Life has been a struggle for Tomás Araya. Orphaned after the execution of his parents by the new regime of Malaguay, he elbows his way up the ranks of the national army. At nineteen, his life looks bright. A fast-track career beckons in the military, his sweetheart carries his child, and his gift for music is the glue that keeps it all together.
Sal Mason is the author of reality fiction thrillers, often combining dark themes with a good dose of hope and triumph. Writing stories has always been part of her life, but she decided to take it a step further when she discovered Wattpad in 2014.
Mother of two, she lives with her children and pug Einstein in Ireland where she can be found writing at Costa's, taking strolls along the Irish shore, or curled up in front of the fireplace with a good book.
This is the prequel to War Bride book. This is Tomas Aray's story, the details of his life, starting with the execution of this parents. Tomas joins the military and betters himself by climbing the ranks. But the higher you climb, the more longer the drop to the bottom. Tomas is faced with choices but will he make the right decision? If he doesn't, what is the consequence? A really good story and an entertaining read. Enjoy!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In war torn, Malaguay, Tomas is a soldier and former orphan. He is in love with Rosanna, who is under 18 and lives at the town orphanage. Rosanna thinks she is pregnant and she and Tomas wish to get married, but she is under the care of the orphanage. She must be 18 to act for herself. Tomas makes a deal with the man in charge at the orphanage, if he goes to Julliard he will be given permission to take Rosanna with him. Tomas is a natural with playing the violin. What happens next will change their lives.
So much angst and sorrow run thru this story. Death is always there. The emotions that reading this brings to you makes you thankful you live such a pampered life. Things we take for granted that for many in so many countries struggle for. The story of Tomas and Rosanna make you cry for the innocence lost and the making of a monster. But in so many ways not a monster but just a way to survive daily life.
This is a novella that brings Tomás Araya’s early life into focus. It feels as if I understand why he is the way he is now. I read it after War Bride. It really opened my eyes. I was really sad for him. I understand why he is closed off and unemotional now. This book really shines a sad light on him. I would recommend reading this book, so you get an extra look into this character.