Review of In Lieu of Flowers

todwyer01 · Post by **todwyer01** » 23 Jun 2024, 19:27

From a sampling, this seems like an interesting crime/thriller story that challenges a desperate man's morals as he is offered a job to kidnap a baby? Will he do it? What will happen to the baby? It might be worth a second look. Well done.

Deborah Belanger · Post by **Deborah Belanger** » 23 Jun 2024, 19:36

Thank you for your descriptive review of "In Lieu of Flowers" by Keith Steinbaum. The story of a cobbler in 1920 Bucharest, who is coerced into stealing a baby for financial reasons, challenges readers to ponder the nature of fate and the influence of unseen powers. The emotional depth and intricate plotlines, including the tragic fate of Petre Levy, are skillfully portrayed, making it a gripping read from start to finish. I decided to put this interesting read on my shelf even though this genre is not normally my type but my curiosity has gotten the best of me. Congratulations to the author for BOTD.

Post by **Stephen Christopher 1** » 23 Jun 2024, 19:37

Wow what an amazing book. The whole prophecy concept here sounds so compelling. I can’t wait to find out what happens.

Amit Kumar Sharma 1 · Post by **Amit Kumar Sharma 1** » 23 Jun 2024, 19:39

In Lieu of Flowers is a fiction novel by Keith Steinbaum, narrating the story of a Romanian/Jewish child stolen in Bucharest in 1920. The story revolves around a cobbler named Gunari, who accepts a baby deal for money. The book explores the irony of his decision and the emotions of the characters, including Naomi, who receives a prophecy of future theft.

Deborah Belanger · Post by **Deborah Belanger** » 23 Jun 2024, 19:41

Thank you for your descriptive review of "In Lieu of Flowers" by Keith Steinbaum. The story of a cobbler in 1920 Bucharest, who is coerced into stealing a baby for financial reasons, challenges readers to ponder the nature of fate and the influence of unseen powers. The emotional depth and intricate plotlines, including the tragic fate of Petre Levy, are skillfully portrayed, making it a gripping read from start to finish. I decided to put this interesting read on my shelf even though this genre is not normally my type but my curiosity has gotten the best of me. Congratulations to the author for BOTD.

Amit Kumar Sharma 1 · Post by **Amit Kumar Sharma 1** » 23 Jun 2024, 19:51

In Lieu of Flowers is a fiction novel by Keith Steinbaum, set in 1920 Bucharest, about a Romanian/Jewish child stolen. The story revolves around Gunari, a cobbler, and his decision to accept a baby deal for money. The novel explores themes of moral obligation, predestination, and the dilemma of justifying twisted deeds.

Amit Kumar Sharma 1 · Post by **Amit Kumar Sharma 1** » 23 Jun 2024, 20:02

**Book Review: "In Lieu of Flowers" by Keith Steinbaum**

"In Lieu of Flowers" by Keith Steinbaum is a gripping novel that weaves together themes of destiny, desperation, and dark forces. The story begins in 1920 Bucharest, where Gunari, a struggling cobbler, is offered a large sum of money to steal a baby. Despite his initial reluctance, Gunari's dire circumstances lead him to accept the deal, setting off a chain of events that ripple through time.

Fast forward to July 31st, 2017, a day before the 74th anniversary of Petre Levy's death, and strange occurrences begin to unfold. The novel raises compelling questions about fate and the unseen forces that may manipulate our lives. Is it mere coincidence that Petre was chosen to be stolen, or is it part of a larger, predestined plan?

Steinbaum masterfully captures the emotional turmoil of his characters. Gunari's inner conflict and Naomi's devastating grief are portrayed with vivid realism. The author's concise and engaging writing style keeps readers hooked from the first page to the last. The plot is intricately crafted, with each twist and turn adding depth to the narrative.

One of the most striking elements of the book is its exploration of moral ambiguity. Gunari's decision to steal the baby, despite expecting a child himself, highlights the lengths to which desperation can drive a person. This moral complexity adds a rich layer to the story, making it thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.

"In Lieu of Flowers" is a well-edited, meticulously planned novel with a compelling storyline. Steinbaum’s ability to evoke strong emotions and maintain suspense makes this a standout read. I highly recommend it to fans of historical fiction and those intrigued by themes of destiny and moral conflict.

**Rating: 5/5**

Post by **Reva Parker** » 23 Jun 2024, 20:33

Thank you for your great review. I'm glad to hear that you were yelling at Gunari when he agreed to kidnap the baby. I was yelling too. There were a lot of twists and turns or perhaps coincidences even in the sample, for example him having his sister meeting him. Though it seems to be written well, this is a genre I'm picking on what I read. I'm sure many others will enjoy it though and I'm glad that you did too.

Caterine Potes Morales · Post by **Caterine Potes Morales** » 23 Jun 2024, 20:51

Thanks for sharing such a detailed review! The story of Gunari and the stolen child in In Lieu of Flowers sounds both heartbreaking and fascinating. It's interesting how the book delves into themes of destiny and moral choices, especially against the backdrop of historical events. I was particularly struck by your reflections on Gunari's prayer and Naomi's devastating prophecy. It sounds like the author did a fantastic job bringing the characters' emotions to life. Definitely adding this to my reading list!

Samina Moiyadi · Post by **Samina Moiyadi** » 23 Jun 2024, 20:55

This is a very detailed review. I hope that the things you mentioned about Petre are not spoilers. I want to read this book knowing fully well how I am going to feel devastated, the same as you, thinking about the state of Petre's mother. I somehow, also feel for Gunari's character. He is expecting a child, yet he agrees to steal someone else's child. He might have been driven by the urge to feed his expecting wife.

azza lia · Post by **azza lia** » 23 Jun 2024, 20:57

Your review is very informative. I love supernatural thrillers. I'm curious why that man wanted the baby, like whats his possession? I wanna know how the story turns out to be. Thank you for the recommendation.

Post by **Joshua Sawders** » 23 Jun 2024, 21:27

This book is a powerful examination of the darkness that lurks within human hearts. Steinbaum's vivid prose and well-crafted characters bring to life the struggles of a family torn apart by forces beyond their control, raising questions about the nature of evil and the power of redemption.

Post by **Byron Dsouza** » 23 Jun 2024, 21:36

"In Lieu of Flowers" by Keith Steinbaum is a captivating work of fiction that revolves around the character Gunari. Facing significant financial difficulties, Gunari becomes entangled in a precarious situation when he agrees to kidnap a child in exchange for money. "As she walked away, Gunari closed his eyes and whispered a prayer. “I ask your help, God. I’m doing it for my family. I hope you understand and forgive me.” Congrats on BOTD!!

Rahul Singh 29 · Post by **Rahul Singh 29** » 23 Jun 2024, 22:13

The struggle between destiny and free will is a battle that shapes the course of human lives. Congratulations to the author,#BOTD!

Harty Muli · Post by **Harty Muli** » 23 Jun 2024, 22:28

I was a bit disappointed that the book's premise is built on the theft of a Jewish child. In this era of human trafficking that fact was a bit disconcerting for me. Thanks for the review.