Review of Deceitful Survival

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Andrada Madalina
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Review of Deceitful Survival

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[Following is a volunteer review of "Deceitful Survival" by LC Lee.]
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4 out of 4 stars
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Deceitful Survival by LC Lee is a historical fiction about past wounds and self-discovery. It highlights the hardships of a woman from Brittany who is looking for a sense of belonging. Also, the book presents themes such as priesthood, survival, deception, and love.

Briefly, the book focuses on the journey of Beth, a farm girl who joins the church at 26 years old in Haiti and becomes Sister Mary Andrée La Roux. The author illustrates her childhood in Brittany and her deceptions ever since she witnessed her mother's death. Also, the novel presents the French church's business side and political affairs, the Vodou religion, and Congo people's life.

There is nothing I disliked about the book. I loved that this historical fiction focused on family life at the beginning of the 19th century. I enjoyed reading about Andrée's and René's journey and attempts to establish a home in a village where they had to be vigilant about the Vodou people. For instance, I was shocked by some sudden kidnappings and the Vodou tribes' hatred towards the Christians. Also, I liked the novel's structure and appreciated that LC Lee presented both René's and Andrée's perspectives and lamentations.

Another positive aspect of this book is character development. I liked that the author focused on the feelings and inner struggles of the protagonist. I empathized with Andrée's despair, depression, and numbness in the moments when she could no longer find herself. For example, I understood Andrée's insecurities related to her commitment to the French church and faith in God when she questioned her feelings and carnal desires. Also, I loved the gradual evolution of the relationship between Andrée and René and felt empathy for their heartbreaking experiences during their journey.

I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars because it took me through all my emotional states, and I gained a new perspective on life's burdens and bad decisions that can influence my path after reading it. I liked its descriptive writing style, easy-to-follow dialogues, and plot twists, and I empathized with the characters' suffering and regrets. Also, I appreciated that Deceitful Survival was professionally edited. I discovered only several typographical errors that did not affect my reading.

I recommend this book to people eager to read a story about a rebel priest and a brave nun, especially those who enjoy novels with fake identities and new beginnings. It is perfect for those interested in the church's structure and Creole liberators but not those sensitive to violence in tribes. Also, Deceitful Survival is suitable for a large audience because LC Lee presented light erotic content and no profanity.

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Deceitful Survival
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