by Sidney Sheldon
This story is about Mary Ashley, a university professor who is selected by the newly-elected president of the United States to be the ambassador to communist-ruled Romania. This is during the time of the Eastern and Western blocs, when the Iron Curtain was a massive issue. Book 1 follows the story of Mary Ashley's journey from being a university professor to becoming the ambassador. Book two goes to her life in Romania, the challenges she face and the dangers that ensue. There are many political enemies to the US, and also more specifically to the new administration who do not want to see Mary succeed in opening Romania to the world. Some would even go to murder to achieve this end.
This book is as always thrilling. But in book one I really did not like the feeling of the book. Mary Ashley is portrayed as quite dumb and arrogant at times. I do believe she could be more independent and a stronger character. She is a university professor and would be more suited to be a stronger woman. Also her reason for selection did not seem to be carried through to her job role much. I get the feeling the reason she was chosen, because she was an expert in Eastern European politics did not play into the considerations and actions she made later on. This is sort of an overall criticism.
In book 2 the pace picks up more and all those criticisms though I think valid, I simply did not care anymore. The pace was thrilling and the action was wonderful. I love the political issues she were faced with and how she overcame them. At moments, they seem a bit self-serving, the issue and solution format but I do not really care. And of course the ending has a wonderful twist. So overall a lovely book.
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