Salve Regina, review of this novel (Recommend)

[M.W.Armstrong]

Although this novel is a collaboration, the writing style doesn't even hint at that, it flows seamlessly. The authors let their characters speak and the novel is a masterful blend of three, actually four, stories into one.

First, we have the underlying story of the Jesuits keeping a secret for ninety years, a secret well hidden within the walls of a Catholic Convent turned boarding school for wealthy girls. They stop at nothing in order to guard their secret. A plot full of suspense and intrigue with well researched and developed religious, political and criminal ingredients makes this novel a page-turner.

Then, we have Marisa, the relentless sleuth, that 35-years after her high-school graduation is hell-bent on uncovering her Alma Mater's secrets talking her former classmate, Erin, into joining her in her quest for the truth. Pablo, one of Erin's former graduate students and Brother Zigi, a Jesuit monk, join the group in the dangerous adventure. We get to know them very well.

Marisa's life, her history, her failed, and hurtful, high-school romance with Pablo's father, the affair of Carlos', her husband, and how she manages it as well as her almost total disregard for risks make her a very strong and endearing character.

The unrealized sexual tension between Marisa and Pablo provides an air of delicate sensuality always present, never palpable.

The old nun's story is, perhaps, the most inspiring and tender, her life, troubled yet full make her an unforgettable character. Simply adorable.

The fourth story is Arturo's. Pablo's father. A rambunctious millionaire, whose womanizing is almost intolerable, pitiful, yet funny. Although we only meet him briefly, the authors paint a very difficult, antagonistic, father-son relationship through the story. Arturo is a very real character and a story himself.

This is definitely not formula writing. The feelings and emotions of all the characters are manifest. From the sweetness of the old nun, to the intransigence of the Homeland Security agent and Marisa's stubbornness, you can feel their joy, pain and all the spectrum of human emotions.

I wholeheartedly recommend Salve Regina. This is a book I didn't want to end; fortunately the authors' next novel in this series, Unholy Trinity, is coming out this month, according to its excerpt contained in Salve Regina it promises to be just as good.

Salve Regina, by Erica Fuentes and Annemarie Stonewater (Casablanca Publishing, 2010)
Trade paperback 6"X9"
320pp.
ISBN: 978-607-8125-03-6
Library of Congress Control Number: 2011923565

[Vogin]

Most probably nothing for me, but I suppose my GF will like it, thanks for the heads up.

[M.W.Armstrong]

Most probably nothing for me, but I suppose my GF will like it, thanks for the heads up.

You are welcome!