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Life Through a Mirror
Life Through a Mirror is a romantic murder mystery. It revolves around suspense, murder, romance, and intrigue. All of which will keep you in suspense, and not wanting to put it down. Allie and David are stuck in a web of suspense and murder. Two different people who are worlds apart. Follow Allie and David as they try to piece their shattered lives back together. Will they meet? Can they do it while fighting all the obstacles they face? A story of murder, romance, suspense, and family. As Caesar Rondina demonstrates within Life Through a Mirror , he has the ability and unique writing style to write in many genres.
About the Author
Caesar Rondina is an author, businessman, educator, paramedic, master boat captain, and father to three adult children. Born in New England, he has attended universities in the fields of Education and Business Management. He has completed extended studies in the fields of electronics, medicine, and boating. He is a licensed paramedic and pre-hospital medical practitioner, with over 35 years of working experience in the public health care system. In addition, he holds a United States Coast Guard Master Captain's license, and a National Association of Radio and Telecommunications Engineers First Class Repair and teaching certification, as well as several additional medical teaching certifications.
While in college for music education, his primary instrument was guitar, and he played in numerous venues across the country. He was a business owner for seventeen years before becoming a career firefighter and paramedic. Caesar Rondina continues to work as a paramedic and educator, and continues to write.
About the Author
Caesar Rondina is an author, businessman, educator, paramedic, master boat captain, and father to three adult children. Born in New England, he has attended universities in the fields of Education and Business Management. He has completed extended studies in the fields of electronics, medicine, and boating. He is a licensed paramedic and pre-hospital medical practitioner, with over 35 years of working experience in the public health care system. In addition, he holds a United States Coast Guard Master Captain's license, and a National Association of Radio and Telecommunications Engineers First Class Repair and teaching certification, as well as several additional medical teaching certifications.
While in college for music education, his primary instrument was guitar, and he played in numerous venues across the country. He was a business owner for seventeen years before becoming a career firefighter and paramedic. Caesar Rondina continues to work as a paramedic and educator, and continues to write.
298 pages, Paperback
Published October 2, 2018
About the author
Caesar Rondina
11 books5 followersWith over 35 years of working experience within the public health care system, Caesar Rondina has interacted with over 76,000 medical patients from different walks of life, running a range of cultures, races, and creeds. These encounters were often amplified by the intensity of a life-or-death medical situation. All things combined, Caesar Rondina’s real-life experiences along with education, have provided insight about the world we live in and how we choose to live in it.
Caesar Rondina is a Best-Selling Author, Public Speaker, and Spokesperson. As a businessperson and an educator, he produces educational video tutorials on writing that are published on udemy.com. He also holds a valid United States Coast Guard Master Boat Captain license. Caesar Rondina was born, raised, and resides in New England. He has three adult children. He has attended universities in the fields of Education and Business Management. Caesar Rondina has completed extended studies in the fields of electronics, medicine, and boating. Caesar Rondina is a licensed paramedic and pre-hospital medical practitioner and educator.
As a public speaker, he engages people. Caesar Rondina speaks at book clubs, school events, and community service events, in addition to professional speaking engagements. Caesar Rondina is involved with supporting youth groups and various other organizations. He was a business owner for 17 years before becoming a career firefighter and paramedic.
Caesar Rondina is a Best-Selling Author, Public Speaker, and Spokesperson. As a businessperson and an educator, he produces educational video tutorials on writing that are published on udemy.com. He also holds a valid United States Coast Guard Master Boat Captain license. Caesar Rondina was born, raised, and resides in New England. He has three adult children. He has attended universities in the fields of Education and Business Management. Caesar Rondina has completed extended studies in the fields of electronics, medicine, and boating. Caesar Rondina is a licensed paramedic and pre-hospital medical practitioner and educator.
As a public speaker, he engages people. Caesar Rondina speaks at book clubs, school events, and community service events, in addition to professional speaking engagements. Caesar Rondina is involved with supporting youth groups and various other organizations. He was a business owner for 17 years before becoming a career firefighter and paramedic.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
April 6, 2019
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Rondina's Life Through a Mirror will have you hooked since page 1, finishing the book in less than 2 days. Allie and David both with a past has their worlds collide in more ways than one. With acceptance and understanding, they discover the importance of family and trust in their team to overcome obstacles, clear her name of a prior murder conviction and have a fresh start.
A wonderful novel that makes the reader vested in the characters for a follow up to the series.
Rondina's Life Through a Mirror will have you hooked since page 1, finishing the book in less than 2 days. Allie and David both with a past has their worlds collide in more ways than one. With acceptance and understanding, they discover the importance of family and trust in their team to overcome obstacles, clear her name of a prior murder conviction and have a fresh start.
A wonderful novel that makes the reader vested in the characters for a follow up to the series.
March 17, 2019
Intriguing, exciting, draws the reader in from
the first word to the final one. It keeps you on
the edge of your seat!!!
Life Through a Mirror presents a story about
regrets and choices in life. Danger, drama,
suspense, secrets, trust issues, elements of
loss, disappointment, family trials, fear to love,
determination, thrills and chills plus some
steamy romance are all blended together
for an excellent read.
The story lets the reader realize that even the
most well-intentioned person can find themselves
in situations that have negative or unexpected
outcomes.
The author gets inside the heads of the characters
and presents them to the reader so you understand
the inner workings of all of each multifaceted and
dynamic characters.
Allie had a rough childhood. Finally getting out of
her home, she hits the streets. Then she wakes up
next to a dead man while holding the knife that
stabbed him. She doesn’t remember anything about
how she got there but knows she was framed plus
by whom. Now after ten years in prison, she is out
and determined to start a new life. She intends to
clear her name.
David came from a wealthy life style. He is now a
prominent criminal lawyer in New York City. Then he
lets himself get involved with loose women, drugs,
drinking, gambling and doing a favor for the mob.
The is no evidence that he was involved. He loses
his job and is disbarred. He loses his car and
apartment. He is broke. He is returning home. He
is determined to clear his name to be able to start
his life in law again.
There is instant chemistry that sparks when Allie
and David meet but both need to work on their new
goals.
This couple needs to come to grips with their past to
be able to move into a future together. Will they each
get a second chance? Will they be able to find
forgiveness, healing and love? Will they be able to
overcome what they face?
Fast paced, complexly plotted with a riveting storyline.
I volunteered to read Life Through a Mirror. Thanks to
the author and the Mystery Review Crew for the
opportunity. My opinion is my own.
the first word to the final one. It keeps you on
the edge of your seat!!!
Life Through a Mirror presents a story about
regrets and choices in life. Danger, drama,
suspense, secrets, trust issues, elements of
loss, disappointment, family trials, fear to love,
determination, thrills and chills plus some
steamy romance are all blended together
for an excellent read.
The story lets the reader realize that even the
most well-intentioned person can find themselves
in situations that have negative or unexpected
outcomes.
The author gets inside the heads of the characters
and presents them to the reader so you understand
the inner workings of all of each multifaceted and
dynamic characters.
Allie had a rough childhood. Finally getting out of
her home, she hits the streets. Then she wakes up
next to a dead man while holding the knife that
stabbed him. She doesn’t remember anything about
how she got there but knows she was framed plus
by whom. Now after ten years in prison, she is out
and determined to start a new life. She intends to
clear her name.
David came from a wealthy life style. He is now a
prominent criminal lawyer in New York City. Then he
lets himself get involved with loose women, drugs,
drinking, gambling and doing a favor for the mob.
The is no evidence that he was involved. He loses
his job and is disbarred. He loses his car and
apartment. He is broke. He is returning home. He
is determined to clear his name to be able to start
his life in law again.
There is instant chemistry that sparks when Allie
and David meet but both need to work on their new
goals.
This couple needs to come to grips with their past to
be able to move into a future together. Will they each
get a second chance? Will they be able to find
forgiveness, healing and love? Will they be able to
overcome what they face?
Fast paced, complexly plotted with a riveting storyline.
I volunteered to read Life Through a Mirror. Thanks to
the author and the Mystery Review Crew for the
opportunity. My opinion is my own.
March 16, 2019
David and Allie are both individuals with a past who stumble into being together at a difficult time in their lives. Allie is attempting to clear her name after spending time in jail for a manslaughter charge she doesn't remember committing. David has been disbarred from practicing law due to his drug-fueled lifestyle. They start investigating the events of Allie's past and battling the forces of prejudice and power that are rising against her.
While I appreciate what the author was attempting to do here, the book became very repetitive and never delved past shallow. Plot points were often shared more than twice, and while clarity is often an asset to the reader, there were numerous instances in which a feeling or experience was described in a sharp manner rather than demonstrated.
I was also challenged by the way the author described Allie and other female characters. It often centered around their physical attributes rather than any other defining characteristics, to the point that terms like "whore" and "slut" became commonplace. Many secondary characters read flat, but this was particularly disturbing when they were only associated with their sexual acts and physical assets (or deficits).
Life Through a Mirror is a fine story, but ultimately is no better than fine. I do not plan to continue the series, but am certain others would enjoy it more than I did.
**I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.**
While I appreciate what the author was attempting to do here, the book became very repetitive and never delved past shallow. Plot points were often shared more than twice, and while clarity is often an asset to the reader, there were numerous instances in which a feeling or experience was described in a sharp manner rather than demonstrated.
I was also challenged by the way the author described Allie and other female characters. It often centered around their physical attributes rather than any other defining characteristics, to the point that terms like "whore" and "slut" became commonplace. Many secondary characters read flat, but this was particularly disturbing when they were only associated with their sexual acts and physical assets (or deficits).
Life Through a Mirror is a fine story, but ultimately is no better than fine. I do not plan to continue the series, but am certain others would enjoy it more than I did.
**I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.**
March 19, 2019
I just finished Life Through A Mirror by Ceasar Rondina and I will begin by saying that it was not my cup of tea. Don't get me wrong, the premise of the story was awesome, however the execution of the author leaves much to be desired. At 279 it was not a terribly long book, but if you cut out all the of repetition, it could have been much shorter, and probably way more enjoyable. The first few chapters of any story set the stage, letting you know about the characters and the story background, it also gives you a lot of insight into the author's writing style as well. To put it mildly, I was unimpressed. Reusing words isn't a big deal most of the time, but in this case, it was daunting. Sometimes foreshadowing is a useful tool, however, it felt like the author was just filling space and trying to hook the reader. Now, for my biggest issue and pet peeve of the novel, the choppy sentence structure and the excessive editing/typographical/grammatical/continuity errors (at one point, late in the story, incorrectly spelling a major character's name and accidentally using one name where another was meant to be) continuously through out the entire book. It was a huge struggle for me to not throw it across the room. I am usually not so critical about this, as I understand that sometimes a little oopsie is missed by the author and editors, but when I lost count of how many mistakes there were, I decided I had to mention it, I was so disappointed.
David, a disbarred defense attorney, Allie, a down an out former prostitute that served time for a murder, Molly, David's mother and a shop keeper, and Lou, David's father as well as a local attorney and business person in their quaint tourist town are your main characters and the back stories for each are solidly thought out. David made some poor choices and ran with the wrong crowd, and his career and reputation were in tatters because of it. Allie had a tough go at life from a very early age, sexually assaulted by her step father, and being from a poor family in a poor town, she did what she could to survive and used her good looks and charm to get by the best she could. She turned to prostitution to get what she needed, be it money, food, clothing, transportation, or even a place to live. Her reputation within the small town community was terrible, and when a group of dirty local good ol' boys needed to get rid of one of their own, they use her as a scapegoat, she serves 10 years in prison and gets her life together while doing so, despite being in for a crime she has been vocal about not committing. She meets Molly while looking for work a few towns over from where she had grown up, and becomes close with her and her husband Lou. David returns home for Thanksgiving and to ask his family for help, after he exhausts all his resources and can no longer get by on his own. This sets into motion the efforts of everyone to fix their lives. Spoiler, I was not happy that David suffers NO PUNISHMENT FOR HIS WRONG-DOING! The romance/sex scene was bizarre and I don't feel it really brought anything to the story, it felt thrown in and poorly executed. Only after trudging through what seemed like (and in fact was) over a hundred pages of blah blah blah did the story finally pick up and become a more pleasurable read. At the request of Lou, Russel (probably the coolest character in the whole story to be honest) a long time family friend and private investigator with resources galore, gets involved in hunting down the backgrounds and digging dirt on the men and women who were involved in framing Allie. The investigation is really the high point and for the most part, that was all Russel and his team. All in all, I would not recommend this one to my friends or family.
I received this book from the author/publisher and was allowed to read it for free and review it. This fact has in no way swayed my opinions of the story, and all above opinions are my own.
David, a disbarred defense attorney, Allie, a down an out former prostitute that served time for a murder, Molly, David's mother and a shop keeper, and Lou, David's father as well as a local attorney and business person in their quaint tourist town are your main characters and the back stories for each are solidly thought out. David made some poor choices and ran with the wrong crowd, and his career and reputation were in tatters because of it. Allie had a tough go at life from a very early age, sexually assaulted by her step father, and being from a poor family in a poor town, she did what she could to survive and used her good looks and charm to get by the best she could. She turned to prostitution to get what she needed, be it money, food, clothing, transportation, or even a place to live. Her reputation within the small town community was terrible, and when a group of dirty local good ol' boys needed to get rid of one of their own, they use her as a scapegoat, she serves 10 years in prison and gets her life together while doing so, despite being in for a crime she has been vocal about not committing. She meets Molly while looking for work a few towns over from where she had grown up, and becomes close with her and her husband Lou. David returns home for Thanksgiving and to ask his family for help, after he exhausts all his resources and can no longer get by on his own. This sets into motion the efforts of everyone to fix their lives. Spoiler, I was not happy that David suffers NO PUNISHMENT FOR HIS WRONG-DOING! The romance/sex scene was bizarre and I don't feel it really brought anything to the story, it felt thrown in and poorly executed. Only after trudging through what seemed like (and in fact was) over a hundred pages of blah blah blah did the story finally pick up and become a more pleasurable read. At the request of Lou, Russel (probably the coolest character in the whole story to be honest) a long time family friend and private investigator with resources galore, gets involved in hunting down the backgrounds and digging dirt on the men and women who were involved in framing Allie. The investigation is really the high point and for the most part, that was all Russel and his team. All in all, I would not recommend this one to my friends or family.
I received this book from the author/publisher and was allowed to read it for free and review it. This fact has in no way swayed my opinions of the story, and all above opinions are my own.
July 25, 2021
SPOILERS AHEAD...
I had the opportunity to review a copy of this book and the general premise is ok, I have to take into consideration that I received a draft copy, not the final draft (which the author had told me ) so I am not sure if some of the points I mention were corrected or removed.
Firstly, the story was good, it started of strong with the introduction of our main characters Allie and David. We got a sneak peek into their pasts; it was a good way to build up each character and get a sense of where their motivations were coming from. With Allie we also had the mystery of the murder she was wrongly accused for.
Once they arrived back in David's hometown fate had bought them together, disgraced in the city David was coming back home and Allie had arrived to start a new life there. Coincidentally Allie started working for Molly- David’s mother.
David’s hometown was a close-knit community and well established with his father having a lot of influence there. After leaving her previous home and a 10-year time in prison Allie was ready to move on and set up her own family counselling business hoping for a fresh start and to eventually find a way to get her name clear. Her situation paired perfectly with David’s return as he was a criminal defense attorney looking to start fresh too.
Allie and David were taken aback by each other but because of what they went through wanted to stay friends. That for me would have been a better conclusion for them as I did not like how their relationship was portrayed in the story. If we were teased Allie and David to become a potential couple and maybe see that happen towards the end of the story AFTER the trial, I might have been more invested in their relationship.
The way they got together romantically and everything else felt too rushed and especially towards the end when David got a call from Sharon (his counselor) Allies reaction felt over the top and ridiculous considering everything they went through prior.
Allie was already connected to the family via Molly and the women had formed a good friendship, so her relationship with David almost felt slightly forced.
In my opening Allie (in the beginning) was a survivor and was someone who made it through hardships, and I feel she lost some of that character when she met David and his Family. The family unit as a whole great, but Allie could still remain independent without being with David.
David was on the course for redemption, while he was at his old firm he was involved with gangsters and bad people so getting the opportunity to represent Allie an actual innocent person was a great way for his character to come full circle. When he came home, he really had to humble himself and face up to his consequences, losing his licence and having to fight to get it back. The lead up to him finally telling Lou about what happened was great, the tension, the regret was all there and the scene when the family had to lay all the truths on the table was good.
Lastly, I felt that the story had a bad habit of re repeating moments or filling it in with unnecessary dialogue and action. It made the story longer than it needed to be and almost felt like continuous repetition and waffle but again this could be because of the copy I received.
Onto what I liked, the whole mystery surrounding councilman Jack’s murder, was so enjoyable and done well. I really like suspense thrillers and David, Lou and his legal team trying to piece together the evidence was great.
Carol and Tom trying to hound Allie and the effect that had on Allie every time, even though Allie had left her own town her demons kept chasing her I felt bad considering she was ready to move on but there were people like Tom who where ready to do what ever it takes to stop her.
Carol's Death and Allie new trial, had me shocked and was unexpected I knew as the story was racing towards the end there was going to be something to stop the family to get to their goal.
Lastly the final trial, when they were able to get everyone involved, uncovered the truth and finding out that Tom was involved in something much bigger.
Overall, the story was good there were parts which I didn’t really like however it didn’t affect my feelings towards the overall arc which was clearing Allie’s name.
This was the first book in a trilogy, and I will be reading the other books as it’s opened up to a lot of other character’s and potentially people out to avenge Tom who may come back. David and Allie are expecting a baby, so I am curious to see how this goes on to affect their dynamic.
I had the opportunity to review a copy of this book and the general premise is ok, I have to take into consideration that I received a draft copy, not the final draft (which the author had told me ) so I am not sure if some of the points I mention were corrected or removed.
Firstly, the story was good, it started of strong with the introduction of our main characters Allie and David. We got a sneak peek into their pasts; it was a good way to build up each character and get a sense of where their motivations were coming from. With Allie we also had the mystery of the murder she was wrongly accused for.
Once they arrived back in David's hometown fate had bought them together, disgraced in the city David was coming back home and Allie had arrived to start a new life there. Coincidentally Allie started working for Molly- David’s mother.
David’s hometown was a close-knit community and well established with his father having a lot of influence there. After leaving her previous home and a 10-year time in prison Allie was ready to move on and set up her own family counselling business hoping for a fresh start and to eventually find a way to get her name clear. Her situation paired perfectly with David’s return as he was a criminal defense attorney looking to start fresh too.
Allie and David were taken aback by each other but because of what they went through wanted to stay friends. That for me would have been a better conclusion for them as I did not like how their relationship was portrayed in the story. If we were teased Allie and David to become a potential couple and maybe see that happen towards the end of the story AFTER the trial, I might have been more invested in their relationship.
The way they got together romantically and everything else felt too rushed and especially towards the end when David got a call from Sharon (his counselor) Allies reaction felt over the top and ridiculous considering everything they went through prior.
Allie was already connected to the family via Molly and the women had formed a good friendship, so her relationship with David almost felt slightly forced.
In my opening Allie (in the beginning) was a survivor and was someone who made it through hardships, and I feel she lost some of that character when she met David and his Family. The family unit as a whole great, but Allie could still remain independent without being with David.
David was on the course for redemption, while he was at his old firm he was involved with gangsters and bad people so getting the opportunity to represent Allie an actual innocent person was a great way for his character to come full circle. When he came home, he really had to humble himself and face up to his consequences, losing his licence and having to fight to get it back. The lead up to him finally telling Lou about what happened was great, the tension, the regret was all there and the scene when the family had to lay all the truths on the table was good.
Lastly, I felt that the story had a bad habit of re repeating moments or filling it in with unnecessary dialogue and action. It made the story longer than it needed to be and almost felt like continuous repetition and waffle but again this could be because of the copy I received.
Onto what I liked, the whole mystery surrounding councilman Jack’s murder, was so enjoyable and done well. I really like suspense thrillers and David, Lou and his legal team trying to piece together the evidence was great.
Carol and Tom trying to hound Allie and the effect that had on Allie every time, even though Allie had left her own town her demons kept chasing her I felt bad considering she was ready to move on but there were people like Tom who where ready to do what ever it takes to stop her.
Carol's Death and Allie new trial, had me shocked and was unexpected I knew as the story was racing towards the end there was going to be something to stop the family to get to their goal.
Lastly the final trial, when they were able to get everyone involved, uncovered the truth and finding out that Tom was involved in something much bigger.
Overall, the story was good there were parts which I didn’t really like however it didn’t affect my feelings towards the overall arc which was clearing Allie’s name.
This was the first book in a trilogy, and I will be reading the other books as it’s opened up to a lot of other character’s and potentially people out to avenge Tom who may come back. David and Allie are expecting a baby, so I am curious to see how this goes on to affect their dynamic.
February 13, 2021
Book Review
Basic Details:
Book Title: Life Through a Mirror
Subtitle:
Author: Caesar Rondina
Genre: Thriller/Suspense
Part of a series? Yes
Order in series: 1
Best read after earlier books in series?
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
Overall score:
I scored this book 3/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
We follow Allie and David as they find their lives at a low level. Both want to start their life anew. And as they walk on the road to a new life, they find themselves collecting more problems, intrigue and the danger of spending life in jail for a crime not committed.
What I liked about the book:
This book carries a great story and is difficult to put down.
What I didn’t like about the book:
The writing style could be improved.
My favourite bits in the book:
The entire book was easy to read and had me hooked.
My least favourite bits in the book:
The book was enjoyable in its entirety.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
This book is the first in a series.
What books could this be compared to and why?
This book is reminiscent of other suspense novels, although the writing style is rather unpolished.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Yes
Adult Yes
If you enjoy suspenseful thrillers, this book may be the book for you.
I look forward to reading more books by this author.
Book Description by Author:
Allie came from a small New England town. David also came from the same area, but a few towns over. Growing up they never met. He loved the fast-paced life of the city. After college he moved to the big city. Two different ways of life. Both living and trying to survive in different environments. They both had a past. A past that followed them into their present, which was affecting their individual futures. No matter what they tried to do, their past was always there to haunt them. Two people hundreds of miles away and worlds apart. Could they ever meet? Will they ever meet? Will their paths ever cross?
About the Author:
With over 35 years of working experience within the public health care system, Caesar Rondina has interacted with over 76,000 medical patients from different walks of life, running a range of cultures, races, and creeds. These encounters were often amplified by the intensity of a life-or-death medical situation. All things combined, Caesar Rondina’s real-life experiences along with education, have provided insight about the world we live in and how we choose to live in it.
Caesar Rondina is a Best-Selling Author, Public Speaker, and Spokesperson. As a businessperson and an educator, he produces educational video tutorials on writing that are published on udemy.com. He also holds a valid United States Coast Guard Master Boat Captain license. Caesar Rondina was born, raised, and resides in New England. He has three adult children. He has attended universities in the fields of Education and Business Management. Caesar Rondina has completed extended studies in the fields of electronics, medicine, and boating. Caesar Rondina is a licensed paramedic and pre-hospital medical practitioner and educator.
As a public speaker, he engages people. Caesar Rondina speaks at book clubs, school events, and community service events, in addition to professional speaking engagements. Caesar Rondina is involved with supporting youth groups and various other organizations. He was a business owner for 17 years before becoming a career firefighter and paramedic.
Basic Details:
Book Title: Life Through a Mirror
Subtitle:
Author: Caesar Rondina
Genre: Thriller/Suspense
Part of a series? Yes
Order in series: 1
Best read after earlier books in series?
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
Overall score:
I scored this book 3/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
We follow Allie and David as they find their lives at a low level. Both want to start their life anew. And as they walk on the road to a new life, they find themselves collecting more problems, intrigue and the danger of spending life in jail for a crime not committed.
What I liked about the book:
This book carries a great story and is difficult to put down.
What I didn’t like about the book:
The writing style could be improved.
My favourite bits in the book:
The entire book was easy to read and had me hooked.
My least favourite bits in the book:
The book was enjoyable in its entirety.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
This book is the first in a series.
What books could this be compared to and why?
This book is reminiscent of other suspense novels, although the writing style is rather unpolished.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Yes
Adult Yes
If you enjoy suspenseful thrillers, this book may be the book for you.
I look forward to reading more books by this author.
Book Description by Author:
Allie came from a small New England town. David also came from the same area, but a few towns over. Growing up they never met. He loved the fast-paced life of the city. After college he moved to the big city. Two different ways of life. Both living and trying to survive in different environments. They both had a past. A past that followed them into their present, which was affecting their individual futures. No matter what they tried to do, their past was always there to haunt them. Two people hundreds of miles away and worlds apart. Could they ever meet? Will they ever meet? Will their paths ever cross?
About the Author:
With over 35 years of working experience within the public health care system, Caesar Rondina has interacted with over 76,000 medical patients from different walks of life, running a range of cultures, races, and creeds. These encounters were often amplified by the intensity of a life-or-death medical situation. All things combined, Caesar Rondina’s real-life experiences along with education, have provided insight about the world we live in and how we choose to live in it.
Caesar Rondina is a Best-Selling Author, Public Speaker, and Spokesperson. As a businessperson and an educator, he produces educational video tutorials on writing that are published on udemy.com. He also holds a valid United States Coast Guard Master Boat Captain license. Caesar Rondina was born, raised, and resides in New England. He has three adult children. He has attended universities in the fields of Education and Business Management. Caesar Rondina has completed extended studies in the fields of electronics, medicine, and boating. Caesar Rondina is a licensed paramedic and pre-hospital medical practitioner and educator.
As a public speaker, he engages people. Caesar Rondina speaks at book clubs, school events, and community service events, in addition to professional speaking engagements. Caesar Rondina is involved with supporting youth groups and various other organizations. He was a business owner for 17 years before becoming a career firefighter and paramedic.
March 31, 2019
Life Through a Mirror by Caesar Rondina
Narrated by Marnye Young
This audiobook was quite entertaining as a romance/mystery. I liked it, but it took awhile to get used to the way Caesar Rondina ended some of the chapters. Not all the chapters were like this, but many of the earlier chapters ended with several questions like: “Will David be able to put his past behind him?” It kind of reminded me of The Sandlot when the narrator kept saying, “We were about to be in the biggest pickle of our lives.” After a while, I got used to it and thought it was endearing.
The characterization is very thorough. I felt as if I knew the main characters. Their actions were totally believable and realistic. The dialogue seemed a little immature for characters in their 30’s. There were some parts that were repetitive, but maybe I only noticed that because it was an audiobook. The web of characters created an intricate weave of details that all came together in the end to solve the mystery.
As far as the mystery plot goes, it was very predictable. I didn’t really notice any red herrings. The foreshadowing was clumsy and repetitive. It was full of clichés and had a gratuitous sex scene that was awkward at best. David is a defense attorney in NYC who got into trouble by stealing evidence from a big case. He was disbarred but later reinstated. He got away scot-free with his crimes. Allie was like Pretty Woman. A prostitute with a big heart who had a rule to never kiss her clients on the mouth. What??? She had just been released from prison for murdering a man. Right from the beginning of the story, I was able to determine that she was innocent, and I knew exactly who the real perp was. At the end, everything tied up into a neat little bow just like a Charles Dickens story, except I saw it coming from a mile away.
Marnye Young narrated this story and I have never heard such deliberate annunciation. Her voice-changes for different characters helped me keep clear in my mind who was speaking. She enthusiastically read each line as it was written. If the dialogue called from something different, Young had no inhibitions about providing that extra quality. Her voice was very dramatic.
I was given a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Narrated by Marnye Young
This audiobook was quite entertaining as a romance/mystery. I liked it, but it took awhile to get used to the way Caesar Rondina ended some of the chapters. Not all the chapters were like this, but many of the earlier chapters ended with several questions like: “Will David be able to put his past behind him?” It kind of reminded me of The Sandlot when the narrator kept saying, “We were about to be in the biggest pickle of our lives.” After a while, I got used to it and thought it was endearing.
The characterization is very thorough. I felt as if I knew the main characters. Their actions were totally believable and realistic. The dialogue seemed a little immature for characters in their 30’s. There were some parts that were repetitive, but maybe I only noticed that because it was an audiobook. The web of characters created an intricate weave of details that all came together in the end to solve the mystery.
As far as the mystery plot goes, it was very predictable. I didn’t really notice any red herrings. The foreshadowing was clumsy and repetitive. It was full of clichés and had a gratuitous sex scene that was awkward at best. David is a defense attorney in NYC who got into trouble by stealing evidence from a big case. He was disbarred but later reinstated. He got away scot-free with his crimes. Allie was like Pretty Woman. A prostitute with a big heart who had a rule to never kiss her clients on the mouth. What??? She had just been released from prison for murdering a man. Right from the beginning of the story, I was able to determine that she was innocent, and I knew exactly who the real perp was. At the end, everything tied up into a neat little bow just like a Charles Dickens story, except I saw it coming from a mile away.
Marnye Young narrated this story and I have never heard such deliberate annunciation. Her voice-changes for different characters helped me keep clear in my mind who was speaking. She enthusiastically read each line as it was written. If the dialogue called from something different, Young had no inhibitions about providing that extra quality. Her voice was very dramatic.
I was given a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
April 6, 2019
I liked the premise of the book and I tried to like the book itself, but I just couldn’t get into it. I received a copy of the audiobook for free in exchange for an review; my opinions are my own.
I will start by saying that I disliked the narrator’s voice and style; everything was overly enunciated. I may have enjoyed this more if I had read the book instead of listening to it. For adults in their 30s, Allie and David had a limited world view and their dialogue was quite bland. The book needs a thorough editing to remove all repetitive phrases such as “She was alone in the room; no one else was there.” - I’m paraphrasing here but there were many places in the book where this occurs and if you are listening to an audiobook read by someone who uses the same cheery inflection and modulation for every sentence, it is akin to dying a slow death as you are pecked to death by baby ducks...
I didn’t think the part about both never catching an STD was believable; she always made her customers wear a condom and he had lots of sex alternately described as an art form and lots of quickies - sometimes several a night but no mention of condoms for him- just not believeable or realistic. If I’m going to read about sordid and gritty lifestyles of two lovers, I don’t want two people gazing into each other’s eyes as they respect each other and themselves, wanting the moment to be perfect. I won’t ruin the ending for anyone, as I’m sure there are people that would love this book; it just wasn’t my cup of tea. If the author’s editor had asked that he cuts what doesn’t bleed and to show what’s going on instead of telling, this would be a much more enjoyable book. I think the premise of the book is good, but I found it to be more of a romance novel than a murder mystery.
I will start by saying that I disliked the narrator’s voice and style; everything was overly enunciated. I may have enjoyed this more if I had read the book instead of listening to it. For adults in their 30s, Allie and David had a limited world view and their dialogue was quite bland. The book needs a thorough editing to remove all repetitive phrases such as “She was alone in the room; no one else was there.” - I’m paraphrasing here but there were many places in the book where this occurs and if you are listening to an audiobook read by someone who uses the same cheery inflection and modulation for every sentence, it is akin to dying a slow death as you are pecked to death by baby ducks...
I didn’t think the part about both never catching an STD was believable; she always made her customers wear a condom and he had lots of sex alternately described as an art form and lots of quickies - sometimes several a night but no mention of condoms for him- just not believeable or realistic. If I’m going to read about sordid and gritty lifestyles of two lovers, I don’t want two people gazing into each other’s eyes as they respect each other and themselves, wanting the moment to be perfect. I won’t ruin the ending for anyone, as I’m sure there are people that would love this book; it just wasn’t my cup of tea. If the author’s editor had asked that he cuts what doesn’t bleed and to show what’s going on instead of telling, this would be a much more enjoyable book. I think the premise of the book is good, but I found it to be more of a romance novel than a murder mystery.
June 24, 2020
Allie has lived a troubled life, with a past she can't seem to escape. No longer welcome in her New England hometown, the result of a murder she (allegedly) committed a decade prior, she takes a chance on a new beginning a few towns over. She lands a job in a clothing shop. The owner is aware of her past, but she believes her when she says she didn't do it and takes a chance on her. The shop owner and her husband, one of the top lawyers in the region, are stunned when their hot-shot-lawyer son travels from New York City to visit for Thanksgiving and reveals that he, too, is being haunted by poor decisions he made in his past. That sets off a chain of intertwining events that isn't resolved until the very last pages. Twists include a sheriff in Allie's hometown who goes to great lengths to make sure she leaves the past alone, a New York acquaintance of David's who could put his new present in jeopardy, and a hunting knife that seemingly vanishes in thin air, putting the future of a main character up in the air with it.
Caesar Rondina packs a lot of action and drama into these 250 pages, but there is still ample time devoted to fleshing out backstories and developing relationships. My only issue: The repeated use of ominous foreshadowing. Things like "no one knew that today would be the pivotal day that would affect the rest of their lives" or "Could they do the unthinkable, endure this pain in the name of love and family? Only time would tell." I understand wanting to pique the interest of readers by teasing them with upcoming twists, but there were far too many of them, and they almost all felt extraneous. The book would have read fine, even better, without a lot of the written nudges. But all in all, "Life Through a Mirror" was well worth the time.
Caesar Rondina packs a lot of action and drama into these 250 pages, but there is still ample time devoted to fleshing out backstories and developing relationships. My only issue: The repeated use of ominous foreshadowing. Things like "no one knew that today would be the pivotal day that would affect the rest of their lives" or "Could they do the unthinkable, endure this pain in the name of love and family? Only time would tell." I understand wanting to pique the interest of readers by teasing them with upcoming twists, but there were far too many of them, and they almost all felt extraneous. The book would have read fine, even better, without a lot of the written nudges. But all in all, "Life Through a Mirror" was well worth the time.
February 25, 2021
I was offered a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
First, the good- the concept of this legal thriller is good, a long-ago murder and framing of an innocent person, leading to a much deeper set of crimes.
Now, the bad -
1. The story needs some serious editing. It could be at least 50 pages shorter, as there was a lot of repetitiveness.
2. The storyline between David and Allie is so superficial, and clearly written by a man. Allie is beautiful, but what else is there? She has no depth. She and David are both completely immature although they are 35. The breakup over a phone call was ridiculous. That entire argument should go into the trash.
3. Molly and Lou are the perfect parents- but really, who is like this? They completely accept David’s story of law-breaking, disbarment, drug abuse, sexual proclivity, and involvement with gangsters without any consequences? Seems highly unlikely.
4. There is a LOT of repetition, as well as basic explanations and asides in this novel. It is almost as if the author is putting everything they can think of on paper, and then says - oh, let me explain my thoughts. Again, an editor is desperately needed.
5. The crimes Tom was accused of doing were vast. I think that the author threw every possible crime in. Perhaps it would have been more believable with one or two crimes, vs. the long list of crimes included.
I truly believe that a good editor could polish this story, eliminate repetition, and develop the characters better.
#BookTasters
First, the good- the concept of this legal thriller is good, a long-ago murder and framing of an innocent person, leading to a much deeper set of crimes.
Now, the bad -
1. The story needs some serious editing. It could be at least 50 pages shorter, as there was a lot of repetitiveness.
2. The storyline between David and Allie is so superficial, and clearly written by a man. Allie is beautiful, but what else is there? She has no depth. She and David are both completely immature although they are 35. The breakup over a phone call was ridiculous. That entire argument should go into the trash.
3. Molly and Lou are the perfect parents- but really, who is like this? They completely accept David’s story of law-breaking, disbarment, drug abuse, sexual proclivity, and involvement with gangsters without any consequences? Seems highly unlikely.
4. There is a LOT of repetition, as well as basic explanations and asides in this novel. It is almost as if the author is putting everything they can think of on paper, and then says - oh, let me explain my thoughts. Again, an editor is desperately needed.
5. The crimes Tom was accused of doing were vast. I think that the author threw every possible crime in. Perhaps it would have been more believable with one or two crimes, vs. the long list of crimes included.
I truly believe that a good editor could polish this story, eliminate repetition, and develop the characters better.
#BookTasters
January 31, 2019
Sometimes it is impossible to outrun your past. This is true for Allie and David. They grew up a few towns away from each other at the same time but never met. In their adult life, they are struggling to deal with past traumas that they can’t run away from. The story follows both characters, switching from one perspective to the other every chapter. The book begins with secrets, and they continue to pile on throughout the story. Author Caesar Rondina explores murder, romance, and mystery in his story ‘Life Through a mirror. The book is filled with lots of twists and turns so as the reader you are constantly second-guessing and wondering. This makes the book hard to put down, and it is a quick read. Rondina writes in a unique manner, exploring his story is a way that really brings you into the lives of his characters and their feelings as you get to know them.
I really liked getting to know Allie and David as characters. They have a lot of depth and a lot of time is giving to building them up into real people, people with pasts, hurts, wants…. Seeing the mirroring of their lives was really interesting, and I just couldn’t wait to find out if they ever got to meet! The story is exciting, fast passed, thrilling, and leaves you wanting more. I greatly enjoyed reading this book and would definitely recommend it, if you love mystery, murder, romance, stories then this is a must-read. I am looking forward to seeing the story continue in the next book!
I really liked getting to know Allie and David as characters. They have a lot of depth and a lot of time is giving to building them up into real people, people with pasts, hurts, wants…. Seeing the mirroring of their lives was really interesting, and I just couldn’t wait to find out if they ever got to meet! The story is exciting, fast passed, thrilling, and leaves you wanting more. I greatly enjoyed reading this book and would definitely recommend it, if you love mystery, murder, romance, stories then this is a must-read. I am looking forward to seeing the story continue in the next book!
December 7, 2020
A neatly woven story where characters with different legal and moral/ethical issues come together and their lives and cases become intertwined. At times I had trouble relating to any of the female characters however, the story remained entertaining and interesting to read through to the conclusion for this novel.
The story is centered around the law, the abuse of it and the proper use of it. One of the main characters David - is a lawyer who has struggled with following the law and other female lead character - Allie has been a victim of society and the law.
Overall an interesting tale about the law with some suspense and lots of investigative work applied.
The story is centered around the law, the abuse of it and the proper use of it. One of the main characters David - is a lawyer who has struggled with following the law and other female lead character - Allie has been a victim of society and the law.
Overall an interesting tale about the law with some suspense and lots of investigative work applied.
November 21, 2018
Life Through A Mirror is the story of Allie and David. They are two people that don't know each other in the beginning, and they might have never known each other had their lives not gone in the weird and twisted directions they went in. However, they do meet, and it's pretty much love at first sight.
There is murder, corruption and more. And the two just might come to depend on one another.
What happens next? What secrets lie in their pasts? You'll have to read the book if you really want to know.
There is murder, corruption and more. And the two just might come to depend on one another.
What happens next? What secrets lie in their pasts? You'll have to read the book if you really want to know.
December 19, 2020
I was honored to receive a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book is interesting from the get-go. It is a charming story, bringing together past, present, and future. Two people, worlds apart in some ways, find each other and grow together. Both with baggage, both with regrets, both with the deep desire to be seen.
The book was not long and an easy read, a testament to the writing of Rondina. His use of repetition in word usage adds emphasis to what is important, and makes the story flow.
If you want a story of hope and finding oneself, read this book.
This book is interesting from the get-go. It is a charming story, bringing together past, present, and future. Two people, worlds apart in some ways, find each other and grow together. Both with baggage, both with regrets, both with the deep desire to be seen.
The book was not long and an easy read, a testament to the writing of Rondina. His use of repetition in word usage adds emphasis to what is important, and makes the story flow.
If you want a story of hope and finding oneself, read this book.
July 9, 2021
The characters Allie and David are really well described and you really feel for them through their journey. The book is gripping and well written, it draws you in to want to keep reading and not put it down. I highly recommend reading this book. It is part of a 3 part series but you don't have to read the other books as well to read this good read.
January 29, 2019
Sometimes it is impossible to outrun your past. This is true for Allie and David. They grew up a few towns away from each other at the same time but never met. In their adult life, they are struggling to deal with past traumas that they can’t run away from. The story follows both characters, switching from one perspective to the other every chapter. The book begins with secrets, and they continue to pile on throughout the story. Author Caesar Rondina explores murder, romance, and mystery in his story ‘Life Through a mirror. The book is filled with lots of twists and turns so as the reader you are constantly second-guessing and wondering. This makes the book hard to put down, and it is a quick read. Rondina writes in a unique manner, exploring his story is a way that really brings you into the lives of his characters and their feelings as you get to know them.
I really liked getting to know Allie and David as characters. They have a lot of depth and a lot of time is giving to building them up into real people, people with pasts, hurts, wants…. Seeing the mirroring of their lives was really interesting, and I just couldn’t wait to find out if they ever got to meet! The story is exciting, fast passed, thrilling, and leaves you wanting more. I greatly enjoyed reading this book and would definitely recommend it, if you love mystery, murder, romance, stories then this is a must-read. I am looking forward to seeing the story continue in the next book!
I really liked getting to know Allie and David as characters. They have a lot of depth and a lot of time is giving to building them up into real people, people with pasts, hurts, wants…. Seeing the mirroring of their lives was really interesting, and I just couldn’t wait to find out if they ever got to meet! The story is exciting, fast passed, thrilling, and leaves you wanting more. I greatly enjoyed reading this book and would definitely recommend it, if you love mystery, murder, romance, stories then this is a must-read. I am looking forward to seeing the story continue in the next book!
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