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The Reversible Mask: An Elizabethan Spy Novel
Loretta Goldberg’s The Reversible Mask invites readers into the turbulent era of 16th-century Europe through the eyes of Sir Edward Latham, a Catholic courtier grappling with his role in Queen Elizabeth’s Protestant England. Feeling a sense of disconnection, Edward’s life takes a dramatic turn upon accepting an invitation from his friend Darnley, the husband of Queen Mary of Scotland. His allegiance shifts to the Catholic Queen Mary, only to find himself adrift once more when she is dethroned. Edward’s journey leads him into the complex web of espionage, ultimately working for the Spanish government amidst the heightening religious tensions that threaten war in England. This precarious situation forces Edward to reevaluate his loyalties, turning him into a double agent for Queen Elizabeth.
Goldberg’s narrative delves deeply into the themes of power and the human cost of ambition, weaving a tale that illuminates the intricate events that forged alliances and rivalries, shaping historical trajectories. Central to the story is Edward’s inner conflict as he wrestles with questions of integrity and personal ethics in a world where loyalty is a commodity. His decisions carry the weight of potential consequences that extend far beyond himself, impacting the fragile balance of power in Europe and international relations for generations. This book stands out for its rich portrayal of espionage during a time of monarchies and shifting allegiances. Goldberg’s thorough research and compelling storytelling bring this historical period to vivid life, offering readers an engaging and insightful exploration of the era. The narrative is bolstered by historically accurate details, nuanced characters, and an intricate plot that seamlessly melds religion, politics, and the human condition.
While this novel adeptly captures a world where faith, power, and personal beliefs intersect, it also addresses mature themes, making it more suitable for an adult audience. Fans of espionage and historical fiction will find The Reversible Mask a mesmerizing read that holds their attention to the last page.
Pages: 448 | ASIN : B07J5W4Z85
Novelizing a Screenplay
In Deep Cover – The Unknowing Agent, an Army Intelligence officer finds himself amid an espionage plot when he defies orders and follows a cryptic message. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The story of how this came about is different from how my most recent book release, Watching Volume 1: The Garden Museum Heist, came about. With that one, there was a definite event that triggered the story. With Deep Cover, I did something I’d never attempted before. The story started out as a screenplay I’d written about 15 years ago. I wasn’t ready to start Volume 2 of Watching, so I was thinking about different possibilities for my next project. With that in mind, I decided to review some of those earlier screenplays and, when I came across Deep Cover, found that it resonated with me and was even more relevant today than when I originally conceived it.
When you first sat down to write this story, did you know where you were going, or did the twists come as you were writing?
Because I had written the story so long ago, I had a general idea about where it was going. That being said, novelizing a screenplay has taught me that changes to the story are inevitable. With a novel, you are much more free to expand on themes, concepts, and background. One of my favorite things about writing is that the characters and events lead you in directions that you had not originally intended. Deep Cover was no different. So yes, many of the twists were new and came to me as I was writing.
What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
I think I enjoyed writing for Stephen Beck the most. That character speaks in the first voice and so I was able to insert myself into his head, which leads to me trying to think like him. In doing so, I find that it leads to places I may not have otherwise gone, which is just so much fun!
I think the greatest challenge for me was writing for Pushkin. He is so different from anybody I’ve actually had contact with. In addition, I had specific goals for how I wanted the reader to react to him. While it was more challenging, it was also fun to come up with the various scenarios and backstories. He was one of my favorites.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m currently writing Volume 2 of the Watching series. Hopefully, it will be available during the early part of 2025.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
The Cold War, a period of history during which spycraft rules the world by substituting subterfuge and lies for actual war and mass death. The Soviet Union and the United States of America, the two major players, spend untold sums of money and put their best minds to work at attempting to gain the “upper hand,” whatever that means. Two distinct ideologies. One takes the long view, while the other prefers instant gratification. They find common ground only in their willingness to utilize experimental methods and the lengths to which they are willing to go to “win,” including using their own citizens in unimaginable ways.
During the Cold War, the Soviets plan to infiltrate the U.S. by placing deep cover agents into the country as everyday citizens. Was the plan successful? If so, with détente and the collapse of the Soviet Union, where are they today?
Lisa Jones and Jennifer Turner are two brilliant scientists working at United Genetics Research Lab, a state-of-the-art facility located outside of Washington, D.C., doing state-of-the-art genetics research. Lisa’s boyfriend, Sgt. Stephan Beck, works at the United States Army Intelligence and Security Command (INSCOM) as an interpreter of intercepted Russian language messages. One such message, intercepted by Homeland Security, piques his interest due to what he, and no one else, perceives to be a hidden message. Unable to resist the challenge, he breaks protocol in an effort to unravel the mystery, unprepared for what he actually learns: a possible connection to the people he loves and an attempt to manipulate the next presidential election, only months away, altering the fate of the U.S., and the world.
Deep Cover, the second published novel by acclaimed author Jeffrey Jay Levin, author of Watching, Volume 1: The Garden Museum Heist, asks the question: Are the two countries, and the behind-the-scenes players, really all that different? Who can one really trust?
If The Manchurian Candidate and The Americans had a baby, it would have been the adult action thriller Deep Cover.
Star-Crossed Lovers
Brazzaville—A Sequel to Casablanca follows four friends who, at the end of Casablanca, fly off to Portugal and tell the story of what happens after that. I think this original idea is intriguing. How did you come up with it and develop it into a story?
At the end of the classic film, Casablanca, Louis tells Rick they can go to the Free French garrison at Brazzaville. That prompted Rick to say … “Louis, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.” But the war hadn’t ended. And Brazzaville is in the Congo. I have always wondered what happened after these two friends walked into the fog at the end of the film (and I know I’m not alone in this regard). Resistance to fascism was growing, and America was about to enter the war. Rick had fought for the underdog in Ethiopia and in Spain; it was natural for him to join the fight in North Africa. Ilsa Lund and Victor Laszlo found their way to Portugal. During the war, Lisbon was a free city where British agents and SS agents roamed its streets freely. When the British meet Ilsa and Victor at the airport, we think that their struggle is over, but it is just beginning for Ilsa.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
Rick’s reunion with Ilsa. In the book, they each experience loss during the war. The Nazis in Lisbon shot and killed Victor, leaving Ilsa alone. Rick, still carrying a torch for Ilsa, becomes involved in the resistance movement and eventually marries Yvonne, who fought alongside him. The Nazis kill Yvonne, compounding Rick’s losses. The struggles of these star-crossed lovers – Rick and Ilsa – and their reunion was for me a joy to write. Throughout all their troubles and perils, they still loved each other, but how could they reunite? The means of that reunion became clear as I started to write the pages.
As an accomplished writer with books in multiple genres, what advice would you give to a writer working on their first book?
Write about something that makes you want to get up in the morning and work on the plot. Outlines and storyboards are great tools if they help you, but they are no substitutes for having a clear inner picture of where the plot is going and how the characters are going to develop. If you are writing a historical novel, be sure to do your research carefully. Dialogue is also important; make sure you accurately use each character’s unique voice to enhance the believability of the story. If you’re writing fiction, make sure your characters are believable and your plot development engaging for the reader.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
We are finishing Sunrise Over Casablanca which deals with our band of friends during the end of WWII and the turmoil that Europe and North Africa faces. Europe was devasted by the collapse of her economy with the bombing of her industry and infrastructure, and North Africa was under the boot of European colonialism. The story deals with pre-Marshall Plan efforts to stop the communist takeover of Western Europe, the Greek Civil War, and the liberation of Morocco and Algeria. Also, we have just published a historical novel about Pope Joan, the first female pope (which might get me excommunicated) and a few other books are on my editor’s desk. I am currently starting a project on the Reconquista, about a family involved in the struggle between Spaniards and Muslims.
Author Links: Goodreads | Amazon
Remarkable and Inspiring
On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk follows a woman on a journey to the New World in 1620 who encounters challenges that she could not have foreseen and must fight for her own survival. What inspired the setup of your story?
For over forty years, I have done genealogy as a hobby to learn more about my family, where we came from, and what we went through. As a part of that process, I realized how seldom women were at the forefront of histories stories even though they were often the ones holding the whole thing together. I felt like I needed to give these women, my ancestors, and yours, a voice.
Sarah is portrayed as an ordinary woman who has to rise above the standard stereotype to survive the harsh conditions she finds herself in. What do you find interesting about the human condition that you think makes for great fiction?
I think we often forget that it is the ordinary person among us who often does extraordinary things. Sarah doesn’t see herself as a victim of the many challenges she faces, instead, she seizes each of those challenges to grow and learn and in the process, she discovers who she really is, and what she is really capable of. That is inspiring to me and I hope to others who read my books.
When you first sat down to write this story, did you know where you were going, or did the twists come as you were writing?
I did not. This was my first novel, and while I knew the story would start on the Mayflower, I knew little else. I didn’t even know how the story would end until it did! As I “became” Sarah and began to weave into her story things that had happened to my ancestors, and to those of her time, the story just grew organically. Sarah is an amalgamation of what so many women of that time endured, the pain, the struggles, the joy, and the hope for the future.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
On the Wings is the first of the trilogy The Centenary Chronicles-Tales of American Women. The second book which follows Sarah’s great-great-granddaughter Eliza during the American Revolution was published in November of 2023. Till I Come Home is another story of an ordinary woman faced with circumstances most of us could not even imagine and how she manages to face those challenges while finding a way to hold her marriage and her family together.
The last book in the Chronicles is out next week, Her Last Full Measure is a very personal book for me, heavily based on my own family’s experience during the Civil War and follows Eliza’s great-granddaughter Millicent and her family. Men get and deserve great accolades for the sacrifices they make in war and that theme runs through all the books. But, it’s the women, what they must do to survive while the men are gone that is truly remarkable and inspiring. It doesn’t always have a happy ending, it isn’t always easy, and sometimes it is raw and painful. But each of these books takes the reader into the heart of a woman they can admire, empathize with, and be inspired by, leaving the reader feeling hopeful with a newfound appreciation for what their ancestors did so they could be here today.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Winner of the highly coveted 5-star Highly Recommended award from The Historical Fiction Company.
Nominated for the Eric Hoffer Award for Excellence.
Plymouth 1620-Sarah has left the security of all she knows to travel with her husband to the New World, but things don’t go as planned. The Mayflower is lost unable to find the colony already there they must manage on their own. Not enough food, no shelter, then people start dying. Can Sarah find her inner strength and prevail or is she destined to join the others, another grave on Coles Hill.
On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk is deeply satisfying. Whether it veers towards happiness or sadness, it stays true to the story’s spirit and provides a fitting conclusion to Sarah’s journey.
This book stands out for its focus on ordinary women of the past, whose accomplishments were anything but ordinary. This perspective is refreshing and adds a unique dimension to the genre of historical fiction. The authors skill at incorporating historical elements into an engrossing story without becoming boring is impressive. Because of the evocative and detailed writing, Sarah’s experiences come to life on the page. A cleverly written plot arc with a distinct beginning, middle, and end. Every stage of Sarah’s trip receives sufficient attention, guaranteeing a smooth and seamless progression of the story. A must read for everyone who loves strong woman characters who overcome the odds.
Trials and Tribulations: A Collection of Flash Fiction Stories Volume II.
Trials and Tribulations: Volume II by author Brian Keith Higgins is a rich tapestry of flash fiction, each crafted to explore the intricate nuances of human experience. Set predominantly in rural America, these tales traverse the spectrum of emotions, from love and loss to fear and fortitude.
The writing style is both evocative and accessible, drawing readers into each narrative with ease. The author excels at creating vivid, relatable characters, plunging them into situations that test their mettle. For instance, “I Miss You” poignantly captures the bittersweet dynamics of a family grappling with Alzheimer’s. Similarly, “Attacks on Livestock” provides a compelling glimpse into the hardships of 19th-century farming life. Each story, though brief, is packed with emotional depth, making the collection a testament to the power of flash fiction.
The book is a medley of survival, resilience, and the unforeseen paths of life. Stories like “Thy Neighbor” and “Mountain Lion” highlight not only nature’s unpredictability but also the strength of community and family bonds. In contrast, “Hitchhiker” and “One Foggy Night” delve into darker territories, exploring sinister and supernatural elements. This thematic diversity adds layers to the collection, ensuring that each reader finds stories that resonate with them.
The collection shines in its ability to weave complex themes into concise narratives. Whether it’s tackling the trauma of a shark attack in “Swimming in The Channel” or the emotional turmoil in “The Path Taken,” the stories manage to be both thought-provoking and deeply human. This balance is the collection’s greatest strength, making it a compelling read for anyone who appreciates the breadth and depth of human experiences.
Trials and Tribulations: Volume II is recommended for readers who enjoy flash fiction with rich character development and a blend of realistic and fantastical elements. It’s perfect for those who appreciate flash fiction’s beauty and ability to convey powerful stories in a condensed form.
Pages: 43 | ASIN : B0CW1GC7F3
Insecticide: A Republican Romance
Insecticide: A Republican Romance is a fantastic blend of historical fiction and supernatural intrigue. Set in an alternate timeline where Texas is a republic independent of the United States, the novel follows the Bush family dynasty, focusing on figures like Prescott Bush, his son “Poppy” (George H. W. Bush), and grandson “Dubya” (George W. Bush). Robinson skillfully intertwines the political narrative with elements of the mystical and bizarre, creating a world where conventional history and the supernatural coexist in startling harmony.
Robinson’s writing style is both audacious and engaging. He demonstrates a keen eye for detail and a remarkable ability to weave complex narratives that captivate the reader. His alternate history is convincing and filled with rich, vivid descriptions that bring this strange world to life. While some readers might find the blend of factual history with fantastical elements a bit jarring, I enjoyed the mix.
One thing I enjoyed the most about this book is the imaginative storytelling and deep political insights. Robinson daringly explores themes of power, destiny, and family legacy against a backdrop of bizarre phenomena, such as Lincoln’s sightings and encounters with mystical creatures. These elements, while peculiar, are emblematic of the novel’s originality and Robinson’s willingness to push the boundaries of conventional historical fiction. Blending the real with the surreal in this narrative offers a unique and engaging storytelling experience. The intriguing blend of reality and surreal elements in this story, though it may sometimes overshadow character development, creates a captivating and unique narrative that really brings the plot to life in a refreshing way.
Insecticide is an ambitious and thought-provoking read that successfully merges historical context with fantasy and political satire elements. Robinson’s narrative challenges and entertains, making readers question the nature of history and power. This book is highly recommended for fans of alternate history and political thrillers and those who appreciate a touch of the supernatural in their reading. It’s particularly suited for readers who enjoy dense, layered narratives that offer more than just a straightforward plot but rather a complex tapestry of ideas and imagination.
Pages: 398 | ASIN : B0CWDQN962
Circus Home: A Novel of Life, Love and New Jersey
Jason Ollander-Krane’s historical fiction novel Circus Home transports readers into the lively and colorful realm of circus performers anchored in New Jersey. The narrative takes us through various settings, including 1880s Brooklyn, 1920s Mississippi, 1940s Detroit, and 1950s New York City. The book skillfully blends drama, humor, and wit, reflecting the eclectic experiences of a circus troupe and captivating readers with its engaging storytelling.
At the heart of this novel is Brendan Hardy, the seasoned carnival barker who draws people into the enthralling world of the circus. As Brendan ages, he acquiesces to his daughter’s request to move into an assisted living facility. Yet, this is no ordinary facility; he chooses the New Jersey Home for Retired Circus and Carnival Performers, a place resonant with echoes of his past life. Here, Brendan gathers and shares the rich tapestry of tales from the retired performers, collectively known as the Circus Home, weaving together their shared histories and experiences.
Circus Home is thoughtfully structured into eight ‘acts,’ each unraveling a story from Brendan’s past and the pasts of those around him, fluidly shifting between timelines. The reader encounters a series of compelling characters: Herbert Gopnik, the Clown; Walter Whalen Jr., the Magician; Hiram Fitzgerald, the Voice of the Big Top; and Norman Rockwell, the Thinnest Man. Brendan’s narrative includes his romance with Iris, the Elephant Tamer. It delves into the extraordinary lives of Jackson and Martin Armstrong, the Siamese Twins, as well as the gripping tale of Larisa Yohantova Grayson and Chance Grayson, the security agents of the troupe.
The convergence of these diverse and vivid characters, each with a unique background but united by their passion for performance, offers a captivating glimpse into the world of the circus. Circus Home is a novel that appeals broadly, inviting readers to delve into the enchanting and multifaceted lives of its characters.
Pages: 342 | ASIN : B0BJNYJ577.
Deep Cover – The Unknowing Agent
Deep Cover: The Unknowing Agent, by Jeffrey Jay Levin, is a thoughtfully crafted spy thriller that delves into the lingering tensions of the Cold War era. The narrative is set against the backdrop of a dormant Russian spy program, which is suddenly reawakened to potentially disrupt a forthcoming U.S. presidential election. At the heart of this intrigue is Sergeant Stephen Beck, a character from U.S. Army Intelligence, who stumbles upon a cryptic message. His decision to pursue its meaning against orders leads him into a labyrinth of espionage.
Levin’s storytelling echoes the intricate spy narratives of John le Carré, infused with elements that might remind readers of The Manchurian Candidate, particularly the original version directed by John Frankenheimer. The novel primarily revolves around three protagonists: the policy-savvy Stephen Beck, his girlfriend Lisa Jones, and her colleague Jennifer Turner. These characters are portrayed with intelligence, dedication, and a nuanced sense of patriotism, adding depth to their roles in a world rife with subterfuge and ambiguity.
As the story unfolds, Levin masterfully introduces unexpected developments, maintaining a gripping pace. The enduring animosity between the U.S. and Russia is a central theme, portrayed as an unextinguished flame from the Cold War era, lending a sense of realism to the narrative, especially in light of recent global events. The novel’s strength lies in its meticulous plotting and subtle narrative progressions. Levin’s writing exhibits patience and precision, gradually revealing the intricacies of the plot. The story’s direction is confidently handled, ensuring that readers remain engaged through a slowly unraveling mystery. By the novel’s conclusion, Levin skillfully shifts the reader’s allegiances in tandem with those of the characters, showcasing his prowess as a writer.
Deep Cover: The Unknowing Agent stands as a testament to Levin’s ability to weave a complex and realistic spy narrative that resonates with contemporary geopolitical themes. The novel’s careful construction and compelling character dynamics make it a notable addition to the genre.
Pages: 198 | ASIN : B0CVMWR8XP
LITERARY TITAN 