Book club material
This book was a very enjoyable read on several levels. I knew nothing about Sierra Leone prior to "living" it through the book's characters. There was action, intrigue and a remarkable ending. Although the writing isn't as polished as an experienced author’s, I will definitely read Paul Harris’ next book. A book club would have many topics for discussion: relationships, morality, life under tyrannical rule, treatment of children in other societies, etc.
Rated of 5
by Brenda (Apple Valley MN)
A New View on An Old Subject
Having read several accounts on the RUF, all harrowing, I appreciated the new slant given by Paul Harris. The subject is so disturbing, and when told from a person on the "sidelines" rather than personal involvement, the story takes on a whole new scary, sad, and sometimes exhilarating depiction on an event that we can't really understand.
Why would a reporter even venture into any war-torn area, let alone one whose soldiers are baby-faced? How can anyone grasp family and community fears and challenges and still remain "unbiased" especially after losing the one person he loves to the so-called effort? When the truth of his lover's death is finally unraveled, the choices left are not easy or morally straightforward.
I read this book in a few days and its message still haunts me. It would be a shame to miss out on a new view on this most recent, and possibly still ongoing, event.
Rated of 5
by Geralynn (Hobart IN)
Exciting Story
I enjoyed this book. It caught my interest from the beginning and didn't let go. I could tell the author, who is also a journalist, was very knowledgeable about the location and people. I recommend this book to those who enjoy a fast paced thriller or story of intrigue.
Rated of 5
by Rosemary (San Antonio TX)
The Secret Keeper
Even though this novel can sometimes be confusing bouncing back and forth between a four year time frame, it is full of information about a country we often only receive snippets about in our national news. For the most part, the story moves at a brisk pace but does seem to bog down in areas. As a first time novel, I found the book an interesting and enjoyable read.
Rated of 5
by Sue (Wauwatosa WI)
Interesting read about Sierra Loeone
I didn't care for the beginning,a little to violent for me.Once I got past that, it was a fast moving read. I enjoyed learning about Sierra Leone. I think this would be a great book club selection, there would be many topics for discussion.
Rated of 5
by Jeff (Morris Plains NJ)
The Secret Keeper
A far-away place with political intrigue usually makes a good combination for a story and Paul Harris succeeds in his first novel. Harris's descriptions puts the reader right in the middle of Sierra Leone's civil war, with the seemingly casual nature of life and death in the war zone, the perceived invincibility of journalists and allies and foes who are not what they appear to be, Fast-paced, you do want to find out what happens. The ending will likely surprise a majority of readers, but you will feel satisfied with the conclusion upon finishing the book. Recommended.
Rated of 5
by Eileen (Pittsford NY)
The aftermath of war
This book has all the makings of a compelling novel. It is clearly written and contains an intriguing mixture of war journalists, child soldiers, corrupt officials and blood diamonds. Sadly, it doesn’t quite live up to its promising premise. I found it difficult to sympathize with any of the characters and at no point was I tempted to skip ahead to find out what was going to happen. However, it does raise enough interesting questions that it would make a great discussion book.
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by Cheryl (East Aurora NY)
of 5
by Eileen (Pittsford NY)
