Hidden Falls

This novel captured my interest from the beginning - I couldn't put it down. The political history and geographic setting were well researched and added greatly to to intrigue of the story. I only wish Carla Danziger would write more, although this work took her 17 years, so that may be too much to expect.

A lovingly crafted novel that combines the best of mystery and romance. Strong plot with "gotcha!" twists and characters we care about. I'm ready to fly to Norway to see the places she describes so beautifully. Don't miss the autobiographical note at the end that tells the remarkable journey the author took to get this book to us.

HIDDEN FALLS is a smoothly written and evocative romantic mystery set amidst the rugged beauty of the Norwegian fjords. Heroine Kris Kelly comes across as brave, resourceful and believable. The story unfolds naturally and in the process introduces several mini-themes that may be connected to Kris's journalist cousin's death: the Middle East peace process, immigrants to Norway taking jobs away from native Norwegians, and longstanding German-Norwegian enmities that date back to World War II and the Holocaust. But the real star of HIDDEN FALLS is Norway itself, with its majestic scenery and hospitable, courageous people, with wonderful names like Tor, Per, and-my favorite-Odd. Danziger works in relevant events in Norway's history, snatches of Norwegian vocabulary, and gives a general feeling for everyday life in the Norway of today. Kris's childhood memories of her Norwegian relatives brought back memories of my own Scandinavian family. A bonus is an afterword by the author giving her personal motivation for writing this first novel, and its long odyssey from idea to publication. A reader frequently wonders how much of a book comes directly from its author's life. Danziger is considerate enough to tell us.

Carla Danziger is a freelance, award-winning writer. She is an American of Scandinavian descent and lives in Northern Virginia. HIDDEN FALLS is her first novel. Reading the author's notes, the reader quickly comes to the conclusion that Carla Danziger is a very thorough, well-versed writer. She took 17 years to write HIDDEN FALLS, beginning while convalescing from foot surgery. But the process of writing took her through her family genealogy and roots in Norway; through her husband's background as an Israeli Jew, and finally to Bergen and the wondrous sights of Norway itself. She joined the Sons of Norway, got funding from the Norwegian Tourist Board in New York, and made numerous friends along the way. The book is as much a personal journey as it is a murder mystery. American Kristina Kelly sets off for Norway to visit her revered cousin, Elsa Jenssen, a renowned Norwegian journalist, when her marriage shatters. Kris and Elsa plan to hike Hidden Falls, but Kris oversleeps and Elsa winds up dead at the bottom of the falls. Kris is immediately suspicious, and with the help of her Uncle Andy, a very senior sculptor and Elsa's father, her new friend and soon to be love, Tor Olsen, Kris begins her own investigation. It seems that many of the hotel's guests have something to hide, but what could her cousin have uncovered. As Kris retraces Elsa's steps, she becomes the quarry, and her life hangs by a thread: "She didn't have the strength to play this guessing game, nor could she keep going or spend the night outside. All she knew was she wanted to live, wanted to see her children again. She would have to use her wits and whatever weapons available to her to fend Hans off if indeed he was in the cabin." Danziger's HIDDEN FALLS is a carefully written travelogue and history of Norway. It is an exciting cliff-hanger; the scenery is beautifully wrought; and the characters are starkly real. Kris' heartbreak over her first marriage and concern for her just grown-up children renders her almost foolishly impervious to a new love that is ready and waiting. The denouement is delicious; the love story beckons; and there are lots of twists and turns. Excellent! Shelley Glodowski, Senior Reviewer Midwest Book Review

I thought the Hidden Falls book by Carla Danziger a very good read. It's a murder mystery whose plot is solid - it doesn't require a leap of faith - excellent twists, enough tension to keep one turning the pages, and a refreshingly unique context. The descriptions of Norway were very enticing, and the Israeli connection is just perfect. The author sounds like an amazing person. I enjoyed reading about her and her effort to get the book published: how it happened, and all the people who helped her along the way. The combination Norwegian-American with Israeli is enthralling.