What do you think?
Rate this book
The Note: A Historical Mystery
Ariana Reyes loves finding treasures in thrift stores. Sometimes it’s a rare hat, vintage shoes, or a costume to wear for her second-grade class. But when she finds a gorgeous 1950s swing coat, she finds more than a piece of antique clothing.
Reaching into the pocket, Ari discovers a scrap of yellowing paper containing an address and a name. She doesn’t recognize the location, and seeing the chance to motivate her students with a good mystery, she investigates, expecting to find nothing more than an old building.
Instead, she finds a burned-down structure and a cellar secured with a shiny padlock. Her curiosity piqued, she breaks the lock and discovers not only a neglected space but decades-old secrets—secrets that some will do anything to keep hidden.
"Maruska’s historical mystery novella checks all the boxes: entertaining characters, plot twists, and a perplexing puzzle. The Note is a quick read that will keep you turning the pages."
—Al Macy, bestselling author of Conclusive Evidence
Reaching into the pocket, Ari discovers a scrap of yellowing paper containing an address and a name. She doesn’t recognize the location, and seeing the chance to motivate her students with a good mystery, she investigates, expecting to find nothing more than an old building.
Instead, she finds a burned-down structure and a cellar secured with a shiny padlock. Her curiosity piqued, she breaks the lock and discovers not only a neglected space but decades-old secrets—secrets that some will do anything to keep hidden.
"Maruska’s historical mystery novella checks all the boxes: entertaining characters, plot twists, and a perplexing puzzle. The Note is a quick read that will keep you turning the pages."
—Al Macy, bestselling author of Conclusive Evidence
121 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 2, 2022
50 people are currently reading
103 people want to read
About the author
Allison Maruska
21 books127 followersAllison is a YA and mystery/suspense author, blogger, teacher, mom, wife, coffee and wine consumer, and owl enthusiast. Her blog includes humor posts, short stories, and posts on writing strategy, parenting, and teaching.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 10, 2022
It took me too much time to complete this book
Not because it is a bad book, but because I suffer from laziness in reading... a little (who am I kidding... a lot)
The important thing is that this book was a shock that got me out of laziness. After completing the first five chapters, I was excited to complete it, and it was a really beautiful book.
This novel talks about Ari, who buys a coat from a clothing lending store and finds in one of the coat's pockets a paper with an address while she is giving a lesson in front of her students, and after motivation from her students, Ari decides to investigate this address.
She finds it leading to a house in a semi-empty area.
Inside it, he found many files with information on many pregnant women in the sixties and seventies.
These files lead her to discover many tragedies that occurred due to the lack of rights that women were obtaining in the past.
I liked very much that the writer took her time to deliver the information without speed, even though the novel is somewhat short
The slow unfolding of events made it more mysterious and exciting.
I liked Ari and Celeste's relationship, a cute, sweet, problem-free relationship
In some events, there is a danger to Ari and Celeste, but it is not so terrifying, and they were able to overcome it easily. Frankly, I would have liked the risk factor to continue a little more, but when thinking about it, it was not necessary.
The ending was satisfactory, and we can say a little happy.
A light novel and many people can enjoy it
Not because it is a bad book, but because I suffer from laziness in reading... a little (who am I kidding... a lot)
The important thing is that this book was a shock that got me out of laziness. After completing the first five chapters, I was excited to complete it, and it was a really beautiful book.
This novel talks about Ari, who buys a coat from a clothing lending store and finds in one of the coat's pockets a paper with an address while she is giving a lesson in front of her students, and after motivation from her students, Ari decides to investigate this address.
She finds it leading to a house in a semi-empty area.
Inside it, he found many files with information on many pregnant women in the sixties and seventies.
These files lead her to discover many tragedies that occurred due to the lack of rights that women were obtaining in the past.
I liked very much that the writer took her time to deliver the information without speed, even though the novel is somewhat short
The slow unfolding of events made it more mysterious and exciting.
I liked Ari and Celeste's relationship, a cute, sweet, problem-free relationship
In some events, there is a danger to Ari and Celeste, but it is not so terrifying, and they were able to overcome it easily. Frankly, I would have liked the risk factor to continue a little more, but when thinking about it, it was not necessary.
The ending was satisfactory, and we can say a little happy.
A light novel and many people can enjoy it
December 11, 2022
This book is going to get you hooked for sure!
This story starts when a woman named Ari finds a note from an old Coat she bought from a thrift store.
Which leads her to a life changing hunt, to find secrets about some heinous crimes which happened few decades ago. And to get justice for the victims.
PS: I would do the same if I found something like that. It's like a mini treasure hunt, lol.
This story starts when a woman named Ari finds a note from an old Coat she bought from a thrift store.
Which leads her to a life changing hunt, to find secrets about some heinous crimes which happened few decades ago. And to get justice for the victims.
PS: I would do the same if I found something like that. It's like a mini treasure hunt, lol.
September 21, 2024
I really enjoyed this book! It was a fun quick read and it was definitely a mystery. I really found the whole book interesting and it kept me really engaged. I loved the main character and how determined Ari was. I would have been the same if I was in her situation so I really connected to her and just wanted her to keep digging.
However, I’d only rate it 4 stars because I feel like every time Ari or Celeste was found it trouble, they escaped it very easily, there was no real struggle and I just wish those parts would have been a bit longer just for more of a thrill feeling.
Overall amazing though and will be recommending it to friends x
However, I’d only rate it 4 stars because I feel like every time Ari or Celeste was found it trouble, they escaped it very easily, there was no real struggle and I just wish those parts would have been a bit longer just for more of a thrill feeling.
Overall amazing though and will be recommending it to friends x
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2023
Rating: 4/5 stars
Firstly, I would like to thank Booktasters and Allison Maruska for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
"The Note" by Allison Maruska is an captivating historical thriller that takes readers on a suspenseful journey into a world of buried secrets and perilous circumstances. The story follows Ari, a dedicated teacher, who stumbles upon a mysterious note hidden within a thrifted jacket. This discovery sets in motion a series of events that lead Ari and her girlfriend, Celeste, to a dilapidated house with an intact cellar, harboring a dark past.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is the character of Ari. She is portrayed as an unwavering and resolute individual, driven by an unyielding determination to uncover the truth. Ari's relentless pursuit of the unknown adds depth to her character, allowing readers to connect with her on a personal level. However, her unwavering dedication to the truth does come at a price, as she often finds herself in dangerous situations.
As Ari and Celeste delve deeper into the secrets concealed within the destroyed and burned down house, they become entangled in a dangerous web. Maruska skillfully crafts moments of suspense, skillfully keeping readers at the edge of their seats. The palpable tension and looming sense of danger create an exhilarating reading experience. While Ari's choices may induce moments of anxiety in readers, they also serve to showcase her courage and unwavering commitment to unraveling the truth.
The backdrop of a potential clandestine abortion clinic adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. As Ari and Celeste unearth the hidden secrets within the inside the cellar, they are confronted with the grim realities of the past. Maruska adeptly explores the consequences of these secrets, weaving a tale that exposes the lengths individuals will go to protect their hidden truths.
In conclusion, "The Note" by Allison Maruska is a captivating thriller that captivates readers with its intricate plot, robust character development, and exploration of concealed secrets. Ari's relentless pursuit of the truth, although occasionally anxiety-inducing, showcases her determination and bravery. The precarious situations she finds herself in serve to heighten the suspense and keep readers eagerly turning the pages. If you appreciate fast-paced thrillers with well-developed characters and a touch of mystery, "The Note" is definitely a must-read.
Firstly, I would like to thank Booktasters and Allison Maruska for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
"The Note" by Allison Maruska is an captivating historical thriller that takes readers on a suspenseful journey into a world of buried secrets and perilous circumstances. The story follows Ari, a dedicated teacher, who stumbles upon a mysterious note hidden within a thrifted jacket. This discovery sets in motion a series of events that lead Ari and her girlfriend, Celeste, to a dilapidated house with an intact cellar, harboring a dark past.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is the character of Ari. She is portrayed as an unwavering and resolute individual, driven by an unyielding determination to uncover the truth. Ari's relentless pursuit of the unknown adds depth to her character, allowing readers to connect with her on a personal level. However, her unwavering dedication to the truth does come at a price, as she often finds herself in dangerous situations.
As Ari and Celeste delve deeper into the secrets concealed within the destroyed and burned down house, they become entangled in a dangerous web. Maruska skillfully crafts moments of suspense, skillfully keeping readers at the edge of their seats. The palpable tension and looming sense of danger create an exhilarating reading experience. While Ari's choices may induce moments of anxiety in readers, they also serve to showcase her courage and unwavering commitment to unraveling the truth.
The backdrop of a potential clandestine abortion clinic adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. As Ari and Celeste unearth the hidden secrets within the inside the cellar, they are confronted with the grim realities of the past. Maruska adeptly explores the consequences of these secrets, weaving a tale that exposes the lengths individuals will go to protect their hidden truths.
In conclusion, "The Note" by Allison Maruska is a captivating thriller that captivates readers with its intricate plot, robust character development, and exploration of concealed secrets. Ari's relentless pursuit of the truth, although occasionally anxiety-inducing, showcases her determination and bravery. The precarious situations she finds herself in serve to heighten the suspense and keep readers eagerly turning the pages. If you appreciate fast-paced thrillers with well-developed characters and a touch of mystery, "The Note" is definitely a must-read.
September 4, 2022
En esta historia seguimos a Ariana, una profesora que gusta de comprar cosas en tiendas de segunda mano seguir una pista extraña que encontró en un abrigo que justamente consiguió en una tienda de ese estilo, animada por sus alumnos y por su propia curiosidad al tener un misterio delante de ella busca la dirección y se lleva una gran sorpresa al descubrir información importante de un crimen de décadas y oscuros secretos.
Es un libro bastante interesante, el misterio esta bastante bien desarrollado que toma un tema polémico y lo expone hábilmente de forma imparcial permitiendo al lector ver ambos puntos de vista y sacar sus propias conclusiones, en algunos momentos es bastante desgarrador y te hace pensar en muchos temas complicados, la historia es fluida, fácil de leer y te engancha lo suficiente para que no lo sueltes hasta terminarlo.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
In this story we follow Ariana, a teacher who likes to buy things in second-hand stores, to follow a strange clue that she found in a coat that she just got in a store of that style, encouraged by her students and by her own curiosity to have a mystery in front of her looks for the address and gets a big surprise when she discovers important information about a crime of decades and dark secrets.
It is a quite interesting book, the mystery is quite well developed that takes a controversial topic and skillfully exposes it in an impartial way allowing the reader to see both points of view and draw their own conclusions, at times it is quite heartbreaking and makes you think of many Complicated themes, the story is fluid, easy to read and hooks you enough that you don't put it down until you finish it.
Es un libro bastante interesante, el misterio esta bastante bien desarrollado que toma un tema polémico y lo expone hábilmente de forma imparcial permitiendo al lector ver ambos puntos de vista y sacar sus propias conclusiones, en algunos momentos es bastante desgarrador y te hace pensar en muchos temas complicados, la historia es fluida, fácil de leer y te engancha lo suficiente para que no lo sueltes hasta terminarlo.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
In this story we follow Ariana, a teacher who likes to buy things in second-hand stores, to follow a strange clue that she found in a coat that she just got in a store of that style, encouraged by her students and by her own curiosity to have a mystery in front of her looks for the address and gets a big surprise when she discovers important information about a crime of decades and dark secrets.
It is a quite interesting book, the mystery is quite well developed that takes a controversial topic and skillfully exposes it in an impartial way allowing the reader to see both points of view and draw their own conclusions, at times it is quite heartbreaking and makes you think of many Complicated themes, the story is fluid, easy to read and hooks you enough that you don't put it down until you finish it.
August 9, 2022
BOOK:-THE NOTE:A HISTORICAL MYSTERY BY ALLISON MARUSKA
BOOK REVIEWER:OKOKO AYEZU TAMARAPREYE.
SYNOPSIS,:
In this teenage ,high school science fiction, we see the character Ari work through thick and thin in unraveling a crime mystery of decades of dark secrets in a tale covering gender equality;relationships and gender expectations;society and gender;private property trespass;adoption service;baby and adult adoptees reuniting with family;possibility of discolouration of religion;criminal trespass; care for the retired; malice and grudge.This story raises some germane questions such as whether there was superiority of one sex over the other or whether all were equal;whether abortion should be legalised or allowed in depravity and whether it was pro woman or pro death to imprison women and force them to carry their pregnancy to term as a panacea for abortion.The book is also fit for an adult audience.
LESSONS LEARNT FROM THE STORY
🤳🏾DNA tests and the possibility of it being wrong
🤳🏾There are also security tips on knowing when to make a police report or involve the police.
🤳🏾Keeping loved ones informed of our whereabouts
🤳🏾Keeping phone devices handy and charged
APPLICATION OF LESSONS LEARNT:-
The appearance of Celeste at the celler to save Ari was only possible because she informed her of her whereabout.
BOOK REVIEWER:OKOKO AYEZU TAMARAPREYE.
SYNOPSIS,:
In this teenage ,high school science fiction, we see the character Ari work through thick and thin in unraveling a crime mystery of decades of dark secrets in a tale covering gender equality;relationships and gender expectations;society and gender;private property trespass;adoption service;baby and adult adoptees reuniting with family;possibility of discolouration of religion;criminal trespass; care for the retired; malice and grudge.This story raises some germane questions such as whether there was superiority of one sex over the other or whether all were equal;whether abortion should be legalised or allowed in depravity and whether it was pro woman or pro death to imprison women and force them to carry their pregnancy to term as a panacea for abortion.The book is also fit for an adult audience.
LESSONS LEARNT FROM THE STORY
🤳🏾DNA tests and the possibility of it being wrong
🤳🏾There are also security tips on knowing when to make a police report or involve the police.
🤳🏾Keeping loved ones informed of our whereabouts
🤳🏾Keeping phone devices handy and charged
APPLICATION OF LESSONS LEARNT:-
The appearance of Celeste at the celler to save Ari was only possible because she informed her of her whereabout.
January 25, 2024
"What reason would women have to go to a house in the middle of nowhere in the dark of night and without their own way home?"
A note, a locked cellar, and buried bones. My first Allison Maruska novel is fast-paced and filled with secrets, suspense, and an amateur detective determined to solve a mystery.
Ariana "Ari" Reyes is a fun 2nd-grade teacher who is attuned to her students so when she found the mysterious note in the pocket of the vintage coat she purchased, she had them all write a story of how it got there. The truth is stranger than fiction.
Ari and her partner Celeste go down a dark path of uncovering a decades-old secret that destroyed dozens of families. Ari certainly is fearless and reckless as she tracks down the culprits, and the tension builds as she gets closer to the truth.
The writer does a great job of character-building and touching on sensitive and controversial subject matter with sharp and candid prose.
If you are looking for an engaging historical psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat, The Note is a good choice.
A note, a locked cellar, and buried bones. My first Allison Maruska novel is fast-paced and filled with secrets, suspense, and an amateur detective determined to solve a mystery.
Ariana "Ari" Reyes is a fun 2nd-grade teacher who is attuned to her students so when she found the mysterious note in the pocket of the vintage coat she purchased, she had them all write a story of how it got there. The truth is stranger than fiction.
Ari and her partner Celeste go down a dark path of uncovering a decades-old secret that destroyed dozens of families. Ari certainly is fearless and reckless as she tracks down the culprits, and the tension builds as she gets closer to the truth.
The writer does a great job of character-building and touching on sensitive and controversial subject matter with sharp and candid prose.
If you are looking for an engaging historical psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat, The Note is a good choice.
November 5, 2022
A quick read enough to peak your interest and suck you into the story. It was shorter (a novella in that sense) than what I prefer to read in this genre bc it gives way to more tension and suspense to settle in and at the same time for the story to progress more. I particularly liked the plot, even though I kinda predicted most of it by the end, but it was good. Also, the singular issue this story was all about can raise great arguments and I loved how the protagonist, Ari, was determined to uncover the secrets for the sake of earning that feeling of bringing justice to the women who were wronged so long ago, that it ruined their lives to the point there's no coming back. Bringing up the time before Roe vs Wade was a very smart move too and added a much stronger value to the overall journey. As for the writing, it was great and I can see the this becoming into something big. I’d hope to read more from this author, maybe a thriller that's slightly longer than this was.
thankyou so much Booktasters community and the respective author for sending the e-copy my way. I appreciate it!!
thankyou so much Booktasters community and the respective author for sending the e-copy my way. I appreciate it!!
August 21, 2022
'The Note: A Historical Mystery' follows Ari, a teacher who buys a coat in a thrift shop and finds a slip of paper with an address written on it. The note is revealed while she's teaching her class and her students encourage her to check out the address. Not sure what to expect, Ari allows her instincts and her sense of adventure to lead her and the result is the uncovering of a more sinister outcome than she could have anticipated. The theme, when juxtaposed against current events, is particularly jarring and in some cases, quite heart-wrenching as she and her girlfriend set about revealing secrets and removing masks. It's a quick read if not an easy one, ideal for a day in the park or at the beach. Even better, share it with your Book Club, as it's guaranteed to spark lively debate over interesting opinions!
August 26, 2022
When Ari found a piece of paper in a coat she purchased from a thrift store, she was not expecting all the events that followed. An Address was written on that paper, and when she visited the site, she found a basement that belongs to a house that was burned in the 60s. What Ari found in the basement drove her to uncover the history of the house, and by doing so danger followed her but she uncovered a tragedy affected the lives of so much families.
That was a short but sweet Mystery novel with action, and the main character Ari was cleverly written and I could not stop reading until the end. Good job to the anther and good luck on your future projects.
That was a short but sweet Mystery novel with action, and the main character Ari was cleverly written and I could not stop reading until the end. Good job to the anther and good luck on your future projects.
August 3, 2022
Glued to the pages!
This was a quick read, a lovely page-turner that I couldn’t stop until I finished.
Ari is the cool teacher that students all love. When they beg her to find more information on a mysterious address found on a piece of paper in a second hand coat, she jumps to the challenge. And so begins the mystery that takes her down a road of intrigue, danger and some heartbreaking reveals.
The story involves a contentious subject in today’s world but is handled with dignity, I don’t think it would offend.
All in all, this was a grand read for a rainy afternoon!
This was a quick read, a lovely page-turner that I couldn’t stop until I finished.
Ari is the cool teacher that students all love. When they beg her to find more information on a mysterious address found on a piece of paper in a second hand coat, she jumps to the challenge. And so begins the mystery that takes her down a road of intrigue, danger and some heartbreaking reveals.
The story involves a contentious subject in today’s world but is handled with dignity, I don’t think it would offend.
All in all, this was a grand read for a rainy afternoon!
November 18, 2023
This was an engaging read, even though there were a few dull moments. And I really really loved what it was about, like the entire thing that it was about, saying that here would be a spoiler. I also think the book would have been much more enjoyable, or maybe more enjoyable for me, if it was longer, maybe a full length novel, even if it's a short one. Because so much more could have been done with the drama in this book, so that makes me sad a little. But in all, it was a good read. And I liked the characters of the two women too, and their dynamic, so that's a plus.
March 29, 2024
Mystery, fast-paced, and short to read. Uncovering the truth will pique your curiosity about what will happen next, making it a must-read for anyone looking for tension. I admire the way the character combines bravery and curiosity in her quest for answers. This book was so easy to read, no running in circles, and will lead you to what you want to know.
Thank you so much, Booktasters, and to the author herself for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you so much, Booktasters, and to the author herself for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2025
Downloaded for free
I'm a sucker for a good mystery. Got this for free so I didn't vet this book like I usually do. This author has a nice writing style. Page turner, easy to read, keeps you interested. Not a fan of the way she portrayed pro lifers and church goers as crazy. And not interested in reading lesbian lifestyle choices. Also this is a very short book.
I'm a sucker for a good mystery. Got this for free so I didn't vet this book like I usually do. This author has a nice writing style. Page turner, easy to read, keeps you interested. Not a fan of the way she portrayed pro lifers and church goers as crazy. And not interested in reading lesbian lifestyle choices. Also this is a very short book.
August 10, 2022
A well crafted mystery that adeptly tackles a controversial issue in a manner that sheds light on both points of view and lets the reader draw his or her own conclusions without the author’s influence. Well written and entertaining.
December 29, 2025
Interesting premise but flawed execution for me. I didn't feel very tense or curious. The story was just a series of plot convinces and the writing fell flat to me. Emotionally it felt more like reading a list of things that happened rather than an actual story.
July 14, 2023
Rights
Very insightful... People young and old need to read this book!! Eye opening..Would be a great Book..Topic for discussion..Well written!
Very insightful... People young and old need to read this book!! Eye opening..Would be a great Book..Topic for discussion..Well written!
July 24, 2024
Great quick read!
This was the perfect pick me up from my recent reading slump. I am definitely ready for spooky season now!
This was the perfect pick me up from my recent reading slump. I am definitely ready for spooky season now!
November 20, 2024
Nice quick thriller
September 18, 2022
A short read mystery that reveals a secret from the past.
The book is simply written and the events are exciting.
Ari's character is totally based on curiosity and only related to the mystery through an unknown old incident, that I expected to know about more by the end of the book.
I loved the way the author started the story, the flashback from the past, and I was waiting for an ending that delves into the past again.
Overal it is a good book that attracts lovers of mysteries like me.
The book is simply written and the events are exciting.
Ari's character is totally based on curiosity and only related to the mystery through an unknown old incident, that I expected to know about more by the end of the book.
I loved the way the author started the story, the flashback from the past, and I was waiting for an ending that delves into the past again.
Overal it is a good book that attracts lovers of mysteries like me.
April 3, 2023
As a Scriptwriter, I can definitely say reading this novel is like watching a movie. The dialogues are not too long. They're easy to read. Every location gives the "visual vibe". I can immediately imagine the places as I read. Each scene is moderate -- not too long nor too short. Perfect to be converted as a screenplay. If I imagine myself adapting this book as a screenplay (or maybe a stageplay), there will be no part left. Interesting.
Alright. This is a short read. Leaving me wanting more. (This is too short! I wanna cry!) Maybe because the plot is too short I feel like something is missing. Something that can make this novel more "Boom!". But okay, this one is fine. Love this.
Talking about the plot, I think this mystery is too common. It's just, I am not a historical fan, so it's 50% new and 50% too common -- the mystery, for me. I can guess the plot pretty much, except for the data-collecting part (again with me and history).
I don't have any issues with any characters. To be honest, I like those students who appeared at the beginning. I like their spirit, I think, hahaha.
Right. The cover is interesting. I am honestly intrigued to choose this book when I see the cover (this is one of my rare cases where the cover intrigued me first). After I read the synopsis, I immediately tell myself that this book is for me. I mean, I have to read this. Glad I followed my instinct.
What else...? Ah. I used this book for discussion with my English-learning peers. I recommended this book to them (I don't know if they finally contacted BookTasters or not). And, since they don't mind spoilers (and mystery fans too), I discussed this book with them. Asked their opinion about the plot, the characters, the cover, the mystery (including the culprit), et cetera. That's why it took me longer to write this review. They 100% can relate to me about the "screenplay vibe" of this book.
All and all, this is a sweet book. Short, simple, lovely, and "visual". An interesting book for anyone who craves mystery but doesn't want anything too complicated. 4.5 from me.
Alright. This is a short read. Leaving me wanting more. (This is too short! I wanna cry!) Maybe because the plot is too short I feel like something is missing. Something that can make this novel more "Boom!". But okay, this one is fine. Love this.
Talking about the plot, I think this mystery is too common. It's just, I am not a historical fan, so it's 50% new and 50% too common -- the mystery, for me. I can guess the plot pretty much, except for the data-collecting part (again with me and history).
I don't have any issues with any characters. To be honest, I like those students who appeared at the beginning. I like their spirit, I think, hahaha.
Right. The cover is interesting. I am honestly intrigued to choose this book when I see the cover (this is one of my rare cases where the cover intrigued me first). After I read the synopsis, I immediately tell myself that this book is for me. I mean, I have to read this. Glad I followed my instinct.
What else...? Ah. I used this book for discussion with my English-learning peers. I recommended this book to them (I don't know if they finally contacted BookTasters or not). And, since they don't mind spoilers (and mystery fans too), I discussed this book with them. Asked their opinion about the plot, the characters, the cover, the mystery (including the culprit), et cetera. That's why it took me longer to write this review. They 100% can relate to me about the "screenplay vibe" of this book.
All and all, this is a sweet book. Short, simple, lovely, and "visual". An interesting book for anyone who craves mystery but doesn't want anything too complicated. 4.5 from me.
February 19, 2024
Just finished reading the mystery novella "The Note" by Alison Maruska Thank you Book tasters and the author for providing me this book and allowing me to read and review it.
The Note starts off with the most cryptic prologue that signals a dark and sinister tale sure to follow it. It all starts with one piece of paper with an address to a place that hides a stash of secrets. The prologue is quite a gripper as it starts at a time period in the past. And the jump from it to Chapter 1, the present time is very well executed.
The present day story with regards to THE NOTE follows the protagonist Ari, a school teacher who goes above and beyond with her creative efforts to make every school day for her students, an enjoyable learning experience. She and her girlfriend go thrift shopping and find a coat that carries the same note bearing secrets from a dark past. The curious and relentless spirit of Ari is what leads her to ask questions and find answers about the secrets that the note hides.
It is a beautifully well written novella about a very current predicament, a very relatable and present societal issue centering the pro-life vs. pro-choice debate, although attached to 60 to 70 years ago. This story sheds light on a real angle in which we can look at the former issue, one that we wouldn't think of. Be it pro-choice or pro-life, a human being's right to live should not be controlled by anyone or anything. That is the take away from this book, as I feel. In just fifty odd pages, this story is beautifully woven to tell a tale of suspicion, mystery, religious beliefs, exploitation, societal debates, human morals, and how some people would do anything to make themselves look like heroes for the general public to see.
The Note is a well worded, intelligently written novella about an aspect of an issue that is up for debate in the modern world we live in, shows us how to accept certain things as they are, all the while delivering the thrill of a chase, building up our curiosity and feeding our thirst for solving the puzzle, as promised. A good quick-read. Struggled to put down.
The Note starts off with the most cryptic prologue that signals a dark and sinister tale sure to follow it. It all starts with one piece of paper with an address to a place that hides a stash of secrets. The prologue is quite a gripper as it starts at a time period in the past. And the jump from it to Chapter 1, the present time is very well executed.
The present day story with regards to THE NOTE follows the protagonist Ari, a school teacher who goes above and beyond with her creative efforts to make every school day for her students, an enjoyable learning experience. She and her girlfriend go thrift shopping and find a coat that carries the same note bearing secrets from a dark past. The curious and relentless spirit of Ari is what leads her to ask questions and find answers about the secrets that the note hides.
It is a beautifully well written novella about a very current predicament, a very relatable and present societal issue centering the pro-life vs. pro-choice debate, although attached to 60 to 70 years ago. This story sheds light on a real angle in which we can look at the former issue, one that we wouldn't think of. Be it pro-choice or pro-life, a human being's right to live should not be controlled by anyone or anything. That is the take away from this book, as I feel. In just fifty odd pages, this story is beautifully woven to tell a tale of suspicion, mystery, religious beliefs, exploitation, societal debates, human morals, and how some people would do anything to make themselves look like heroes for the general public to see.
The Note is a well worded, intelligently written novella about an aspect of an issue that is up for debate in the modern world we live in, shows us how to accept certain things as they are, all the while delivering the thrill of a chase, building up our curiosity and feeding our thirst for solving the puzzle, as promised. A good quick-read. Struggled to put down.
August 23, 2024
"The Note" is the perfect definition of 'page-turning'. The anxiousness to know what awaits you in the next chapter is sure to keep you on edge.
The author did a good job with the description of every single thing, from the characters, to scenarios, to even random things. Every thing was perfectly detailed that you would hardly miss a thing while reading. It wasn't enough to give away the suspense at the end of the book though.
The story begins with Ari, a teacher, who found a strange note in the pocket of a jacket she got at a thrift store. Out of curiosity and incessant demands from her students, she went length to find out who wrote the note and why they did. As crazy as Celeste, Ari' girlfriend, deemed her to be, Ari wouldn't stop her quest. Even when she ended up digging up bones of a woman with her baby still in her, Ari didn't give up.
The tenacity and adamance of Ari to figure out what happened to the pregnant woman, and her quest to help and find other women who seemed to be victims, was admirable.
It was very thrilling to read and see how series of events unfolded and several cases solved just because of a note.
I'm not going to unveil what happened and what Ari figured out just because I want you to have a taste and see for yourself.
This was a good read, and it is worth every minute of your time!
The author did a good job with the description of every single thing, from the characters, to scenarios, to even random things. Every thing was perfectly detailed that you would hardly miss a thing while reading. It wasn't enough to give away the suspense at the end of the book though.
The story begins with Ari, a teacher, who found a strange note in the pocket of a jacket she got at a thrift store. Out of curiosity and incessant demands from her students, she went length to find out who wrote the note and why they did. As crazy as Celeste, Ari' girlfriend, deemed her to be, Ari wouldn't stop her quest. Even when she ended up digging up bones of a woman with her baby still in her, Ari didn't give up.
The tenacity and adamance of Ari to figure out what happened to the pregnant woman, and her quest to help and find other women who seemed to be victims, was admirable.
It was very thrilling to read and see how series of events unfolded and several cases solved just because of a note.
I'm not going to unveil what happened and what Ari figured out just because I want you to have a taste and see for yourself.
This was a good read, and it is worth every minute of your time!
September 14, 2024
This was a great mystery novella that kept me engaged from beginning to end. Ari is a determined, passionate MC that finds a note in an old red coat. The note has an address that leads her to a place full of more questions than answers. You’ll want to find out what happened there just as much as Ari did and she risks everything to find out. I recommend this book to anyone that wants a fast-paced easy mystery read!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews