Novel Nerd Blog - Book Reviews by Smitha

MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW Imogen Matthews paints a vivid portrait of courage and sacrifice in her gripping novel, "The Girl with the Red Hair." Set against the backdrop of Nazi-occupied Amsterdam during World War II, Matthews transports readers to a harrowing era where the bonds of friendship are tested and the fight for justice and freedom becomes a matter of life and death. At the heart of the story are Hannie and Sonja, inseparable best friends whose lives are irrevocably altered by the brutality of the Nazi regime. As the occupation tightens its grip on their beloved city, Hannie's resolve is tested as she witnesses the atrocities committed against innocent civilians. Refusing to stand idly by, Hannie joins the underground resistance, risking her own safety to defy the oppressors and protect those she holds dear. Matthews masterfully captures the sense of fear and uncertainty that permeates Amsterdam under Nazi rule, vividly depicting the city's once-charming st...

 MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW "Long Time Dead" by T.M. Payne is a gripping mystery thriller that plunges readers into a world where past and present collide with chilling consequences. Payne's masterful storytelling and adept characterization make this novel an enthralling page-turner from start to finish. The narrative follows Detective Sarah Quinn as she investigates a series of murders that seem to be linked to a long-buried secret from her own past. As Quinn delves deeper into the case, she uncovers a web of lies, betrayal, and dark secrets that threaten to unravel not only her career but also her sanity. One of the novel's strongest aspects is its complex and multi-layered characters. Detective Sarah Quinn is a flawed yet compelling protagonist whose determination to solve the case is matched only by her personal demons. Payne skillfully explores Quinn's psyche, delving into her troubled past and inner struggles, adding depth and authenticity to her character....

  MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW  Title: "The Clarks Factory Girls at War: A Gripping Tale of Resilience and Friendship Amidst the Turmoil of World War II" Author: May Ellis Rating: 4.8/5 May Ellis's "The Clarks Factory Girls at War" marks the beginning of an emotionally charged wartime saga series that promises to captivate readers with its richly drawn characters and vivid depiction of life on the home front during World War II. Set against the backdrop of a bustling shoe factory in England, this novel immerses readers in the lives of a group of resilient women whose bonds of friendship are tested by the ravages of war. At the heart of the story are the factory girls of Clarks, whose lives are forever changed when war breaks out and their small town becomes a battleground for air raids and enemy bombings. As they grapple with fear, loss, and uncertainty, they find strength and solace in each other's company, forging bonds that defy social norms and expectatio...

  MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW Susan Tate Ankeny's "American Flygirl," releasing on May 28, 2024, takes readers on a thrilling journey into the world of aviation, weaving a narrative of empowerment, determination, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Against the backdrop of historical aviation challenges and societal norms that restricted the ambitions of women, the novel introduces a captivating protagonist who defies expectations and soars to new heights. The novel, set in a pivotal period of aviation history, immerses readers in the challenges faced by female pilots breaking into a male-dominated industry. Ankeny's meticulous research is evident in the authentic portrayal of the aviation landscape, creating a vivid and immersive experience for the reader. The depiction of the protagonist's journey is not merely a story of flight but a symbolic representation of empowerment and resilience. The strength of "American Flygirl" lies in its well-crafted cha...

MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW                                 Soraya M. Lane's "The Berlin Sisters" takes readers on a poignant journey through the heart of war-torn Berlin, unraveling a narrative of courage, sacrifice, and resilience against the backdrop of World War II. From the bestselling author of "The Secret Midwife," Lane introduces us to the Müller sisters, whose lives are forever altered when they find themselves caught in the crosscurrents of loyalty, morality, and the brutal reality of Nazi Germany. The story unfolds in 1943, with Ava Müller proudly supporting the German war effort alongside her father, a high-ranking official in the Reich. Lane skillfully paints the portrait of a model Nazi family, with Ava's sister Hanna working as a nurse, risking her life amid bombing raids to save others. However, the façade crumbles when Ava stumbles upon a shocking secret—her parents and Hanna are secretly wo...

MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW Anita Davison's "Murder in the Library" presents an enthralling dive into the Crime & Mystery genre, delivering a gripping tale that unfolds within the hallowed halls of a library. The novel introduces readers to a meticulously crafted world of suspense and intrigue, where the tranquil setting of a library is shattered by the heinous act of murder. The narrative revolves around a carefully plotted mystery that keeps readers guessing until the very end. Davison skillfully introduces a cast of characters, each with their own motives and secrets, creating a web of intrigue that adds complexity to the investigation. The protagonist's quest to unravel the truth becomes a compelling journey, and the author masterfully intertwines clues and red herrings, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat. One of the strengths of "Murder in the Library" lies in Davison's ability to capture the essence of the crime genre. The pacing is w...

  MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW Title: A Compelling Voyage Through History - "Sisters of Fortune" by Anna Lee Huber "Sisters of Fortune" by Anna Lee Huber takes readers on an immersive journey through the pages of history, skillfully intertwining fiction with the harrowing events surrounding the Titanic's fateful voyage. Released on February 20, 2024, this riveting historical novel promises an engaging blend of drama, mystery, and genuine historical accuracy. The narrative follows the lives of two sisters, a plot choice that adds a personal touch to the larger-than-life tragedy. Huber masterfully introduces readers to the era's societal intricacies, providing a rich backdrop that makes the characters' struggles and triumphs all the more poignant. The attention to historical detail is commendable, showcasing the author's dedication to authenticity. What sets "Sisters of Fortune" apart is Huber's ability to weave a gripping tale while stayi...