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Valley of Thracians
A Peace Corps volunteer has gone missing in Bulgaria and everyone assumes he is dead, everyone except his grandfather, who refuses to give up hope. Retired literature professor Simon Matthews launches a desperate search only to be lured into a bizarre quest to retrieve a stolen Thracian artifact—a unique object of immense value others will stop at nothing to recover.
Matthews travels through a Balkan landscape dotted with ancient tombs and fortresses, unaware that his grandson has been confined to an isolated mountain cabin, slowly recovering from a severe head injury. Nothing can be taken at face value, as the woman assisting Matthews in his quest and the nurse caring for his injured grandson may have ulterior motives in helping the two reunite. Even when Matthews succeeds in joining up with his grandson, departure from Bulgaria is only possible if the missing relic can be found.
Matthews travels through a Balkan landscape dotted with ancient tombs and fortresses, unaware that his grandson has been confined to an isolated mountain cabin, slowly recovering from a severe head injury. Nothing can be taken at face value, as the woman assisting Matthews in his quest and the nurse caring for his injured grandson may have ulterior motives in helping the two reunite. Even when Matthews succeeds in joining up with his grandson, departure from Bulgaria is only possible if the missing relic can be found.
430 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 25, 2013
59 people are currently reading
489 people want to read
About the author
Ellis Shuman
5 books224 followersEllis Shuman is an American-born Israeli author, travel writer, and book reviewer. His writing has appeared in The Jerusalem Post, The Times of Israel, and The Huffington Post. His short fiction has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize, and has appeared in Isele Magazine, Vagabond, The Write Launch, Esoterica, Jewish Literary Journal, San Antonio Review, and other literary publications. He is the author of The Virtual Kibbutz, Valley of Thracians, The Burgas Affair, and Rakiya – Stories of Bulgaria.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
April 10, 2017
An excellent book with a well developed plot told by different characters as seen from their point of view. The word descriptions of the various locales brought them to life before you. The historical information provided a background for the location and it's people.
I have rated this book 4 stars.
I obtained this book from Amazon in Kindle format
Thank you Frank
I have rated this book 4 stars.
I obtained this book from Amazon in Kindle format
Thank you Frank
September 20, 2013
I loved this story. Being a huge fan of travel, Bulgaria has always been one of my destination I still needed to visit. Thanks to Ellis, I sort of got a taste of it. His descriptions is really vivid and it makes you feel that you are right there. It follows a grandfather, Simon. Who never gave up searching for his missing grandson, Scott, somewhere in Bulgaria. He gets plenty of help from the locals and that’s when the motives gets questioned. Why this and Why that? The plots were set up amazingly, it had a real ‘treasure hunt’ type of feeling to it, but instead of treasure, it was a missing grandson.
There is really everything in this story. From smuggling with artifacts, to murders and car chases.
Now what I didn’t like about the book: I struggled with getting into the story. But as soon as I did, I couldn’t put it down. It is a novel worth reading and I promise this is something for everyone, doesn’t matter what genre your favourite is. His characters are so strong, that you easily connect with them.
There is really everything in this story. From smuggling with artifacts, to murders and car chases.
Now what I didn’t like about the book: I struggled with getting into the story. But as soon as I did, I couldn’t put it down. It is a novel worth reading and I promise this is something for everyone, doesn’t matter what genre your favourite is. His characters are so strong, that you easily connect with them.
July 18, 2013
Three years after a young American Peace Corps worker goes missing in Bulgaria and is presumed dead, his elderly grandfather arrives in the capital of Sofia, intent on getting to the bottom of the mystery. So begins Valley of Thracians by Ellis Shuman (@EllisShuman), a novel that is equal parts mystery, thriller and travelogue.
Bulgaria becomes a supporting character in this story as the grandfather, Simon Matthews, journeys around the country searching for clues to his grandson Scott’s disappearance. Assisted by Sophia Ivanova, an academic specializing in Thracian culture — before the rise of the Greeks and Romans the Thracians lived in an area spanning parts of modern Bulgaria, Greece and Turkey — Simon does his best to learn more about Scott’s life in Bulgaria, his disappearance and how his wallet and passport came to be discovered at a Black Sea resort hotel.
To say much more would be to spoil the plot, but suffice to say there is more going on here than the disappearance of Scott, whose activities in Bulgaria went beyond his Peace Corps brief of community outreach and teaching English as a second language.
Reading Valley of Thracians, I was taken aback at the realization that it has been going on twenty-five years since Bulgaria broke free of Communist control and started on the path to becoming a democracy. Where did that time go? My knowledge of the country prior to reading this novel was minimal, centering mostly on claims of Bulgarian involvement in the attempted assassination of Pope John Paul II.
The author lived in Bulgaria for two years, and Mr. Shuman weaves a wealth of information about the country’s history and culture into the narrative. Additionally, the travels of Simon, Scott and Sophia allow the author the opportunity to showcase many of the country’s historic sites and its natural wonders. For someone like me who enjoys learning something new, this novel is a real gem.
All that learning comes with a small price, however. The pace of the story is languid to begin with, but added to that many of the “lessons” tend to pull the reader out of unfolding scenes. This happens most often in the first and last parts, while the middle section moves along at a good clip even while dealing with multiple timelines.
I enjoyed Valley of Thracians and recommend it. Bulgaria sounds like a wonderful place to visit, with many interesting historic sites to explore as well also mountains and beaches to enjoy. For more of Mr. Shuman’s writing, including book reviews and Bulgarian memories, visit his blog.
Bulgaria becomes a supporting character in this story as the grandfather, Simon Matthews, journeys around the country searching for clues to his grandson Scott’s disappearance. Assisted by Sophia Ivanova, an academic specializing in Thracian culture — before the rise of the Greeks and Romans the Thracians lived in an area spanning parts of modern Bulgaria, Greece and Turkey — Simon does his best to learn more about Scott’s life in Bulgaria, his disappearance and how his wallet and passport came to be discovered at a Black Sea resort hotel.
To say much more would be to spoil the plot, but suffice to say there is more going on here than the disappearance of Scott, whose activities in Bulgaria went beyond his Peace Corps brief of community outreach and teaching English as a second language.
Reading Valley of Thracians, I was taken aback at the realization that it has been going on twenty-five years since Bulgaria broke free of Communist control and started on the path to becoming a democracy. Where did that time go? My knowledge of the country prior to reading this novel was minimal, centering mostly on claims of Bulgarian involvement in the attempted assassination of Pope John Paul II.
The author lived in Bulgaria for two years, and Mr. Shuman weaves a wealth of information about the country’s history and culture into the narrative. Additionally, the travels of Simon, Scott and Sophia allow the author the opportunity to showcase many of the country’s historic sites and its natural wonders. For someone like me who enjoys learning something new, this novel is a real gem.
All that learning comes with a small price, however. The pace of the story is languid to begin with, but added to that many of the “lessons” tend to pull the reader out of unfolding scenes. This happens most often in the first and last parts, while the middle section moves along at a good clip even while dealing with multiple timelines.
I enjoyed Valley of Thracians and recommend it. Bulgaria sounds like a wonderful place to visit, with many interesting historic sites to explore as well also mountains and beaches to enjoy. For more of Mr. Shuman’s writing, including book reviews and Bulgarian memories, visit his blog.
May 3, 2013
When I first read the description for this book, I thought "Bulgaria?" That is certainly an unusual setting. It really is, and that, I believe is part of this book's charm. I get tired of reading stories that are set in the same place over and over. I like it when the author not only uses a different setting than the norm, but also knows something about the setting they choose, and this author clearly does.
The descriptions are beautifully penned. You can see the colours before your eyes and feel the atmosphere as you read. There were actually a couple of passages in this book I went back and read again after finishing, simply because I enjoyed them so much.
Another thing that impressed me about this author is how smooth his writing is. He does not add any extra fluff that does not need to be there and reading his words are as easy as breathing. You understand from the very first couple of sentences that the main character finds himself in his current predicament because he cares deeply for his grandson, and that theme never loses momentum.
This novel has a good flow and a lot of twists and unexpected turns. I liked the plot and was impressed by the way Ellis Shuman took his characters to the extremes of their abilities without losing realism. The adventuresome spirit in me was clapping for his genius. If you think you know what to expect from the beginning, I bet you will be wrong.
This author interweaves a fictional tale with the history and culture of his setting to create an intense, original story with a lot to offer the suspense lover.
There were a couple of places where I felt the author could have let the characters show more through action rather than displaying things through dialogue, but this did not in any way ruin the story for me.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes mystery, thrills and a book that takes you on a serious adventure.
The descriptions are beautifully penned. You can see the colours before your eyes and feel the atmosphere as you read. There were actually a couple of passages in this book I went back and read again after finishing, simply because I enjoyed them so much.
Another thing that impressed me about this author is how smooth his writing is. He does not add any extra fluff that does not need to be there and reading his words are as easy as breathing. You understand from the very first couple of sentences that the main character finds himself in his current predicament because he cares deeply for his grandson, and that theme never loses momentum.
This novel has a good flow and a lot of twists and unexpected turns. I liked the plot and was impressed by the way Ellis Shuman took his characters to the extremes of their abilities without losing realism. The adventuresome spirit in me was clapping for his genius. If you think you know what to expect from the beginning, I bet you will be wrong.
This author interweaves a fictional tale with the history and culture of his setting to create an intense, original story with a lot to offer the suspense lover.
There were a couple of places where I felt the author could have let the characters show more through action rather than displaying things through dialogue, but this did not in any way ruin the story for me.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes mystery, thrills and a book that takes you on a serious adventure.
March 13, 2013
Mysterious disappearances, betrayals, loyalty. Crooks, cops, an enigmatic archaeologist, helpful strangers. All these come together against a backdrop of beautiful Bulgarian vistas, crowded cities and down-to-earth rural villages.
The story is a thriller with all the classic elements of the genre. A Peace Corps volunteer has disappeared and clues don't fit the official reports. A doting grandpa tries to find the truth, persevering against all odds. There are villains and good guys swirling around a priceless lost treasure, hide-and-seek chases all over the country, crowded festivals and lonely mountaintops, drugs and guns. As we follow the twists and turns of the plot we are treated to fascinating lessons in Bulgarian culture, geography, customs and folkways, mores and ways of thinking. The writer's observations about the country are always relevant to the action, as well as being informative and fascinating. There are enough plot twists to engage the diehard mystery reader, and enough human interest angles to warm anyone's heart.
The author's detailed and colorful Bulgaria knowledge shows that he has "been there," and there's good reason for that authenticity. He lived and worked in Bulgaria, and he was obviously a serious observer of the place, its history and people.
For anyone who loves Bulgaria, and even more for anyone who has never thought about Bulgaria, this book is an excellent read.
The story is a thriller with all the classic elements of the genre. A Peace Corps volunteer has disappeared and clues don't fit the official reports. A doting grandpa tries to find the truth, persevering against all odds. There are villains and good guys swirling around a priceless lost treasure, hide-and-seek chases all over the country, crowded festivals and lonely mountaintops, drugs and guns. As we follow the twists and turns of the plot we are treated to fascinating lessons in Bulgarian culture, geography, customs and folkways, mores and ways of thinking. The writer's observations about the country are always relevant to the action, as well as being informative and fascinating. There are enough plot twists to engage the diehard mystery reader, and enough human interest angles to warm anyone's heart.
The author's detailed and colorful Bulgaria knowledge shows that he has "been there," and there's good reason for that authenticity. He lived and worked in Bulgaria, and he was obviously a serious observer of the place, its history and people.
For anyone who loves Bulgaria, and even more for anyone who has never thought about Bulgaria, this book is an excellent read.
May 5, 2013
"Valley of Thracians" is a wonderful book about grandfather Simon travelling to Bulgaria to track down his missing and declared-for-dead grandson Scott. The latter used to work for the Peace Corp in Bulgaria before going missing. With some reason to assume that Scott is still alive Simon starts his own enquiries and with help from some locals he finds indeed new evidence regarding his grandson.
The story is told in four parts and changes perspective throughout. This serves the storyline very well and gives the reader a chance to be more involved in the plot. Starting with Simon's perspective it is a slow burner, building up only gradually as at first Simon learns little and comes across as stubborn and full of wishful thinking. The writing in the first few chapters includes a lot of interesting background information about Bulgaria and its history, culture and people. Those parts are skilfully woven into the dialogue and make for a great read.
As the storyline moves along we get less of the (well received) tourist information and move swiftly into darker territory of organised crime, smuggling, drugs, corruption and so forth.
As the second voice takes over the narrative the pace picks up and never lets us down again throughout the whole action packed plot until the end of the book.
Well written and full of great characters the book turned out to be a rich and exciting read, with huge expert local and historical knowledge that gives this thriller a great unusual and well chosen backdrop, without taking away the focus from the actual story. It is a rare find to have great suspense and almost educational details combined and work together so well.
The story is told in four parts and changes perspective throughout. This serves the storyline very well and gives the reader a chance to be more involved in the plot. Starting with Simon's perspective it is a slow burner, building up only gradually as at first Simon learns little and comes across as stubborn and full of wishful thinking. The writing in the first few chapters includes a lot of interesting background information about Bulgaria and its history, culture and people. Those parts are skilfully woven into the dialogue and make for a great read.
As the storyline moves along we get less of the (well received) tourist information and move swiftly into darker territory of organised crime, smuggling, drugs, corruption and so forth.
As the second voice takes over the narrative the pace picks up and never lets us down again throughout the whole action packed plot until the end of the book.
Well written and full of great characters the book turned out to be a rich and exciting read, with huge expert local and historical knowledge that gives this thriller a great unusual and well chosen backdrop, without taking away the focus from the actual story. It is a rare find to have great suspense and almost educational details combined and work together so well.
March 27, 2013
Like many Americans, I knew basically nothing about Bulgaria. Now, thanks to the author’s vivid descriptions, I can see almost believe I’ve been there and experienced the rich culture, tasted the food, befriended the ‘natives’. I can close my eyes and see the historic monasteries and fortresses, and the ancient Thracian artifacts on display in museums. But this book is more than just a travel guide. The story begins as we follow Simon, a likeable character who has set out to find a grandson missing in Bulgaria for three years. The young man’s parents, the American Embassy, and the Bulgarian police have long since given up on finding him, dead or alive. Simon is befriended by an archaeologist who helps him on his quest. But Simon has a hard time believing such a beguiling woman could be attracted to him. So why she is being so helpful? Why she is so interested in the case of the missing boy? Simon’s search comes up empty and he’s about to head back to the states, when someone deliberately leaves him a clue. From this point, the plot takes off. The story moves back and forth from past to present and is told from multiple viewpoints, but is never confusing. The action builds with smuggled artifacts, car chases, and murders. Thugs and smugglers converge against a stunning backdrop of mountains, forests, and historic sites. This was an easy, enjoyable read with a satisfying conclusion.
October 19, 2013
A Peace Corps volunteer has gone missing in Bulgaria and everyone assumes he is dead, everyone except his grandfather, who refuses to give up hope. Retired literature professor Simon Matthews launches a desperate search only to be lured into a bizarre quest to retrieve a stolen Thracian artifact—a unique object of immense value others will stop at nothing to recover.
I wasnt entirely sure what to expect when I started this one - its true that I would not have chosen it for myself, yet that would have been a shame. Told from various points of view, we open with Simon - beginning his journey to find out the truth about his missing Grandson - with the help of Sophia, a local History teacher he meets along the way.
I especially loved how Mr Shuman manages to give us a lot of background and information on the culture of Bulgaria, a country I know little about, by weaving it effortlessly into the flow of the story - in a way this is part travel guide and it works very well to put you in the moment.
The mystery element is well imagined and as the story twists and turns towards its ultimate conclusion you will find adventure, thrills and intrigue here. Wonderful writing style makes it easy to read with a mix of fast paced plot and more sedate meandering that keeps you involved until the end.
It did take me a while to "sink in" to the tale - but once I was there, there I stayed. Enjoyable mystery thriller, great characters and very well written.
I wasnt entirely sure what to expect when I started this one - its true that I would not have chosen it for myself, yet that would have been a shame. Told from various points of view, we open with Simon - beginning his journey to find out the truth about his missing Grandson - with the help of Sophia, a local History teacher he meets along the way.
I especially loved how Mr Shuman manages to give us a lot of background and information on the culture of Bulgaria, a country I know little about, by weaving it effortlessly into the flow of the story - in a way this is part travel guide and it works very well to put you in the moment.
The mystery element is well imagined and as the story twists and turns towards its ultimate conclusion you will find adventure, thrills and intrigue here. Wonderful writing style makes it easy to read with a mix of fast paced plot and more sedate meandering that keeps you involved until the end.
It did take me a while to "sink in" to the tale - but once I was there, there I stayed. Enjoyable mystery thriller, great characters and very well written.
May 4, 2013
A grandfather journeys from Chicago, USA to Bulgaria and travels all over the beautiful country in Eastern Europe in search of his grandson who was declared dead three years ago. Then why does he travel now? How will he track his grandson’s steps three years ago? Firmly believing his grandson, Scott, to be alive, retired English Professor Simon Matthews has taken it upon himself to visit every corner of Bulgaria. He meets Sophia who teaches history at a local university and she extends her help in his quest. With every lead ending up in nothing, how long with Simon keep looking for his grandson?
Author Ellis Shuman takes us on a journey through many parts of Bulgaria and explores bits of Bulgarian culture of present and past. It was entertaining and also somewhat educational. I had never known about Thrace and this book was a great introduction. The suspense of the story makes it impossible to stop reading and the first half of the book moves quite fast. The second half, although a bit slower, goes into more details about some of the characters and I very much appreciated the attention paid by the author; both the sophisticated and the gritty sides of the country are beautifully incorporated. Fiction mixed with facts with a gripping story, anyone who likes travel and suspense stories would absolutely love this book.
Author Ellis Shuman takes us on a journey through many parts of Bulgaria and explores bits of Bulgarian culture of present and past. It was entertaining and also somewhat educational. I had never known about Thrace and this book was a great introduction. The suspense of the story makes it impossible to stop reading and the first half of the book moves quite fast. The second half, although a bit slower, goes into more details about some of the characters and I very much appreciated the attention paid by the author; both the sophisticated and the gritty sides of the country are beautifully incorporated. Fiction mixed with facts with a gripping story, anyone who likes travel and suspense stories would absolutely love this book.
August 10, 2013
As the novel opens we meet Simon Matthews, a man on a mission. Simon's character evokes the reader's empathy as his heart-wrenching situation comes to light. He has traveled to Bulgaria to answer a question that had been plaguing him, what has happened to his grandson?
No body had ever been produced from his grandson's death. And as Simon begins his quest, digging into the truth behind the mysterious death, he uncovers something incredibly sinister.
"The bus speeds east through the dark and forbidding Bulgarian night. The rhythm of the tires on the asphalt pavement soothes my worries, and I close my eyes, eager to forget the strange happenings that have led me to this unexpected journey."
With the help of Sophia Ivanova, an expert in Thracian culture, he is able to traverse throughout Bulgaria on an amazing journey filled with the languid rhythms of culture, and subtle clues of muddled deception.
Shuman's writing style ensconces the reader in an intriguing plot-line that is chock-full of significant detail. His past experiences provide a compelling narrative.
Read the entire review here:
Bookend Chronicles
No body had ever been produced from his grandson's death. And as Simon begins his quest, digging into the truth behind the mysterious death, he uncovers something incredibly sinister.
"The bus speeds east through the dark and forbidding Bulgarian night. The rhythm of the tires on the asphalt pavement soothes my worries, and I close my eyes, eager to forget the strange happenings that have led me to this unexpected journey."
With the help of Sophia Ivanova, an expert in Thracian culture, he is able to traverse throughout Bulgaria on an amazing journey filled with the languid rhythms of culture, and subtle clues of muddled deception.
Shuman's writing style ensconces the reader in an intriguing plot-line that is chock-full of significant detail. His past experiences provide a compelling narrative.
Read the entire review here:
Bookend Chronicles
August 22, 2015
I have a personal hang up about starting a book without finishing it because I think I should give the author every opportunity for last minute redemption, but this one really stretched my resolve. I would have definitely abandoned it about one-third of the way through if I had not been driven by my personal commitment to finish what I start. Usually I love books in this genre so my natural inclination would have normally been to overlook defects and enjoy the story. The plot is actually a good idea, badly executed, but the poor execution overwhelms the good idea. The characters are incredibly one-dimensional and the writing is poor, almost elementary school level. Both Scott and Simon are simply too naïve to be believable. Even the "bad guys" are more like lost balls in high grass than hardened criminals. Don't waste your time, especially if you share my hang up about finishing any book you start.
October 4, 2013
Part thriller, part travelogue, this novel drew me right in from the start! A grandfather refuses to give up on his lost grandson, presumed dead by the police, who went missing in Bulgaria while in the Peace Corps. Shuman does an excellent job of weaving Bulgarian culture and history into the story without dragging it down. He adds so many twists and turns, it's nearly impossible to stop reading! I loved learning about Bulgaria, a country I previously knew nothing about. If you like thrillers and history, this one's for you!
January 29, 2014
Enjoyable thriller set in the unusual choice of Bulgaria. It revisits the old wounds of Europe's east/ west split while also providing a fascinating insight into local color and customs. This is standard thriller material: grandpa goes to find what happened to peacekeeper son. All credit to Ellis for giving it a new spin, making it engaging and shining a spotlight on an unexplored area of the world (literarily speaking)
July 13, 2016
This was a fun way to learn about the history and culture of Bulgaria. Simon, a retired English professor from Chicago travels to Bulgaria to determine if there are any new leads on the whereabouts of his Grandson,Scott. Scott had joined the Peace Corps 3 years before, went missing, and presumed dead. Shuman uses this fictional story to give us a wonderful tour of Bulgaria.
May 11, 2013
Ellis Shuman does not fail to excite. He follows the tradition I suppose of another great Jewish writer Leon Uris, whose books I have read extensively. Talk about Exodus,QB VII, MILLA 18, THE ANGRY HILLS, TRINITY etc. This book is just a great story telling adventure.
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Includes Pics and excerpts...check it out!
Includes Pics and excerpts...check it out!
November 16, 2015
Interesting read with regard to archaeology, Bulgaria, and the Thracians; howevermuch to wordy. A good editor could have improved this book.
October 15, 2022
I was attracted to the setting of the story, and the premise made me choose this to read. Simon Matthews, retired professor, travels to Bulgaria searching for his grandson, missing three years and presumed dead. Because no body was ever recovered, Matthews refuses to give up until he has unmistakable proof either way.
I don’t recall many other stories I’ve read that have passed through Bulgaria. Set entirely within the country, I learned much I found interesting. Matthews devotion to his grandson is touching. However, as he discusses his search with others in Bulgaria, their interest in that search are not necessarily in the well being of the grandson.
The different groups aware of, and following Matthews on, his quest, were fairly typical of this type of story. Matthews naïveté kept me wondering about whether I really expected him to survive until the end.
While I was entertained while reading, it did not keep me glued to my seat. This will be filed in my brain candy category.
I don’t recall many other stories I’ve read that have passed through Bulgaria. Set entirely within the country, I learned much I found interesting. Matthews devotion to his grandson is touching. However, as he discusses his search with others in Bulgaria, their interest in that search are not necessarily in the well being of the grandson.
The different groups aware of, and following Matthews on, his quest, were fairly typical of this type of story. Matthews naïveté kept me wondering about whether I really expected him to survive until the end.
While I was entertained while reading, it did not keep me glued to my seat. This will be filed in my brain candy category.
February 26, 2023
This was a good book.
Basically a grandpa who searches for his supposedly dead grandson.
Then enter matthews who helps reunite these two but also hunt for a relic.
Indiana Jones feeling.
It has got this treasure hunter search/find/clues kind of thing in this. I liked the adventure type thing in this.
The author paints a good picture about Bulgaria throughout the novel.
Basically a grandpa who searches for his supposedly dead grandson.
Then enter matthews who helps reunite these two but also hunt for a relic.
Indiana Jones feeling.
It has got this treasure hunter search/find/clues kind of thing in this. I liked the adventure type thing in this.
The author paints a good picture about Bulgaria throughout the novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2019
I have recently toured Bulgaria... So this book held a special meaning... We went to most of the places mentioned in the book. The story too is very interesting.
Bulgaria is a beautiful place and this book brings it out very well.
Bulgaria is a beautiful place and this book brings it out very well.
February 18, 2020
Good book
You people should just read this book yourselves and write your own review on this novel yourself and I really enjoyed reading this book very much so.Shelley MA
You people should just read this book yourselves and write your own review on this novel yourself and I really enjoyed reading this book very much so.Shelley MA
June 27, 2020
Good story
Good story, twists and turns. Held my interest to the end.
Interesting facts about the country’s history and the artifacts
Good story, twists and turns. Held my interest to the end.
Interesting facts about the country’s history and the artifacts
May 1, 2015
A young Peace Corps volunteer named Scott working in Bulgaria vanishes, leaving behind only a wallet atop his folded clothes upon the beach. Whether suicide, murder or accidental drowning, everyone assumes him dead. His grandfather, Simon, however, has never accepted the death of his grandson, and three years after the young man’s disappearance finds himself in Bulgaria searching for the truth. Everyone says he’s nuts, from the American Consul in Bulgaria to his own son, but he knows something they do not—while he was on Skype, his grandson’s user ID briefly showed activity. Armed with this knowledge, along with a little hope and a lot of faith, Simon follows clue after clue, walking in Scott’s footsteps, meeting people who knew Scott, and asking questions. Too many questions, it seems, for after awhile he finds his own life in jeopardy. Still, the hope of finding Scott propels him forward, even though each step taken leads him further into a dark world of crime and violence.
According to the author’s biography, he spent two years as a resident of Bulgaria, and it certainly shows in his knowledgeable depiction of the country, past and present. I’ve never been to Bulgaria, but this book could almost serve as a guidebook to its cities and historic sites as well as its customs and culture. The narrative itself is very well written, the pacing and suspense maintained throughout the story, and the characterization makes you actually care about Simon and Scott as they work toward a conclusion. I could very easily see this as a successful film along the lines of “North by Northwest,” “Charade,” or “Arabesque.” A reader looking for a good old-fashioned suspense adventure set in an interesting country and steeped in mystery and history could not do better than this character-driven thriller.
According to the author’s biography, he spent two years as a resident of Bulgaria, and it certainly shows in his knowledgeable depiction of the country, past and present. I’ve never been to Bulgaria, but this book could almost serve as a guidebook to its cities and historic sites as well as its customs and culture. The narrative itself is very well written, the pacing and suspense maintained throughout the story, and the characterization makes you actually care about Simon and Scott as they work toward a conclusion. I could very easily see this as a successful film along the lines of “North by Northwest,” “Charade,” or “Arabesque.” A reader looking for a good old-fashioned suspense adventure set in an interesting country and steeped in mystery and history could not do better than this character-driven thriller.
February 24, 2016
A very nice read indeed!
In this novel, Ellis Shuman explores a range of literary devices and formulas to deliver an interesting and entertaining (first) long fiction, which is easy to read while pulling the reader into the story. What more can be asked from a pleasurable and successful read? It made a perfect travelling companion as I journeyed through Southern European airports, railways and motorways, my own experience making it all the easier for me to immerse and identify myself with the story line and grandfather Simon's adventure (though mine was a thoroughly safe quest!).
Though I felt that it relied somewhat on stereotypical perceptions which could maybe have been polished off, the story line is good and not too foreseeable (e.g. regarding Scott's fate and whereabouts, or yet Sophia's role in the plot), and Shuman cannily offers us a number of possible avenues and denouements right from the start, which do not make it easy for the reader to guess exactly where the story is going until the last third of the book.
The characters are generally well developed and consistent, though I felt that more could have been made of Katya's descent into an increasingly perturbed state, and her final divorce from reality. I suppose it is the more obvious "little but" for me, as I would have liked to see more psychological depth to her characterization.
As for the editing, it was near perfect, and it was a pleasure to read an indie book so carefully edited. All in all, a big thumbs up to a pleasant and entertaining read and a very worthy first effort . Looking forward to Ellis Shuman's next offering, where no doubt he'll delight us with an even further polished story line and characters. In the meantime, on to his short-stories of life and travails in a kibbutz.
Nina Light
@ameninaluz
In this novel, Ellis Shuman explores a range of literary devices and formulas to deliver an interesting and entertaining (first) long fiction, which is easy to read while pulling the reader into the story. What more can be asked from a pleasurable and successful read? It made a perfect travelling companion as I journeyed through Southern European airports, railways and motorways, my own experience making it all the easier for me to immerse and identify myself with the story line and grandfather Simon's adventure (though mine was a thoroughly safe quest!).
Though I felt that it relied somewhat on stereotypical perceptions which could maybe have been polished off, the story line is good and not too foreseeable (e.g. regarding Scott's fate and whereabouts, or yet Sophia's role in the plot), and Shuman cannily offers us a number of possible avenues and denouements right from the start, which do not make it easy for the reader to guess exactly where the story is going until the last third of the book.
The characters are generally well developed and consistent, though I felt that more could have been made of Katya's descent into an increasingly perturbed state, and her final divorce from reality. I suppose it is the more obvious "little but" for me, as I would have liked to see more psychological depth to her characterization.
As for the editing, it was near perfect, and it was a pleasure to read an indie book so carefully edited. All in all, a big thumbs up to a pleasant and entertaining read and a very worthy first effort . Looking forward to Ellis Shuman's next offering, where no doubt he'll delight us with an even further polished story line and characters. In the meantime, on to his short-stories of life and travails in a kibbutz.
Nina Light
@ameninaluz
June 20, 2015
Historical novel, Valley of Thracians is set in post-communist Bulgaria. Retired English professor Simon Matthews sets out to find his missing adventurous grandson, who is presumed dead. The trail is three years cold and the case is closed. But Simon won't give up. Scott's body was never found. He has a gut feeling Scott is alive. Besides, someone recently logged onto Scott's Skype account, and the laptop was never recovered. Simon Matthews and Thracian scholar Sophia Ivanova team up to hunt for his missing grandson, which leads to uncovering an antiquities smuggling ring run by the Bulgarian Mafia, and murder. Scott's Peace Corps host family offers few clues as to his disappearance. But that's where the trail, though ice-cold, begins.
Simon's story is narrated in traditional third person novel format. But the backstory of Scott Matthews is introduced via emails, and the story of Scoot and Katya during the missing three years, is told in the first person perspective, creating an immediacy set within time present. Which serves to heightens the drama: is Scott alive or not? The gripping conclusion, when all the threads are woven together, is a real page turner.
Unfortunately there are a few silly author errors: "unbridled horses" do on wander across roads. Unfettered, halterless, or loose horses, maybe. But not unbridled. Wrong word. "She beings the slow process of unthawing." Unthawing? I think the author means: "thawing." Unless she's refreezing? Again, wrong word. Other small typos don't interfere with the story. The historical component of the story could serve as a modern travel guide. Ellis Shuman, who lived in Bulgaria in 2009-2010, does an extraordinary job in both telling the tale and setting the scene.
Simon's story is narrated in traditional third person novel format. But the backstory of Scott Matthews is introduced via emails, and the story of Scoot and Katya during the missing three years, is told in the first person perspective, creating an immediacy set within time present. Which serves to heightens the drama: is Scott alive or not? The gripping conclusion, when all the threads are woven together, is a real page turner.
Unfortunately there are a few silly author errors: "unbridled horses" do on wander across roads. Unfettered, halterless, or loose horses, maybe. But not unbridled. Wrong word. "She beings the slow process of unthawing." Unthawing? I think the author means: "thawing." Unless she's refreezing? Again, wrong word. Other small typos don't interfere with the story. The historical component of the story could serve as a modern travel guide. Ellis Shuman, who lived in Bulgaria in 2009-2010, does an extraordinary job in both telling the tale and setting the scene.
December 16, 2014
If there is one thing I've learned from this suspenseful novel, it is an affirmation that one should always trust one's gut feeling. No matter what everyone else tells you, if you believe, then pursue what you think to be true till the very end -- until you are personally satisfied with the final answer.
And so, in this lengthy four-part novel, a determined grandfather travels from the United States to Bulgaria in search of his missing grandson, Scott, with the hope of seeing him again, refusing to believe that he is gone forever.
Ellis Shuman succeeds in making the reader feel the strain and agony of the protagonist-grandfather, Simon, as he -- at half-a-breath in his lungs -- traces the path of his grandson, who three-years earlier had gone to Bulgaria to join the peace corps. But the reader is left wondering if Simon's trip to Bulgaria is but a fool's errand as he pursues carrots of clues and tip-offs that lead to dead ends.
You will be holding your breath at times as you wonder if the next page would bring the old man closer to a reunion.
And so, in this lengthy four-part novel, a determined grandfather travels from the United States to Bulgaria in search of his missing grandson, Scott, with the hope of seeing him again, refusing to believe that he is gone forever.
Ellis Shuman succeeds in making the reader feel the strain and agony of the protagonist-grandfather, Simon, as he -- at half-a-breath in his lungs -- traces the path of his grandson, who three-years earlier had gone to Bulgaria to join the peace corps. But the reader is left wondering if Simon's trip to Bulgaria is but a fool's errand as he pursues carrots of clues and tip-offs that lead to dead ends.
You will be holding your breath at times as you wonder if the next page would bring the old man closer to a reunion.
July 5, 2015
The book is basically a thriller or crime - fiction novel, and the outcome of the story is of course easily predictable, but still the story is very interesting and the pace of the action is forcing you to go on. Characters are very good described and motivated (except maybe Katyas), and good and bad sides of everyone are well balanced and described. You can learn a lot about Thracians, local Bulgarian customs and Bulgaria itself wich additionally makes the story juicy. I adore the writing style of Mr Shuman and I always learn a lot about English language and the life itself (although it is "only" a thriller). His book about kibbuzim is a little bit different, more realistic and life connected and I like her ++ more.
April 5, 2015
Valley of Thracians by Ellis Shuman
I enjoyed Valley of Thracians by Ellis Shuman. It was interesting from a historical stand point. I loved the snippets of shared Thracian history. I enjoyed the characters each well fleshed and interesting. The story itself was a good one. So why, you might ask, did I give only 4 stars instead of 5? I felt the story dragged in several parts. Katya's mental disturbances were described a bit too late for my liking. This is a good story. And I truly hope this author, Ellis Shuman, continues to write. He is a gifted storyteller. With more practice he will improve his story pace and write excellent books.
I enjoyed Valley of Thracians by Ellis Shuman. It was interesting from a historical stand point. I loved the snippets of shared Thracian history. I enjoyed the characters each well fleshed and interesting. The story itself was a good one. So why, you might ask, did I give only 4 stars instead of 5? I felt the story dragged in several parts. Katya's mental disturbances were described a bit too late for my liking. This is a good story. And I truly hope this author, Ellis Shuman, continues to write. He is a gifted storyteller. With more practice he will improve his story pace and write excellent books.
November 26, 2015
Very interesting. But not captivating. Shuman introduces us to Thracian culture in Bulgaria in a contemporary tale populated by elderly scholars, petty thieves, an addled addict, divorcees, bureaucrats, peace lovers, and a major criminal. It's easy to separate good guys from the bad, and plot twists are a little too predictable.
June 14, 2015
I enjoyed the way Shuman brought me a glimpse of Bulgaria, and before long I felt like I was getting to know the country like a local. The story has two unexpected twists; I always like to be surprised in a book, as long as it hangs together. I recommend it for anyone who like to mix a little learning about another country with their thriller.
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