Author Archives: Debbie Terranova

About Debbie Terranova

I write stories of mystery, history, and adventure that will inspire readers to question accepted 'truths' and explore alternative explanations. I call this approach ‘fiction with a conscience’. While settings, historical events, and some characters may be real or based on research, the narratives and central characters are generally the creation of my imagination. I have published four novels, the latest being 'The Bootmaker of Berlin' (WWII historical fiction) released in January 2023.

My review of ‘The Proxy Bride’ by Zoe Boccabella

The Proxy Bride by Zoe Boccabella My rating: 5 of 5 stars This is the third of Zoe Boccabella’s books that I have read, and the one that I enjoyed the most. Her other two are non-fiction/memoir, whereas ‘The Proxy … Continue reading

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A compelling tale of war and love in the Russian winter of 1941

The Tolstoy Estate by Steven Conte My rating: 5 of 5 stars This is one WWII historical novel that deserves attention. Thoroughly researched, beautifully written, and with a cast of interesting but flawed characters, Conte masters the ‘feel’ of a … Continue reading

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Beautiful prose about an arduous journey

Devotion by Hannah Kent. My rating: 4 of 5 stars. More than anything, I love the way Hannah Kent writes. Her use of language is inventive, perceptive, lush, evocative. Somehow she worms her way inside you, the reader, so that … Continue reading

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An intriguing novel about WWII intrigue

The Imitator by Rebecca Starford My rating: 4 of 5 stars An enjoyable novel about the role of women in WWII espionage. By the author’s own admission, the characters are in the main invented and the story is loosely true, … Continue reading

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Easy read, compelling story

Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens My rating: 4 of 5 stars Despite the dark themes of alcohol addiction and domestic violence, this novel is a delight to read. In particular, the writing is tight, succinct, and appropriate. The … Continue reading

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Review of ‘Still Life’ by Sarah Winman

Still Life by Sarah Winman My rating: 4 of 5 stars I fell in love, and then out of love, with this novel. The writing – which utilizes an expansive vocabulary that had me reaching for the dictionary – is … Continue reading

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What was it like in a WWII internment camp?

A rare first-hand chronicle of internment that sheds new light on Australia’s wartime history. Mr Koike’s diary, which survived despite all odds, is beautifully translated and edited. Continue reading

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A gripping 1880s migrant adventure

Paradiso A Novel by Steve Capelin My rating: 4 of 5 stars A gripping tale of hope and despair on the high seas. Set in 1879-80, a group of migrants from the struggling north of Italy chases the promise of … Continue reading

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A gently-written novel about heartache and healing

The Labyrinth by Amanda Lohrey My rating: 4 of 5 stars What does a mother do when her only son is in prison with a life sentence? She buys a crumbling shack by the sea and builds a labyrinth in … Continue reading

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A memorable memoir by Brisbane author, Krissy Kneen

The Three Burials of Lotty Kneen by Krissy Kneen My rating: 5 of 5 stars When Krissy Kneen was a speaker at my authors’ group a few months ago, I was intrigued by her latest book. I’ve read some of … Continue reading

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