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The Cold War Legacy #1
The Dark Guest
The Cold War is over, but The Wolf is still at the door.
When Violet Lundy isn’t cleaning rooms at Happy Hills Assisted Living Facility, she loves spending her free time with resident Rainer Kopecek. Hearing his stories of the dangerous life he led behind the Iron Curtain in East Berlin makes her own life seem more tolerable. But when Rainer is found dead and his room in disarray, Violet suspects foul play.
Dr. Henry Silverton lives among his books, teaching and writing about the Cold War. A letter about an East German traitor known only as “The Wolf” propels Henry out of academia and into Violet’s life. Together, they embark on a perilous quest to uncover the truth about Rainer’s death and the traitor’s identity.
Can Violet and Henry uncover the secrets of the past before one of them ends up as The Wolf’s next victim?
When Violet Lundy isn’t cleaning rooms at Happy Hills Assisted Living Facility, she loves spending her free time with resident Rainer Kopecek. Hearing his stories of the dangerous life he led behind the Iron Curtain in East Berlin makes her own life seem more tolerable. But when Rainer is found dead and his room in disarray, Violet suspects foul play.
Dr. Henry Silverton lives among his books, teaching and writing about the Cold War. A letter about an East German traitor known only as “The Wolf” propels Henry out of academia and into Violet’s life. Together, they embark on a perilous quest to uncover the truth about Rainer’s death and the traitor’s identity.
Can Violet and Henry uncover the secrets of the past before one of them ends up as The Wolf’s next victim?
378 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2022
38 people are currently reading
132 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Hamaker
29 books550 followersAward-winning and best-selling author Sarah Hamaker loves writing books “where the hero and heroine fall in love while running for their lives.” She’s written romantic suspense novels and nonfiction books, as well as stories in Chicken Soup for the Soul volumes. As a writers coach, her heart is encouraging writers. She’s a member of ACFW; ACFW Virginia Chapter; and Faith, Hope and Love. Her podcast, “The Romantic Side of Suspense,” can be found wherever you listen to podcasts. Sarah lives in Virginia with her husband, four children and three cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
October 31, 2022
So many twists and turns!
The Dark Guest by Sarah Hamaker was a very interesting historical mystery. I love the writing trend right now of interweaving mysteries with actual history, it fascinates me. And Sarah Hamaker was a wonderful storyteller!
From the characters, I think one of my favorite things about them was that they were a slow burn type of romance–not a we’re in love from page one type of storyline. They were developed over the course of the story and Sarah Hamaker helped us truly fall in love with them as they were falling in love with each other.
The suspense was on point. A look into the cold war spy era has always fascinated me, what they went through, the dangers involved… and Sarah Hamaker did a fabulous job bringing out those feelings and actions. There was a good amount of danger, and twists to keep me hooked from the first chapter right until the very end.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone wanting a good historical mystery!
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback.
The Dark Guest by Sarah Hamaker was a very interesting historical mystery. I love the writing trend right now of interweaving mysteries with actual history, it fascinates me. And Sarah Hamaker was a wonderful storyteller!
From the characters, I think one of my favorite things about them was that they were a slow burn type of romance–not a we’re in love from page one type of storyline. They were developed over the course of the story and Sarah Hamaker helped us truly fall in love with them as they were falling in love with each other.
The suspense was on point. A look into the cold war spy era has always fascinated me, what they went through, the dangers involved… and Sarah Hamaker did a fabulous job bringing out those feelings and actions. There was a good amount of danger, and twists to keep me hooked from the first chapter right until the very end.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone wanting a good historical mystery!
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback.
July 19, 2023
Let's see... how did I like it? Well, I started at 60% last night and didn't quit until I was done. Was I supposed to stop at 80? Why, yes. Yes, I was.
Sometimes you just can't put a book down. This was one of those.
A contemporary story with a cold war history, The Dark Guest keeps things hopping. People keep getting hurt, killed, or both. Like some kind of multiplying curse, every time they get an answer, two more questions pop up. And in the end, you don't really believe that what HAS to happen will. You're convinced that this is the story that prompted Murphy to write that law.
Christians living their faith? Check. People doing horrible things? Check. People doing brave, heroic things? Definite check!
A gripping story that holds onto you, won't let you go, and demands that it be heard.
Sometimes you just can't put a book down. This was one of those.
A contemporary story with a cold war history, The Dark Guest keeps things hopping. People keep getting hurt, killed, or both. Like some kind of multiplying curse, every time they get an answer, two more questions pop up. And in the end, you don't really believe that what HAS to happen will. You're convinced that this is the story that prompted Murphy to write that law.
Christians living their faith? Check. People doing horrible things? Check. People doing brave, heroic things? Definite check!
A gripping story that holds onto you, won't let you go, and demands that it be heard.
October 10, 2022
The Dark Guest by Sarah Hamaker is a unique look into the world of the Cold War spies’ network. Like any good mystery, there is plenty of twists and turns to throw the reader off the radar of who the villain actually was. One of my favorite aspects of any suspense novels is when the author shares the viewpoint of the villain, but they give them a code name or use the pronouns to describe the person. Much better to see their actions but try to figure out who the person is. Violet and Henry must come together with their past issues. Violet has a horrible past that she has been running from and for good reason. Henry has a medical issue that hinders his everyday life. Even through these odds, Henry and Violet come to trust each other and fall in love. Do I buy their romance? Not for a while. Luckily, Hamaker does not have them declaring that they were madly in love with each other from the opening chapter. It took a little spark here and a little spark there that made them question if they were feeling things for one another. The setting of the story is in modern times but trying to solve a mystery that started during the Cold War. Completely different and original. Overall, The Dark Guest by Sarah Hamaker was a unique puzzle to watch unfold, and I really enjoyed it.
I received a complimentary copy of The Dark Guest by Sarah Hamaker through JustRead Tours, but the opinions stated are all my own.
I received a complimentary copy of The Dark Guest by Sarah Hamaker through JustRead Tours, but the opinions stated are all my own.
October 13, 2022
I had not read any books by Sarah Hamaker before reading The Dark Guest, but I will be reading more by this author. The Dark Guest is a great suspense story that drew me in from the start and kept my attention until the end. The historical time period of The Cold War is one I have not seen much in fiction, and it was interesting to 're-live' some of the events about which the author wrote. The story is quite suspenseful and full of twists that kept me guessing about the outcome. The main characters, Violet and Henry, are compelling and unforgettable, and the author has placed them against the backdrop of startling history. The past can wreak havoc on the present, and The Dark Guest is a great example. Readers who enjoy historical fiction stories that weave together mystery, intrigue, and a sweet romance will not want to miss this book.
I read a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are my own.
This review is part of a JustRead Publicity Tour for The Dark Guest by Sarah Hamaker.
I read a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are my own.
This review is part of a JustRead Publicity Tour for The Dark Guest by Sarah Hamaker.
May 24, 2022
Thank you to Sarah Hamaker for my ARC. This is my honest review.
The book takes the reader on a fast-paced journey to uncover who "The Wolf" is. The main characters face many trials and danger throughout the book. There is a good mix of romance, suspense and history.
The book takes the reader on a fast-paced journey to uncover who "The Wolf" is. The main characters face many trials and danger throughout the book. There is a good mix of romance, suspense and history.
October 13, 2022
The Dark Guest is book one in the Cold War Legacy series that is written by Sarah Hamaker. I love all things espionage/spying related. I have my Master’s in Military History and my Master Thesis was on the use of Women and African Americans as spies during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. I always love reading about the use of spies and their missions so this book drew me in immediately. The Cold War is a war that I am not as familiar with. It’s a war that not many talk about and some may consider a blip in our history. It is an important war.
Violet has been working cleaning rooms for a retirement home when she comes in contact with resident Rainer Kopecek. She loves hearing his stories and over her time there she purposely cleans his room last so that she can sit and listen to his stories. He starts to talk to her in weird words that she does not fully understand. Then he passes away and Violet finds herself the sudden heir to his will and all of his earthly inheritance.
Dr. Henry Silverton has studied the Cold War and written about it. However, he receives a letter from Rainer letting him know that his research is not all right. Henry travels to the retirement facility to meet with Rainer. When he arrives he finds out that Rainer has passed away. Suddenly Violet anad Henry start receiving threatening phone calls. They are warned to drop whatever Rainer has told them.
Violet and Henry are now in a race to find out what Rainer’s cryptic messages that were left behind. Whoever is behind the threats will stop at nothing to stop them. This book was so full of action, suspense and so much more. I could not read fast enough.
I cannot wait until the next book in the series. The author did a fantastic job with her research and I learned so much. The characters are well developed and the storyline is intriguing.
Thank you to the author, publisher and JustRead Publicity Tours for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.
Violet has been working cleaning rooms for a retirement home when she comes in contact with resident Rainer Kopecek. She loves hearing his stories and over her time there she purposely cleans his room last so that she can sit and listen to his stories. He starts to talk to her in weird words that she does not fully understand. Then he passes away and Violet finds herself the sudden heir to his will and all of his earthly inheritance.
Dr. Henry Silverton has studied the Cold War and written about it. However, he receives a letter from Rainer letting him know that his research is not all right. Henry travels to the retirement facility to meet with Rainer. When he arrives he finds out that Rainer has passed away. Suddenly Violet anad Henry start receiving threatening phone calls. They are warned to drop whatever Rainer has told them.
Violet and Henry are now in a race to find out what Rainer’s cryptic messages that were left behind. Whoever is behind the threats will stop at nothing to stop them. This book was so full of action, suspense and so much more. I could not read fast enough.
I cannot wait until the next book in the series. The author did a fantastic job with her research and I learned so much. The characters are well developed and the storyline is intriguing.
Thank you to the author, publisher and JustRead Publicity Tours for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.
October 17, 2022
This was a good book. I liked how the suspense kept you engaged and wondering who the elusive Wolf was. I liked how Henry and Violet dug into the past of the Cold War to try and find out who was behind everything. I thought this book was well written and one that kept your attention engaged till the end. I feel that I learned a little bit more about the Cold War as I read this book. I thought it was very interesting to learn about the spies that were involved during this time. I liked how the story resolved and that there was the romance between Henry and Violet. I thought that was a nice touch.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
October 4, 2022
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. This book was so interesting right from the very start. I'm a long time enjoyer of history and as someone who spends a ton of time with her very elderly grandparents, I instantly had a connection the character of Rainer Kopecek. Violet was a strong character and I enjoyed seeing her fight for her life as well as her reputation. Henry was very likeable and a gentleman, and the romance was very sweet and didn't take away from the storyline at all. I stayed up late to finish this one and it was refreshing to see strong Christian characters in an engaging and modern day story.
October 12, 2022
I have come to truly enjoy Christian Romance Suspense novels. The Dark Guest by Sarah Hamaker is Book 1 in The Cold War Legacy series. I have read a couple of other books by Sarah Hamaker and have enjoyed her books, so I was very excited to read this book.
Violet Lundy loves her job at Happy Hills Assisted Living Facility where she cleans the rooms. Even more so, she enjoys spending time with the residents when she isn't on duty. Rainer Kopecek is one of her favorite residents and she truly enjoys the stories of his life in East Berlin during dangerous times. Violet is devasted when she finds Rainer dead in his room and she suspects it was foul play. Dr. Henry Silverton is a local professor who teaches and writes about the Cold War. Violet and Dr. Henry decide to team up to find out what really happened to Rainer. Dr. Henry had recently received a letter from Rainer in regards to someone named "Wolf". Dr. Henry and Violet feel the pressure is on to figure out who "Wolf" is before they are possible Victims of the "Wolf" Will Dr. Henry and Violet discover what really happened to Rainer? Will there be a Love connection between Dr. Henry and Violet?
WOW, I LOVE a book that gets my attention from the first chapter and this book did that. The author does a FANTASTIC job at bringing the reader into the story and making them feel like they are back in the History of the Cold War. I really love how Violet loves the Residents and spends time with them in her free time. Dr. Henry is a wonderful character in the book who is invested into finding out how Rainer died and shares the letter with Violet. The way the relationship and romance between Violet and Dr. Henry is slowly growing is wonderful to read. I enjoy slow relationships and not "love at first sight" romances. The Twist and Turns in this book are soo exciting and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the book. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Romance Suspense. GREAT BOOK!
Violet Lundy loves her job at Happy Hills Assisted Living Facility where she cleans the rooms. Even more so, she enjoys spending time with the residents when she isn't on duty. Rainer Kopecek is one of her favorite residents and she truly enjoys the stories of his life in East Berlin during dangerous times. Violet is devasted when she finds Rainer dead in his room and she suspects it was foul play. Dr. Henry Silverton is a local professor who teaches and writes about the Cold War. Violet and Dr. Henry decide to team up to find out what really happened to Rainer. Dr. Henry had recently received a letter from Rainer in regards to someone named "Wolf". Dr. Henry and Violet feel the pressure is on to figure out who "Wolf" is before they are possible Victims of the "Wolf" Will Dr. Henry and Violet discover what really happened to Rainer? Will there be a Love connection between Dr. Henry and Violet?
WOW, I LOVE a book that gets my attention from the first chapter and this book did that. The author does a FANTASTIC job at bringing the reader into the story and making them feel like they are back in the History of the Cold War. I really love how Violet loves the Residents and spends time with them in her free time. Dr. Henry is a wonderful character in the book who is invested into finding out how Rainer died and shares the letter with Violet. The way the relationship and romance between Violet and Dr. Henry is slowly growing is wonderful to read. I enjoy slow relationships and not "love at first sight" romances. The Twist and Turns in this book are soo exciting and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the book. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Romance Suspense. GREAT BOOK!
June 12, 2023
I had high hopes
I loved the idea for the story, it had such promise. But honestly, I got annoyed after the second "coincidence " meeting of the two main characters. Amazingly, Henry is fluent in a dozen languages. Violet can afford to get her own place but stays accepts offer to stay with Sissy. This was such a great story line but it fell short.
I loved the idea for the story, it had such promise. But honestly, I got annoyed after the second "coincidence " meeting of the two main characters. Amazingly, Henry is fluent in a dozen languages. Violet can afford to get her own place but stays accepts offer to stay with Sissy. This was such a great story line but it fell short.
October 14, 2022
If you're a lover of Cold War fiction (with a little clean romance thrown in) you will LOVE Sarah Hamaker's The Dark Guest. Protagonists Violet and Henry unwittingly get drawn into a dangerous secret that may just get them killed.
Henry is a former missionary kid who's now a professor at a major D.C. university, teaching about the Cold War years and its history. Violet has a low-profile job (on purpose), cleaning residents' rooms at an assisted living facility. When one of the elderly (who happens to have become Violet's dear friend) dies suddenly, his assets (now in Violet's care) put her in danger.
But Violet has secrets of her own, from a shameful family tragedy. Will Henry be able to get past that--and will the two of them be able to solve the mystery, and trap the Wolf before he devours them? They'll need all their skills and wisdom--plus the bravery of a lion--to stand against the devious and powerful enemy. (If they can even figure out who he is.)
What a wonderful voice Sarah Hamaker has! I loved and sympathized with both Violet and Henry. Not only does she create characters you'll love, she will surprise you again and again with the twists and turns of both spycraft and history. Wonderful book--I so recommend it!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Henry is a former missionary kid who's now a professor at a major D.C. university, teaching about the Cold War years and its history. Violet has a low-profile job (on purpose), cleaning residents' rooms at an assisted living facility. When one of the elderly (who happens to have become Violet's dear friend) dies suddenly, his assets (now in Violet's care) put her in danger.
But Violet has secrets of her own, from a shameful family tragedy. Will Henry be able to get past that--and will the two of them be able to solve the mystery, and trap the Wolf before he devours them? They'll need all their skills and wisdom--plus the bravery of a lion--to stand against the devious and powerful enemy. (If they can even figure out who he is.)
What a wonderful voice Sarah Hamaker has! I loved and sympathized with both Violet and Henry. Not only does she create characters you'll love, she will surprise you again and again with the twists and turns of both spycraft and history. Wonderful book--I so recommend it!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
October 16, 2022
Wow! What a suspenseful read!
This book has action and suspense. It has sweetness and sadness. And it has a bit of romance thrown in as well. Basically, if you like to read this book has something in it for everyone!
When I picked up this book I thought it was going to be about the Cold War. It is but it isn’t. It contains something that started during the Cold War but also it contains modern-day aspects of life. You’re hero and heroine are in modern-day times.
Violet works with the elderly and shh don’t tell but she has a favorite. Rainer is sweet but there is a mystery that surrounds him. When he dies suddenly things start to escalate. Can Violet figure things out with the help of a man named Henry. Can they trust each other?
Rainer left everything to Violet. But he also sent a letter to Henry telling him that his research on the Cold War wasn’t all correct. When Henry goes to talk to him he finds that Rainer is dead. And then things start to escalate.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
This book has action and suspense. It has sweetness and sadness. And it has a bit of romance thrown in as well. Basically, if you like to read this book has something in it for everyone!
When I picked up this book I thought it was going to be about the Cold War. It is but it isn’t. It contains something that started during the Cold War but also it contains modern-day aspects of life. You’re hero and heroine are in modern-day times.
Violet works with the elderly and shh don’t tell but she has a favorite. Rainer is sweet but there is a mystery that surrounds him. When he dies suddenly things start to escalate. Can Violet figure things out with the help of a man named Henry. Can they trust each other?
Rainer left everything to Violet. But he also sent a letter to Henry telling him that his research on the Cold War wasn’t all correct. When Henry goes to talk to him he finds that Rainer is dead. And then things start to escalate.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
October 17, 2022
I enjoyed reading this cold war suspense with a mix of clean light romance. I haven’t read anything by this author before and I was intrigued by the book description so decided to give it a try. I’m assuming there will be other books in this series since its labeled as book 1 in The Cold War Legacy.
The main characters Violet and Dr Henry were interesting characters to get to know, especially some of their background that helped shape who they were in the present day. I felt so bad for Violet and her childhood but she didn’t allow it to change her beliefs or change what kind of person she was. I enjoyed reading about Dr Henry’s growing interest and tenderness towards her and watching their friendship develop.
Lots of twists and turns with trying to figure out who “The Wolf” was and why they were trying to eliminate past acquaintances after many years.
I know very little about the Cold War so it was interesting to get a little information about events and characters, along with a cat and mouse game of suspense and intrigue. I really enjoyed reading this and had a hard time putting it down.
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
The main characters Violet and Dr Henry were interesting characters to get to know, especially some of their background that helped shape who they were in the present day. I felt so bad for Violet and her childhood but she didn’t allow it to change her beliefs or change what kind of person she was. I enjoyed reading about Dr Henry’s growing interest and tenderness towards her and watching their friendship develop.
Lots of twists and turns with trying to figure out who “The Wolf” was and why they were trying to eliminate past acquaintances after many years.
I know very little about the Cold War so it was interesting to get a little information about events and characters, along with a cat and mouse game of suspense and intrigue. I really enjoyed reading this and had a hard time putting it down.
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
October 15, 2022
I read a lot of historical fiction. It is my favorite genre.
The Cold War is a time I know a little about, but I haven’t read much if any historical fiction about it.
The relationship between Violet Lundy and Rainer Kopecek is such a sweet one at a time when they both need each other. I was so sad about his death.
Ranier’s death leads Violet on a search for answers after some hints he dropped and information that slowly comes to light. Her search for answers leads her to working with Dr. Henry Silverton, the author of the book Ranier was reading and left notes in. These notes will need special effort to translate and understand. Along the way, Violet and Henry will face some close calls and scary situations of their own.
This book kept me absorbed in a story that just when I thought I had it figured out, a new twist occurred and I had to rethink what I thought was happening and who was behind it.
Sarah Hamaker crafted a very engaging novel that also taught me a lot about an era I know so little about.
I am looking forward to the next book in the series and other books by the author.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from Just Read Tours. All views are simply my honest opinion.
The Cold War is a time I know a little about, but I haven’t read much if any historical fiction about it.
The relationship between Violet Lundy and Rainer Kopecek is such a sweet one at a time when they both need each other. I was so sad about his death.
Ranier’s death leads Violet on a search for answers after some hints he dropped and information that slowly comes to light. Her search for answers leads her to working with Dr. Henry Silverton, the author of the book Ranier was reading and left notes in. These notes will need special effort to translate and understand. Along the way, Violet and Henry will face some close calls and scary situations of their own.
This book kept me absorbed in a story that just when I thought I had it figured out, a new twist occurred and I had to rethink what I thought was happening and who was behind it.
Sarah Hamaker crafted a very engaging novel that also taught me a lot about an era I know so little about.
I am looking forward to the next book in the series and other books by the author.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from Just Read Tours. All views are simply my honest opinion.
May 20, 2022
Thank you to Sarah Hamaker for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily. Wow! I am not a history buff, but I was completely entranced with this book! Once you start the book, you will not want to stop reading it. Sarah Hamaker is a master storyteller, and she has outdone herself with this one. Violet is working at Happy Hills Living Facility and has become especially close to Ranier Kopecek. She loves to hear his stories of life behind the Iron Curtain. He speaks of a past that she does not fully understand, but his stories of his time during the Cold War are so interesting. Violet is trying to escape a past that you will learn more about in the book. A past which has shaped her into the woman she is today. Dr. Henry Silverton is a professor at a local university and an expert on all things about the Cold War. He receives a mysterious letter from Mr. Kopecek regarding a man known only as the "Wolf". By design Violet and Henry end up as friends and work together to solve the puzzle left behind by Ranier. You will be taken on a history trip through the Cold War to the highest offices in Washington and their power hungry schemes. You will fall in love with the characters in this story as they overcome obstacles and learn to lean on their faith and lean on each other. You will see words like treason, alliance with an enemy, deception and destruction of human life, but you will also see people with courage and compassion to overcome an unseen enemy with a strong faith. This was a FANTASTIC book! It is a clean, inspirational book with mystery and intrigue that will entertain all mystery lovers of any age. I am looking forward to #2 in this series!
February 4, 2024
Really 3 1/2 stars. The suspense plot was intriguing, and I loved the main characters and the romance, but the misunderstanding at the end wasn't convincing. The first half was excellent, sucked me in, wanting to know what was in Violet's past, but then her brother was so eveil he seemed a bit cartoonish for me.
November 26, 2023
Violet Lundy works at an assisted living facility, where one of the residents has started Warning people about wolves. Upon his death, he leaves Violet clues about a traitorous spy during the Cold War known as The Wolf. Suddenly, everyone rumored to have any knowledge of The Wolf starts to die in rapid succession. Violet teams up with Cold War professor Dr. Henry Silverton to unearth clues and discover the identity of The Wolf before they, too, are murdered.
Unique plot! Learning about communist Germany and the various methods of espionage was fascinating. Romance was really sweet, although Henry was starting to get a little annoying by daydreaming about Violet while people were dropping like flies. Focus, man. There were a couple typos, the most prominent being the frequent switching of the names "Byron" and "Bryon." It sometimes switched a couple times on the same page. Not sure which one his name actually was. Aside from that, there are the usual criminal justice errors in fictional books: robberies and burglaries are different, jail and prison are different, Miranda warning is read when suspect us in custody and about to be questioned (not upon arrest), and witnesses are interviewed separately so they can't intentionally or unintentionally just go with what someone else said. Great twisty plot and family histories.
Unique plot! Learning about communist Germany and the various methods of espionage was fascinating. Romance was really sweet, although Henry was starting to get a little annoying by daydreaming about Violet while people were dropping like flies. Focus, man. There were a couple typos, the most prominent being the frequent switching of the names "Byron" and "Bryon." It sometimes switched a couple times on the same page. Not sure which one his name actually was. Aside from that, there are the usual criminal justice errors in fictional books: robberies and burglaries are different, jail and prison are different, Miranda warning is read when suspect us in custody and about to be questioned (not upon arrest), and witnesses are interviewed separately so they can't intentionally or unintentionally just go with what someone else said. Great twisty plot and family histories.
February 27, 2024
The originality of this book is impressive. Sarah Hamaker wove historic elements into a contemporary novel in a way that brought her story to life. A nursing home worker and a professor/non-fiction author work together to solve a murder tied to cold war era crimes, and it all comes together beautifully. I don't know how she managed to keep so many threads straight, but she did it.
The hero of the story is disabled, but not incapable. (My brother calls it handi-capable). As someone who uses a crutch (when needed), I found his disability to feel real for the most part. I did find it odd that he didn't use a wheelchair when his arms were too injured to hold his crutch properly since most of us with disabilities have wheelchairs, too, but otherwise I appreciated how the book showed the challenges of everyday life (like trying to carry things while holding onto your crutch(es).
I recommend giving this one a read if you'd like something new and original that strays from what you typically find in a romantic suspense.
The hero of the story is disabled, but not incapable. (My brother calls it handi-capable). As someone who uses a crutch (when needed), I found his disability to feel real for the most part. I did find it odd that he didn't use a wheelchair when his arms were too injured to hold his crutch properly since most of us with disabilities have wheelchairs, too, but otherwise I appreciated how the book showed the challenges of everyday life (like trying to carry things while holding onto your crutch(es).
I recommend giving this one a read if you'd like something new and original that strays from what you typically find in a romantic suspense.
October 11, 2022
What an interesting, suspenseful, keep my on my toes novel!! Hamaker easily brought me into the storyline and didn’t let me go. The twists and turns were delightful and unexpected, and had me guessing right until the end. The Dark Guest has history, charm, danger, well written characters, and more.
I think the thing I appreciated the most was that it wasn’t instant love for Henry and Violet. I think that when suspense books have that, it sometimes takes away from the mystery you’re trying to solve. Hamaker had the perfect mix of romance and suspense, neither taking over the storyline as a whole.
I think romantic suspense fans will really enjoy The Dark Guest. I look forward to more from this series! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I think the thing I appreciated the most was that it wasn’t instant love for Henry and Violet. I think that when suspense books have that, it sometimes takes away from the mystery you’re trying to solve. Hamaker had the perfect mix of romance and suspense, neither taking over the storyline as a whole.
I think romantic suspense fans will really enjoy The Dark Guest. I look forward to more from this series! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 16, 2022
More twists than a Law and Order episode. I enjoyed every page of this book. The author demonstrates she has definitely done her research on the cold war. She put her characters in danger many times over. I rarely offer a five-star review, saving the highest ranking for those books I have trouble putting down. Henry and Violet are believable and I found myself rooting for them. Henry worries no woman could truly see him beyond his disability, and Violet fears a family past will never allow her to find peace. While Henry has held to his faith, Violet has wavered. Their struggles bring them into a close relationship, but can romance survive the tumult?
I was given a copy for my honest review.
I was given a copy for my honest review.
May 21, 2023
The Dark Guest is a thrilling tale of the lengths people will go to prevent their secrets from spilling out.
I admired Violet for striving to find justice for her elderly friend, especially with the trauma of her own past threatening to destroy her new life. I liked the way she saw Henry and seamlessly slipped into his life.
Henry had his own challenges to overcome but he was fiercely determined to uncover the truth and ensure that justice was served.
The Dark Guest was an enjoyable read but I do wish Violet had taken more definitive action in her personal life to resolve her family issues. Instead, the book ends without that being resolved and there's the sense that it will continue.
Readers of The Dark Guest will be reminded that God works things out in His own timing.
I admired Violet for striving to find justice for her elderly friend, especially with the trauma of her own past threatening to destroy her new life. I liked the way she saw Henry and seamlessly slipped into his life.
Henry had his own challenges to overcome but he was fiercely determined to uncover the truth and ensure that justice was served.
The Dark Guest was an enjoyable read but I do wish Violet had taken more definitive action in her personal life to resolve her family issues. Instead, the book ends without that being resolved and there's the sense that it will continue.
Readers of The Dark Guest will be reminded that God works things out in His own timing.
July 29, 2022
Once I started reading The Dark Guest, I could not put it down. The story captures the reader in the first chapter and doesn’t let go until the last. Sarah Hamaker has created wonderful characters to root for as she takes the reader on their dangerous and twisting journey to find the truth.
Both Violet and Henry are great leading characters. They are very believable as two flawed people trying to bring justice to an old man’s memory. All this as they search for his killer. Sarah Hamaker combines history, romance, and a murder mystery all in one story. I love the way Haymaker brings justice to those involved in this story full of twists and turns. I didn’t figure out who The Wolf was until the very end.
I believe romantic suspense readers will love this story.
Both Violet and Henry are great leading characters. They are very believable as two flawed people trying to bring justice to an old man’s memory. All this as they search for his killer. Sarah Hamaker combines history, romance, and a murder mystery all in one story. I love the way Haymaker brings justice to those involved in this story full of twists and turns. I didn’t figure out who The Wolf was until the very end.
I believe romantic suspense readers will love this story.
March 13, 2023
Amazing Story! 10+ Stars
Warning – give yourself plenty of time because you wouldn’t want to stop reading. Highly recommend!
“The Wolf had awakened, and now no one was safe. Rainer Kopecek’s death had set into motion a series of events that would likely lead to more destruction.”
I received an ARC of this book for review. I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions in this review are my own.
Warning – give yourself plenty of time because you wouldn’t want to stop reading. Highly recommend!
“The Wolf had awakened, and now no one was safe. Rainer Kopecek’s death had set into motion a series of events that would likely lead to more destruction.”
I received an ARC of this book for review. I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions in this review are my own.
July 7, 2023
From page one, I felt invested in this story and drawn to its likeable characters. Hamaker seamlessly wove Violet and Henry’s stories together as they worked to untangle the “Wolf’s” identity and catch this Cold War traitor before he caught up with them. I especially liked Henry’s backstory and how Violet’s backstory played into the villain’s hands and her own insecurities (no spoilers). There’s a reason this book won two Selah awards! Do yourself a favor and read it.
October 2, 2023
Intrigue
Now that’s what I call a spy thriller. Spies, double agents, faked death, multiple murders in the past and currently. When it’s all said and done, the Wolf gets 10 years for attempted treason? I love that last twist actually; Germany wants to try him for War Crimes. You’d have to read this one for yourself but I was on the edge of my seat most of the way through the first book, looking forward to the next one.
Now that’s what I call a spy thriller. Spies, double agents, faked death, multiple murders in the past and currently. When it’s all said and done, the Wolf gets 10 years for attempted treason? I love that last twist actually; Germany wants to try him for War Crimes. You’d have to read this one for yourself but I was on the edge of my seat most of the way through the first book, looking forward to the next one.
February 19, 2025
The Dark Guest is a throwback to bygone days of Cold War spy thrillers. Henry and Violet are drawn into a plot to silence those who would expose The Wolf, a double agent from Berlin. Through many twists and turns this unlikely duo is able to stay a step ahead of the danger, but only by relying on Jesus will they truly succeed. The spycraft was enthralling and seemed true. The story held my attention until the end..
August 4, 2022
Fascinating
I have a clear recollection of the cold war era which grew out of my special interest era, World War II. Ms Hamaker has given us a thoroughly researched-can't-put-it-down story of an often overlooked era in fiction. I recommend The Dark Guest to all history buffs. Peggy Lovelace Ellis, Author of Challenges on The Home Front, World War II.
I have a clear recollection of the cold war era which grew out of my special interest era, World War II. Ms Hamaker has given us a thoroughly researched-can't-put-it-down story of an often overlooked era in fiction. I recommend The Dark Guest to all history buffs. Peggy Lovelace Ellis, Author of Challenges on The Home Front, World War II.
February 7, 2024
So, it was a good book and story. But I didn't like that it said it was Christian Fiction, but God was barely considered through the first half of the book.
The ending was cute, but still wasn't thrilled. Found that it had lots of POV, which I didn't exactly love so, yeah...
Toodles and blessings ⚘️
The ending was cute, but still wasn't thrilled. Found that it had lots of POV, which I didn't exactly love so, yeah...
Toodles and blessings ⚘️
February 13, 2024
Good story though I thought the ending was a tad weak. The real problem was the crazy amount of typos. I still don’t know if one of the characters was Bryon or Byron. It went back and forth through the whole book. “Casual” was “causal” many times; just way too many mistakes of that sort. Great plot and I liked the characters so I’ll probably read another.
February 14, 2024
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it was one that captured my attention right off the start. It was a good suspense novel with many twists and turns. The historical writing was good and captured my interest. Just enough romance to keep the reader interested. I will be reading more by Ms. Hamaker.
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