The Refuge

 

I finally get to review this book! I am on the road on an extended trip and internet has been very sketchy at best. I've actually been sitting at my computer for over an hour waiting to be able to post. Apologies for the poor quality of the cover art, I can't seem to improve it.

But enough of my whining.

Author John A. Heldt provided me with an e-copy of The Refuge for review. I am a great fan of Mr. Heldt's writing. It's hard to believe this is the 19th book I've read of his.

The Refuge continues the story of the Lane family as they try to protect themselves from an unscrupulous businessman bent on their destruction. 

This time the story took a few interesting turns. The bad guy, Silas Bain shows a new and interesting side, making him almost an object of pity or at least some compassion. We also see an increase in the resolve of at least one Lane in turning the tables on their pursuers. There is a bit less focus on the light romance than in earlier installments, a bit more dramatic. To be expected on the eve of the attack on Pearl Harbor. I don't think the story would have played as well any other way.

Mr. Heldt has not lost his ability to manipulate our emotions however. Several times I had strong emotional reactions to the action. Jeremy's emotional struggles in particular elicit my strongest reactions. It is great fun watching his writing talent grow and evolve.

Although our intrepid author did not use the dreaded cliffhanger ending (a fact for which I cannot truly express my delight), I did feel less settled at the end of this book and find myself even more anxious to read the fifth (and if he follows established procedure) final installment of The Time Box series.

Before the internet goes away I will just say, Read this book, read this series, read all of John A. Heldt's work. Good clean light romance/ comedy/drama, action, intrigue, adventure and even a fair dose of history. What more could a reader want?  The Refuge, as all his work will leave you feeling satisfied and even uplifted. A lot of value from one book. Enjoy!

Mike