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Red Returning Trilogy #1
The Sound of Red Returning
After losing everyone she loves, concert pianist Liesl Bower has nowhere to go but to escape into her music. Searching for the peace she usually finds in her concertos and sonatas, Liesl can't shake the feeling that she is being haunted by her past . . . and by someone following her. When she spots a familiar and eerie face in the audience of a concert she's giving for the president in Washington, DC, the scariest day of her life comes back to her with a flash. It has been fifteen years since Liesl watched her beloved Harvard music mentor assaulted on a dark night in Moscow and just as long since the CIA disclosed to her that he'd been spying for Russia. She had seen that man--that eerie face--the night Professor Devoe was attacked. And now he's back--and coming for her. On the run and struggling to rely on the protection of CIA agent Ava Mullins and handsome newspaper reporter Cade O'Brien, Liesl learns she is the prey of an underground cell of Russian KGB agents determined to restore their country to its former Soviet might. But what she doesn't know is that she is in possession of something--a piece of sheet music--that Russian intelligence is now frantic to find. Inside that music is a secret code, the hidden transcriptions of her deceased mentor, that clearly identify a Russian mole operating inside Israel's Department of Defense, a mole with enough power and access to execute a daring assassination that no one would see coming.
Caught in a deadly conflict between American and Russian undercover agents, this innocent young pianist is just trying to survive her own personal trauma. Through it all, Liesl must learn that no matter how dark her world grows or how fiercely her enemies pursue her, God is still in control--if only she can yield herself to His grace.
Caught in a deadly conflict between American and Russian undercover agents, this innocent young pianist is just trying to survive her own personal trauma. Through it all, Liesl must learn that no matter how dark her world grows or how fiercely her enemies pursue her, God is still in control--if only she can yield herself to His grace.
288 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 23, 2012
As a child of the 60's and 70's and a teenager in the early 80s, I grew up very much aware of the Cold War. Russia was the enemy and spies were real. As a young adult, I began working for a government laboratory in the late 80s, where we had security clearances, badges and guard gates. One poster that I remember being on the wall of our copy room showed the earth with a satellite orbiting it and two red lines. One went from Russia to the satellite and from the satellite to our location and cautioned that anyone could be listening. I took Russian classes as a young college student because I'd grown up fascinated by that country and I was studying that language as the Berlin Wall fell and Cold War communism became a memory, or so we've all believed.
The Sound of Red Returning takes us into today's world of the CIA and KGB where national secrets are still desired, spies still lurk in our midst and the art of guarding and discovering intelligence is an integral part of national security.
When Liesl Bower's beloved mentor was murdered and revealed to be a Russian spy, her life was disrupted in ways she couldn't imagine as the CIA didn't believe that she wasn't an accomplice. But life does go on and Liesl became a renowned pianist, putting her past behind her. 15 years later, information comes to light that leads Russian and American intelligence agencies to her door and Liesl must discover what information she has, where it is and who she can trust.
I enjoyed this novel so much. These characters are likeable and you care for them immediately. The intrigue and suspense are fast paced, but perfect and not predictable. I loved the musical aspect and the cleverness of sending codes through sheet music. Amazing. I am thrilled that this is the first in a trilogy and I look forward to more from Sue Duffy.
The Sound of Red Returning takes us into today's world of the CIA and KGB where national secrets are still desired, spies still lurk in our midst and the art of guarding and discovering intelligence is an integral part of national security.
When Liesl Bower's beloved mentor was murdered and revealed to be a Russian spy, her life was disrupted in ways she couldn't imagine as the CIA didn't believe that she wasn't an accomplice. But life does go on and Liesl became a renowned pianist, putting her past behind her. 15 years later, information comes to light that leads Russian and American intelligence agencies to her door and Liesl must discover what information she has, where it is and who she can trust.
I enjoyed this novel so much. These characters are likeable and you care for them immediately. The intrigue and suspense are fast paced, but perfect and not predictable. I loved the musical aspect and the cleverness of sending codes through sheet music. Amazing. I am thrilled that this is the first in a trilogy and I look forward to more from Sue Duffy.
September 16, 2023
Except for a little bit of a lull in the middle, I thoroughly enjoyed this story! The main female character cast as a gifted concert pianist was enough to sway me to read it, and I loved the scenes where she was completely in her element performing. A love story snuck its way in about midway through, and it contrasted well against the manhunts and fear lurking around every corner. There were WAY more surprises and twists than I expected which only made it that much interesting the further I read. The ending set itself up nicely for future books in the series.
Highly recommend!
Highly recommend!
January 29, 2012
Sue Duffy in her new book “The Sound of Red Returning” Book One in the Red Returning Trilogy series published by Kregel Publications gives us a contemporary thriller
About the book:
After losing everyone she loves, concert pianist Liesl Bower has nowhere to go but to escape into her music. Searching for the peace she usually finds in her concertos and sonatas, Liesl can’t shake the feeling that she is being haunted by her past . . . and by someone following her. When she spots a familiar and eerie face in the audience of a concert she’s giving for the president in Washington, DC, the scariest day of her life comes back to her with a flash. It has been fifteen years since Liesl watched her beloved Harvard music mentor assaulted on a dark night in Moscow and just as long since the CIA disclosed to her that he’d been spying for Russia. She had seen that man–that eerie face–the night Professor Devoe was attacked. And now he’s back–and coming for her.
On the run and struggling to rely on the protection of CIA agent Ava Mullins and handsome newspaper reporter Cade O’Brien, Liesl learns she is the prey of an underground cell of Russian KGB agents determined to restore their country to its former Soviet might. But what she doesn’t know is that she is in possession of something–a piece of sheet music–that Russian intelligence is now frantic to find. Inside that music is a secret code, the hidden transcriptions of her deceased mentor, that clearly identify a Russian mole operating inside Israel’s Department of Defense, a mole with enough power and access to execute a daring assassination that no one would see coming.
Caught in a deadly conflict between American and Russian undercover agents, this innocent young pianist is just trying to survive her own personal trauma. Through it all, Liesl must learn that no matter how dark her world grows or how fiercely her enemies pursue her, God is still in control–if only she can yield herself to His grace. Read an excerpt here: http://www.sueduffybooks.com/#!vstc1=...
About the author:
Sue Duffy is an award-winning writer whose work has appeared in Moody Magazine, The Presbyterian Journal, Sunday Digest, and The Christian Reader. She is the author of Mortal Wounds (Barbour, 2001) and Fatal Loyalty (Kregel, 2010). Sue has also contributed to Stories for a Woman’s Heart (Multnomah). She and her husband, Mike, have three grown children.
Find out more at www.sueduffybooks.com.
To me “The Sound of Red Returning” is reminiscent of the James Stewart version of “The Man Who Knew Too Much”. In that movie Stewart and Doris Day have their lives threatened because it is believed that they know information that will stop an assassination and they have no idea of what is going on. In “The Sound of Red Returning” Liesel Bower has the same problem. Someone thinks she knows vital information and she has no idea of what is going on but they are going to kill her if she doesn’t find out quickly. Sue Duffy has given us a unique thriller that will keep you on the edge of your chair as you read and flip pages as fast as possible. I recommend this book highly and look forward to the next book in the series!
Win a Kindle Fire from @SueDuffy2 and @KregelBooks in the “Red Returning” Giveaway!
Sue Duffy and her publisher, Kregel Publications, are celebrating the release of The Sound of Red Returning by giving away a Kindle Fire prize package worth over $200 to one lucky winner!!!! (1/23-2/11)
Enter the Sue Duffy’s Giveaway today and you could win:
* A brand new Kindle Fire with Wi-Fi
* The Sound of Red Returning (Book One in the Red Returning series) by Sue Duffy
To enter click one of the icons below. But, hurry! The giveway ends on 2/11. Sue will be announcing the winner of the “Red Returning” Giveaway on February 13th on the Litfuse website!
Enter via E-mail Enter via FacebookEnter via Twitter
Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station http://www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group.. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
About the book:
After losing everyone she loves, concert pianist Liesl Bower has nowhere to go but to escape into her music. Searching for the peace she usually finds in her concertos and sonatas, Liesl can’t shake the feeling that she is being haunted by her past . . . and by someone following her. When she spots a familiar and eerie face in the audience of a concert she’s giving for the president in Washington, DC, the scariest day of her life comes back to her with a flash. It has been fifteen years since Liesl watched her beloved Harvard music mentor assaulted on a dark night in Moscow and just as long since the CIA disclosed to her that he’d been spying for Russia. She had seen that man–that eerie face–the night Professor Devoe was attacked. And now he’s back–and coming for her.
On the run and struggling to rely on the protection of CIA agent Ava Mullins and handsome newspaper reporter Cade O’Brien, Liesl learns she is the prey of an underground cell of Russian KGB agents determined to restore their country to its former Soviet might. But what she doesn’t know is that she is in possession of something–a piece of sheet music–that Russian intelligence is now frantic to find. Inside that music is a secret code, the hidden transcriptions of her deceased mentor, that clearly identify a Russian mole operating inside Israel’s Department of Defense, a mole with enough power and access to execute a daring assassination that no one would see coming.
Caught in a deadly conflict between American and Russian undercover agents, this innocent young pianist is just trying to survive her own personal trauma. Through it all, Liesl must learn that no matter how dark her world grows or how fiercely her enemies pursue her, God is still in control–if only she can yield herself to His grace. Read an excerpt here: http://www.sueduffybooks.com/#!vstc1=...
About the author:
Sue Duffy is an award-winning writer whose work has appeared in Moody Magazine, The Presbyterian Journal, Sunday Digest, and The Christian Reader. She is the author of Mortal Wounds (Barbour, 2001) and Fatal Loyalty (Kregel, 2010). Sue has also contributed to Stories for a Woman’s Heart (Multnomah). She and her husband, Mike, have three grown children.
Find out more at www.sueduffybooks.com.
To me “The Sound of Red Returning” is reminiscent of the James Stewart version of “The Man Who Knew Too Much”. In that movie Stewart and Doris Day have their lives threatened because it is believed that they know information that will stop an assassination and they have no idea of what is going on. In “The Sound of Red Returning” Liesel Bower has the same problem. Someone thinks she knows vital information and she has no idea of what is going on but they are going to kill her if she doesn’t find out quickly. Sue Duffy has given us a unique thriller that will keep you on the edge of your chair as you read and flip pages as fast as possible. I recommend this book highly and look forward to the next book in the series!
Win a Kindle Fire from @SueDuffy2 and @KregelBooks in the “Red Returning” Giveaway!
Sue Duffy and her publisher, Kregel Publications, are celebrating the release of The Sound of Red Returning by giving away a Kindle Fire prize package worth over $200 to one lucky winner!!!! (1/23-2/11)
Enter the Sue Duffy’s Giveaway today and you could win:
* A brand new Kindle Fire with Wi-Fi
* The Sound of Red Returning (Book One in the Red Returning series) by Sue Duffy
To enter click one of the icons below. But, hurry! The giveway ends on 2/11. Sue will be announcing the winner of the “Red Returning” Giveaway on February 13th on the Litfuse website!
Enter via E-mail Enter via FacebookEnter via Twitter
Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station http://www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group.. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
February 11, 2012
I greatly enjoy The Sound of Red Returning. This is the first book in the Red Returning series. She has written a book about a famous pianist, Liesl Bower. Liesl is being hunted down by a Russian spy who is trying to kill her. I would recommend this wonderful novel to teenagers and adults. Anyone who loves a great mystery will really enjoy trying to solve this one. Readers will enjoy trying to figure out the mole's hidden identity. I couldn't even figure out who the mole was until the very end. You just won't see it coming until you put everything together. Throughout out the book, I was captured by the details about this frightening mystery adventure. The book contains suspense that unfolds with each turning of the page. I connected with Liesl and sometimes the thing we are trying to find lies in front of us. We just don’t know it yet. She didn’t believe in God because she lost a number of people she cared greatly about. She didn’t understand how a good God could allow so many bad things to happen to people she loved. But the brilliance of this novel is that is has a Christian theme and it can be applied to your daily life. The novel proves that God can use anything and anybody to bring you to a relationship with him. Liesl saw a lot of pain but through perseveration, determination, and love she learns the lessons that God was trying to teach her. I can’t wait to read the other books in this series!! If you are a fan of the crime and action books and TV Shows you will enjoy reading this mystery novel. I think the novel has the potential to be made into a movie. I will be checking out the others in the series when they are released. If you're looking for a new mystery story to discover then look no farther and read this one! Come on and jump right in and help uncover the identity of the mole! Sue Duffy has written the next bestselling mystery series!
“I received this book for free from Litfuse Publicity Group for this review”.
“I received this book for free from Litfuse Publicity Group for this review”.
August 1, 2013
A couple of months ago I had the opportunity to review Red Dawn Rising which is book two in the Red Returning Triology. It was such a good read, I wanted to read and review book one in the series, Sound of Red Returning. I was not a bit disappointed! Although I knew from book two that book one was going to come out alright, it was still a good adventure.
Our heroine, Liesl Bower, is a gifted concert pianist who has studied with the famous and who has given concerts on the stages across the globe. But she seems targeted by international agents who are after something she possesses but that she doesn't realize she has.
Having studied under the superb tutorage of Schell Devoe, an internationally acclaimed Harvard music professor, she was able to travel for study in Russia. After her beloved mentor's murder, she learns he was a double agent - betraying both his own country, America, and Russia.
Sound of Red Rising is set primarily in Charleston, South Carolina but you will flit in and out of Washington as well. The characters in this book are Cade and his grandfather, Ian, who live in the basement apartment of Liesl's grandmother's home. There is a bit of beginning romance between Liesl and Cade, and the grandfather, Ian, is a "real character." Ian and Chad "cowboy" in on the adventure with the CIA and FBI.
There is a good measure of sound spiritual wisdom without sounding preachy. A good book and I'm glad I went back and read book one, Sound of Red Returning. Can't wait for the third book to come out.
Experience footnote of my own: Having lived during the "Cold War" and knowing the very real tension between the US and Russia during this period, I found this story especially interesting. The underlying theme of Red Returning is daunting.
DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy of Sound of Red Returning by Kregel Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
Our heroine, Liesl Bower, is a gifted concert pianist who has studied with the famous and who has given concerts on the stages across the globe. But she seems targeted by international agents who are after something she possesses but that she doesn't realize she has.
Having studied under the superb tutorage of Schell Devoe, an internationally acclaimed Harvard music professor, she was able to travel for study in Russia. After her beloved mentor's murder, she learns he was a double agent - betraying both his own country, America, and Russia.
Sound of Red Rising is set primarily in Charleston, South Carolina but you will flit in and out of Washington as well. The characters in this book are Cade and his grandfather, Ian, who live in the basement apartment of Liesl's grandmother's home. There is a bit of beginning romance between Liesl and Cade, and the grandfather, Ian, is a "real character." Ian and Chad "cowboy" in on the adventure with the CIA and FBI.
There is a good measure of sound spiritual wisdom without sounding preachy. A good book and I'm glad I went back and read book one, Sound of Red Returning. Can't wait for the third book to come out.
Experience footnote of my own: Having lived during the "Cold War" and knowing the very real tension between the US and Russia during this period, I found this story especially interesting. The underlying theme of Red Returning is daunting.
DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy of Sound of Red Returning by Kregel Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
January 28, 2012
Title: THE SOUND OF RED RETURNING
Author: Sue Duffy
Publisher: Kregel
December 2011
ISBN: 978-0825425745
Genre: Inspirational/suspense
Liesl Bower is an accomplish pianist, playing for audiences around the world. She is no stranger to the White House or for playing for presidents—but she is unaccustomed to finding scary, scowling faces in the audience. The face of a man she’d seen threatening her music mentor fifteen years earlier, shortly before he was murdered.
Now, it seems as if something has happened to set both Russian and CIA agents on her heels. Intelligence suggests that Liesl possesses a coded message critical to a resurgence of Soviet power.
The Russians are in a frenzy to find the code before the Americans. But Liesl doesn’t have any idea what she possesses, she only finds herself on a run for her life—a run that will take her through the wounds of her past, the love of man she never thought could be hers, and the prevailing power of God.
THE SOUND OF RED RETURNING is the first book I’ve read by Sue Duffy. It is book one in the Red Returning trilogy, and a very nice start. The book did begin rather slowly, but did pick up about midway. There are flashes in time period from present time to fifteen years earlier, and back, and I found the jumps a bit jarring. I did fall in love with Liesl, and innocent bystander, so to speak, thrust into an international spy ring and fleeing for her life without knowing for sure why and what they were after.
I did enjoy reading THE SOUND OF RED RETURNING despite its slow start and the confusing ending. I will look for Ms. Duffy’s other books in this series. If you like political suspense then you will want to look at THE SOUND OF RED RETURNING. 288 pages. $14.99. 3.5 stars.
Author: Sue Duffy
Publisher: Kregel
December 2011
ISBN: 978-0825425745
Genre: Inspirational/suspense
Liesl Bower is an accomplish pianist, playing for audiences around the world. She is no stranger to the White House or for playing for presidents—but she is unaccustomed to finding scary, scowling faces in the audience. The face of a man she’d seen threatening her music mentor fifteen years earlier, shortly before he was murdered.
Now, it seems as if something has happened to set both Russian and CIA agents on her heels. Intelligence suggests that Liesl possesses a coded message critical to a resurgence of Soviet power.
The Russians are in a frenzy to find the code before the Americans. But Liesl doesn’t have any idea what she possesses, she only finds herself on a run for her life—a run that will take her through the wounds of her past, the love of man she never thought could be hers, and the prevailing power of God.
THE SOUND OF RED RETURNING is the first book I’ve read by Sue Duffy. It is book one in the Red Returning trilogy, and a very nice start. The book did begin rather slowly, but did pick up about midway. There are flashes in time period from present time to fifteen years earlier, and back, and I found the jumps a bit jarring. I did fall in love with Liesl, and innocent bystander, so to speak, thrust into an international spy ring and fleeing for her life without knowing for sure why and what they were after.
I did enjoy reading THE SOUND OF RED RETURNING despite its slow start and the confusing ending. I will look for Ms. Duffy’s other books in this series. If you like political suspense then you will want to look at THE SOUND OF RED RETURNING. 288 pages. $14.99. 3.5 stars.
did-not-finish
July 21, 2025I tried, but I found the writing choppy and was just having trouble getting into the story. I have to much on my kindle to read to spend much time on things that don't capture my interest.
February 14, 2012
A concert pianist, Lisel Bower uses her music as an escape - but what happens when the very music, she loves, becomes part of a nightmare?
Since her mentor was killed as a result of his espionage efforts for the KGB, Bower has felt like someone has been watching her. It's only after her life is threatened that she find out that she has a piece of music - which contains a secret coded message "outing" a Russian mole in the Israel's Department of Defense.
Through a variety of twists and turns - some very unexpected - Brower goes on the run trying to find the music and along the way, find a way to rely on God.
This was an interesting book. I'll be honest, it took a few pages for me to "jump" into the story - I kept feeling like I was missing something.
But once the plot captured my attention, the twists and turns built in by Sue Duffy kept me reading for more.
This story weaves together political intrigue - pitting Russians against Americans, along with the complications of the Israeli government and the CIA.
It also captures the journey Bower's faith takes in the light of personal heartbreak and struggles.
In all, I found this to be a well written book. It has a strong plot line that will keep your attention. The ending, while it wraps up the book, leaves little doubt that Duffy plans to write a second installment in this series.
On the scale of one to five, I give this a a solid three. If you like political intrigue and suspense-filled novels, I think you'll enjoy this read.
Since her mentor was killed as a result of his espionage efforts for the KGB, Bower has felt like someone has been watching her. It's only after her life is threatened that she find out that she has a piece of music - which contains a secret coded message "outing" a Russian mole in the Israel's Department of Defense.
Through a variety of twists and turns - some very unexpected - Brower goes on the run trying to find the music and along the way, find a way to rely on God.
This was an interesting book. I'll be honest, it took a few pages for me to "jump" into the story - I kept feeling like I was missing something.
But once the plot captured my attention, the twists and turns built in by Sue Duffy kept me reading for more.
This story weaves together political intrigue - pitting Russians against Americans, along with the complications of the Israeli government and the CIA.
It also captures the journey Bower's faith takes in the light of personal heartbreak and struggles.
In all, I found this to be a well written book. It has a strong plot line that will keep your attention. The ending, while it wraps up the book, leaves little doubt that Duffy plans to write a second installment in this series.
On the scale of one to five, I give this a a solid three. If you like political intrigue and suspense-filled novels, I think you'll enjoy this read.
April 10, 2013
Review on my blog: http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
When Liesl Bower was 10 years old, she used to hide from her father in the bell tower of a church - wishing him never to find her. Then Professor Devoe, the man who was sort of a father figure to her, turned out to be a Russian spy and was murdered!
Now, fifteen years later, someone seems to think Liesl has the final coded message Devoe was never able to pass on. Trying to stay alive, Liesl must find the message before it's too late.
The Sound of Red Returning started off with some suspense, but it wasn't until I was about halfway through that it finally became more enjoyable to read.
In the beginning, it was hard to follow along because it changed time - it would say fifteen years earlier, but then it wouldn't say present (so I had to assume it was back to present time). This might not annoy others, but it did me.
That said, once Cade got into the story and met Leisl, I found The Sound of Red Returning to be much more entertaining and suspenseful!
I loved Ian (Cade's grandfather) - he was so funny and one of my favorite characters from this book!
Overall, I liked The Sound of Red Returning - it was a good book that I mostly enjoyed.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
When Liesl Bower was 10 years old, she used to hide from her father in the bell tower of a church - wishing him never to find her. Then Professor Devoe, the man who was sort of a father figure to her, turned out to be a Russian spy and was murdered!
Now, fifteen years later, someone seems to think Liesl has the final coded message Devoe was never able to pass on. Trying to stay alive, Liesl must find the message before it's too late.
The Sound of Red Returning started off with some suspense, but it wasn't until I was about halfway through that it finally became more enjoyable to read.
In the beginning, it was hard to follow along because it changed time - it would say fifteen years earlier, but then it wouldn't say present (so I had to assume it was back to present time). This might not annoy others, but it did me.
That said, once Cade got into the story and met Leisl, I found The Sound of Red Returning to be much more entertaining and suspenseful!
I loved Ian (Cade's grandfather) - he was so funny and one of my favorite characters from this book!
Overall, I liked The Sound of Red Returning - it was a good book that I mostly enjoyed.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
December 31, 2011
Liesl is a concert pianist and the main character in this book. Liesl has lost so much in her short life, from family to friends. Liesl's life is already complicated, the reader may believe that it cannot get much worse...but the reader would be wrong. It is believed by Russian and American intelligence that Liesl contains a coded message that could invigorate Soviet power and bring that power back.
Liesl runs from the danger as any sane person would. She isn't only running from the Soviets, but also a potential love that she does not know how to handle. She is running towards a decision under the guidance of God. She grapples with her past and her potential futures, she looks to the divine God for help throughout the novel. As a character, Liesl is impressive. It is amazing that she hasn't given in to the pressure or cracked with all that has happened to her and may happen to her. She is brave, intelligent, and creative. The secondary characters, particularly the love interest, will affect the reader in varying ways.
This novel is exciting and fast-paced, the reader will be hard-pressed to find a slow excerpt in the entire novel. The different environments and settings will serve to make the novel more exciting and innovative. The reader has many more books to look forward to from this author! This book is recommended to adult readers.
Liesl runs from the danger as any sane person would. She isn't only running from the Soviets, but also a potential love that she does not know how to handle. She is running towards a decision under the guidance of God. She grapples with her past and her potential futures, she looks to the divine God for help throughout the novel. As a character, Liesl is impressive. It is amazing that she hasn't given in to the pressure or cracked with all that has happened to her and may happen to her. She is brave, intelligent, and creative. The secondary characters, particularly the love interest, will affect the reader in varying ways.
This novel is exciting and fast-paced, the reader will be hard-pressed to find a slow excerpt in the entire novel. The different environments and settings will serve to make the novel more exciting and innovative. The reader has many more books to look forward to from this author! This book is recommended to adult readers.
January 24, 2012
Upon reading the announcement about this blog tour, I was excited! It sounded as though it would be including many aspects that I love to read - historical fiction, mystery, suspense, and piano which I've played for about 15 years now. The cover is absolutely gorgeous. They chose a woman with striking features to put on it and she really makes an impression. However, from the first page I was confused. I figured that a lot of books start out confusing, but can definitely get better once more information is relayed to the reader, etc. That did not happen, though. Unfortunately, I did not find that the book for any better. I did not like Sue Duffy's writing style in fact. It seemed all too tedious to get through and too factual. This is a fiction piece of work and though I can appreciate the research that must have gone into this novel, she was not able to get it across in a way for me to enjoy.
I really dislike giving bad reviews, but I could not get through this book. I was sorely disappointed with the outcome of this book that held some intriguing possibilities for me. I would recommend trying it because everyone has different opinions of the same things. However, if you have similar interests to the ones I mentioned above, open the pages with an air of caution.
~This book was furnished to me by the publisher for my open and honest opinion~
I really dislike giving bad reviews, but I could not get through this book. I was sorely disappointed with the outcome of this book that held some intriguing possibilities for me. I would recommend trying it because everyone has different opinions of the same things. However, if you have similar interests to the ones I mentioned above, open the pages with an air of caution.
~This book was furnished to me by the publisher for my open and honest opinion~
February 3, 2012
First posted on my blog, Legacy of a Writer.
If I gave half stars, this one would get a 3 1/2 stars. The Sound of Red Returning takes on a very interesting angle to the war--15 years after it ended. Liesl’s harrowing adventures come back to haunt her when she suddenly becomes a target of former KGB agents and the CIA. Pretty cool opening to this story, isn’t it?
Liesl seemed a bit extreme at times, but besides that, she was a likeable character that is sure to intrigue the readers. I liked Cade right off! And Ian, his grandfather. The camaraderie the two of them had was so humorous, it really added to the story.
The Sound of Red Returning opens with Liesl seeing the man who murdered a close friend in the audience during a performance. And from there on, things keep moving. There is one mention of a wife cheating on a husband—he catches them in the act—but not too much detail is given.
The mystery/suspense was a bit confusing at times and, honestly, I was lost in a few places. But I kept pushing ahead and it all came to a very satisfying conclusion. There was suspense, a bit of mystery, and a journey of healing hurts and redemption.
If I gave half stars, this one would get a 3 1/2 stars. The Sound of Red Returning takes on a very interesting angle to the war--15 years after it ended. Liesl’s harrowing adventures come back to haunt her when she suddenly becomes a target of former KGB agents and the CIA. Pretty cool opening to this story, isn’t it?
Liesl seemed a bit extreme at times, but besides that, she was a likeable character that is sure to intrigue the readers. I liked Cade right off! And Ian, his grandfather. The camaraderie the two of them had was so humorous, it really added to the story.
The Sound of Red Returning opens with Liesl seeing the man who murdered a close friend in the audience during a performance. And from there on, things keep moving. There is one mention of a wife cheating on a husband—he catches them in the act—but not too much detail is given.
The mystery/suspense was a bit confusing at times and, honestly, I was lost in a few places. But I kept pushing ahead and it all came to a very satisfying conclusion. There was suspense, a bit of mystery, and a journey of healing hurts and redemption.
December 28, 2011
Once you open this book it will grab your immediate attention. The story revolves around Lisle Bower, and her refuge of music, she is a classically trained pianist.
The Red Returning is Mother Russia...or the corrupt people who want control. Poor Lisle it seems anyone she cares about or befriends seems to have a problem, or end up dead. This page turner is so filled with action and surprises. You will think you have everything figured out...but you don't!
You will meet other wonderful characters in this book...such as Lisle's grandmother Lottie. A CIA agent, who Lisle originally did not like...Ava. Then there will be Chad and his delightful grandfather Ira.
Lisle has obtained, without her knowledge some information that is vital for National Security.
The story takes place in many cities around the world and back. Loved the hidden areas in Lottie's house, someone had a lot of imagination. Then there's the secluded cabin, a family refuge, and the family boat the Exodus.
Your going to find everything her from wonderful music, espionage, murder, ransacks, traitors, and a bit of romance!
I received this book from Litefuse Tours and the Publisher Kregel, and was not required to give a positive review.
The Red Returning is Mother Russia...or the corrupt people who want control. Poor Lisle it seems anyone she cares about or befriends seems to have a problem, or end up dead. This page turner is so filled with action and surprises. You will think you have everything figured out...but you don't!
You will meet other wonderful characters in this book...such as Lisle's grandmother Lottie. A CIA agent, who Lisle originally did not like...Ava. Then there will be Chad and his delightful grandfather Ira.
Lisle has obtained, without her knowledge some information that is vital for National Security.
The story takes place in many cities around the world and back. Loved the hidden areas in Lottie's house, someone had a lot of imagination. Then there's the secluded cabin, a family refuge, and the family boat the Exodus.
Your going to find everything her from wonderful music, espionage, murder, ransacks, traitors, and a bit of romance!
I received this book from Litefuse Tours and the Publisher Kregel, and was not required to give a positive review.
February 3, 2012
It’s no wonder the Romantic Times gave the Sound of Red Returning 4 Stars. As Book 1 in the Red Returning Series Sue Duffy knows how to capture an audience and take them on a gripping journey full of suspense and mystery.
15 years ago child prodigy and famous pianist Liesel Bower watched as her mentor was gunned down and word got out that he had been a Russian Spy. After being thrust into CIA interrogations for what she may have known Liesel thought that maybe it was all over. But now after fifteen years intelligence suggests that unknowingly Liesel may have unknowingly inherited a secret message from her mentor.
Duffy has done a fantastic job combining mystery and suspense with political tensions as well as love and betrayal. Her characters come off the page as they deal with their own ghosts and search for God, who is always in control.
I really enjoyed this book, at first it was difficult to get into but our of no where you get sucked into the story and forget how involved you become with the characters. Definitely a book worth reading.
This book was provided complimentary from LitFuse and Kregel Publishing in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
15 years ago child prodigy and famous pianist Liesel Bower watched as her mentor was gunned down and word got out that he had been a Russian Spy. After being thrust into CIA interrogations for what she may have known Liesel thought that maybe it was all over. But now after fifteen years intelligence suggests that unknowingly Liesel may have unknowingly inherited a secret message from her mentor.
Duffy has done a fantastic job combining mystery and suspense with political tensions as well as love and betrayal. Her characters come off the page as they deal with their own ghosts and search for God, who is always in control.
I really enjoyed this book, at first it was difficult to get into but our of no where you get sucked into the story and forget how involved you become with the characters. Definitely a book worth reading.
This book was provided complimentary from LitFuse and Kregel Publishing in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
February 1, 2012
Liesl Bower is a renowned concert pianist. She's thrown her soul into her music to escape her personal life. She's lost everyone she loves, including the professor who was attacked in a dark alley. During a concert for the President, she feels eyes bearing down on her. Lifting her own to scan the audience, she is startled and fearful to see the same face she saw in the alley that dark night.
When the belated professor's wife dies, they scavenge the house but don't find what they are seeking. Now, they've come for Liesl. She immediately goes on the run, and with the help of newspaper reporter Cade O'Brien and CIA agent Ava Mullins, she might have a chance.
Liesl is in possession of a sheet of music that is a secret code identifying a Russian mole. The Russian KGB wants it back and they will remove anything that gets in their way - including Liesl. She needs to put her faith in God and let him take control and see where it may lead her.
The Sound of Red Returning is a titillating romantic suspense that had me up late burning the midnight oil. The characters just leap to life from the pages; their depiction is so realistic. Emotional, heartfelt, inspiring and fraught with tension, The Sound of Red Returning is a vastly entertaining read!
When the belated professor's wife dies, they scavenge the house but don't find what they are seeking. Now, they've come for Liesl. She immediately goes on the run, and with the help of newspaper reporter Cade O'Brien and CIA agent Ava Mullins, she might have a chance.
Liesl is in possession of a sheet of music that is a secret code identifying a Russian mole. The Russian KGB wants it back and they will remove anything that gets in their way - including Liesl. She needs to put her faith in God and let him take control and see where it may lead her.
The Sound of Red Returning is a titillating romantic suspense that had me up late burning the midnight oil. The characters just leap to life from the pages; their depiction is so realistic. Emotional, heartfelt, inspiring and fraught with tension, The Sound of Red Returning is a vastly entertaining read!
April 24, 2012
Liesl Bower is now the center of attention. Not that she didn't want this attention but those that are looking for her want something more than her ability to play the piano as a prodigy! She learns she has been given a gift by her beloved mentor, Schell Devoe, a prominent Harvard music professor who was murdered in his own home. What he gave Liesl was some sheets of music, in which she didn't think anything about it, until unexpected people began following her.
She later learns that Schell Devoe was a double agent for both the US and Russia and in his final moments passed off some music to her that everyone wants that has been secretly coded in some fashion and people will stop at nothing to ensure she gets it. Now the stakes are high when Russia has sent some agents to locate Liesl, retrieve the music and leave no lasting witnesses.
I received The Sound of Red Returning by Sue Duffy, the first book in the Red Returning series compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. While this book was a bit of a slow start for me, I found it began to pick up by about the 5th chapter. For those fans of stories of espionage and suspense, then this will be a must read for you. I would rate this one a 4 out of 5 stars.
She later learns that Schell Devoe was a double agent for both the US and Russia and in his final moments passed off some music to her that everyone wants that has been secretly coded in some fashion and people will stop at nothing to ensure she gets it. Now the stakes are high when Russia has sent some agents to locate Liesl, retrieve the music and leave no lasting witnesses.
I received The Sound of Red Returning by Sue Duffy, the first book in the Red Returning series compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. While this book was a bit of a slow start for me, I found it began to pick up by about the 5th chapter. For those fans of stories of espionage and suspense, then this will be a must read for you. I would rate this one a 4 out of 5 stars.
July 20, 2012
Sue Duffy is a phenomenal author. I made a sundry of predictions, but some how Sue managed to twist the plot. I enjoyed the pace of the mystery and was delightfully surprised at the turn of events toward the end of the book. I felt like a detective trying to piece together parts of Liesl's life, Devoe's treachery and many other dangerous events.
The only fault I find with this book is the romance. Sue began the romance too late in the book, forcing her to speed it up towards to end. This made several events in the book rather awkward.
Liesl's spiritual journey was one that brought me to tears. I was crying when she finally let go and let God. She learned to let go of all of the anger, hatred, and fear she was storing up in her heart.
I laughed at several tid-bits of Ian's humor. I cried at a shocking turn of events. I was on the edge of my seat because of the mystery. This book incorporates every emotion you want in a story.
Sue writing is well- expressed and eloquent. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys and well-written mystery. With much pleasure I would rate The Sound of Red Returning 5 stars.
The only fault I find with this book is the romance. Sue began the romance too late in the book, forcing her to speed it up towards to end. This made several events in the book rather awkward.
Liesl's spiritual journey was one that brought me to tears. I was crying when she finally let go and let God. She learned to let go of all of the anger, hatred, and fear she was storing up in her heart.
I laughed at several tid-bits of Ian's humor. I cried at a shocking turn of events. I was on the edge of my seat because of the mystery. This book incorporates every emotion you want in a story.
Sue writing is well- expressed and eloquent. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys and well-written mystery. With much pleasure I would rate The Sound of Red Returning 5 stars.
January 23, 2012
This was an interesting book, with lots of action and intrigue mixed in with a nice love story that was quite different from what I’d expected.
The main character, Liesl, is the best part about this book. She commands the scenes she’s in, which, as the protagonist, is exactly what we are looking for. She is three-dimensional, with a all the flaws a real person has, making her stand out among the rest of the characters. Ian and Cade are also well done, although not as masterfully as Liesl. The rest are fine, but since they are not “on stage” too long, we never really bond with them.
The suspense keeps you reading, as the plot tightens around Liesl. Once the story gets started, it’s hard to put down. The problem is that it takes a bit to really take off. It takes some patience on the reader’s part to get to the halfway point where the action picks up. That’s the only real complaint I have about the book, and for all lovers of suspense novels, spy novels, or the like, this is a fun book that will keep you guessing. I can recommend it to pretty much everyone.
The main character, Liesl, is the best part about this book. She commands the scenes she’s in, which, as the protagonist, is exactly what we are looking for. She is three-dimensional, with a all the flaws a real person has, making her stand out among the rest of the characters. Ian and Cade are also well done, although not as masterfully as Liesl. The rest are fine, but since they are not “on stage” too long, we never really bond with them.
The suspense keeps you reading, as the plot tightens around Liesl. Once the story gets started, it’s hard to put down. The problem is that it takes a bit to really take off. It takes some patience on the reader’s part to get to the halfway point where the action picks up. That’s the only real complaint I have about the book, and for all lovers of suspense novels, spy novels, or the like, this is a fun book that will keep you guessing. I can recommend it to pretty much everyone.
July 7, 2012
If you grew-up during the 60’s. 70’s or the 80’s then you, like me remember the cold war. I can remember the fear of nuclear weapons being sent across the sea, and I also remember when the Berlin Wall fell and the end the of the threat of the cold war.
The Sound of Red Returning brings the suspense of the cold war to the forefront of my mind. The CIA and KGB are still trying to keep and retrieve national secrets in order to maintain security, and the world I grew-up in still exists.
I enjoyed this story very much, The characters are very likable and and I fell in love with them right away. Ian O’Brian adds humor into the tenseness of some of the scenes. while Cade O’Brian brings Liesl someone to open her heart to.The story is fast-paced, with a lot of twists and turns which kept me guessing what would happen next.
I give the book 5 out of 5 stars and am looking forward to the next book in the Red Returning Trilogy.
**The Sound of Red Returning by Sue Duffy was provided for me free by Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest review.
The Sound of Red Returning brings the suspense of the cold war to the forefront of my mind. The CIA and KGB are still trying to keep and retrieve national secrets in order to maintain security, and the world I grew-up in still exists.
I enjoyed this story very much, The characters are very likable and and I fell in love with them right away. Ian O’Brian adds humor into the tenseness of some of the scenes. while Cade O’Brian brings Liesl someone to open her heart to.The story is fast-paced, with a lot of twists and turns which kept me guessing what would happen next.
I give the book 5 out of 5 stars and am looking forward to the next book in the Red Returning Trilogy.
**The Sound of Red Returning by Sue Duffy was provided for me free by Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest review.
July 1, 2012
If you're in the mood for a good Christian romantic suspense, this book fits the bill. The characters are well-developed, the political intrigue is well-played, and the romance is well-crafted. All of the characters had baggage and flaws. They were also at different places spiritually. Most readers would be able to relate to at least one of the characters. The political drama seemed believable although I did guess the answer to several of the mysteries well before they were revealed. Since this is the first in a trilogy, it will be interesting to see what happens from here.
In compliance with FTC guidelines, please note that I received a free review copy through LibraryThing Early Reviewers.
In compliance with FTC guidelines, please note that I received a free review copy through LibraryThing Early Reviewers.
February 6, 2012
"The Sound of Red Returning" by Sue Duffy offers something for everyone. Musicians will immediately identify with the main character's passion for her music and appreciate the concept of passing secret messages through sheet music. Mystery fans are sure to love the political intrigue, plot twists and fast-paced action. Suspense surrounds one particular character who lurks in the background, unidentified until the last chapters. Those who like a little romance will enjoy watching the candid interactions and growing attraction between Leisl and Cade. And Cade's grandfather Ian is a delightfully cantankerous character everyone will love.
February 9, 2012
This book will grab your attention right from the beginning. Pianist Liesel Bower finds herself in some kind of trouble. She is being followed, the CIA are involved and the Russians. Are you read to sit up and pay attention. Spies, Killers, romance this book has some characters. This mystery is a great read for both young adult and adult. The story flows nicely and is full of suspense. You grip your seat as you try to solve the mystery who is the mole? Who is hunting Liesel? Sue Duffy did a great job with this one and I would gladly pick up another.
I received a FREE copy of The Sound of Red Returning from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review. These are my own opinions!
September 16, 2013
Maybe a little less, but an interesting novel, simultaneously:
1. A political thriller, with the fate of the world in the hands of a few people (a conceit, of course, but one commonly used)
2. A standard romance novel
3. A book that wrestles, unsuccessfully, with theodicy. The author starts out with "Why do bad things happen to good people," and ends up with "God is in control." Well, of course, but that does not answer the question, and, pastorally, is of no use to those experiencing difficulty.
Nevertheless, this is an engaging work, the characters were believable, and one, the grandfather, was "a hoot." It does get a little "preachy" at the end.
1. A political thriller, with the fate of the world in the hands of a few people (a conceit, of course, but one commonly used)
2. A standard romance novel
3. A book that wrestles, unsuccessfully, with theodicy. The author starts out with "Why do bad things happen to good people," and ends up with "God is in control." Well, of course, but that does not answer the question, and, pastorally, is of no use to those experiencing difficulty.
Nevertheless, this is an engaging work, the characters were believable, and one, the grandfather, was "a hoot." It does get a little "preachy" at the end.
April 27, 2012
I’m always up for a good spy novel and the cover of this one reminded me of a Nancy Drew book I read a long time ago, so I decided to sign up for the tour. Aside from it’s pretty cover and clever title, there’s not much in The Sound of Red Returning that I loved. The story starts off very slowly and it took me a while to get into it. Even then I wasn’t so engrossed that I felt a need to rush to the conclusion.
Continue reading this review here: http://parchmentgirl.com/book-reviews...
Continue reading this review here: http://parchmentgirl.com/book-reviews...
April 9, 2016
Ik twijfel tussen 3 en 4 sterren, aangezien 3,5 sterren niet kan helaas ga ik voor 4 vanwege de opbouwende spanning en vooral het verrassende plot richting het einde. Op een gegeven moment ging ik geen wending meer verwachten en kwam die er wel, wat het verhaal een heel ander einde gaf die ik zeker niet had aan zien komen. Verwacht hierbij niet zozeer een heel spannend effect maar vooral een verrassend effect. Het verhaal leest verder lekker weg en bevat wat lichte spannende elementen. Ik had ook niet een super spannend boek verwacht, waardoor dit voor mij geen tegenvaller was.
February 9, 2012
This was a very intriguing and interesting book. It pulled me right in from the beginning. Liesel was a character that you care about right from the beginning. The love story is not mushy or overly done. There is lots of action to keep you on the edge of your seat. This was the first book I have read of Sue Duffy, but it won't be my last! I highly recommend it!
January 21, 2012
Great story, lots of action, suspense and some romance sprinkled in too. I loved Sue Duffy's characters - I was sad to finish this book and am looking forward to reading the next one.
Note : I was provided a free copy in exchange for an honest review. {www.usmajcole.blogspot.com}
Note : I was provided a free copy in exchange for an honest review. {www.usmajcole.blogspot.com}
August 15, 2012
Very good!
August 12, 2015
I really enjoyed this book! Once I got a few chapters into it, I didn't want to put it down!
Read
March 11, 2012Tried but just didn't get into it.
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