Book Review: The Last Train to London
A moving reminder of the good people in the world, as well as the dangers of demonizing others.
Tema Frank
Historical Fiction & Business Author, World Traveler & Speaker
Tema Frank
Historical Fiction & Business Author, World Traveler & Speaker
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Book Review: A Waltz with Traitors
A Waltz with Traitors by A.L. Sowards My rating: 4 of 5 stars Most people think of the Russian Civil War in terms of battles between Reds (Bolsheviks) and Whites (the deposed upper classes). In fact, though, there were many…
Book Review: Your Presence Is Mandatory
It is more important than ever that we try to understand war and its consequences. This captivating book sheds light on a surprising aspect: POWs who are victimized by their own country for having been captured.
When Words Collide 2024 – Writing Conference Notes
Since I have both a daughter and a writer-friend in Calgary, this year I decided to attend When Words Collide. This annual conference grew out of a gathering of sci-fi and fantasy writers many years ago. Now there are over…
Book Review: Hotel Cuba
An immigrant story with a twist: they left Russia aiming to get to America but landed in Cuba. I highly recommend this eminently readable story of struggle and hopes for a better life in a new land.
Book Review: That Was Then, by M.K. Tod
"That Was Then" is a fast-paced thriller tackling abuses of power, corruption, and the rise of right-wing extremism in contemporary United States by author M.K. Tod.
Book Review: The Good Sister
The Good Sister is a twisty story of twin sisters: one, a reasonably highly functioning autistic woman; the other, her close companion and advisor. All is not as it seems.
Book Review: The Miniaturist
A richly textured look at 17th century Amsterdam, "The Miniaturist" by Jessie Burton is a beautiful read, although it had some plot weaknesses.
3 Months in Mexico: Mazatlan, San Miguel de Allende, Oaxaca & Puerto Morelos
Our years-long hunt for the perfect snowbird destination continues
Book Review: Babel, by R.F. Kuang
Babel, by R. F. Kuang, is an outstanding historical fantasy novel exploring racism, sexism, colonialism, power politics, social justice, and ... linguistics!
Cobbles, Culture & Countryside: Cycling & More in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico (2024)
While Tema attended the San Miguel Writers Conference, DH (aka John) tried to figure out how to cycle on irregular cobblestones in and around the beautiful mountain town of San Miguel de Allende, in the Mexican state of Guanajuato.
Book Review: The Secrets We Kept
Not all women of the 1950s were willing to settle back into non-career life. Learn the story behind the spies who helped launch Doctor Zhivago to fame.