Prague Counterpoint

I'm not ashamed to admit it--I'm hooked on this outside-my-demographic novel series. I'm still a bit disillusioned with myself over it, too, so I guess I'll make a good reviewer for the books. First of all, this is a series, so you don't want to start with this one--go to Vienna Prelude. In terms of the series' strengths and weaknesses, I'd have to say all the main areas are genuinely strong. For example, the plot is consistently interesting, somewhat unpredictable and satisfying. The author knows how to throw in some amusing poetic justice here, some authentic moments of warmth and kindness there, and a few twists. The occasional 'Deus ex machina', such as at the end of Danzig Passage (volume 5) is endurable, especially considering: characters--she shows a genuine love for her creations and allows them to act consistently; for example, in PC, Elisa is growing through stress, Otto is strong throughout, but perhaps a bit questionably characterized toward the end; Murphy is well-developed; Theo is good; others even in cameo roles are the kind of characters whom an actor could enjoy playing. setting--the Thoenes have chosen a wonderful setting for a novel series, namely pre-WWII Europe, and it's treated well, enhancing the effect. Personally, I find few authors who can do this very well. Take the Victorian novelists, Dickens, Eliot, Thackeray, Austen, or take even Tolstoy--rarely do you find yourself feeling caught up in the romance of a certain setting--contrast Wuthering Heights, on the other hand, for a novel where setting is almost like another character; or the Great Gatsby or the Grapes of Wrath from 20th century Americana. Well, there are definite, if not 100% consistent touches here where you feel caught up in the places as well as the action. It's part of what makes you want to curl up with the books in a cozy armchair with a cup of coffee. I should add something related to plot but not identical with it--the ability to create luminous moments of connection with the characters, which are even better than the plot itself. For example, just see what she does with Leah's cello in Prague Counterpoint. She has a light, natural touch in this respect, compared to even Charles Dickens, who can be a bit melodramatic and heavy-handed in his treatment of, say, a child's toy.

Excellent Book as are all the books in the Series. I have read ALL of the Zion Series by the Thoene's and am waiting now for the 5th in the AD Chronicles series. The Characters have become "members of my household"! Keep up the wonderful Books Bodie and Brock! (I feel like I know you) I actually have read both the Zion Covenant and The Zion Chronicles more than once and loved them each time, you have given me a deeper love for the Jewish People and the Land of Israel. Adonai put the love in my heart and you have helped nourish it with the indepth personalities you write about. Thanks again! I Can't recommend them enough, all are wonderful!

This book was awesome, in fact the whole series was wonderful! I enjoy all books that have a Nazie related topic.

Every family should have this series as a family heirloom. I felt like I lost a friend when I finished the book. You grow so close to the characters. I would be thrilled to see any of her book series made into a movie mini-series. I can't get enough of her work. I've never been so impressed with another author. I would love to meet Bodie and Brock. They are spectacular. I can't wait to finish the series. I can tell you one thing, It'll be on my bookshelf as a keepsake. If I can pry it out of the hands of friends and family who want to read them as well. - Megan Villa

Are you looking for history, love, and adventure?? Look no further. Bodie Thoene's series Zion Covenant covers everything in each book. The main character(Elisa) is 1/2 jewish and the other half is german. The setting is in Vienna Austria in the late 1930's. Elisa is thought to be full german by the gestapo so therefor she is not questioned. Eventually she gets caught up in smuggling jewish children out of Germany. Her father(being all jewish) is eventually sent to a consentration camp. Will her life ever return to normal? What is normal fo her now? Read this book and find out for your self!!!