"A Gentleman in Moscow", by Amor Towles

Published in 2016

Overview:

Moscow

Count Alexander Rostov is sentenced to house arrest in the luxurious Metropol Hotel in Moscow after the Bolshevik Revolution. The novel spans several decades, exploring his life within the confines of the hotel as he navigates personal relationships and the changing political landscape outside. (Kirkus)

My views:

Frankly I almost gave up reading this novel although in hindsight I am glad I didn’t, so my advice do not give up at one point it will intrigue you and keep you captive till the very end. I was within a few chapters and from then on, I had a hard time putting it down.

The story combines historical fiction with a thoughtful exploration of life and purpose amidst adversity. This unique plot makes this novel stands out but the style is what pushes it to be above average.

I like how the author sets beautifully up the scenes and history of Russia and fluidly inserts it into his plot and to boot make an history lesson interesting.

From the get-go I love Count Alexander, he jumps right out of the story with his vivid actions and strong personality, he really comes to life. I loved following him through the years it felt so real. Although I wouldn’t want to live through what he did.

This is a great read

"The Navigator's Daughter", by Nancy Cole Silverman

Kat Lawson Mystery #1

In a few words:

The year is 1996

Kat Lawson’s father receives a mysterious letter informing the former WW2 navigator/bombardier that his downed B-24 has been found and asking to come to Hungary, Kat suspects this is all part of some senior rip-off scam. But her father insists she represent him not only take photographs of the plane but to find the mother and son who risked their lives to rescue him and his crew by hiding them in a cave. The trip will change her life for ever…..

My thoughts in a few words:

This story is base on the life of Silverman’s father and with a lot of creativity the author has penned and excellent story to captivate us.

Reading “The Navigator’s Daughter” was a pleasant experience, my first by this author but it won’t me the last. From the start we are in a rollercoaster ride while Kate uncovers bit by bit what happened years ago. It is a slow but careful read that will grab anyone in its suspense and keep all riveted till the end. The narration brings us back in time during the war while Kate visits cities, towns, castles and takes photographs always keeping in mind finding Katerina and Adolph, the caring family that saved her father. This is by far not a boring story mystery await Kat also a bit of romance to lighten her life. But she never thought getting caught in the middle of an international art theft ring…..Doesn’t this pique your interest. Give this book a go you will not be disappointed.

I received a copy of this book for free with no obligations to write a review.

"Heartless Highway", by Melinda Woodhall

 

A Bailey Flynn FBI Mystery book # 9

The story in a few words:

When the body of a beautiful young woman is discovered near a busy highway it didn’t take long for Special Agent Bailey Flynn to find evidence linking the murder to the East Coast Highway Killer recently apprehended. She is suspecting the FBI task force may have the wrong man in custody ….she sets out to find the answer.

My thoughts:

Melinda Woodhall never fails to entertain, her latest is no exception. Once started I was so into this suspenseful story I lost track of time, so eager to see what Baily would come up with. For sure the task had pinned the murders on the wrong man but Baily did her all to find who really had no regards for a human life and sniff him out. The original investigators stuck to their outcome not way would they bend leaving Bailey with an immense challenge. I appreciated how the author excelled in throwing one red herring after the other and spinning a tale that derailed all expectations. Well done.

This gripping and emotional charge mystery is a good addition to the series. I am amazed how authors can come up with a fresh story with each installment without making them too formulaic. This is not only police procedural-oriented story it also gives us a great amount of personal and family saga. I enjoy this immensely.

There are a lot of characters to keep track of, many are recurring ones we came to know well through this series and a couple added to the mix for us to get to know or forget…. Of course, Melinda Woodhall style is clear and active with no sex scene and foul language and provides us with a thrilling read to enjoy.

I received a copy of this book for free with no obligations to write a review.