Review of The last hand

[Shanesha Sammerson]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The last hand" by Stefano Graiff.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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The last hand by Stefano Graiff takes readers on a gripping journey through a life-or-death game of poker that becomes a backdrop for Max's desperate quest to rescue his lost love, Mary. As the cards are dealt, Max's mind races back to the moments that led him to this high-stakes situation. His teenage love story with Mary, which blossomed during their time in an orphanage, forms the emotional core of the narrative.

Graiff weaves a suspenseful tale that skillfully entwines Max's memories of young love with his present-day mission to save Mary from the clutches of a dangerous sex trafficking ring, masterminded by the enigmatic figure known as the King of Clubs. The narrative adeptly shifts between the past and the present, creating a sense of urgency that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages.

The author's exploration of Max and Mary's relationship is a highlight of the book. Their connection, forged in the hardships of their youth, is portrayed with authenticity and tenderness. The mystery surrounding Mary's sudden disappearance adds layers of intrigue and sets the stage for Max's relentless determination to rescue her, even if it means risking his own life.

While the story delves into dark and intense themes, it is important to note that some readers may find the portrayal of priests, nuns, and the involvement of religious figures in certain situations to be potentially offensive to their beliefs. Graiff's decision to incorporate these elements adds complexity to the narrative, but it is a choice that may not resonate well with all audiences.

One notable drawback of the book is the lack of professional editing, leading to numerous errors that can disrupt the reading experience. While the storytelling itself is engaging, the presence of grammatical and typographical mistakes detracts from the overall quality of the writing.

In The last hand, Stefano Graiff masterfully constructs a tale of suspense, romance, and unwavering determination. Max's high-stakes poker game becomes a metaphor for the risks he is willing to take to rescue his beloved Mary from a harrowing fate. The narrative's pacing, alternating between heartwarming flashbacks and pulse-pounding present-day action, keeps readers engrossed.

Despite its writing errors and potential to offend certain religious sensibilities, the book succeeds in delivering a captivating story that explores the lengths one man will go to for love and redemption. For its gripping plot, well-developed characters, and emotional resonance, The last hand earns a solid four out of five stars. Readers who can overlook its flaws will find themselves drawn into a tale of love, danger, and the unbreakable bonds that tie us to our past.

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The last hand
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[7033255157]

Irrespective of the short comings highlighted by the Reviewer, there's tale of suspense, romance, and unwavering engagement to the story. Thanks for the review

[NetMassimo]

This novel digs into some dark sides of humanity with Max forced to gamble everything to save his beloved Mary. I hope the author does proper proofreading to make this novel excellent. Thank you for your great review!