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Saffire
I reminded myself that once you start to defend someone, it's difficult to find a place to stop. But I went ahead and took that first step anyway. . .
For President Teddy Roosevelt, controlling the east-west passage between two oceans mattered so much that he orchestrated a revolution to control it. His command was to "let the dirt fly," and for years, the American Zone of the Panama Canal mesmerized the world, working in uneasy co-existence with the Panamanian aristocrats.
It's in this buffered Zone where, in 1909, James Holt takes that first step to protect a defenseless girl named Saffire, expecting a short and simple search for her mother. Instead it draws him away from safety, into a land haunted by a history of pirates, gold runners, and plantation owners, all leaving behind ghosts of their interwoven desires, sins, and ambitions, ghosts that create the web of deceit and intrigue of a new generation of revolutionary politics. It will also bring him together with a woman who will change his course or bring an end to it.
A love story set within a historical mystery, Saffire brings to vibrant life the most impressive--and embattled--engineering achievement of the twentieth-century.
For President Teddy Roosevelt, controlling the east-west passage between two oceans mattered so much that he orchestrated a revolution to control it. His command was to "let the dirt fly," and for years, the American Zone of the Panama Canal mesmerized the world, working in uneasy co-existence with the Panamanian aristocrats.
It's in this buffered Zone where, in 1909, James Holt takes that first step to protect a defenseless girl named Saffire, expecting a short and simple search for her mother. Instead it draws him away from safety, into a land haunted by a history of pirates, gold runners, and plantation owners, all leaving behind ghosts of their interwoven desires, sins, and ambitions, ghosts that create the web of deceit and intrigue of a new generation of revolutionary politics. It will also bring him together with a woman who will change his course or bring an end to it.
A love story set within a historical mystery, Saffire brings to vibrant life the most impressive--and embattled--engineering achievement of the twentieth-century.
337 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2016
35 people are currently reading
521 people want to read
About the author
Sigmund Brouwer
260 books407 followersSigmund loves going to schools to get kids excited about reading, reaching roughly 80,000 students a year through his Rock&Roll Literacy Show.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
December 4, 2016
*officially marks as favorite historical fiction of 2016*
Yes, this book was that good.
SETTING:
Everyone I conversed with about this book said the same thing: the setting is so unique.
Initially, I had my doubts. But soon after, I could sense the feelings and heartbeat of the book, which doesn't often occur. The geographical locations that had once been dull and uninteresting, that I had never before given merit to, came to life in a phenomenal way I doubt any other author could have captured as beautifully or artfully.
So, what is this setting? In short, the Panama Canal and certain Spanish districts in the surrounding areas. That being said, I can't begin to describe just how Mr. Brower crafted with subtle intricacy the significant details, the ordinary wonders, the beauty so often taken for granted. Most of all, it's when you're looking back that you fully realize how poetic and awe-striking each word, each phrase, each conversation, is.
I dislike political correctness, especially in novels, so I'll come right out and say what's on my mind. Maybe, just maybe, we've stereotyped Hispanic people (Not Mexicans, mind you, Hispanic people - see! That's a stereotype in itself.) Everything he said about anyone he met was strikingly new. He spoke without hindrance, without question, without permission. And it was perfect.
NARRATOR:
This story is told in 1st person, and never changes voices or perspectives. Have a bad feeling? Don't. Because this (pinky promise!) is excellently told. Holt, filled with dry humor and witty remarks, is narrator and protagonist. He'll keep you on your toes, sometimes making you stumble over yourself.
Quick comment, when it comes to names. It's one of the reasons this book is so extraordinarily diverse. Miskimon, Winona, Raquel, and, of course, Saffire (It's spelled that way because using "ph" to make the "f" sound is silly, as the young lady in the book says.)
SUSPENSE & OTHER COMMENTS:
It's been quite some time since I had to re-read passages twice or thrice to understand the flawless logic and reasoning the characters were musing over. Yet this book had my head spinning more than one instance. But that's a good thing, right? While it was hard to follow and confusing, it was also intelligent and enlightening.
The suspense was...hard to describe. While you fairly knew who the perpetrator(s) were the entirety of the time, and you had an idea what was up regarding the motives, the pieces didn't fall into place until the very ending. And on that note, the ending was wrapped up incredibly, just like everything else about this book.
It's not what I would technically classify as a romance story… But, as Holt noted, "There was tension. Of the delicious sort.” So, there you have it.
If only school history books could be as interesting and enjoyable asSaffire. I learned a massive amount of information regarding Panama and the historical building of the Canal, so many facts and figures, it's crazy. I can legitimately say I've never read a book for pleasure that taught me more, in regards to fiction.
QUOTES:
"Life is messy. Numbers aren't. We can understand numbers but sometimes not comprehend them. Standing here, feeling tiny, that's the real impact this had on me."
"Sure, the canal would be a monstrous triumph of man over nature. The audacity to connect one ocean to another would be a combination of the world's largest man-made lake, the world's largest locks, the world's largest canal. But well within a lifetime, the decades would pass, and as they did, few would give thought to the wonder of it. Yet in a lifetime none would ever forget a first love or a sustaining love."
*disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. The thoughts expressed are entirely my own.*
FULL REVIEW (with content overview!) HERE: http://literarycafe.weebly.com/home/s...
Yes, this book was that good.
SETTING:
Everyone I conversed with about this book said the same thing: the setting is so unique.
Initially, I had my doubts. But soon after, I could sense the feelings and heartbeat of the book, which doesn't often occur. The geographical locations that had once been dull and uninteresting, that I had never before given merit to, came to life in a phenomenal way I doubt any other author could have captured as beautifully or artfully.
So, what is this setting? In short, the Panama Canal and certain Spanish districts in the surrounding areas. That being said, I can't begin to describe just how Mr. Brower crafted with subtle intricacy the significant details, the ordinary wonders, the beauty so often taken for granted. Most of all, it's when you're looking back that you fully realize how poetic and awe-striking each word, each phrase, each conversation, is.
I dislike political correctness, especially in novels, so I'll come right out and say what's on my mind. Maybe, just maybe, we've stereotyped Hispanic people (Not Mexicans, mind you, Hispanic people - see! That's a stereotype in itself.) Everything he said about anyone he met was strikingly new. He spoke without hindrance, without question, without permission. And it was perfect.
“We could fly, we could drive, we could send our voices across wire, and we could build monuments to the heavens. And in this time of wonder, nothing was more wondrous than what was unfolding around me – the connecting of the oceans, proof that there was not much left for humans to achieve. I thought about future generations that would look back and see the pinnacle of human achievement behind them. I felt sorry for them. Who, after all, enjoys knowing the best is behind them?”
NARRATOR:
This story is told in 1st person, and never changes voices or perspectives. Have a bad feeling? Don't. Because this (pinky promise!) is excellently told. Holt, filled with dry humor and witty remarks, is narrator and protagonist. He'll keep you on your toes, sometimes making you stumble over yourself.
Quick comment, when it comes to names. It's one of the reasons this book is so extraordinarily diverse. Miskimon, Winona, Raquel, and, of course, Saffire (It's spelled that way because using "ph" to make the "f" sound is silly, as the young lady in the book says.)
SUSPENSE & OTHER COMMENTS:
It's been quite some time since I had to re-read passages twice or thrice to understand the flawless logic and reasoning the characters were musing over. Yet this book had my head spinning more than one instance. But that's a good thing, right? While it was hard to follow and confusing, it was also intelligent and enlightening.
The suspense was...hard to describe. While you fairly knew who the perpetrator(s) were the entirety of the time, and you had an idea what was up regarding the motives, the pieces didn't fall into place until the very ending. And on that note, the ending was wrapped up incredibly, just like everything else about this book.
It's not what I would technically classify as a romance story… But, as Holt noted, "There was tension. Of the delicious sort.” So, there you have it.
If only school history books could be as interesting and enjoyable asSaffire. I learned a massive amount of information regarding Panama and the historical building of the Canal, so many facts and figures, it's crazy. I can legitimately say I've never read a book for pleasure that taught me more, in regards to fiction.
QUOTES:
"Life is messy. Numbers aren't. We can understand numbers but sometimes not comprehend them. Standing here, feeling tiny, that's the real impact this had on me."
"Sure, the canal would be a monstrous triumph of man over nature. The audacity to connect one ocean to another would be a combination of the world's largest man-made lake, the world's largest locks, the world's largest canal. But well within a lifetime, the decades would pass, and as they did, few would give thought to the wonder of it. Yet in a lifetime none would ever forget a first love or a sustaining love."
*disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. The thoughts expressed are entirely my own.*
FULL REVIEW (with content overview!) HERE: http://literarycafe.weebly.com/home/s...
October 5, 2017
I always have been mesmerized by the building of the Panama canal(1903-1914) and this historical fictional novel brings alive this part of history that made America the leader of the world in technology, engineering, and everything else. It was the beginning of the American century and the end of the Victorian domination of the world.
The history is almost a character in this tale with real historical figures being laced into the fictional tale of a Cowboy, John Holt, being summoned by President Rooseveldt to Panama for a delicate investigation. The smokescreen was a search for the mother of Saffire, a little mulatto girl. He soon discovered that it was much more than that and that the animosity of different groups against each other was like a time bomb waiting to ignite a second revolution. A web of deceit was spun over the canal project which increased the challenges and problems for George Washington Goethals, the US army officer and civil engineer who had to supervise the construction, administration and opening of the canal. He was regarded as the three omnis. Omnipotent. Omniscient. Omnipresent. A remarkable man.
The gentle novel centers around the politics and challenges of the time, portraying a harsh environment without adding excessive violence for shock effect. The grim and challenging circumstances were not hidden or ignored. The discovery of a cure for yellow fever and malaria was a result of the Panama canal, where thousands of workmen perished from the diseases, endangering the completion of the canal. Dr. Carlos Finlay, from French-Scottish descend), a Cuban physician, discovered the link between mosquitoes and these deadly diseases. Without him getting involved in the project, the American effort to connect the Pacific and Atlantic oceans was doomed. His name is not mentioned in the book, but his methods of eradicating the mosquitoes are used in the plot. (He deserves a lot more recognition, in my humble opinion.) U.S. Army physician Dr. William Gorgas (1854-1920) is credited with Dr. Finlay's achievements instead.
There was enough realism embedded in the story to make this a highly interesting read. Although it was not the most heart-stopping read, it was informative and entertaining. James Holt is the protagonist leading the reader through a highly volatile period of history.
I watched two Youtube videos again to capture the immensity of this achievement.
I really loved this experience and appreciated the decency with which this tale was told. A very good read indeed!
The history is almost a character in this tale with real historical figures being laced into the fictional tale of a Cowboy, John Holt, being summoned by President Rooseveldt to Panama for a delicate investigation. The smokescreen was a search for the mother of Saffire, a little mulatto girl. He soon discovered that it was much more than that and that the animosity of different groups against each other was like a time bomb waiting to ignite a second revolution. A web of deceit was spun over the canal project which increased the challenges and problems for George Washington Goethals, the US army officer and civil engineer who had to supervise the construction, administration and opening of the canal. He was regarded as the three omnis. Omnipotent. Omniscient. Omnipresent. A remarkable man.
The gentle novel centers around the politics and challenges of the time, portraying a harsh environment without adding excessive violence for shock effect. The grim and challenging circumstances were not hidden or ignored. The discovery of a cure for yellow fever and malaria was a result of the Panama canal, where thousands of workmen perished from the diseases, endangering the completion of the canal. Dr. Carlos Finlay, from French-Scottish descend), a Cuban physician, discovered the link between mosquitoes and these deadly diseases. Without him getting involved in the project, the American effort to connect the Pacific and Atlantic oceans was doomed. His name is not mentioned in the book, but his methods of eradicating the mosquitoes are used in the plot. (He deserves a lot more recognition, in my humble opinion.) U.S. Army physician Dr. William Gorgas (1854-1920) is credited with Dr. Finlay's achievements instead.
There was enough realism embedded in the story to make this a highly interesting read. Although it was not the most heart-stopping read, it was informative and entertaining. James Holt is the protagonist leading the reader through a highly volatile period of history.
I watched two Youtube videos again to capture the immensity of this achievement.
I really loved this experience and appreciated the decency with which this tale was told. A very good read indeed!
August 11, 2016
Saffire by Sigmund Brouwer is one of the best books I have read in 2016. Saffire is set in 1909 during Teddy Roosevelt's presidency and tells the story of James Holt who sets out to protect a young girl named Saffire as she goes out in search for her mother. In her search, James and Saffire are pulled into a world of pirates, gold runners, plantations, deceit, intrigue, romance and revolutionary politics. Saffire has everything you could want in a novel.
Saffire is fast paced, interesting, and filled with so much history. Saffire is a book you will pick up and not want to put down until you finish the very last page. Perfect for fans of Historical fiction. Saffire is also the perfect read for Autumn. I don't know why but it had an Autumn feel to it. I do plan on re-reading it once we're in October.
Saffire is fast paced, interesting, and filled with so much history. Saffire is a book you will pick up and not want to put down until you finish the very last page. Perfect for fans of Historical fiction. Saffire is also the perfect read for Autumn. I don't know why but it had an Autumn feel to it. I do plan on re-reading it once we're in October.
February 7, 2017
An intelligent mystery set during a compelling time in history, Sigmund Brouwer’s Saffire is a fascinating novel. Excellent first-person narration and supberb setting descriptions highlight this historical mystery, as well as an investigation that turns deadly - James finds himself in the midst of a potential revolution.
Read my full review over on Book Page!
Read my full review over on Book Page!
November 18, 2016
There's nothing like a historical novel that's chock full of history, intrigue, and wit. Sigmund Brouwer is a master at this, writing a novel that ambles along at an easy pace that's as endearing as it's young namesake. Quirky characters step from the shadows when you least expect it, and the humor and heroism of a cowboy (from whom the story is told) had me giggling whenever I wasn't sighing. Amid the main plot, this cowboy's past is laced throughout--a past that's complex and filled with life-altering memories from Buffalo Bill's Wild West show. Saffire is engaging, eclectic and the building of the Panama Canal really shines in the forefront of the story as a rich and vivid setting. Beautifully told.
November 20, 2016
Saffire brings to life the building of the Panama Canal and the resulting political moves that took place.
I was drawn in to the novel right away by the main character James Holt and secondary character Saffire. Although the novel is named after Saffire and her story has a lot to do with the action in the novel, she takes up a rather small portion of the pages. I would have liked to have known more about Saffire.
Mr. Holt is a cowboy from the Dakotas trying to make money to save his land. His background as a rancher and soldier combined with his intelligence make him a worth opponent to those trying to mar his time in Panama.
My favorite character aside from Mr. Holt and Saffire was T.B. Miskimon. The relationship between Holt and Miskimon was comical. Miskimon, like many of the characters in the novel, was a historical figure and some of his actual reports to his colonel are in the novel. Sadly, I couldn't find on the author's website what T.B. stands for so if anyone knows, please share in the comments.
The history of the building of the Panama Canal was brought alive in the pages of Saffire. Readers that enjoy a novel heavy on history would likely enjoy Saffire.
I was drawn in to the novel right away by the main character James Holt and secondary character Saffire. Although the novel is named after Saffire and her story has a lot to do with the action in the novel, she takes up a rather small portion of the pages. I would have liked to have known more about Saffire.
Mr. Holt is a cowboy from the Dakotas trying to make money to save his land. His background as a rancher and soldier combined with his intelligence make him a worth opponent to those trying to mar his time in Panama.
My favorite character aside from Mr. Holt and Saffire was T.B. Miskimon. The relationship between Holt and Miskimon was comical. Miskimon, like many of the characters in the novel, was a historical figure and some of his actual reports to his colonel are in the novel. Sadly, I couldn't find on the author's website what T.B. stands for so if anyone knows, please share in the comments.
The history of the building of the Panama Canal was brought alive in the pages of Saffire. Readers that enjoy a novel heavy on history would likely enjoy Saffire.
February 13, 2017
James Holt comes to Panama in 1909 at the request of his old friend, Theodore Roosevelt, to carry out a mission that starts out as a search for the mother of Saffire, beautiful and spirited young girl with wits as sharp as a razor. But the more he digs, the more he feels that he is getting nowhere, yet there is something more beneath the surface that threatens the future of the canal and America.
Jim tells the story from his point of view, and despite how the story is told through his eyes, he still keeps his cards rather close to his chest. I admired his love for his daughter back home in the Dakotas, and how his rich backstory weaves its way into the story.
It takes a while for the book to really pick up, which is uncommon for this author, but when it picks up all the pieces and people begin to fall in place. And in the end it all came together and was hard to put down.
I like how Jim tells story, he calculating and cool, yet we see his doubts and vulnerabilities that he hates about himself. He is a smart man, who sees his past actions with perfect clarity and owns up to his faults. I liked his alertness and awareness.
T.B. Miskimons was probably my favorite character, a enigmatic man shrouded in mystery and who seems to be ever in the know, and his interactions with Jim are some of my favorite parts of the book.
Overall, a well written novel that brings the uneasy relations between the Americans and the Panama people to life, showing the obstacles that had to be overcome to build the wonder of the Panama Canal. A well researched historical read, filled with intrigue, mystery, and even romance!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."
Jim tells the story from his point of view, and despite how the story is told through his eyes, he still keeps his cards rather close to his chest. I admired his love for his daughter back home in the Dakotas, and how his rich backstory weaves its way into the story.
It takes a while for the book to really pick up, which is uncommon for this author, but when it picks up all the pieces and people begin to fall in place. And in the end it all came together and was hard to put down.
I like how Jim tells story, he calculating and cool, yet we see his doubts and vulnerabilities that he hates about himself. He is a smart man, who sees his past actions with perfect clarity and owns up to his faults. I liked his alertness and awareness.
T.B. Miskimons was probably my favorite character, a enigmatic man shrouded in mystery and who seems to be ever in the know, and his interactions with Jim are some of my favorite parts of the book.
Overall, a well written novel that brings the uneasy relations between the Americans and the Panama people to life, showing the obstacles that had to be overcome to build the wonder of the Panama Canal. A well researched historical read, filled with intrigue, mystery, and even romance!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."
April 27, 2017
Saffire Saffire is a really fun and mysterious book. There the main character is brought to Panama Canal to do something and to have chat with General. You get a good history about the time period. You also get a romance and action packed.
What will happen to Holt? There are some historical characters in the book. Sigmund does a wonderful job of tells the facts about 1909. The year may by a bit off but the facts stated are true. You will find that at the end of the book.
If you enjoy historical fiction, you will enjoy this book. It tells of the building of the Panama Canal. I like that fell. It also gives a little mystery along with the action in the book.
What will happen to Holt? There are some historical characters in the book. Sigmund does a wonderful job of tells the facts about 1909. The year may by a bit off but the facts stated are true. You will find that at the end of the book.
If you enjoy historical fiction, you will enjoy this book. It tells of the building of the Panama Canal. I like that fell. It also gives a little mystery along with the action in the book.
September 9, 2016
Saffire by Sigmund Brower is a novel that takes place in the early 1900s at the Panama Canal. It was a rough and tumble place, full of seedy characters and the main character, James Holt, fits right in. Formerly a cowboy in Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show, he is now a widowed father who enjoys a quiet life on a cattle ranch in the Dakotas. When President Teddy Roosevelt, a longtime friend, sends him on a secret mission to Panama, he embarks on an adventure fraught with danger and intrigue. Upon arriving in Panama City, he meets a young girl named Saffire, whose mother has disappeared. Local authorities claim she ran away, but Saffire is not convinced and will not give up trying to find out what happened to her mother.
James becomes involved in Saffire's search, trying himself to discover the details surrounding her mother's disappearance. He ends up angering some of the native folks, who don't want a foreigner poking around in their business. There are bar fights, gun fights, fist fights and even torture in this story. I would have to say, despite a little romance between James and a local woman he meets named Raquel, that this story is one that men would enjoy more than women. I had a hard time following the plot at times and really didn't like all the fighting and gritty adventure.
Saffire is billed as Historical Christian fiction. It is indeed historical and gives lots of details about building the Panama Canal, including much of the political goings on of that day. It is also fiction, although based on many actual events and people. I have a very hard time however, calling it Christian. I only remember one vague reference to God when James visits a dying man and the man asks James to pray for him.
Although well written, I just didn't enjoy the book very much. I do like historical fiction, but I guess I'm not that interested in the wild west type adventure. I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
James becomes involved in Saffire's search, trying himself to discover the details surrounding her mother's disappearance. He ends up angering some of the native folks, who don't want a foreigner poking around in their business. There are bar fights, gun fights, fist fights and even torture in this story. I would have to say, despite a little romance between James and a local woman he meets named Raquel, that this story is one that men would enjoy more than women. I had a hard time following the plot at times and really didn't like all the fighting and gritty adventure.
Saffire is billed as Historical Christian fiction. It is indeed historical and gives lots of details about building the Panama Canal, including much of the political goings on of that day. It is also fiction, although based on many actual events and people. I have a very hard time however, calling it Christian. I only remember one vague reference to God when James visits a dying man and the man asks James to pray for him.
Although well written, I just didn't enjoy the book very much. I do like historical fiction, but I guess I'm not that interested in the wild west type adventure. I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
August 21, 2016
The setting is the building of the Panama Canal. The main character is James Holt, a cowboy who had been with Buffalo Bill's Wild West show. Now he is a widower with a young daughter and owns a struggling cattle ranch. He'd met and spent time with Teddy Roosevelt years ago. When a summons arrives from the now president, Holt packs his bags. He is to go to Panama and do investigative work for Roosevelt, having his past due mortgage paid in return.
The plot becomes very complex after Holt arrives in Panama. He is not sure what he is to investigate and neither was I. There are a number of possibilities and they are confusingly mixed together. Holt meets Saffire, a girl about his daughter's age, while waiting to speak to his new boss. She is convinced her mother did not run off and abandon her as authorities claim. Holt is sympathetic to her plight, even thought she is a very street savvy girl and has her own protection. His inquiries about her mother get mixed in with his various investigations.
I found the action a bit hard to follow. Holt seems to bumble along, getting into trouble and then being rescued. There is much action in the novel, the culprits and their reasons hidden under layers of deception. There is a lengthy explanation at the end of the novel that clarifies all the participants and their roles. I prefer a plot where the deceptive layers are uncovered bit by bit rather than all at the end.
There are two strengths to this novel. One is the vast amount of information contained about the building of the canal. We get a great history lesson about the first attempt by the French, how the U.S. then came to build the canal, the deaths of workers, the ramifications of Panama winning independence from Columbia, and much, much more.
The other strength revolves around the characters and their interaction. There is clever dialog and funny puns. Holt is quick witted when it comes to verbal skills. Some of the characters are very well crafted. My favorite was Miskimon. He has a case of obsessive compulsive disorder long before such things were diagnosed. I was a bit disappointed we did not see more of Saffire, the namesake of the novel. We do find out in the end that she was around but she has such an interesting personality I would have liked a greater involvement in the plot.
I was also disappointed that there was not more of a spiritual aspect to the novel. While it is published by a traditionally “Christian” publisher, I would not identify the book as a “Christian” novel. It contains nothing that would separate it from being identified as being in the general historical fiction genre.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
The plot becomes very complex after Holt arrives in Panama. He is not sure what he is to investigate and neither was I. There are a number of possibilities and they are confusingly mixed together. Holt meets Saffire, a girl about his daughter's age, while waiting to speak to his new boss. She is convinced her mother did not run off and abandon her as authorities claim. Holt is sympathetic to her plight, even thought she is a very street savvy girl and has her own protection. His inquiries about her mother get mixed in with his various investigations.
I found the action a bit hard to follow. Holt seems to bumble along, getting into trouble and then being rescued. There is much action in the novel, the culprits and their reasons hidden under layers of deception. There is a lengthy explanation at the end of the novel that clarifies all the participants and their roles. I prefer a plot where the deceptive layers are uncovered bit by bit rather than all at the end.
There are two strengths to this novel. One is the vast amount of information contained about the building of the canal. We get a great history lesson about the first attempt by the French, how the U.S. then came to build the canal, the deaths of workers, the ramifications of Panama winning independence from Columbia, and much, much more.
The other strength revolves around the characters and their interaction. There is clever dialog and funny puns. Holt is quick witted when it comes to verbal skills. Some of the characters are very well crafted. My favorite was Miskimon. He has a case of obsessive compulsive disorder long before such things were diagnosed. I was a bit disappointed we did not see more of Saffire, the namesake of the novel. We do find out in the end that she was around but she has such an interesting personality I would have liked a greater involvement in the plot.
I was also disappointed that there was not more of a spiritual aspect to the novel. While it is published by a traditionally “Christian” publisher, I would not identify the book as a “Christian” novel. It contains nothing that would separate it from being identified as being in the general historical fiction genre.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
November 12, 2016
It's the beginning of the 20th Century in the American Zone of the Panama Canal. James Holt is compelled to help a mixed race girl, Saffire, in her search for her mother, even as Holt is anxious to return to the States and home to his own young daughter. But the more Holt tries to track down the missing woman, the more his life is put in jeopardy in Saffire, a novel by author Sigmund Brouwer.
Before reading this history-rich novel, I probably hadn't read so much about President Theodore Roosevelt and the Panama Canal since I was in high school. But what I enjoyed most about this novel? Saffire. She's not been afforded the luxury of innocence in her childhood, but her savvy is matched with compassion for other children in her community, and her scenes of interaction with Holt are smart and engaging, infused with heart.
However, compared to the length of the novel, Saffire only appears in it a relatively short amount of time, and overall, the read was slow-going for me. I could tell that the mystery involving the canal was leading up to something, but I didn't find the unfolding of it to be very compelling, as the story mostly seemed to be lagging and beating around the bush. Hence, I had trouble making it through the novel and didn't really get into the story until the last quarter of it. However, that last quarter is rather heartwrenching, and I did have a few tears over it.
I was first introduced to this author when I read Thief of Glory, which I found to be absolutely superb. That, coupled with this story's final fourth, is enough for me to look forward to reading this author again in the future.
__________________
Blogging for Books provided me with an advance review copy of this book for an honest review.
Before reading this history-rich novel, I probably hadn't read so much about President Theodore Roosevelt and the Panama Canal since I was in high school. But what I enjoyed most about this novel? Saffire. She's not been afforded the luxury of innocence in her childhood, but her savvy is matched with compassion for other children in her community, and her scenes of interaction with Holt are smart and engaging, infused with heart.
However, compared to the length of the novel, Saffire only appears in it a relatively short amount of time, and overall, the read was slow-going for me. I could tell that the mystery involving the canal was leading up to something, but I didn't find the unfolding of it to be very compelling, as the story mostly seemed to be lagging and beating around the bush. Hence, I had trouble making it through the novel and didn't really get into the story until the last quarter of it. However, that last quarter is rather heartwrenching, and I did have a few tears over it.
I was first introduced to this author when I read Thief of Glory, which I found to be absolutely superb. That, coupled with this story's final fourth, is enough for me to look forward to reading this author again in the future.
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Blogging for Books provided me with an advance review copy of this book for an honest review.
August 31, 2016
A canal. A president. An investigation. A cowboy. A young girl. A love story.
Saffire is a historical fiction story. It is set in the early 1900's during the building of the Panama Canal and tells the story of James Holt, a cowboy who is summoned by President Teddy Roosevelt (who was once a friend of Holt) to travel to Panama to help him with an investigation.
Saffire is well-written and full of well-developed characters, mystery and intrigue. I had the opportunity to read an earlier version of the story. Long after reading, I found myself still thinking about many of the characters in the story.
Would you risk your life to help someone else? A stranger? A lesson in morality can also be found within the pages of Saffire. The main character, James Holt, is a "true" example of the power of human kindness.
For those readers who are not history enthusiasts, Brouwer provides clear and detailed insight into the building of the Panama Canal. Personally, I knew nothing about the building of the Panama Canal prior to reading but after reading Saffire, I could definitely understand why this was such a significant historical event. I learned a ton too.
Visually appealing and descriptive, Saffire is a captivating read for those who enjoy reading about historical events as well as for those who enjoy a great story filled with a variety of unique characters. Some likeable and some not so likeable.
Once again, Brouwer doesn't disappoint.
Saffire is a historical fiction story. It is set in the early 1900's during the building of the Panama Canal and tells the story of James Holt, a cowboy who is summoned by President Teddy Roosevelt (who was once a friend of Holt) to travel to Panama to help him with an investigation.
Saffire is well-written and full of well-developed characters, mystery and intrigue. I had the opportunity to read an earlier version of the story. Long after reading, I found myself still thinking about many of the characters in the story.
Would you risk your life to help someone else? A stranger? A lesson in morality can also be found within the pages of Saffire. The main character, James Holt, is a "true" example of the power of human kindness.
For those readers who are not history enthusiasts, Brouwer provides clear and detailed insight into the building of the Panama Canal. Personally, I knew nothing about the building of the Panama Canal prior to reading but after reading Saffire, I could definitely understand why this was such a significant historical event. I learned a ton too.
Visually appealing and descriptive, Saffire is a captivating read for those who enjoy reading about historical events as well as for those who enjoy a great story filled with a variety of unique characters. Some likeable and some not so likeable.
Once again, Brouwer doesn't disappoint.
September 22, 2020
I really wanted to like this book. I met the author at one of his Rock n' Roll Literacy shows, and his literacy presentation was fun and fabulous. The author was amazing, warm and friendly, and down to earth. I picked this book up at his table and had it signed. So I really, really wanted to like it. But I could hardly get into it. I read a bit and put the book down for three years. I picked it up again this year and managed to read the whole thing, but really I only finished it because the author had signed it for me, so I felt I owed him that much.
Saffire certainly has its moments here and there, but it reads like a history book on the Panama Canal interspersed with a few bits of story to make it more palatable than a research paper. The titular character of the book barely features in it. The romance mentioned on the back cover is barely hinted at. Even the ending is disappointing. The resolution of the story's plotline is offhandedly told in the epilogue rather than being shown in the story itself. The main character, James Holt, seems like a decent guy, but the rest of the characters are difficult to care about. Miskimon, a supporting character, was unusual and interesting to read about, so that helped.
One quote from the book itself seems to sum it up nicely. "So if there's a point to why I'm here and why you are spouting off facts like an encyclopedia, I won't be upset if you get to the point." (Saffire, p. 190). That's how I felt about nearly all of the book--I was asking myself when it was going to get good.
I've read other Sigmund Brouwer books with my children, and they are fun, entertaining, and well written. Sadly, this book doesn't fall into the same category. Unless you are doing research on the Panama Canal, give this one a pass and read some of Brouwer's work from the genres in which he really shines instead.
Saffire certainly has its moments here and there, but it reads like a history book on the Panama Canal interspersed with a few bits of story to make it more palatable than a research paper. The titular character of the book barely features in it. The romance mentioned on the back cover is barely hinted at. Even the ending is disappointing. The resolution of the story's plotline is offhandedly told in the epilogue rather than being shown in the story itself. The main character, James Holt, seems like a decent guy, but the rest of the characters are difficult to care about. Miskimon, a supporting character, was unusual and interesting to read about, so that helped.
One quote from the book itself seems to sum it up nicely. "So if there's a point to why I'm here and why you are spouting off facts like an encyclopedia, I won't be upset if you get to the point." (Saffire, p. 190). That's how I felt about nearly all of the book--I was asking myself when it was going to get good.
I've read other Sigmund Brouwer books with my children, and they are fun, entertaining, and well written. Sadly, this book doesn't fall into the same category. Unless you are doing research on the Panama Canal, give this one a pass and read some of Brouwer's work from the genres in which he really shines instead.
January 31, 2017
FCC Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
Sigmund Brouwer's main character in Saffire is James Holt. It's 1909, and Holt finds himself at the construction site of the Panama Canal. One of the first people he meets is young Saffire, a street child quite savvy in the ways of the world.
Saffire is in search of her mother, and she asks Holt to help her complete her search. The feelings of Panamanians make life somewhat contentious for outsiders. Brouwer manages to drop Holt into a mysterious world which endangers Holt and others, including young Saffire.
Brouwer is a master at writing a good mystery. I've read only one other of his books, The Canary List, and I enjoyed it so much I decided to read him again. His plot in Saffire keeps you turning the pages to see what happens next.
The character development in Saffire is somewhat complex. Brouwer does an excellent job of creating people you can either love or hate when it comes to characters. His presentation of the environment in Panama circa 1909 is realistic.
Some narrative bits are long-suffering and you wish they would end, and eventually they do. Other than that, I found Saffire to be an easy read and a story I enjoyed.
Recommendation:
Mystery lovers and historical fiction fans will enjoy Saffire. Brouwer's writing easily brings you satisfaction in the reading of his books and makes you want to read him again.
Sigmund Brouwer's main character in Saffire is James Holt. It's 1909, and Holt finds himself at the construction site of the Panama Canal. One of the first people he meets is young Saffire, a street child quite savvy in the ways of the world.
Saffire is in search of her mother, and she asks Holt to help her complete her search. The feelings of Panamanians make life somewhat contentious for outsiders. Brouwer manages to drop Holt into a mysterious world which endangers Holt and others, including young Saffire.
Brouwer is a master at writing a good mystery. I've read only one other of his books, The Canary List, and I enjoyed it so much I decided to read him again. His plot in Saffire keeps you turning the pages to see what happens next.
The character development in Saffire is somewhat complex. Brouwer does an excellent job of creating people you can either love or hate when it comes to characters. His presentation of the environment in Panama circa 1909 is realistic.
Some narrative bits are long-suffering and you wish they would end, and eventually they do. Other than that, I found Saffire to be an easy read and a story I enjoyed.
Recommendation:
Mystery lovers and historical fiction fans will enjoy Saffire. Brouwer's writing easily brings you satisfaction in the reading of his books and makes you want to read him again.
January 9, 2017
Sigmund Brouwer has been a favorite author of mine for years. He is one who can span many different eras and make history pop off the pages.
Saffire, like many of the other books that Sigmund has written, unfold a more intense and deeper story as you dive further into the pages. Right off the bat, this story opens up with political dealings behind closed door. People want the higher ups involved, but due to the political restraints, they have to do some backdoor dealings of sorts.
James Holt is a guy who is as far from the political intrigue as they come. He is honest and has high morals, but he is pulled into this by a very high placed friend. Everything starts off simple, a job that should only take a couple of weeks, but it grows as James helps a young girl, Saffire.
Saffire, when introduced makes an impact and I couldn't help but route for this girl in hopes that she could find her mom. She was a spitfire who knew her mind, but still a child trying hard to live in a world of politics and mystery.
There was so much to this book! It started off wondering about one thing, but it kept shifting and morphing. It made it hard to put this book down.
Thank you to Blogging for Books, I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
This review was originally posted @ http://wordsfromabookaholic.blogspot....
Saffire, like many of the other books that Sigmund has written, unfold a more intense and deeper story as you dive further into the pages. Right off the bat, this story opens up with political dealings behind closed door. People want the higher ups involved, but due to the political restraints, they have to do some backdoor dealings of sorts.
James Holt is a guy who is as far from the political intrigue as they come. He is honest and has high morals, but he is pulled into this by a very high placed friend. Everything starts off simple, a job that should only take a couple of weeks, but it grows as James helps a young girl, Saffire.
Saffire, when introduced makes an impact and I couldn't help but route for this girl in hopes that she could find her mom. She was a spitfire who knew her mind, but still a child trying hard to live in a world of politics and mystery.
There was so much to this book! It started off wondering about one thing, but it kept shifting and morphing. It made it hard to put this book down.
Thank you to Blogging for Books, I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
This review was originally posted @ http://wordsfromabookaholic.blogspot....
November 1, 2017
Great settings descriptions detailing how safe the American roadside was to get to the Panama Canal in progress and the other road was dangerous. The local and the poor contrasted with the character of James the American cowboy sent by Theodore Roosevelt to inquire locals about the project reporting to Goethals (ever notice that there is a Goethals bridge near New York?) who was in charge of the Panama Project. In the authors words these were "gold people vs silver people", the privileged vs the non-privileged.
Some years ago, I went through the Panama Canal on a cruise ship and also took a brief tour through the "worker town" and other adjacent areas without ever really understanding the intrigue and politics that could have been happening throughout the digging that may have caused some of the deaths that ensued. Enjoyed the book's pace of events and felt the bewilderment of James Holt towards figuring out who he could trust and wondering why he was there.
As for Saffire, incidental mostly but the author seems to have a fondness for her because his daughter was her age and she saved him once or twice.
Some years ago, I went through the Panama Canal on a cruise ship and also took a brief tour through the "worker town" and other adjacent areas without ever really understanding the intrigue and politics that could have been happening throughout the digging that may have caused some of the deaths that ensued. Enjoyed the book's pace of events and felt the bewilderment of James Holt towards figuring out who he could trust and wondering why he was there.
As for Saffire, incidental mostly but the author seems to have a fondness for her because his daughter was her age and she saved him once or twice.
August 26, 2018
I loved this story. I had a chance to meet Mr. Brouwer at our school once. I now regret not going up and chatting with him. He was doing a talk on literacy and rock and roll. This was my first Brouwer novel but I'll be sure to check out Thief of Glory soon!
It did seem strange that the book's title character isn't actually a major character at all during most of the story.
I guess this book was also billed as part romance, which it did have, but the 2 characters in question meet so seldom and interact so little that the final results are confusing.
Still a great novel. Some reviews were upset that this book didn't have more of a Christian feel to it because apparently Brouwer is a Christian. I find that odd. Certainly he can write a novel of his own choosing even if he's a Christian? It seems strange to 2 star a novel because you think it should have had a different theme. It's like reading a horror and saying it was no good because there was not romance in it. Although maybe a horror/romance could be a good combo. In fact I'm mad that this wasn't a horror romance I may go back and 2 star this now!
It did seem strange that the book's title character isn't actually a major character at all during most of the story.
I guess this book was also billed as part romance, which it did have, but the 2 characters in question meet so seldom and interact so little that the final results are confusing.
Still a great novel. Some reviews were upset that this book didn't have more of a Christian feel to it because apparently Brouwer is a Christian. I find that odd. Certainly he can write a novel of his own choosing even if he's a Christian? It seems strange to 2 star a novel because you think it should have had a different theme. It's like reading a horror and saying it was no good because there was not romance in it. Although maybe a horror/romance could be a good combo. In fact I'm mad that this wasn't a horror romance I may go back and 2 star this now!
November 3, 2016
Saffire is a historical fiction novel that involves romance and mystery, but I found the novel very dry. The historical aspects to the story were adequate, but it felt more like reading a textbook than a novel.
Sigmund Brouwer chose to write about a time in our history that is forgotten and doesn't receive much recognition, and for that I applaud him, but the characters in the book came off as one dimensional and I couldn't get myself into the mystery involved.
I am always a big history fan, and as far as the historical aspects go, I applaud Brouwer. He clearly understands the time period present in this book, and he did his research to make sure that the story was believable. If you are a history buff like I am, then you will love this accurate portrayal of American history. Just don't expect it to be a thrilling fiction, because that it is not.
Sigmund Brouwer chose to write about a time in our history that is forgotten and doesn't receive much recognition, and for that I applaud him, but the characters in the book came off as one dimensional and I couldn't get myself into the mystery involved.
I am always a big history fan, and as far as the historical aspects go, I applaud Brouwer. He clearly understands the time period present in this book, and he did his research to make sure that the story was believable. If you are a history buff like I am, then you will love this accurate portrayal of American history. Just don't expect it to be a thrilling fiction, because that it is not.
March 11, 2022
I have read most of Brouwer's book and I usually read Christian authors. I would have liked to see more relying on God from all the trails. I enjoyed learning more about how the canal with built. Always with dealing with other countries there is problem with the government and rebels with do not agree with the government It was interesting to see how that was brought into the story. I really enjoyed the back and forth between T.B. and Holt. It would make the movie if one was made. Saffire's part in the book was interesting. I liked getting to know her. I would recommend this book to any one interested in a good read.
May 7, 2017
I DFN'd this book not very far into it. I was uncomfortable reading a book about a white man rescuing a young black girl. From the moment the author described Saffire as "mocha-skinned" I was ready to put it down. The book is also apparently christian fiction, which I had no warning off when I originally got the book from Blogging for Books. And that also made me stop reading, I have no interest in reading christian fiction. All in all this just wasn't the book for me.
August 23, 2020
Written in the style of Louis L'Amour. The main protagonist is an American Cowboy. Historical fiction set in 1909 with Teddy Roosevelt masterminding the building of the Panama Canal, with all the wheeling, dealing, espionage, scandals, and engineering; both political and mechanical that went on to achieve this linking of the Atlantic and the Pacific Ocean. A little romance on the side kept it interesting and learned much about bullfighting.
March 21, 2018
I’d like to give this a 3.5. It gets good marks for linking history with a story line, although at times the complexity was a bit confusing to me. There’s not much on the title character or the “romance” really in the novel also a bit puzzling. Overall, this was enjoyable to read on a trip through the Panama Canal, and better than I anticipated.
May 31, 2022
Panama. A twisty mystery set during the construction of the Panama Canal. A rancher travels to Panama to investigate a series of accidents thought to be attempts at sabotage. Roosevelt, concerned about any delay, sends his friend to see what is going on. Great writing and fun historical facts. Since I just visited the canal this book was especially interesting to me.
September 17, 2023
An intriguing book. While it's not really about Saffire, she does play an integral part.
I knew there was international politics galore involved with the building of the Panama canal, I have no idea how close this fiction resembles truth, other than how strategic it was and still is.
If told the ending of the book at the beginning, I would have thought it would be hard to get there.
I knew there was international politics galore involved with the building of the Panama canal, I have no idea how close this fiction resembles truth, other than how strategic it was and still is.
If told the ending of the book at the beginning, I would have thought it would be hard to get there.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2018
First time I've read about Panama and the Panama Canal. I don't know how to classify this whether it is a espionage or a thriller but it is a historical fiction definitely. It dates back to 1909 during the presidency of Theodore Roosevelt.
September 10, 2019
I couldn't get into this story and after having dutifully read 1/3 of the book I gave up. It may suit other people but I didn't like the 1st person narrative and the characters somehow didn't come alive to me.
May 18, 2017
I picked up this book because it met the needs of a challenge I am working and lucky for me I got an interesting perspective on the building of the Panama Canal. There was much to learn.
June 8, 2017
I was immediately immersed in the story. The history is fascinating. The intrigue kept me turning the pages. I highly recommend this book.
December 29, 2020
Fluffy historical fiction; well-written. I wouldn't really categorize it as a Christian book, but I wasn't looking for one so didn't mind.
January 29, 2022
A murder mystery near the building of the Panama Canal.
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