Peter David Shapiro

There’s a smoothly authentic Victorian feel to the beginning of this tale, but the modern-day writing is equally enthralling and convincing, pulling the reader in to mystery that grows deeper, wider and scarier as the story progresses. Start with one old-fashioned psychic. Let him imbue a portrait with his presence. Then see what happens a hundred years after his death.

In the present day, a painting that has haunted a young woman’s childhood is sold to haunt a con-man’s future instead. But there’s so much more to this story, as psychic powers intersect with human greed, old-fashioned ways give space to the new, devotees are pulled into mystery while true psychics ponder the myth, and very human danger looms.

The story ebbs and flows like the tide, while one strong woman seeks a safe solution to what’s fast becoming dangerously strange. It’s beautifully crafted, with subtle hints and slowly believable change. And it works to a pleasingly honest conclusion, satisfying and just. I really enjoyed this book.

Disclosure: I was given a free ecopy and I offer my honest review.… (meer)

Shapiro takes us to the streets of Hong Kong, where Boston-based consultant Harry West gets wrapped up in corruption on both business and government levels. The plot is intricate, set in a world where everyone has something to hide. We learn the facts along with Harry, and the unknown keeps us slightly off balance along with him.

Harry is a complex character. He's slightly damaged from a tragic past. He has strong feelings for a woman he can't have, and is finally opening up to the possibilities of a future with someone new. His past and future collide in the midst of his struggle to get his job done before time runs out.

This is a fascinating, plot-driven story. The only reason I've given it 4 stars instead of 5 is because, at times, details were rehashed between multiple characters through various scenes, and this slowed the pace down considerably for me.… (meer)