Blog Archives
Past Imperfect
Past Imperfect by Joshua Cohen offers a compelling foray into the world of historical thrillers, immersing readers in a narrative rich with suspense and detail. The story follows Private Investigator Benjamin Gold in the post-World War II era of 1957 Cleveland. Hired by his synagogue’s Rabbi and childhood friend, Gold embarks on a secretive investigation of Mendel Khan, a respected real estate tycoon and Temple’s Board of Trustees member. Khan is suspected of being Yitzhak Fried, a Nazi collaborator accused of wartime atrocities.
As Gold delves into Khan’s history, the narrative reveals a complex character who, while possibly not a Nazi collaborator, harbors a less-than-immaculate past. The story poses critical questions: What secrets is Khan hiding, and how far will he go to keep them buried? Can Gold survive long enough to unveil the truth? Cohen’s narrative deftly captures the atmosphere of the 1950s, with the shadow of the Holocaust adding a poignant undercurrent to the tale. The book is a masterclass in building suspense, weaving a narrative that is both action-packed and rife with unexpected developments. The tension escalates as Gold, a tenacious and fearless protagonist, confronts Khan, a character who combines intimidation and shrewd defense in his battle to safeguard his secrets.
Past Imperfect is a blend of historical context, complex characters, and a well-crafted plot, making it an engaging read for crime and mystery fiction enthusiasts. Joshua Cohen skillfully balances humor and gravity, crafting a story that resonates long after turning the final page.
Page: 298 | ASIN : B0BYH9YHJH
Babylon Laid Waste-A Journey in the Twilight of the Idols
Babylon Laid Waste: A Journey in the Twilight of the Idols, authored by Brigitte Goldstein, masterfully delves into the harrowing saga of a young Jewish woman’s audacious endeavor to locate her long-lost grandmother in the ruins of post-war Berlin.
Set against the backdrop of a world in the throes of convalescence following the devastation of World War II, the narrative unravels in the year 1946. Our protagonist, Artemisia Safran, hailing from New York, receives an unexpected missive hinting at the possible survival of her grandmother, previously assumed deceased. This news prompts Artemisia to defy familial objections and embark on a perilous journey through the scarred streets of Germany. The desperate urgency of her mission forces her to weave a web of deceptions, but her inexperience may inadvertently obscure the real perils lurking along her path. A quagmire of danger engulfs her, and she’s falsely branded as a Nazi, cornered with seemingly no escape. However, salvation emerges in the enigmatic form of Franz Kafka from Prague, who, acknowledging her undeserved plight, meticulously crafts an escape strategy. This unlikely alliance ignites sparks of romance, complicating Artemisia’s original mission, weaving a tangled tapestry of politics, survival, and blossoming love.
Goldstein’s narration is fantastic. She meticulously structures each chapter and segment of the novel to effectively guide the reader through the labyrinth of poignant events that marked the War. The authenticity and precision of the recounted horror scenes invite readers on a journey of recovery and reconciliation, fostering connections and facilitating healing.
The novel’s intricate structure, engrossing plot, and enlightening insights encapsulate the harrowing uncertainties and fears of the era. The diverse perspectives offered through an array of well-developed characters craft a provocative milieu, compelling readers to reflect on historical events and vicariously experience the trials of those who bore witness to some of mankind’s darkest hours.
Babylon Laid Waste: A Journey in the Twilight of the Idols stands as a riveting historical novel imbued with unexpected plot twists and resolute characters that enrich the reader’s engagement. This highly recommended literary piece succinctly encapsulates significant moments of Jewish history with a deep reverence for past events and a tribute to the countless lives tragically extinguished during this catastrophic epoch.
Pages: 368 | ASIN : B07VV6F4KW
To See God
In To See God, Bruce J. Berger enlightens the reader on the journey of spirituality, understanding God, and following religion. The author uses tales that believers can relate to sharing the message of a loving God, living righteously, and following the same steps as Christ did when he was on earth.
The tales in the book, the characters that the author uses as a reference, and the lessons at the end of every discussion are some of the notable elements in this book. Bruce J. Berger writes in an easy to comprehend manner. Reading this book gives one a sense of belonging. As a reader, you feel good about being a child of God and even feel better knowing that higher powers are looking over you.
The author tells the story of Jewish siblings and family who, despite being disconnected by distance, time, and religious beliefs, have a way of bonding at some point. The story reads like a surreal novel, with mystery and complex elements. The mixed mystery and suspense in the pages make for an exciting read. Bruce J. Berger’s manner of combining the different storylines into a larger overall plot was expertly done.
In the main story, a lady by the name of Theodora gets a vision that her grand-nephew, who is in the United States of America, is likely the second coming of Jesus. Now, Theodora is a staunch Greek Orthodox nun who has gone through interesting experiences herself. However, one of the most notable moments in her life was when she was saved from the holocaust by the Virgin Mary. Theodora is in a country miles away from her grand-nephew, and following her journey was enchanting.
Bruce J. Berger writes to help readers build their faith. Amazingly, such a sacred and educational book was written not just for believers but also for readers that are questioning their spirituality. The author has a talent for conveying love, sanctity, and religion. As a reader, you are able to engage with the author through his words.
I like that as you read the book, you are able to ask multiple theological questions and get answers from the book. This is a thought-provoking book that will leave readers reflecting on family, and religious paths, balancing life’s experiences, dealing with personal challenges, and learning about God and spiritual life. To See God is a captivating addition to the Forgiveness and Faith Novel series.
Pages: 302 | ASIN : B0BNVQ7XQW
Expulsion
The Spanish Inquisition is in full force, with life becoming more difficult for those not of the Catholic faith. Basseva, her sister, father, and the rest of her loved ones are a proud Jewish family, trying their best to live their life and hold on to their faith. Everything is going well until the Edict of Expulsion was signed into law.
Expulsion: A Novel of the Spanish Inquisition tells the tale of a Jewish family who grapple with converting to Catholicism. They are initially resistant, but when a loved one’s life is at risk, what choice do you have?
Author Sherry V. Ostroff has delivered a gut-wrenching look into the horrors that took place during the Spanish Inquisition. While this is a mostly fictional account, the author gives readers a peak into this turbulent moment in history. By focusing on Basseva and her immediate family, rather than the historical event, readers get an intimate look at what it may have been like for those actually experiencing such tragedy.
The novel starts with the mention of a woman’s scream, so you are on the edge of your seat from the very beginning. When the story shifts into what seems more like a domestic tale, it feels like the worst is over. By focusing on Basseva’s upcoming wedding to Samuel and the rest of her family, the reader is lulled into a sense of relief, until Basseva is taken by the Inquisition. This reveals a larger plot that had been brewing behind the scenes all along.
Expulsion: A Novel of the Spanish Inquisition is a riveting period piece that details the horrors of the Spanish Inquisition through a personal lens. If you’re a reader who enjoys well researched historical fiction novels then you’ll certainly enjoy Sherry V. Ostroff’s novel. But even if historical fiction isn’t your forte, you’ll easily find yourself drawn in by the compelling characters and their emotionally-resonant journeys. Expulsion is a spellbinding and sophisticated novel that is emotional, dramatic, and entertaining.
Pages: 273 | ASIN: B0B4VKPR8P
Daria’s Secrets
Daria’s Secrets by Jeff Ingber tells the story of Daria Abramson, a young girl living a carefree life in Kalisz, Poland, until the war broke out. Then, one summer day, they were all marched out of the ghetto, and she was forcefully separated from her family and taken as a seamstress. Later, she would find out that her loving parents and sister were taken to Chelmno, a killing camp. Now, nearly half a century later, Daria is experiencing nightmares from her past and is trying to heal from the past traumas. Hence, she goes to see doctor Metzger, a therapist who guides her toward healing her past and making a beautiful life for herself. Alongside Metzger, Daria is loved and supported by her daughter Karen, her best friend Ruth, and the visions of Peter, her dead husband, and Chaim Rumkowski, someone who history and Daria remember very differently.
Ingber writes in an effortlessly beautiful tone with vivid imagery and creates details that lead the reader on a remarkable emotional and visual journey. As we travel throughout the pages of this book, it feels like we are embodying Daria and feeling everything she is feeling. Ingber manages to keep his narrative straightforward while filled with the most beautiful stylistic figures in a way that touches and lures the reader in and leaves us wanting more.
I am pleasantly surprised by Ingber’s approach to writing and his character development. Daria is written so beautifully that you can’t help but empathize with her and want to give her all your love and support even though she is a fictional character. She has the innocence and courage of the young girl forced to survive in the most inhuman conditions in Poland while also having the knowledge and heart of a lady who has lived a long life filled with both joy and sadness, success and downfalls, and love and loss.
In addition, the psychology behind Metzger’s question and every answer Daria gives, including her frows, begs, and smiles, are crafted so perfectly that anyone can sympathize with it. This is a captivating read, especially for those interested in Psychology.
Daria’s Secrets by Jeff Ingber is a lovely work of fiction that depicts the lives of many victims and survivors of any war, which is, sadly, still relevant today. This book will have you on your toes and reaching for the tissues from its first to its final page.
Pages: 232 | ISBN : 163988341X
The Heritage
The Heritage is a historical Jewish Fictional novel initially published in Spanish by Jack Michonik and titled “la descendencia.” It was translated into English by Michael B Miller.
Between the two World Wars, the majority of Jewish descent fled Europe in search of safety and stability for their families; this book chronicles their experiences. This interesting story begins with a young man named Leib Edri and how he is responsible for his family after his father’s death. The difficulties in leaving the country to establish a new life while providing assistance to his family from afar are numerous. The mental toll weighs heavily on Leib.
Leib begins his voyage by leaving his hometown of Golochov, where he had lived for 15 years. He knew he would most likely never return to the place he knew as home. It is here where he made his first friends and one of his lifelong pen pals, Berl. The author provides a stirring narrative to convey the suffering that one endures when they must leave all that they know in order to simply survive.
The journey to the new world is educational for Leib. He encounters people from drastically different lifestyles and cultures, learning a lot about life outside of Golochov. Readers will experience the hardships of attempting to establish a new life in a new city through the authors candid portrayal. Thoughtful attention has been given to describe the emotions of those who fled the nation for safety during the wars and how they struggled thinking about the ones who remained back home.
The Heritage by Jack Michonik is a riveting historical fiction novel that will appeal to readers interested in Jewish culture. The journey that Leib takes from Golochov to South America will leave readers with a greater understanding of what it is like to have to do whatever it takes to survive.
Pages: 432 | ASIN : B07ZC9NKWD
LITERARY TITAN 