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Curse the Moon
The Cold War. A backdrop to betrayal. A playground to power.
He is called Atcho. Cuban-born. West Point Graduate.
To save his daughter, he must be a sleeper agent to men he'd rather kill
When the darkness of night is your only camouflage,
You learn to Curse the Moon
Lee Jackson brings heat to the Cold War!
He is called Atcho. Cuban-born. West Point Graduate.
To save his daughter, he must be a sleeper agent to men he'd rather kill
When the darkness of night is your only camouflage,
You learn to Curse the Moon
Lee Jackson brings heat to the Cold War!
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 26, 2013
92 people are currently reading
147 people want to read
About the author
Lee Jackson
17 books536 followersMy Tagline: Lee Jackson Brings Heat To The Cold War. I write Historical Thriller Fiction - particularly surrounding the Cold War. Having lived in Morocco, Germany, Costa Rica, and of course in the United States; and, having been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan for a combined 38 months, I've been up-close-and personal with many different cultures. I graduated from West Point and Boston University, resulting in a front row seat on many pivotal events. I live in Texas with my wife. My first novel, "Curse The Moon" was published on 10 December 2013. I publish under my own name, Lee Jackson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
April 1, 2014
OK, I need to try and hold back my enthusiasm for this book so I can give a considered and appropriate review. Then again, I could just skip straight to the part where I tell you this is simply a great book and you must read it!
This is a fast paced, exciting thriller set at the time of the Cuban crisis. The author transports us back in time and makes us feel like we are living at the time of the crisis and we gain some understanding of the hardships endured by so many Cubans.
At the heart of the story is Atcho and his family. Atcho is driven by a love for his country and an even greater love for his daughter. The writer brings the chracters vividly to life and there is a point three quarters of the way through the book where he brought a tear to my eye.
Atcho endures great hardships but his spirit is never broken and I am sure he embodies the spirit of the Cuban people in general. Indeed, he gives hope to everyone facing adversity.
We are swept along on a tide of emotion and action, at a pace that never relents. Like all good thrillers there is a clever twist in the end and like all good books, I was sad when I had finished. I would have liked to spend more time with Atcho and his family.
I strongly recommend this book to anyone who likes an adventure story based around true life events with real depth to the characters.
Surely this would make a great film?
This is a fast paced, exciting thriller set at the time of the Cuban crisis. The author transports us back in time and makes us feel like we are living at the time of the crisis and we gain some understanding of the hardships endured by so many Cubans.
At the heart of the story is Atcho and his family. Atcho is driven by a love for his country and an even greater love for his daughter. The writer brings the chracters vividly to life and there is a point three quarters of the way through the book where he brought a tear to my eye.
Atcho endures great hardships but his spirit is never broken and I am sure he embodies the spirit of the Cuban people in general. Indeed, he gives hope to everyone facing adversity.
We are swept along on a tide of emotion and action, at a pace that never relents. Like all good thrillers there is a clever twist in the end and like all good books, I was sad when I had finished. I would have liked to spend more time with Atcho and his family.
I strongly recommend this book to anyone who likes an adventure story based around true life events with real depth to the characters.
Surely this would make a great film?
March 25, 2014
This is one book I am not likely to ever forget. I finally read the truth about Cuba, the Bay of Pigs and the rise of Fidel Castro. It was at a time when Gorbachev was the head of the USSR and Ronald Reagan was President. It was a frightening time in the history books and the Cuban people took the brunt of the trouble. They came to Miami in droves and are still to this day trying to liberate their home land from oppression.
According to the front page of the book along with publisher information etc this is written:
"Many of the episodes described in this novel were based on actual events, particularly those in the story that take place in Cuba.
The views expressed in this novel are not necessarily those of the United States Military Academy, the US Army, or the United States Government.
This is a work of fiction. The main character, Atcho, and his daughter, Isabel, are based on the author’s family members. All other characters appearing in this work are fictitious. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental."
This is the story of a brave and courageous man who wanted nothing more then to find his daughter and then keep her safe! Only the moon truly witnessed all.
If I could give this book higher then a 5 I would--it deserves a 10 in my opinion. There is another book in this series which I will be grabbing as soon as it is published!!Curse the Moon: Cold War Rising
According to the front page of the book along with publisher information etc this is written:
"Many of the episodes described in this novel were based on actual events, particularly those in the story that take place in Cuba.
The views expressed in this novel are not necessarily those of the United States Military Academy, the US Army, or the United States Government.
This is a work of fiction. The main character, Atcho, and his daughter, Isabel, are based on the author’s family members. All other characters appearing in this work are fictitious. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental."
This is the story of a brave and courageous man who wanted nothing more then to find his daughter and then keep her safe! Only the moon truly witnessed all.
If I could give this book higher then a 5 I would--it deserves a 10 in my opinion. There is another book in this series which I will be grabbing as soon as it is published!!Curse the Moon: Cold War Rising
December 14, 2015
When this novel arrived through my letter box I just had to read it immediately and I was not disappointed. It is based around Cuba and the Fidel Castro takeover of the island, which is one of my favourite periods in history. This book had me hooked from page one to the end, every page was full of action, suspense and mystery which made me want to follow the Heroes plight and journey.
The story and characters make an exceptional read. The main character is caught up in a web of intrigue and entrapment and an unknown source is holding sway over his actions and future which adds extra spice and excitement to an excellent thriller.
Excellent emotive writing really makes the characters spring to life and you really join in with their personal struggles making the reader wanting to whisper in the ears of the characters to help them through. The research and knowledge that the author has really shines through and the descriptive images that are portrayed makes you think that you are wherever the action is taking place.
An excellent read full of historic content and questioning what was really going on the island of Cuba and who really did pull the strings, the Americans or the Russians, leaving the poor people to fight for survival.
This is one of the best books I have been asked to read and review for a long time and this author is definitely going to be on my list and if you like an excellent novel please read this one.
The story and characters make an exceptional read. The main character is caught up in a web of intrigue and entrapment and an unknown source is holding sway over his actions and future which adds extra spice and excitement to an excellent thriller.
Excellent emotive writing really makes the characters spring to life and you really join in with their personal struggles making the reader wanting to whisper in the ears of the characters to help them through. The research and knowledge that the author has really shines through and the descriptive images that are portrayed makes you think that you are wherever the action is taking place.
An excellent read full of historic content and questioning what was really going on the island of Cuba and who really did pull the strings, the Americans or the Russians, leaving the poor people to fight for survival.
This is one of the best books I have been asked to read and review for a long time and this author is definitely going to be on my list and if you like an excellent novel please read this one.
January 17, 2014
Atcho, a former West Point graduate, appears in a gruesome opening scene where a Russian captain is holding a gun to Atcho’s daughter’s head, while his soldier goons are kicking and beating the daylights out of Atcho. The brutal KGB agent informs Atcho that he owns him and so it will appear until the very end of this international spy thriller that moves between Cuba, Russia and the United States.
Atcho’s fury, plus his obvious well-trained background, compels the reader to follow him during the famous (or infamous depending on one’s point of view) Bay of Pigs disaster. For Cuban dissidents have much gusto to stage a resistance fight with the aid of American military assistance; but it will as we already know go up in smoke due to poor training of Cubans and lackluster, discombobulated American assistance. However, Atcho forms special relationships with some very brave and ardent rebels and he is known for his over-the-top bravery in that devastating skirmish. The result is thousands of Cubans will die as a lesson to the world staged by Castro and thousands more will be imprisoned in Cuban prisons with the most brutally horrific conditions.
Eventually Atcho learns his daughter is in America and plans to escape the prison. He is caught and will serve the next nineteen years of his life in three different prisons. All of a sudden, however, the Russian officer is manipulating Atcho’s life again. The rest of the novel is so surprising at every turn that this reviewer couldn’t stop reading – no spoiler here. Fear over losing his daughter is the key to controlling Atcho as he is ordered to prepare for a very special mission. It is only when he realizes that he’s still a virtual prisoner that he decides to take his own, and his daughter’s, destiny into his own hands. Every page is well worth the read!
Lee Jackson has obviously researched his subject well as he places the battles in Cuba at all the correct places and also depicts the divided nature of Cuban people who for the most part let Castro rule tyrannically without much resistance at all. It’s also obvious that this was more a competition between Russia and the USA. Indeed the mole in this story is a willing tool for both sides. The depiction of West Point is spot on, especially with all of its changes in the 1970s. So much of Atcho’s behavior is not only protective for his daughter but also a result of being a prisoner for so many years, often spending as much as eight months in solitary confinement in a space where one could neither sit, stand nor lie with any comfort at tall.
Lee Jackson writes in the style of the early and notable Robert Ludlum or Ken Follett. The story is action-packed, riveting, adrenaline-pumping reading that is sure to make this a best-seller. The moon can be friend or enemy and Atcho clearly knows the difference! Superb historical thriller!
Atcho’s fury, plus his obvious well-trained background, compels the reader to follow him during the famous (or infamous depending on one’s point of view) Bay of Pigs disaster. For Cuban dissidents have much gusto to stage a resistance fight with the aid of American military assistance; but it will as we already know go up in smoke due to poor training of Cubans and lackluster, discombobulated American assistance. However, Atcho forms special relationships with some very brave and ardent rebels and he is known for his over-the-top bravery in that devastating skirmish. The result is thousands of Cubans will die as a lesson to the world staged by Castro and thousands more will be imprisoned in Cuban prisons with the most brutally horrific conditions.
Eventually Atcho learns his daughter is in America and plans to escape the prison. He is caught and will serve the next nineteen years of his life in three different prisons. All of a sudden, however, the Russian officer is manipulating Atcho’s life again. The rest of the novel is so surprising at every turn that this reviewer couldn’t stop reading – no spoiler here. Fear over losing his daughter is the key to controlling Atcho as he is ordered to prepare for a very special mission. It is only when he realizes that he’s still a virtual prisoner that he decides to take his own, and his daughter’s, destiny into his own hands. Every page is well worth the read!
Lee Jackson has obviously researched his subject well as he places the battles in Cuba at all the correct places and also depicts the divided nature of Cuban people who for the most part let Castro rule tyrannically without much resistance at all. It’s also obvious that this was more a competition between Russia and the USA. Indeed the mole in this story is a willing tool for both sides. The depiction of West Point is spot on, especially with all of its changes in the 1970s. So much of Atcho’s behavior is not only protective for his daughter but also a result of being a prisoner for so many years, often spending as much as eight months in solitary confinement in a space where one could neither sit, stand nor lie with any comfort at tall.
Lee Jackson writes in the style of the early and notable Robert Ludlum or Ken Follett. The story is action-packed, riveting, adrenaline-pumping reading that is sure to make this a best-seller. The moon can be friend or enemy and Atcho clearly knows the difference! Superb historical thriller!
April 18, 2014
by GZM
Life's a bitch ... I know that the expression is not elegant, but exemplifies in the most direct way the situations experienced by the main character of the novel Curse the Moon.
The book is a thriller that presents an impressive story of the Cold War. A story of war and espionage about a terrible period in the world's history that could end at any moment by a simple pressing of a button that could bring the nuclear apocalypse.
It is the dramatic story of a patriot, a freedom fighter and of a father that desperately seeking for his daughter. As a patriot, he will get the disappointment of any fighter from a small country whose fate is decided by the agreements taken between the great powers behind the curtain. As a father, nothing and no one could make him to give up, no matter how many obstacles will arise, no matter how long it takes, the thought of being with his child will keep him alive and give him strength. Because nothing is simple, our hero will find out first hand that life is not just black and white, but composed of a multitude of shades of gray. So as he sees that the fate of his country is played elsewhere, and however great is the sacrifice of his men it would be useless, he realizes that his own fate seems to be controlled by dark forces and obscure interests. Evil plans are made over his head and he wakes up that, nolens volens, he will have to fight against the same ideals in which he believed. However, as the fight becomes personal now, he will do everything in his power to escape from the claws of the one who blackmails him and to find his child. The blackmail is terrible and cynical at the same time. Bottom line? Throwing the world into the fire or losing his family. How and if he will be able to solve this last mission you will find yourself reading the book.
A book that combines in an interesting way real facts with fiction in an adventure that will go through several decades of history, beginning with the resistance against the communist regime that took power in Cuba, 1959, and reaching to the late 80s of last century, before the collapse of the communist regime in Eastern Europe.
An exciting novel written with nerve and passion, a story that will impress you and make you not to leave it until the last page. A book that is welcome for the young readers, who were not born or were too young during the Cold War, when the world was divided between two superpowers. A period that they would feel that it's a bit far, but it's never bad to know what the world went through and what sacrifices were made. Curse the Moon is not a history book, is one of fiction, but dotted with real historical elements that create a realistic framework welcome for the novel expansion.
http://mythicalbooks.blogspot.ro/2014...
Life's a bitch ... I know that the expression is not elegant, but exemplifies in the most direct way the situations experienced by the main character of the novel Curse the Moon.
The book is a thriller that presents an impressive story of the Cold War. A story of war and espionage about a terrible period in the world's history that could end at any moment by a simple pressing of a button that could bring the nuclear apocalypse.
It is the dramatic story of a patriot, a freedom fighter and of a father that desperately seeking for his daughter. As a patriot, he will get the disappointment of any fighter from a small country whose fate is decided by the agreements taken between the great powers behind the curtain. As a father, nothing and no one could make him to give up, no matter how many obstacles will arise, no matter how long it takes, the thought of being with his child will keep him alive and give him strength. Because nothing is simple, our hero will find out first hand that life is not just black and white, but composed of a multitude of shades of gray. So as he sees that the fate of his country is played elsewhere, and however great is the sacrifice of his men it would be useless, he realizes that his own fate seems to be controlled by dark forces and obscure interests. Evil plans are made over his head and he wakes up that, nolens volens, he will have to fight against the same ideals in which he believed. However, as the fight becomes personal now, he will do everything in his power to escape from the claws of the one who blackmails him and to find his child. The blackmail is terrible and cynical at the same time. Bottom line? Throwing the world into the fire or losing his family. How and if he will be able to solve this last mission you will find yourself reading the book.
A book that combines in an interesting way real facts with fiction in an adventure that will go through several decades of history, beginning with the resistance against the communist regime that took power in Cuba, 1959, and reaching to the late 80s of last century, before the collapse of the communist regime in Eastern Europe.
An exciting novel written with nerve and passion, a story that will impress you and make you not to leave it until the last page. A book that is welcome for the young readers, who were not born or were too young during the Cold War, when the world was divided between two superpowers. A period that they would feel that it's a bit far, but it's never bad to know what the world went through and what sacrifices were made. Curse the Moon is not a history book, is one of fiction, but dotted with real historical elements that create a realistic framework welcome for the novel expansion.
http://mythicalbooks.blogspot.ro/2014...
June 29, 2014
Gets at the Soul of Viva Cuba Libre through Atcho's Tough Heart
Curse the Moon kept me up at night. I could not put it down. For a book so dense in politics, about a country I love, it remains one of the most pleasurable books I have read this year. How did Jackson accomplish this matchless performance?
Atcho’s prickly Cuban pride makes Lee Jackson’s book, Curse the Moon: Cold War Rising, unique. Having visited Cuba many times, love of family, strength of character and self confidence distinguish the people one meets. Lee Jackson captures the complex essence of the Cuban personality in his characterization of Atcho, Isabel and the other actors on his stage.
From the upheaval created by the arrival of Fidel and Che, to the grinding disappointment experienced by the grand deception foisted upon the Cuban people by their matchless socialist nightmare, Curse the Moon delivers on every level. Historically accurate narrative, containing in-depth research and punctuated by revealing dialogues spiced by both tragic human situations in a world in flux as well as heartfelt reactions to change propel this book forward.
Along with extraordinarily accurate depiction of Cuban reality in prison, on the streets of Havana and in the back country comes a revelation seldom discussed about the Bay of Pigs fiasco. America deceived Cuba as deeply as Fidel by withdrawing support for its own political expediency-perhaps one of the first examples of political correctness to blot modern politics.
Constrained by the yolk of two new dictators, Jackson’s book portrays people spawning the seeds of greatness in the Cuban spirit - their solidarity when faced with adversity. Not only have the Cuban people suffered under Castro’s regime, but they found themselves twisted by the needs of the Soviet Union, another supporter who abandoned them at a crucial turning point in their history.
Many writers have discussed these themes, but Jackson manages very successfully to let his characters live and leave judgement up to the reader based on the words in their mouths, not the narrative description of the people in his book-no small task.
Curse the Moon kept me up at night. I could not put it down. For a book so dense in politics, about a country I love, it remains one of the most pleasurable books I have read this year. How did Jackson accomplish this matchless performance?
Atcho’s prickly Cuban pride makes Lee Jackson’s book, Curse the Moon: Cold War Rising, unique. Having visited Cuba many times, love of family, strength of character and self confidence distinguish the people one meets. Lee Jackson captures the complex essence of the Cuban personality in his characterization of Atcho, Isabel and the other actors on his stage.
From the upheaval created by the arrival of Fidel and Che, to the grinding disappointment experienced by the grand deception foisted upon the Cuban people by their matchless socialist nightmare, Curse the Moon delivers on every level. Historically accurate narrative, containing in-depth research and punctuated by revealing dialogues spiced by both tragic human situations in a world in flux as well as heartfelt reactions to change propel this book forward.
Along with extraordinarily accurate depiction of Cuban reality in prison, on the streets of Havana and in the back country comes a revelation seldom discussed about the Bay of Pigs fiasco. America deceived Cuba as deeply as Fidel by withdrawing support for its own political expediency-perhaps one of the first examples of political correctness to blot modern politics.
Constrained by the yolk of two new dictators, Jackson’s book portrays people spawning the seeds of greatness in the Cuban spirit - their solidarity when faced with adversity. Not only have the Cuban people suffered under Castro’s regime, but they found themselves twisted by the needs of the Soviet Union, another supporter who abandoned them at a crucial turning point in their history.
Many writers have discussed these themes, but Jackson manages very successfully to let his characters live and leave judgement up to the reader based on the words in their mouths, not the narrative description of the people in his book-no small task.
March 28, 2014
I was not quite sure what to expect when I first started to read this novel because it was based around Cuba. Honestly, I know nothing of the history and have only heard of Fidel Castro, but I could not tell you what he did. Did this make me naive? I am not sure, but when I really got into the novel, I realized that this part of history was something that I had been missing. I wanted and almost needed to know more about it. I was instantly hooked right in because the story was so full of action that I was never not held in suspense about what was going to happen next.
The characters in the story are what really made it for me. There was so much excitement and thrill behind what the author was trying to convey to the reader about this time in history that it really evoked every sense of emotion that I had. I like to be gripped when I read stories like this about a time in history, and the author did just that. Everything was so real and life like that I felt like I knew what it was like to have lived in the time period. I was at one with the characters and I could feel what they were. You can tell that the author put a lot of time and effort into getting the details of the story just so. Lots of knowledge was flowing through the pages as I kept turning and actually learning while indulging in a story. Everything was portrayed perfectly and now I have an even better idea of life on the island of Cuba. This is truly an amazing book and has opened my eyes in so many ways to a historical time that I honestly would never have looked into otherwise. Many thanks to the author for making me expand my horizons farther than I ever would have on my own!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
The characters in the story are what really made it for me. There was so much excitement and thrill behind what the author was trying to convey to the reader about this time in history that it really evoked every sense of emotion that I had. I like to be gripped when I read stories like this about a time in history, and the author did just that. Everything was so real and life like that I felt like I knew what it was like to have lived in the time period. I was at one with the characters and I could feel what they were. You can tell that the author put a lot of time and effort into getting the details of the story just so. Lots of knowledge was flowing through the pages as I kept turning and actually learning while indulging in a story. Everything was portrayed perfectly and now I have an even better idea of life on the island of Cuba. This is truly an amazing book and has opened my eyes in so many ways to a historical time that I honestly would never have looked into otherwise. Many thanks to the author for making me expand my horizons farther than I ever would have on my own!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
March 31, 2014
When you pick a book off a shelf that centers around the Cuban crisis and/or the Cold War era you know you're in for one of two or three things. Firstly it could be a very interesting fairy story about how things might have happened. Secondly, it could be a fairly well researched history with something of a story line to it. Thirdly, it could be a plot line that is so well researched the story appears surreal, whether the words are based on truth/fact or not.
I have to say this book did not disappoint in any way by being of the third variety.
From page one of the book I was absolutely hooked. The characters were so real I was living alongside them throughout. The reader experiences every single act of atrocity, every friendly hand and every unbelievable facet of a story that begs to be told. I wept alongside the central characters as well as cheering the heroes along as the plot panned out. I learned to recognise intense fear through the eyes of the characters, mistrust of every person and every action of a corrupt society and we learn just how corrupt society really is through the eyes of the characters. The action is fast paced but not to the point of stupidity which many authors seem to feel necessary to keep an ignorant audience in tow. I was swept along the tide of mistrust and a desperate need to find a safe place where life can be lived with no expectations and no reprisals.
This is definitely one of the books that should be read by everyone remotely interested in real life crises that have arisen in the past, present or will happen in the future. It has completely blown my mind away, it is that powerful
I have to say this book did not disappoint in any way by being of the third variety.
From page one of the book I was absolutely hooked. The characters were so real I was living alongside them throughout. The reader experiences every single act of atrocity, every friendly hand and every unbelievable facet of a story that begs to be told. I wept alongside the central characters as well as cheering the heroes along as the plot panned out. I learned to recognise intense fear through the eyes of the characters, mistrust of every person and every action of a corrupt society and we learn just how corrupt society really is through the eyes of the characters. The action is fast paced but not to the point of stupidity which many authors seem to feel necessary to keep an ignorant audience in tow. I was swept along the tide of mistrust and a desperate need to find a safe place where life can be lived with no expectations and no reprisals.
This is definitely one of the books that should be read by everyone remotely interested in real life crises that have arisen in the past, present or will happen in the future. It has completely blown my mind away, it is that powerful
April 9, 2014
Ready for some fast passed adventure and an exciting thriller? Curse The Moon by Lee Jackson is it ! From the first page you are thrown into troubling times right smack dab in the middle of the Cold War in Cuba.
Atcho is his code name, driven by his love for his country and even more for his family we meet a man that takes us right into the thick of things. While leading guerrilla fighters Atcho is captured and cast into the darkened dungeons where he fears the worst is to come, and he's right. The worst has yet to come for him. As the book goes on you are taken back by the struggles and hardships endured by the Cubans and those around them , really getting a feel of what was going on during those times.
Throughout the book Atcho's spirit is never once broken though. It was really inspiring to read actaully, you've got this man fighting for his life , fighting for his family, struggling through so much and yet the fight is still inside of him. The power behind this man shines through and the characters come to life on the pages. It really grabbed me from the start. You question whether he'll make it through to the end, if he can keep going and pull through or no which kept me on the edge of my seat anticipating what may happen next. Curse The Moon is a thrilling story filled with a lot more than adventure and action, it's filled with a surge of emotion and an intense amount of hope and that I really couldn't walk away from .
This was done so well, I really couldn't put the book down and look forward to reading more from Lee Jackson. If you enjoy a great plot with an incredibly well drawn adventure this book is for you. You won't be disappointed.
Atcho is his code name, driven by his love for his country and even more for his family we meet a man that takes us right into the thick of things. While leading guerrilla fighters Atcho is captured and cast into the darkened dungeons where he fears the worst is to come, and he's right. The worst has yet to come for him. As the book goes on you are taken back by the struggles and hardships endured by the Cubans and those around them , really getting a feel of what was going on during those times.
Throughout the book Atcho's spirit is never once broken though. It was really inspiring to read actaully, you've got this man fighting for his life , fighting for his family, struggling through so much and yet the fight is still inside of him. The power behind this man shines through and the characters come to life on the pages. It really grabbed me from the start. You question whether he'll make it through to the end, if he can keep going and pull through or no which kept me on the edge of my seat anticipating what may happen next. Curse The Moon is a thrilling story filled with a lot more than adventure and action, it's filled with a surge of emotion and an intense amount of hope and that I really couldn't walk away from .
This was done so well, I really couldn't put the book down and look forward to reading more from Lee Jackson. If you enjoy a great plot with an incredibly well drawn adventure this book is for you. You won't be disappointed.
May 3, 2014
It is rare to experience a book were you feel as if the author as a very strong emotional connection. But that is just what happens as you begin absorbing the plot and characters within the pages of this book. Curse of the Moon is another novel that goes outside my comfort genre, usually I stay away from anything that may be a bit political or warlike. But something about this particular historic fiction novel compelled me to give it a shot.
I am very glad I did. I was able to live within Atcho���s character, feeling and thinking just as he must have. Anytime that an author can achieve that- I can guarantee that I will read it cover to cover in very short time. If you are looking for a fantastic book to read, Lee Jackson���s Curse The Moon is one that you should get.
You will fall into the story, you will connect with the characters, you will feel as if the whole book is a true recollection from ones own experiences. In the end it is only fiction, but to be able to do this means that the author has an amazing ability for story-telling.
I am very glad I did. I was able to live within Atcho���s character, feeling and thinking just as he must have. Anytime that an author can achieve that- I can guarantee that I will read it cover to cover in very short time. If you are looking for a fantastic book to read, Lee Jackson���s Curse The Moon is one that you should get.
You will fall into the story, you will connect with the characters, you will feel as if the whole book is a true recollection from ones own experiences. In the end it is only fiction, but to be able to do this means that the author has an amazing ability for story-telling.
March 24, 2014
Wow. Wow. Wow.
This was quite the read. I found it to be long (not bad long, but longer than most books I have been reading) but it was such a great read!
It was filled with so many emotions, actions, mystery.
The book takes you through the life of Atcho including his imprisonment, his battles, his isolation, his mental aguish, and his freedom.
The entire book is filled with suspense as well as mystery as to who is in charge of everything that occurs. It was a definitely “who done it” type read that definitely through me for a loop (I didn’t figure it out until the book told me and even then, I was a little slow and didn’t put it all together!)
This is definitely a read that I can see both female and male alike enjoying and I highly recommend it!
This was quite the read. I found it to be long (not bad long, but longer than most books I have been reading) but it was such a great read!
It was filled with so many emotions, actions, mystery.
The book takes you through the life of Atcho including his imprisonment, his battles, his isolation, his mental aguish, and his freedom.
The entire book is filled with suspense as well as mystery as to who is in charge of everything that occurs. It was a definitely “who done it” type read that definitely through me for a loop (I didn’t figure it out until the book told me and even then, I was a little slow and didn’t put it all together!)
This is definitely a read that I can see both female and male alike enjoying and I highly recommend it!
March 23, 2014
Curse the Moon starts of with a swift kick in your gut... literally! You are held prisoner from the first chapter to the last. During the cuban revolution, Atcho must battle known and unknown enemies. To save himself and family he must fight the horrors of Castro's Cuba! The Author gives clear descriptions of the conditions and fears of this period of history. So clear, I have to say it is a truthful view of these troubled times, even if it is considered Historical Fiction. It does not surprise me at all that real people lived the lives memorialized in this book. Follow Atcho along the avenues of thrilling espionage in his search for his daughter and his goal of freedom for his family.
March 31, 2014
Great Book.
I enjoyed every twist and turn this story took.
I found myself wondering what was going to happen next and was unable to guess correctly what was in store for.
Cuba during the Cold War was the stage that set this book in motion and shining a light on an area and conflict that I found intriguing but knew very little about. It is not your typical war or action story. It is a story of a man and his struggles for his family and his country.
Lee Jackson wrote this book very well and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a good book with plenty to keep you on your toes
I enjoyed every twist and turn this story took.
I found myself wondering what was going to happen next and was unable to guess correctly what was in store for.
Cuba during the Cold War was the stage that set this book in motion and shining a light on an area and conflict that I found intriguing but knew very little about. It is not your typical war or action story. It is a story of a man and his struggles for his family and his country.
Lee Jackson wrote this book very well and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a good book with plenty to keep you on your toes
April 2, 2014
i received a copy of this book for free in exchange for my honest review
What a great read!
This is an edge-of-your seat read (I just LOVE those) that takes place in Cuba during the Cold War. The story ended up being one that I didn't expect - one that kept me turning page after page in anticipation of what was to come. Lee Jackson wrote this book with a passion that connects you with the characters and I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for an amazing Historical Thriller (Fiction)!
What a great read!
This is an edge-of-your seat read (I just LOVE those) that takes place in Cuba during the Cold War. The story ended up being one that I didn't expect - one that kept me turning page after page in anticipation of what was to come. Lee Jackson wrote this book with a passion that connects you with the characters and I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for an amazing Historical Thriller (Fiction)!
April 7, 2014
Curse the Moon offers an interesting look into the Cold War, particularly events surrounding the Bay of Pigs. Atcho, the book's main character, is a passionate family man, who will do whatever it takes to protect those he loves. The backdrop of the Cold War allows twists and turns the reader does not expect.
My favorite element of the book is the role of the moon throughout the book. It's not a main character, but when the moon is mentioned, it accompanies a deep thought. Pay attention to the moon throughout the book!
My favorite element of the book is the role of the moon throughout the book. It's not a main character, but when the moon is mentioned, it accompanies a deep thought. Pay attention to the moon throughout the book!
May 23, 2014
Great read! I highly recommend Curse The Moon by Lee Jackson. It is full of historical information while being a fictitious story. What makes it even better is that the characters are based on members of Jackson's own family. Jackson comes from a military background himself and this gives him an even more accurate telling of what happened during the Cold War. I was a child during the Cold War and didn't really learn anything about it in school. I was afraid I wouldn't understand this book, but I had no trouble following it.
March 4, 2016
I did not know what to expect of this book. Anyway, it caught me by surprise, definitely. When I thought the story would end before it started, things started to get spicy and interesting. The author takes us through century’s following Ando and his misery’s. That can be difficult, I would imagine, but he really pulls it off. Letting us know about Cuban history along the road, in addition to giving us a good spy novel.
A great read that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a good spy novel.
Enjoy!
A great read that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a good spy novel.
Enjoy!
April 2, 2014
I think that when you get into this genre of book you’re expecting the exact same kind of lead character. Atcho was a great escape from that. The character had so much depth that you wanted to learn more and you really wanted to follow him through to the end. You want to know his past and you find yourself really on the edge of your seat through every encounter with the KGB.
April 4, 2014
I received a copy of this book free in exchange for a review.
I loved the characters in this book, especially Atcho. I really felt like i was right there with him during the book and couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next. I love historical fiction and this book definitely didn't disappoint.
I loved the characters in this book, especially Atcho. I really felt like i was right there with him during the book and couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next. I love historical fiction and this book definitely didn't disappoint.
July 2, 2014
Lots of history woven with fiction
This book will be of particular interest to folks who grew up during the Cuban Crisis. Although fictitious so much history is interwoven to make this true thriller believable. Atcho is a hero in the true sense and I'll be anxiously awaiting his next adventure with Rasputin. You can't put this book down!
This book will be of particular interest to folks who grew up during the Cuban Crisis. Although fictitious so much history is interwoven to make this true thriller believable. Atcho is a hero in the true sense and I'll be anxiously awaiting his next adventure with Rasputin. You can't put this book down!
July 5, 2015
My brother picked out this book, so I didn't know what to expect. When I realized it took place in Cuba during a revolution, I thought that would be interesting. But I was surprised when, halfway through the book, it turned into a spy novel, and the spy was blackmailed to be a spy. Strange twist.
I liked the protagonist enough that I would be interested in reading a sequel.
I liked the protagonist enough that I would be interested in reading a sequel.
July 24, 2017
Cuban refuge Atcho is a West Point graduate and former freedom fighter. He is a strong and effective leader caught in a trap by the KGB. This is a black ops story with a very different twist. In addition to the covert operations, the story covers the motional relationships between Atcho, his family, his friends and the men he leads in battle. The narrative is strong in an imaginative plot the carries the reader through time and distance. I recommend you read this book before Rasputin’s Legacy because it defines the characters you will encounter in greater depth. Jackson is a great author and he demonstrates his style and imagination well in this book. It has many surprises.
September 12, 2017
Oh my, what a tale!
This is an incredible story. The line between fact and fiction is pretty hard to find. I probably learned more about the Cold War in reading this story than in any history books. I loved the character of Athtco for his strength and bravery despite the odds against him, he not only survive but thrived. I was not disappointed at all. This story is one that should not be missed by any history buffs who love a little fiction mixed up with a few facts.
This is an incredible story. The line between fact and fiction is pretty hard to find. I probably learned more about the Cold War in reading this story than in any history books. I loved the character of Athtco for his strength and bravery despite the odds against him, he not only survive but thrived. I was not disappointed at all. This story is one that should not be missed by any history buffs who love a little fiction mixed up with a few facts.
December 9, 2017
Anyone with an interest in Cuba/U.S. relations and history will enjoy Curse The Moon.
The author cleverly blends fact and fiction to create a suspense-laden story. The characters are well developed and believable.
A very enjoyable read.
The author cleverly blends fact and fiction to create a suspense-laden story. The characters are well developed and believable.
A very enjoyable read.
July 7, 2017
Fast paced, great thriller in the time of the Cuban War. Kept me on the edge of my seat until I was finished reading. Just loved it.
October 28, 2017
A bit contrived and difficult to take the meeting of world leaders seriously.
Read
June 25, 2022wrong book that I selected
September 4, 2022
liked the action and the thrill of the story, based on a true story, but there were some minor mistakes.
August 16, 2014
What I got was not what I anticipated. I found it boring.
April 24, 2017
WOW! I am really glad to add another author to my "must read" list of military, spy, techno-thriller genre. My only sincere regret is the fact that this author to close to my age, and not a 40-something with 30 years of writing ahead of him. Lee Jackson blends "fact and fiction" ("Based in part on actual events" on back cover) creating an incredible cold-war spy novel filled with lots of suspense and intrigue. Most other authors chose a "villain" from the former USSR - Jackson creates a tragic villain-turned hero from Cuba. And with Jackson himself being a West Point graduate, writing about a foreign cadet who also graduated from West Point, it is truly fascinating and makes me want to know who the REAL "Atcho" actually was. Kind of reminds me of the story of Mickey Marcus, who after graduating West Point around 1918 went on to help with the creation of Israel in 1947. I read this book in two days, because it was very hard to put down. Earlier in my military career, I met a physician who was born in Cuba, and fought in the failed Bay of Pigs event, and was also released after many years, and ended up practicing for many years in Puerto Rico before coming to the continental US. This author reminds me a lot of another veteran-turned author - MATT ROGERS - whose description of prison life are equally dismal. This book would definitely be a great ACTION movie.... but who to play Atcho? Full disclosure - I also graduated from West Point, but never knew cadet Stonewall Lee Jackson. Strong work, Jackson. Congratulations.
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