Review of The Last Rival

Please use this forum to discuss historical fiction books. Common definitions define historical fiction as novels written at least 25-50 years after the book's setting.
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Renee Cryer
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Re: Review of The Last Rival

Post by Renee Cryer »

My family loves history which grabbed my interest in the book. I agree about the introduction of the characters. It brought me in the story.
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Carole Kendall
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Post by Carole Kendall »

Thank you for a great review. I tend to think of historical fiction as being a guess about what might have happened at some juncture in time. This book sounds unique as it blends actual history with fiction. Reading about President Truman’s attempt to put together a team to fight Hitler was interesting as each team member brought different strengths and weaknesses to the team.
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Shirley Ann Riddern Labzentis
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Post by Shirley Ann Riddern Labzentis »

Great review! Although this is not my kind of book, it does seem like an interesting one for those who love historical novels. Hitler was a real problem to deal with back then. I'm glad that I wasn't born yet so that I did not have to witness all of his destruction.
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Post by Ajiferuke Ajibola »

"The Last Rival" by Kyle Palmer seems interesting. The characters are well-developed and predictable as one can tell who does what. It sounds like an engaging story to me. Indeed "it is amazing how the author used the elements of history to create a fictional story". Congrats on BOTD. Awesome review.
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Post by Nimurungi Blessing »

I don't usually read history related books but from the review, this book looks interesting especially the events of President Truman dealing with the world war.
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Post by Dev Castro »

Thanks for sharing your review of Kyle Palmer’s “The Last Rival”. I appreciate that you offered a glimpse of a couple of the pivotal characters in this story. While historical fiction is not necessarily a genre I reach for first, your insight has encouraged me to give this novel a chance. Kudos!
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Post by Tonny2596 »

​"The Last Rival: A Time of Our Choosing" by Kyle Palmer is a post-World War II thriller that intricately weaves high-stakes espionage with profound philosophical exploration. The narrative follows covert operatives Jim Bolden and Lew Weinman as they confront remnants of the Nazi regime, delving into themes of sacrifice, forgiveness, and humanity's quest for redemption. Readers have lauded the novel for its compelling blend of action and introspection. A reviewer on Amazon praised it as a "thrilling masterpiece packed with twists, realism, and depth," highlighting its gripping storyline and technical accuracy. Overall, "The Last Rival" is celebrated for its masterful storytelling, combining thrilling espionage with deep moral and philosophical questions, making it a standout in its genre.
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Post by Love Ukaegbu »

This book, “The Last Rival” by Kyle Palmer, seems like a fictional walk down memory lane. Hope the team was able to help the president, though. This is definitely worth the read. Congratulations on the book of the day.
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Post by Sarah Zain »

The reviewer's description of the book makes it interesting.
Linking fantasy with history and creating an engaging story is something the author deserves credit for, but it's not my type of book so I'll skip it. I hope it reaches the right readers. Congrats on BOTD
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Post by Ramokhele My-i Navigator »

The book The Last Rival by Kyle Palmer. Few things I picked up from the book. The first is that Freedom is not a fruit but a treasure, and that Donovan was never criticized after building the organization. He also won the medal through that and his braveness. Bolden on the other hand is known as a man of few words. I just wish I had the whole book to read.
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Post by Mayuri Kotalawala »

Before now, I already read about President Truman’s escapades: his coming into power two weeks before the death of Hitler, the creation of the CIA, and the authorization to use the atomic bomb.
- I don't know much about American history but the creation of the CIA, and the authorization to use the atomic bomb, sound like a blast! Thank you for a skillfully written review.
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Post by Gabriela Contreras Gonzalez »

I love historical fiction books. The Last Rival follows several former OSS operatives as they develop an operation meant to deal with Hitler and his Nazis. What part did they play in winning the war?
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Post by Ukaegbu Confidence »

"The Last Rival" by Kyle Palmer is an epic historical fiction book, centered about a political issue. Congratulations on BOTD.
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Post by Wamboi Susan »

"The author showed their backstories and what unique nature they would bring into the story. That way, I could connect with the characters and their proclivities. For instance, Weinman had a weakness for women. If you ever suspected someone was flirting with a lady in the story, that would most likely be Weinman." A fascinating engaging review.Keen on reading the book.
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Post by Gayatri Tripathi »

I appreciate your detailed review of The Last Rival! It’s fascinating how the author blends historical facts with fiction, making it feel almost like an alternate history retelling. I like that you pointed out the introduction of key characters early on, which helps readers connect with them before the action begins. Weinman’s character sounds especially entertaining with his humorous response about Washington! Your mention of Hans Von Fischer’s unpredictable allegiance makes me even more curious—characters with unclear loyalties always add an extra layer of intrigue. It’s great to hear that despite its length, the book remains engaging due to the author's skillful writing. Your review makes this novel sound like a must-read for historical fiction fans!
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