The Printed Page

Heart of Diamonds: A Novel of Scandal, Love and Death in the Congo
Web site for Heart of Diamonds
Kunati Inc., September ’08
352 pages
Thriller, suspense, mystery
Book provided by the author
Book #100/08

I enjoyed this book. It had everything I was looking for ~ entertainment, action, suspense and mystery along with intrigue and a dash of romance. The setting is the modern day Congo torn apart by conflicting governments and warring military factions. Now throw in a greedy televangelist, along with his henchman, who has the US president in his back pocket while illegally exporting dangerously mined diamonds. Add into the mix caring, humanitarian-focused doctors working among villagers trying to survive these very real, horrific, life-threatening living conditions. Lastly insert one intrepid female reporter attempting to report a story and bring public awareness to the situation at hand and you have a first-rate story based on current, real time events.

This story kept me turning pages as the action unfolded and, at times, it broke my heart following the story from the US to the Congo and back again and again. There were car chases, cross country treks, shadowy alphabet agency assassins, characters literally running for their very lives. There were tender moments between the villagers and the medical staff. Between a grandmother and her grandchildren who she seeks to protect. A romance ending and one beginning. While Mr. Donelson weaves a gripping, tantalizing tale he also brings into focus what the citizens of this country must live with day in and day out. The harsh conditions of terror and strife that make up their lives. The constant worrying about family and the simple routines of daily survival.

If you’re looking for good book to settle down with I’d suggest this one, Heart of Diamonds.