The Keys

by Rafael Silva

A PAIR OF KEYS COULD CHANGE SAM'S LIFE FOREVER. They unlock a story hidden away for three-quarters of a century, one that will send him on an unexpected journey. He will discover the extraordinary history of a little-known air force unit in World War II that is linked to his own family’s past.

Will his search for answers and his determination to do the right thing lead Sam to a fortune and a priceless treasure of the heart? Or will everything he experiences along the way leave him engulfed in heartache?

From New England and South Texas to Mexico City and the Philippines, THE KEYS brings to life two captivating stories generations apart.

A tale of love lost and love found. A reminder that, even when ephemeral, love can transcend time.

316 pages, Paperback

Published January 2, 2020

About the author

Rafael Silva is the author of THE KEYS and THE PACKAGE. He is a practicing physician and lives in Portland, Oregon with his wife and their pets.

Reviews

[Sally Lindsay-briggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author and Goodreads sent me this precious, poignant novel and I am very glad that it transpired. It was well written, the characters well portrayed and the two love stories were appealing. The history behind Gabby's grandfather being part of an elite Mexican group who participated in WWII (that really existed) added to the allure of the story. My only objection was that (in this day and age) Sam's mostly platonic relationship with Gabby, seemed very hard to believe.

[Louise Wardell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Goodreads for this book.

So many messages about what we have doesn't define us as much as love.
This books brings together two generations of love lost and love found,

Really enjoyed this novel.

[Ellena · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Once I started I couldn't put it down. I really enjoyed the multiple story lines and learning a bit of history I knew nothing about before. This is definitely a book for anyone who likes a "feel good" story.

[Jamie Lindemulder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stop it! I'm not crying! You're crying!!!

Seriously, this is such a sweet story of love. Sam and Gaby are the sweetest couple, and I love their story on how they come together, which is explained in the first part of the book. Sam gets a surprise of his lifetime when he inherits basically an amazing fortune. Not only does he inherit a beautiful home, money but he also discovers the love of his life.

One bad part of this novel is his friend Tony. He does offer a lot of humor, but some of the things he does just irks me (replying to Sam's mail, reading his text messages, etc). But overall, he is a good friend to Sam and has his best interest at heart.

I received this as a complimentary copy from Limbic Press. I usually read thrillers, so I more than likely I would not have chosen it. I am thankful to them for sending it, because it was definitely a very good read.

[Sherry Arp · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was pulled into this amazing story from the first line. Without even knowing all three prominent places in this book have been a huge part of my life and unknown relationships of my own. So I may have become personally invested while reading. My only complaint is that there is too much detail at times, or things were spelled out in a way that a local just wouldn't say them. I understand that details may be needed for those who are not locals, but I have read many books with local lingo from areas I am not from and was able to still follow the storyline. I realize this is a very small detail for such a catchy storyline, but I can see how it would be a turn off for some.

[Collette · Rating 4 out of 5]

With the stress of the current news situation, once I started reading this book I couldn't put it down! It was so positive and mesmerizing. Definitely a "feel good" story! I loved the history (I had no knowledge of the 201st!) and the light mystery story line. This would be the perfect beach or poolside read.

I am very appreciative of Goodreads, Mr. Silva, and Limbic Press for the free giveaway copy I received!

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed the multiple storylines within The Keys, but found the history of the Mexican fighters in WWII the best aspect of the book. The romance seemed to get a little muddled at times and the story tended to drag somewhat, but overall I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys history and romance combined!

[B. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book as a result of a Goodreads Giveaway. The historical aspects of the book are highly enjoyable, but I could have done without the romantic interludes. There were parts of the story that really dragged along, though overall the book was well written. I'd recommend this to someone who is far more into chick lit than I am.

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly a great story! How exciting for Sam to have grown up only having his sister to find out later on a whole story about their grandmother. Inheriting a love story for all generations. Jewels wealth and a home can not compare. Sam learns of a love shared between his grandmother a WW2 pilot and a Mexican soldier fight for the USA in WW2. It brings families together generations later.

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Graciously received a free copy through first reads.

This book had an OK storyline. At moments it felt like the author was forcing current trends into the story to appeal to younger readers. Overall, both love stories just fell flat to me.

[Ashley Reel · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is very light hearted and a feel good read,both of which I do t tend to like. The story has great potential but lacks depth due to a lack of conflict. Also... there’s a strange amount of name brand dropping in the book that was unnecessary

[Lisa Benton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was not what I expected. It is very interesting in regards to history. I would liken it to Titanic with Rose and Jack, or Pearl Harbor with Rafe and Evelyn, enough of a fictional love story to allow you to learn something. Well done.

[Susan Csoke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sam is soon to discover his mysterious past, and a love that cannot be forgotten. Thankyou Goodreads for this free book.

[Cat Roule · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! My first from this author, but I will definitely read another. I never thought about Mexico's involvement in WW2, now I have learned so much! A touching and heart felt story of love and life, traveling through generations. Thank you to Goodreads giveaways, Rafael Silva, and the publisher for this copy!