Rated of 5
by Betsey Educational but inconsistently executed
The best thing about this book is the information revealed about the politics and dire social circumstances in Sierra Leone during the civil war (and the post-war deceptions of its leaders). The story had potential, but the characters were one-dimensional, obvious. Also, too much prose was focused on the main protagonist's alcoholism and narcissism, and the tone of the narrative was a bit off. It didn't match the seriousness of the story.
The author is a journalist--it was apparent in the execution of the novel. The author seemed to digress into a journalistic delivery at intervals, especially when he was imparting the socio-political details.
There were some nice metaphors and imagery. It just didn't add up to a juicy tale. The climax was bathetic and too foreshadowed.
Rated of 5
by Kristen Much to think about
It has taken me a while to process this book enough to write my review - which is actually a really good sign for this book. It provides a lot to think about and a compelling view of a part of the world and a story which receives very little attention in American media. The book was a vehicle for an important story, and that message outweighs prose that is occasionally awkward with overplayed similes. The characters are richer and complex, and the morality of the situation and its resolution is left to the reader. I highly recommend this book.
Rated of 5
by Cheryl 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 Michelle Fast Paced Thriller
The book had my attention from the first page and held my attention until the end. I must confess I read it over the span of 2 evenings.I wanted to know the ending. At times, some of the characters seemed a bit flat and predictable, but overall a great first novel.
Rated of 5
by Beth, Savannah, GA Didn't Work for Me
I just couldn't get excited about this book. I love thrillers and particularly enjoy debut authors and thought the journalistic perspective and exotic locale would make a special book. And Harris tried. He really tried, but I think he's still more of a journalist than a novelist and never made me care about the characters or the story line. Even though things got pretty exciting toward the end, "Secret Keeper" just didn't work for me.
Rated of 5
by Phoenix Civil War in Sierra Leone
The action begins on line one and does not let up until the surprise ending. Through the dialogue of the characters and the use of flashbacks, Harris gives the reader a realistic view of the war and the continued corruption and disloyalty after peace is declared.
The protagonist, Danny, faces many conflicts. As a journalist, he was in Africa to report on the war. During this time, he met Maria who had a passion for helping the child soldiers. He received a letter from her four years later stating that she was in serious trouble. He returns to Sierra Leone to find that the citizens have adopted "a new set of survival skills". The atrocities of war continue to disrupt daily life in this village. The friends he met during the war, Kam and Ali, join Danny in his quest for Maria and the protection of her secret.
This is a fast-paced thriller you do not want to miss.
Fearless, gripping, at once darkly funny and tender, spanning three continents and numerous lives, Americanah is a richly told story set in today's globalized world.
The story of an American family, middle class in middle America, ordinary in every way but one. But that exception is the beating heart of this extraordinary novel.
The best book I've read in a very long time and the first ever Bo Caldwell novel for me. I'd never before read anything about missionaries to China,...
read more
With a poetic voice, Ratner plunges us into this personal trial of a royal family wrenched from their home in Phnon Penh, Cambodia, during the late...
read more
First time novelist Vaddey Ratner captured my heart and senses in this novel based on her childhood in Cambodia. Her story transcends any news story...
read more
Amazon cuts off 5200 affiliates in Minnesota(Jun 19 2013) With Minnesota's online sales tax law due to take effect July 1, Amazon has played a familiar card by cutting ties with 5,200 members of its Associates...
Full Story
of 5
by Betsey 
of 5
by Kristen 
of 5
by Cheryl 
