characters very stereotypical, nothing special come out of them. I would say it is the run of the mill mystery/police procedural. Good but not exceptional.</div><br />Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-33055645636131976852023-12-25T09:58:00.000-05:002023-12-25T09:58:10.116-05:00"The Warsaw Sisters" by Amanda Barratt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLTnCn0RkRMJ4-R3m6_V6zPhMUqD1ZYradyBUkgFFI9rqk2Iz5mqDZ__lsZGc7kNh5PBQ48OMBDKpLwHdWcOmcPeGRiE1JkFcNYHTNWZYn5qLFRnCECHeZz-N974k_AtgFLa8jGdtB_kD4YTk4_GuaQJDVMJwYdEj-FoEonCECqClG5UUtA4w2TC_wK5i/s400/90209690.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="259" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLTnCn0RkRMJ4-R3m6_V6zPhMUqD1ZYradyBUkgFFI9rqk2Iz5mqDZ__lsZGc7kNh5PBQ48OMBDKpLwHdWcOmcPeGRiE1JkFcNYHTNWZYn5qLFRnCECHeZz-N974k_AtgFLa8jGdtB_kD4YTk4_GuaQJDVMJwYdEj-FoEonCECqClG5UUtA4w2TC_wK5i/s320/90209690.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br />WW11 Poland<br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />This is the story of twin sisters Antonina and Helena Dabrowska whose strong bond will be tested by the devastation of war. Ms. Barratt brings us on a heart wrenching journey along with the characters as the sisters bravely fought in different ways the oppression of Nazis. Helena joined a resistance cell while Antonina smuggled Jewish children out of the ghetto.<br /><br />The historical events are woven within the fictional characters lives and storyline, giving us a glimpse of the courage and sacrifice the citizens of Warsaw had to face. Told from the point of view of each sister and in alternate chapters we navigate through the tragedy that unfolded in Warsaw for five long years of oppression, brutality and terror. Although all Polish people suffered, the Jewish people were singled out. Jolanta, a pseudo for Irena Sendler, a legend during the war was Antonina’s contact. We have snippets of the dangerous and important work this group of women did. As for Helena her story was inspired by the Warsaw Uprising; the most heroic and tragic chapter’s in Poland’s history. We also dabbled in many other facets such as the Katyn massacre, Treblinka deportations, the Wola and Ochta massacres and many other major and tragic events.<br /><br />The style is very emotional, every word vividly said and touching. This story has depth with a strong sense of place and time. The characters are sharply drawn although I did find the sisters were a bit too lucky to escape so much tragedy without being hurt even killed, even some of their action should have brought retaliation: slapping a German in the face and getting away with it...questionable as an example.<br /><br />The author’s notes at the end of the book tells us why “The Warsaw Sisters” is a powerful story hard to put down.<br /><br />I received this ARC from Revell Publishing through The First Reviewer Program.</div><br />Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-14039370790053033032023-12-22T09:50:00.000-05:002023-12-22T09:50:13.687-05:00"The Proof of the Pudding", by Rhys Bowen<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7NHg5wiEwZKeX_uvaTWnlh5Or45XpPFB63ouJ8lTIOiBkN7H90I0S_ryhDlXhDiuHVtOE1zexzeCC4ZqeIqYOBB1uDTT39LdNzd9FRzpTAZoPIfl_rk3OWJQoQKaCFfjcP1SocepwkP9PHBoEv1FYNZ0y6lSAi9Yw4bCD7PcXJK5EgUOHqq32-wMgVSYy/s400/112974876.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="265" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7NHg5wiEwZKeX_uvaTWnlh5Or45XpPFB63ouJ8lTIOiBkN7H90I0S_ryhDlXhDiuHVtOE1zexzeCC4ZqeIqYOBB1uDTT39LdNzd9FRzpTAZoPIfl_rk3OWJQoQKaCFfjcP1SocepwkP9PHBoEv1FYNZ0y6lSAi9Yw4bCD7PcXJK5EgUOHqq32-wMgVSYy/s320/112974876.jpg" width="212" /></a></div></div><b><br /><br /> A Royal Spyness Mystery Book # 17</b><div><b><br />I started this series at this point and I assure you that in no way was I lost not knowing what had previously happened, Ms. Bowen does excellent work in introducing her characters and melting them smoothly into a new story. Although it may be great the read this series in order since snippets of the past does pop in from time to time.<br /><br />Georgie is home awaiting the birth of her child, and to show off her new French chef, a party is set to celebrate Sir Hubert’s return from his last expedition. One of the guests is Gothic horror novelist Sir Mortimer Mordred who lives nearby wants to borrow Georgie’s chef for his own party. He loves to give his guesses a tour of his garden, then a banquet is served where several of the them suddenly became sick......everything points to Pierre the French chef but Georgie wants none of it and goes all out to defend him.....<br /><br />This is amateur sleuth at its best. Clues come very slowly to stretch the suspense and it is done beautifully. At first I thought this drama was way to slow moving for my taste but lo and behold I got caught in the excitement and held captive till the murderer was known. Along the way we meet colourful characters, a mix of celebrities such as Agatha Christie and Laurence Olivier. The maid and house help played roles to a tee and were entertaining along the way. Not forgetting the dreadful sister in law. In my mind, I told her to buzz off many times but Georgie was graceful and tolerant....<br /><br />I like the simple style and the active narration with lack of frills or posh words used by British Aristocracy and hard for some of us to comprehend. Most of all the detective work is sound and captivating and the story can move on with Georgie now a mother..... Till next time....what will Ms. Bowen come up with to give us another entertaining read...well-said and well-done.<br /><br />Many thankyous to Berkley Publishing Group as well as Netgalley for providing this ARC.</b></div>Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-76887383411917963842023-12-16T10:06:00.000-05:002023-12-16T10:06:14.461-05:00"An Innocent Child", by Roberta Kagan <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWGWzDjc1D17s9yh36eymKeukorJhI0Z7UZN5_N-8vJk69AtfiavLt6p_wvjN4h0X_JWfpAIlKxpA1Z6TKTroj386nv4nrfeAGQ71ypIFWIPWCPhjNZlILjOmvWGoNl23plhaHvEnaKYofQ6SBoBOb85otapa_nfmc7hH_C3ZtU3wxeJgUSOYmC2-f6B8T/s500/199327644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWGWzDjc1D17s9yh36eymKeukorJhI0Z7UZN5_N-8vJk69AtfiavLt6p_wvjN4h0X_JWfpAIlKxpA1Z6TKTroj386nv4nrfeAGQ71ypIFWIPWCPhjNZlILjOmvWGoNl23plhaHvEnaKYofQ6SBoBOb85otapa_nfmc7hH_C3ZtU3wxeJgUSOYmC2-f6B8T/s320/199327644.jpg" width="213" /></a><br /><br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>“Margot’s Secret” book #2</div><br />It is highly recommended to start with the first book “The Secret They Hide” in order to enjoy and not be lost. Book#2 picks up where the first left off and we have little back information to situate us.<br /><br />Nazism is right around the corner. Margot is married to Max and they are close friends with Ben, a Jewish doctor. When their sickly son Erik grapples with a life-threatening illness they turn to Ben, but the rising tide of anti-Semitism, Ben doesn’t have the medication to take care of him. In desperation Margot turns to her sister Trudy, who is married to an ambitious Nazi officer but Trudy has deep feelings for Max and wants his attention at no cost.... She is holding back a family secret that could change everything if revealed and will shatter families....<br /><br />Although this historical fiction is set before and during WW11 it is mainly of sisters and how far one is willing to go to help a sick child. Ms. Kagan doesn’t shy away from the horrors of Action T-4 a program set by the Nazis to euthanized individual not deemed to be part of the Aryan society: mentally ill or physically deformed individual. These poor souls where sent to a hospital who would give them special care...the author also tackles in her storyline the Lebensborn Program, a program set to increase Germany’s population.<br /><br />We have a lot going on which fans of historical fiction may find repetitious but around all the known events we do have an interesting family saga and an intriguing backstory of Trudy’s maid. As usual Ms. Kagan has painted a dramatic story that could have happened during war time. The emotional struggles and the many changes the citizens had to endure are well noted and highlight how power to a group ruined the lives of many. I am with some reviewers saying that Ms. Kagan’s words are not simple words but words we need to learn from....<br /><br />The writing is simple and well-done. The narration flow smoothly and keep a steady pace, in all very active. This is an interesting storyline that held my attention from start to finish. I cared for the characters; they each have a strong personality to love or to hate. In all this is a good book.<br /><br />Well-said, well-done<br /><br />I received this ARC from the publisher Book Whisperer via Netgalley<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><br /><br />Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6746462984539738065.post-81882818064291250832023-12-11T10:14:00.002-05:002023-12-11T10:14:44.060-05:00"The Porcelain Maker", by Sarah Freethy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhRiLO_Ohn7fxsmonCg9qG3twch1DvfZXHPdv5vrp641d2l68nVbb-3llpdRR57RTJX08nmGhQG7HsMZnSIyb3P_t4it-GCR5k4eS8KL8iliWexcHr0rCPcROIhfvtsthdipY-JxmJ91GDhw7lbfR-hYIN2RCaidA50eLp671uXNYn3x7o_u1fO60r-2xO/s400/65213589.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="263" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhRiLO_Ohn7fxsmonCg9qG3twch1DvfZXHPdv5vrp641d2l68nVbb-3llpdRR57RTJX08nmGhQG7HsMZnSIyb3P_t4it-GCR5k4eS8KL8iliWexcHr0rCPcROIhfvtsthdipY-JxmJ91GDhw7lbfR-hYIN2RCaidA50eLp671uXNYn3x7o_u1fO60r-2xO/s320/65213589.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><br /><b><br /><br /> This is the story of two lovers caught at the crossroads of history and of a daughter’s search for the truth.</b><div><b><br />This tale was inspired by the actual porcelain factory in Dachau and span through the horrors of WW11 and the 20th century. This is an epic story of love and betrayal that starts in Germany in 1929 with two talented individuals Max Ehrlich, an Austrian Jewish architect and Bettina Vogel, an artist, whose drawn love and aspirations were dashed by the rising threat of the Nazis.<br /><br />In alternate chapters, the narrative moves back in forth in time to America in 1993 with Clara, Bettina’s daughter, embarking on a journey to trace her roots and determined to find the identity of her father....<br /><br />This story vividly describes the scenery, characters’ tragic circumstances, the concentration camps, the beautiful art work and the evilness of the times. Both timelines are brought together beautifully and in a memorable way. The story is rich in vocabulary and the depth and texture of the narrative is not overwhelming. The era is right up my alley I should have enjoyed this story, most reviews I read say this is an outstanding historical novel.<br /><br />But what went wrong? Most of the time I simply couldn’t stay focused on what was being said. Why? First: the romance between Max and Bettina’s was quite banal and their characters lacklustre. Second: Max and Bettina story moved at a very slow pace, borderline boring. Third: the last part seemed rushed and too many questions flashed in my mind that I never found answers for, maybe my mind wander too much..... But I did enjoy Clara and her quest for the truth.<br /><br />Even with its qualities ,this novel was a chore to read.<br /><br />My thanks to St.Martin’s Press and Netgalley for the ARC</b></div>Toni Osbornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02979274776925783392noreply@blogger.com0