"Passport to Spy", by Nancy Cole Silverman

Kat Lawson Mystery #2

Kat is an investigative reporter for the Phoenix Gazette behind this facade she is an undercover traveling journalist working for the FBI. Her assignment is to get close to Hans von Hausmann, a charming museum curator suspected to be hiding artwork stolen from Jewish families during WW11, specifically the Gerhardt Hoard. The story tells us the relationship between Kat and Hans and the unknown dangers Kat has to travers and along the way who can be or cannot be trusted.

My thoughts:

This well paced plot overflows with heart-pounding moments and intrigue and filled us with excitement as we follow Kat crisscross unknow dangers. The plot gives us so many unexpected twists and turns that from the beginning I was hooked. Love this story, this mix of actual facts and vivid imagination is very well-done. Kat does get close to Hans and his sister Erika Schonburg in hope to find out is there is truth to that rumour and where these treasures might be hidden….but fate got in the way and a Russian got in the picture…

The author has a knack of capturing the Bavarian culture and mentality and has enclosed all this in a story filled with spies, secrets and the boot a beautiful setting and wonderful characters.

Well said and well done

I received this review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

"Kashmir", by Ty Patterson

Zeb Carter book #16

Zeb and his crew are sent to Kashmir to gather intelligence on the ground realities in Kashmir: their mandate is clear….to observe and report. Not to intervene. What they don’t know is their friend Meera Bhosle, an Indian intelligence agent is also there undercover to expose drug networks…..all worked well till she’s burned. Nothing Zeb wouldn’t do for his friend even if it comes with catastrophic risk.

My thoughts:

Mr. Patterson is sticking to his great formulae: sent his team on a risky mission in an exotic or troubled region and have them save the day. Along the way give his readers an exciting story with lots of action and suspense to keep them captive till the very last page. How can he keep us, his long-time fans, glued to each word till we reach the finale: quality of writing, exceptional storyline, knowledge of regions, custom and languages and outstanding characters.

After gazillions of books, I am not tired reading Ty Patterson’s thrillers: keep the good work coming and thank you for the hours of enjoyment you have given me through the years.

"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