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Heart of Lies
“A sweeping saga reminiscent of Jeffrey Archer and Susan Howatch, Heart of Lies is brilliantly researched and beautifully written. I could not put this book down.”
—Karen White, New York Times bestselling author of The Girl on Legare Street A smart, exciting historical suspense novel set in Europe, Shanghai, and New York before World War II, Heart of Lies is a breathtaking introduction to M. L. Malcolm. This extraordinary new writer immediately takes an honored place among Frederick Forsyth ( The Day of the Jackal ), Ken Follett ( Eye of the Needle ), Susan Howatch ( Glittering Images ), and other masters of compelling historical fiction. Inspired by true events in the author’s family’s past, Heart of Lies is an extraordinary reading experience that Library Journal praises as, “A superbly crafted story, creatively capturing a slice of history with eloquence and realism.”
—Karen White, New York Times bestselling author of The Girl on Legare Street A smart, exciting historical suspense novel set in Europe, Shanghai, and New York before World War II, Heart of Lies is a breathtaking introduction to M. L. Malcolm. This extraordinary new writer immediately takes an honored place among Frederick Forsyth ( The Day of the Jackal ), Ken Follett ( Eye of the Needle ), Susan Howatch ( Glittering Images ), and other masters of compelling historical fiction. Inspired by true events in the author’s family’s past, Heart of Lies is an extraordinary reading experience that Library Journal praises as, “A superbly crafted story, creatively capturing a slice of history with eloquence and realism.”
336 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
3 people are currently reading
238 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
January 8, 2016
I loved the premise of the story but the first half of the book was just slow moving and it was hard to grasp such a "big romance" from it. I really was intrigued with Shanghai and learning about this fascinating city in the 1920's and 1930's. The last half of the book picked up speed and held my interest. I'd say this was more of a 2 1/2 stars.
November 18, 2017
Another book set during the war an era i am fascinated by no matter where it is set.This novel goes from England to Paris to Shanghai to New York. A love story and a spy story and a good foto of Shanghai as a place of refuge for people fleeing their countries their lives their past. well described ,you can smell the port of Shanghai as the boat lands. well written and i was certainly caught up in the story . I am fascinated by the bravery of people especially women during wartime ,I am impressed by their ability to find ways to deal with impossible and very hard times.
July 23, 2014
Another book that came out of nowhere and it attracted my attention by its subject; a page turner with a great setup and a main hero who is willing to do what it takes to survive and protect his family in very unsettled circumstances when the availability or lack of a passport could mean the difference between life and death, when being Jewish could be a death sentence...
In the vein of the exile novels of EM Remarque, I loved this book and I am looking forward to its sequel set for this year - originally the books were published in 2008 by a small press but they were picked by Harper Collins and reissued in 2010 and 2011
Edit: I actually reread this once and it was even more enjoyable the second time and I really want to read the sequel - in some ways this book reminded me of the awesome Invisible Bridge and while it it a much lighter version of that, there are some similarities
In the vein of the exile novels of EM Remarque, I loved this book and I am looking forward to its sequel set for this year - originally the books were published in 2008 by a small press but they were picked by Harper Collins and reissued in 2010 and 2011
Edit: I actually reread this once and it was even more enjoyable the second time and I really want to read the sequel - in some ways this book reminded me of the awesome Invisible Bridge and while it it a much lighter version of that, there are some similarities
May 4, 2026
Picked this up at Value Village on a day when I needed a distraction, and ended up loving it!
An intriguing read about morality and the lengths someone will go to survive. I learned a lot about Hungary and Shanghai during WWII which was fascinating! I loved all the characters, and the twists were great.
An intriguing read about morality and the lengths someone will go to survive. I learned a lot about Hungary and Shanghai during WWII which was fascinating! I loved all the characters, and the twists were great.
February 1, 2015
Is your book club looking to go on a grand journey this summer? You need go no further than M.L. Malcolm’s international adventure, Heart of Lies. Fans of Water for Elephants will enjoy the historical aspects of the book. Devotees of Shanghai Girls will love the inside glimpse at the exotic settings—including Shanghai, Budapest, Paris, and Manhattan. Followers of Ken Follett, Jeffrey Archer and David Baldacci will love the political intrigue angle. And admirers of Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet will love the fact that Heart of Lies is also an old-fashioned love story.
Born a Hungarian peasant, Leo Hoffman leverages his good looks, wit, and a gift for languages and social mimicry to become a rich and powerful man, only to have circumstances and naive choices from his past threaten everything he holds dear.
Set in Europe, Asia and The New World, Leo’s escapades sweep you across the globe. The tumultuous history of the time period—1920’s and 30’s—helps to drive the plot. I love this period of history between the two World Wars, and Ms. Malcolm sprinkles some wonderful tidbits plucked from history into Leo’s story, such as the Hungarian counterfeiting scandal of 1925, the manipulation of the rubber market in 1926, Chiang Kai-shek’s weakening hold on China, the bombing of Shanghai in 1937, and the Japanese invasion of Shanghai, the rise of Hitler’s power, and the Jews fleeing from Germany and Europe…Whew! OK—maybe she does more than ‘sprinkle’…There’s definitely some meat to the history piece!
Although Malcolm tells a fast-moving adventure story, it is not at the expense of the characters, dialogue or prose. Ms. Malcolm’s vivid descriptions and meticulous research are reflected in the language of Leo’s story. Here’s what she writes as the soldiers returned to Hungary after their defeat in WWI:
“Honor and country had called them to the battlefield of Europe and then abandoned them there, where a weary grayness drifted into their eyes, settled into their hearts, and wrapped around their souls, souls that had been slit open and sucked dry by the beast of the Great War.”
Besides Leo, you will root for the two loves of Leo’s life: his wife, Martha, the great beauty with the lovely voice, and his daughter, Maddy, with her infectious laughter and gift for music. You’ll also meet two characters you will love to hate: Amelia, the scheming temptress, and Lui Tue-Sheng, the powerful head of the Chinese mafia who has a secret hold on Leo’s life. Although Leo denounces his heritage and reinvents himself time after time, he seems to be unable to leave his past behind him—which threatens his future and that of his family.
And though the book is set up for a sequel to follow, I felt the major plot pieces were suitably closed so that the reader feels satisfied, and yet eagerly awaiting that next book for more of Leo and Maddy’s exploits. (Watch for Heart of Deception releasing next year.)
Ms. Malcolm deals with themes that book clubs will want to discuss such as Survival and Perseverance; Deception and Forgiveness; Passion and Love. There are reading group questions and an author’s interview in the back, and the author is available for a visit or phone call to your book club.
Be prepared for your book club to fall in love with Heart of Lies. I sure did.
Born a Hungarian peasant, Leo Hoffman leverages his good looks, wit, and a gift for languages and social mimicry to become a rich and powerful man, only to have circumstances and naive choices from his past threaten everything he holds dear.
Set in Europe, Asia and The New World, Leo’s escapades sweep you across the globe. The tumultuous history of the time period—1920’s and 30’s—helps to drive the plot. I love this period of history between the two World Wars, and Ms. Malcolm sprinkles some wonderful tidbits plucked from history into Leo’s story, such as the Hungarian counterfeiting scandal of 1925, the manipulation of the rubber market in 1926, Chiang Kai-shek’s weakening hold on China, the bombing of Shanghai in 1937, and the Japanese invasion of Shanghai, the rise of Hitler’s power, and the Jews fleeing from Germany and Europe…Whew! OK—maybe she does more than ‘sprinkle’…There’s definitely some meat to the history piece!
Although Malcolm tells a fast-moving adventure story, it is not at the expense of the characters, dialogue or prose. Ms. Malcolm’s vivid descriptions and meticulous research are reflected in the language of Leo’s story. Here’s what she writes as the soldiers returned to Hungary after their defeat in WWI:
“Honor and country had called them to the battlefield of Europe and then abandoned them there, where a weary grayness drifted into their eyes, settled into their hearts, and wrapped around their souls, souls that had been slit open and sucked dry by the beast of the Great War.”
Besides Leo, you will root for the two loves of Leo’s life: his wife, Martha, the great beauty with the lovely voice, and his daughter, Maddy, with her infectious laughter and gift for music. You’ll also meet two characters you will love to hate: Amelia, the scheming temptress, and Lui Tue-Sheng, the powerful head of the Chinese mafia who has a secret hold on Leo’s life. Although Leo denounces his heritage and reinvents himself time after time, he seems to be unable to leave his past behind him—which threatens his future and that of his family.
And though the book is set up for a sequel to follow, I felt the major plot pieces were suitably closed so that the reader feels satisfied, and yet eagerly awaiting that next book for more of Leo and Maddy’s exploits. (Watch for Heart of Deception releasing next year.)
Ms. Malcolm deals with themes that book clubs will want to discuss such as Survival and Perseverance; Deception and Forgiveness; Passion and Love. There are reading group questions and an author’s interview in the back, and the author is available for a visit or phone call to your book club.
Be prepared for your book club to fall in love with Heart of Lies. I sure did.
August 11, 2010
I’m going to throw this out there, right off the top, I LOVED THIS BOOK! Prepare for the gushing.
This story is fast-paced, beautifully detailed, and really sets the reader right into the time and place – which could be challenging because there are several very different settings. The story is initially set in a couple of European countries – Hungary, France, and Germany. These are all areas that I am familiar with. Then the story shifts to Shanghai, China – this is where everything was new to me. China, between the two World Wars, was an extremely different place than it had always been and how it would become in the future. Many of the world powers had influence there at the time. I enjoyed learning about the areas where wealthy Europeans and Americans lived and the culture there. Toward the end of the book we move into the United States. Each of these locations were like characters themselves the way they were wrought out by this author.
Right from the very beginning I was invested in Leo’s story. He was a very unique person who was very driven for what he wanted – which happed to be a beautiful woman he meets by chance. His passion was so palpable. Although I can’t imagine myself ever being in some of the situations that he ended up in, it was so believable to the character and the time period that I was instantly absorbed. I think I fell in love with this character!
This is the second book that I have read recently that was set between the World Wars. It was enlightening to see how the impending war affected different places in the world – in this book you can see three very different perspectives. You really get to see how the tensions affect the people who are just trying to live their lives and get out from under World War I, only to be thrown into the impending World War II.
I honestly do not have one single bad thing to say about this book. From the time I picked it up I couldn’t put it down. This is certainly a book you should not miss!
I am now anxiously awaiting the follow-up novel, Heart of Deception: A Novel! It is scheduled to be released in April of 2011 (so very far away) and sounds so exciting.
This book was received for review from the publisher - I was not compensated for my opinions and the above is my honest review.
This story is fast-paced, beautifully detailed, and really sets the reader right into the time and place – which could be challenging because there are several very different settings. The story is initially set in a couple of European countries – Hungary, France, and Germany. These are all areas that I am familiar with. Then the story shifts to Shanghai, China – this is where everything was new to me. China, between the two World Wars, was an extremely different place than it had always been and how it would become in the future. Many of the world powers had influence there at the time. I enjoyed learning about the areas where wealthy Europeans and Americans lived and the culture there. Toward the end of the book we move into the United States. Each of these locations were like characters themselves the way they were wrought out by this author.
Right from the very beginning I was invested in Leo’s story. He was a very unique person who was very driven for what he wanted – which happed to be a beautiful woman he meets by chance. His passion was so palpable. Although I can’t imagine myself ever being in some of the situations that he ended up in, it was so believable to the character and the time period that I was instantly absorbed. I think I fell in love with this character!
This is the second book that I have read recently that was set between the World Wars. It was enlightening to see how the impending war affected different places in the world – in this book you can see three very different perspectives. You really get to see how the tensions affect the people who are just trying to live their lives and get out from under World War I, only to be thrown into the impending World War II.
I honestly do not have one single bad thing to say about this book. From the time I picked it up I couldn’t put it down. This is certainly a book you should not miss!
I am now anxiously awaiting the follow-up novel, Heart of Deception: A Novel! It is scheduled to be released in April of 2011 (so very far away) and sounds so exciting.
This book was received for review from the publisher - I was not compensated for my opinions and the above is my honest review.
June 16, 2010
From My Blog...[return][return][return]Heart of Lies by M.L. Malcolm is a beautifully crafted historical fiction novel spanning both world wars and several continents bringing the reader an adventure unlike any other. The story begins in Budapest, the year is 1919 during a period of tremendous political turmoil and economical decline where loyalist and proud Hungarian Leo Hoffman must conceal his Jewish identity to survive. Fast-forward to 1925 and Leo, the head concierge at the Hotel Bristol, finds himself accepting a job to be an international translator and spy for arms dealers. While on his first assignment in Paris he meets and falls in love with Martha Levy. Unfortunately Leo was a little too eager and far too trusting and found himself not only involved in an international fraud but also a wanted man who narrowly escapes to Shanghai. At this point the novel takes off at a rapid fire pace, entertaining the reader with brilliant twists and turns leaving one to wonder just who can be trusted.[return]Heart of Lies is filled with an array of characters from the loving to the unscrupulous. Malcolm's depiction of her characters, countries, and historical time-line is well done as she weaves together stories that will capture the reader's attention and keep the reader engaged until the last page. Of all the many character my favourite character is Maddy. To others who have read the novel, I would very much like to hear your impressions of Martha, Amelia, and some of the decisions made by Leo as clearly I cannot say more without adding spoilers. Heart of Lies is a book I would not hesitate to recommend and one I would highly recommend to book discussion groups, as I truly would have liked to discuss this novel with others.
July 31, 2010
I enjoyed this book. The historical details are facinating, the settings range from Hungary to Paris to Munich to Shanghai during the time between the two World Wars. The intense love between two strangers so unexpected. Although the book jumps through time the story flows with a continuity that does not distract the reader but rather makes total sense. The manipulation of the main character by those who aren't honest provides excitement and intrigue to the story and a wonder at just how far he will go to make sure that the love of his life has a perfect life. The only problem I had with it was when it started to focus on Maddy's life rather than her father's. Although relevant it seemed to be an added appendage rather than a continuation of the original story. I read the book through in one sitting.
I received this book free from Harper Collins as part of their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
I received this book free from Harper Collins as part of their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
March 26, 2012
3.5 Stars. Not as good as I had expected but an engaging read nonetheless. I enjoy books that take me to different eras and places and this one did both. Liked it enough that I want to read the sequel.
March 24, 2011
The story swept me away at a time when I most wanted to be thinking of somewhere else - another late winter snow storm had set in. While there could be much deeper discussion about the morality of the protagonist, I really liked it for the story. That's it. . .nothing profound. Just a good read.
April 20, 2019
I got to read this book pre-release because of LibraryThing. It's a very good read, with well drawn places and characters. I found several places to drag a bit, and there were moments when it was obvious that this was Malcolm's first novel, but overall I enjoyed it very much.
August 13, 2022
I love the style of this book. Malcolm's style influenced mine as I was writing my book The Only Witness: A History of The Shroud of Turin. If you like mysteries, definitely worth reading.
June 7, 2010
(I don't think this includes any true spoilers, but it wanders closer to that line than I usually do, since I really want to talk about how the book changes from beginning to end. I don't think that anything I say will change your enjoyment of the book, but as I'm usually very careful not to give away where a book goes, I thought I'd include a warning.)
The book probably deserves higher than the 4 star rating I gave it. I read it in two sittings, and really enjoyed it, but I think I didn't fully give it the credit it deserves.
This is a beautifully written book. This is one of the aspects that I didn't fully appreciate. I think that was a focus of this book, and I simply don't read books for the words, I use the words to deliver characters and a plot.
It seemed to me that the book was two different stories. The first was an adventure, as Leo finds his way from Hungary to Shanghai, meeting the love of his life along the way. Leo's establishing himself in Shanghai (and the risks he takes to do so) belong to that part of the book.
In this part of the story, the plot was compelling, as was the writing. The characters fell a little flat for me, particularly Martha. I don't believe in love at first sight, and Martha and Leo's relationship seemed to be based on her beauty and his charm. I wasn't sold on this supporting them as it did through the story. Overall, I think I should have found Leo more interesting than I did at that time.
The second section of the book seemed to start when Leo settles in Shanghai. His adventures become more subtle as he takes on a new role in the local society. There is larger scale chaos from the was and politics of the era, and it certainly has an effect on the events of the novel, but it isn't the focus anymore.
I liked Heart of Lies best when it focused on Leo's daughter Maddy. Here, the characters take precedence over the plot.
Overall, I found this an interesting, intricate, well written book.
Heart of Lies has quite a bit in common with The Distant Land of My Father by Bo Caldwell. It's been 2 1/2 years since I read it, so the details are fuzzy in my mind, but I wondered if the characters in there knew the characters in Heart of Lies. It seems that the clever businessman, who could make money appear from nowhere, was a common type in Shanghai in the 1920s and 30s. They both had daughters they doted on but were willing to live apart from as well.
The section focusing on Maddy also reminded me of another book, but one so long lost in the mists of memory as to be unrecognizable. It might be a Madeleine L'Engle book, but not one of her better known ones.
The book probably deserves higher than the 4 star rating I gave it. I read it in two sittings, and really enjoyed it, but I think I didn't fully give it the credit it deserves.
This is a beautifully written book. This is one of the aspects that I didn't fully appreciate. I think that was a focus of this book, and I simply don't read books for the words, I use the words to deliver characters and a plot.
It seemed to me that the book was two different stories. The first was an adventure, as Leo finds his way from Hungary to Shanghai, meeting the love of his life along the way. Leo's establishing himself in Shanghai (and the risks he takes to do so) belong to that part of the book.
In this part of the story, the plot was compelling, as was the writing. The characters fell a little flat for me, particularly Martha. I don't believe in love at first sight, and Martha and Leo's relationship seemed to be based on her beauty and his charm. I wasn't sold on this supporting them as it did through the story. Overall, I think I should have found Leo more interesting than I did at that time.
The second section of the book seemed to start when Leo settles in Shanghai. His adventures become more subtle as he takes on a new role in the local society. There is larger scale chaos from the was and politics of the era, and it certainly has an effect on the events of the novel, but it isn't the focus anymore.
I liked Heart of Lies best when it focused on Leo's daughter Maddy. Here, the characters take precedence over the plot.
Overall, I found this an interesting, intricate, well written book.
Heart of Lies has quite a bit in common with The Distant Land of My Father by Bo Caldwell. It's been 2 1/2 years since I read it, so the details are fuzzy in my mind, but I wondered if the characters in there knew the characters in Heart of Lies. It seems that the clever businessman, who could make money appear from nowhere, was a common type in Shanghai in the 1920s and 30s. They both had daughters they doted on but were willing to live apart from as well.
The section focusing on Maddy also reminded me of another book, but one so long lost in the mists of memory as to be unrecognizable. It might be a Madeleine L'Engle book, but not one of her better known ones.
November 2, 2010
To read more reviews check out Reading Rendezvous on MISS at http://www.missomnimedia.com/tag/read...
Imagine being able to speak five languages… Well Leo Hoffman can, as a young Hungarian he has an innate ability to pickup languages. After fighting in World War I Leo returns to Budapest with his and other countries destroyed. In M.L. Malcolm’s Heart of Lies we follow the life of Leo Hoffman as he rebuilds his life following the war and his new endeavors in life.
As his ticket out Leo attempts to assist Hungarian nationals in what he believes is an attempt to rebuild. However, all is not what meets the eye; these men are involved in an international counterfeiting scheme in Paris. In an act of salvation in order to escape conviction Leo runs away with a million dollar diamond necklace to Shanghai. Yet prior to this Leo met Martha Levy and fell in love at first site. Yet he must abandon his love in favor of salvation in Shanghai. As we watch Martha deteriorate- Leo is Shanghai accumulating wealth until a more appropriate time when he can send for Martha. The stolen treasure becomes his salvation throughout the novel- yet also his demise. As Leo learns he is a wanted man across multiple countries he becomes indebted to a gang lord. Amidst this blustering new Shanghai City Martha disembarks and the two loners are quickly reunited and married. Yet this all occurs during the 1930”s and happiness in Shanghai cannot be so secure as WWII begins and the Japanese invade and destroy this wondrous city.
As we follow the Hoffman family along an arduous journey to safety in an attempts to avoid gangsters, bombs, and the invasion of the Japanese.
“Leo closed his eyes and held her close. He would get through the next two years alive. He would get back his daughter. And then love would give them a second chance.”
Leo lives a suspenseful life escaping Hungary, communism, murder, Shanghai, gangsters, Black Tuesday, and so much loss. Heart of Lies is truly a harrowing tale of bravery and survival when nothing was secure. The novel is truly historical as well; as Malcolm is able to infuse a great amount of facts and background to educate the reader. This novel is compelling and thought provoking novel entices the reader to engage with each character-including suspense, love, loss, and experience that many readers engage with. This novel leads readers on a harrowing journey across continents.
M.L. Malcolm truly has taken the time to research the history behind this era. Her unique ability to infuse history with enjoyment is amazing- as the reader barely notices the historical facts infused within the novel. This saga is truly inspirational begging readers to wonder what you would sacrifice for the good of yourself, your family, or your country.
Imagine being able to speak five languages… Well Leo Hoffman can, as a young Hungarian he has an innate ability to pickup languages. After fighting in World War I Leo returns to Budapest with his and other countries destroyed. In M.L. Malcolm’s Heart of Lies we follow the life of Leo Hoffman as he rebuilds his life following the war and his new endeavors in life.
As his ticket out Leo attempts to assist Hungarian nationals in what he believes is an attempt to rebuild. However, all is not what meets the eye; these men are involved in an international counterfeiting scheme in Paris. In an act of salvation in order to escape conviction Leo runs away with a million dollar diamond necklace to Shanghai. Yet prior to this Leo met Martha Levy and fell in love at first site. Yet he must abandon his love in favor of salvation in Shanghai. As we watch Martha deteriorate- Leo is Shanghai accumulating wealth until a more appropriate time when he can send for Martha. The stolen treasure becomes his salvation throughout the novel- yet also his demise. As Leo learns he is a wanted man across multiple countries he becomes indebted to a gang lord. Amidst this blustering new Shanghai City Martha disembarks and the two loners are quickly reunited and married. Yet this all occurs during the 1930”s and happiness in Shanghai cannot be so secure as WWII begins and the Japanese invade and destroy this wondrous city.
As we follow the Hoffman family along an arduous journey to safety in an attempts to avoid gangsters, bombs, and the invasion of the Japanese.
“Leo closed his eyes and held her close. He would get through the next two years alive. He would get back his daughter. And then love would give them a second chance.”
Leo lives a suspenseful life escaping Hungary, communism, murder, Shanghai, gangsters, Black Tuesday, and so much loss. Heart of Lies is truly a harrowing tale of bravery and survival when nothing was secure. The novel is truly historical as well; as Malcolm is able to infuse a great amount of facts and background to educate the reader. This novel is compelling and thought provoking novel entices the reader to engage with each character-including suspense, love, loss, and experience that many readers engage with. This novel leads readers on a harrowing journey across continents.
M.L. Malcolm truly has taken the time to research the history behind this era. Her unique ability to infuse history with enjoyment is amazing- as the reader barely notices the historical facts infused within the novel. This saga is truly inspirational begging readers to wonder what you would sacrifice for the good of yourself, your family, or your country.
May 3, 2011
“Heart of Lies” by M.L. Malcolm is the fictional tale of a family, inspired by the author’s husband, which takes place after World War I until the early days of World War I.
Leo Hoffman, ex Hungarian solider who fought for the losing side, has an ear for languages and ambition. However, Leo is tangling with the wrong people and is being forced by circumstances to leave Europe for the perceived safety of Shanghai.
Shanghai is good to Leo, he becomes a wealthy man, meets the right type of people and marries Martha, the love of his life. However, the Japanese invasion puts and abrupt end to their fairytale life and Leo is forced to make some excruciating decisions.
“Heart of Lies” by M.L. Malcolm is a well written novel, with interesting characters and a fast read. Ms. Malcolm certainly knows how to write exotic scenery and move a story forward. The international setting is exquisite, taking place mostly in Shanghai, the reader travels to Hungary, France and New York.
While I did enjoy the book I felt that the mystery was one of the weakest points, as it is more a character study of a man trying to run away from his past. World War I and World War II are mentioned only in passing, but that’s understandable as the book starts in the aftermath of the first war and end in the beginning of the second, while mostly taking place in the sanctuary of Shanghai.
The book is supposed to be romantic, but I didn’t find it so. While I did find the characters interesting, I didn’t think they were well developed and fell somewhat flat. I wasn’t sold on Leo and Martha’s relationship – OK, she’s beautiful and he’s handsome – but there is more to a relationship than beauty or a damn good one night stand.
That being said, the story did capture my attention and Ms. Malcolm writes in a style which is both well written and very easy to read. I have to commend Ms. Malcolm for trying to weave several different genres into one book – part historical fiction, part romance, part adventure and business intrigue. Maybe it didn’t work as well as she hoped, but it is a great effort and an interesting read from that standpoint.
My advantage of reading this book is that I already had the second one “Heart of Deception” on my shelf. So instead of reading it as a standalone novel, I knew there was more to come.
For more book reviews please visit http://www.ManOfLaBook.com
Leo Hoffman, ex Hungarian solider who fought for the losing side, has an ear for languages and ambition. However, Leo is tangling with the wrong people and is being forced by circumstances to leave Europe for the perceived safety of Shanghai.
Shanghai is good to Leo, he becomes a wealthy man, meets the right type of people and marries Martha, the love of his life. However, the Japanese invasion puts and abrupt end to their fairytale life and Leo is forced to make some excruciating decisions.
“Heart of Lies” by M.L. Malcolm is a well written novel, with interesting characters and a fast read. Ms. Malcolm certainly knows how to write exotic scenery and move a story forward. The international setting is exquisite, taking place mostly in Shanghai, the reader travels to Hungary, France and New York.
While I did enjoy the book I felt that the mystery was one of the weakest points, as it is more a character study of a man trying to run away from his past. World War I and World War II are mentioned only in passing, but that’s understandable as the book starts in the aftermath of the first war and end in the beginning of the second, while mostly taking place in the sanctuary of Shanghai.
The book is supposed to be romantic, but I didn’t find it so. While I did find the characters interesting, I didn’t think they were well developed and fell somewhat flat. I wasn’t sold on Leo and Martha’s relationship – OK, she’s beautiful and he’s handsome – but there is more to a relationship than beauty or a damn good one night stand.
That being said, the story did capture my attention and Ms. Malcolm writes in a style which is both well written and very easy to read. I have to commend Ms. Malcolm for trying to weave several different genres into one book – part historical fiction, part romance, part adventure and business intrigue. Maybe it didn’t work as well as she hoped, but it is a great effort and an interesting read from that standpoint.
My advantage of reading this book is that I already had the second one “Heart of Deception” on my shelf. So instead of reading it as a standalone novel, I knew there was more to come.
For more book reviews please visit http://www.ManOfLaBook.com
July 14, 2010
Math, science and history were my least favorite subjects throughout elementary school, high school and college. When it comes to my reading choices, I tend to avoid books with those subjects. My brain has some kind of block against them. I'm worried I might have to think too much. I was glad to be wrong after reading Heart of Lies by M.L. Malcolm.
We meet a young Hungarian, named Leo Hoffman. He's working to rebuild his life in the aftermath of World War I. Leo has carved a career for himself working at a hotel in Budapest. His career aspirations at the time go no further than upper-level management at the hotel. But a group of influential men want Leo to tap into his hidden talent. His gift to speak several languages. He is reluctant to do so, but the possibility of a financial boon is too much to pass up. The start of the adventure takes Leo to Paris.
While in Paris he falls in love with the beautiful Martha Levy. After just a few days the two are already talking marriage. Their relationship is extremely romantic and beautifully told. Their love scenes are very sensual, but are told very tastefully. From a realistic standpoint, I did find it a little hard to swallow. Perhaps because I'm looking at it from a 2010 perspective and not 1925. I guess relationships just moved a lot faster back then. Their romance is put on hold when Leo gets caught up in a counterfeiting and murder plot. Fleeing to Shanghai, Leo builds a new life. Martha is initially heartbroken, but Leo sends for her. Marriage and a child, Maddy, soon follow. They live in a big house, attend lavish parties, and all the while Martha doesn't ask too many questions. But no matter what Leo cannot escape his past. His marriage and life with Martha is built on lies.
Some writers have a tendency to ramble on and on before they get to the point, but not M.L. Malcolm. The story is very fast-paced. For me, the historical references serve more as backdrop to the overall story. Malcolm's in-laws were part of her inspiration for the novel. It is heartbreaking to read about the bombings in Shanghai. One minute you have your family with you and the next you don't. But in the end it all comes back to Martha and Leo, their relationship is at the heart of book.
We meet a young Hungarian, named Leo Hoffman. He's working to rebuild his life in the aftermath of World War I. Leo has carved a career for himself working at a hotel in Budapest. His career aspirations at the time go no further than upper-level management at the hotel. But a group of influential men want Leo to tap into his hidden talent. His gift to speak several languages. He is reluctant to do so, but the possibility of a financial boon is too much to pass up. The start of the adventure takes Leo to Paris.
While in Paris he falls in love with the beautiful Martha Levy. After just a few days the two are already talking marriage. Their relationship is extremely romantic and beautifully told. Their love scenes are very sensual, but are told very tastefully. From a realistic standpoint, I did find it a little hard to swallow. Perhaps because I'm looking at it from a 2010 perspective and not 1925. I guess relationships just moved a lot faster back then. Their romance is put on hold when Leo gets caught up in a counterfeiting and murder plot. Fleeing to Shanghai, Leo builds a new life. Martha is initially heartbroken, but Leo sends for her. Marriage and a child, Maddy, soon follow. They live in a big house, attend lavish parties, and all the while Martha doesn't ask too many questions. But no matter what Leo cannot escape his past. His marriage and life with Martha is built on lies.
Some writers have a tendency to ramble on and on before they get to the point, but not M.L. Malcolm. The story is very fast-paced. For me, the historical references serve more as backdrop to the overall story. Malcolm's in-laws were part of her inspiration for the novel. It is heartbreaking to read about the bombings in Shanghai. One minute you have your family with you and the next you don't. But in the end it all comes back to Martha and Leo, their relationship is at the heart of book.
October 21, 2010
My Review:
HEART OF LIES by M.L. Malcolm is a sweeping historical novel that travels from eastern Europe, to Asia, and even to America. I was taken on a lovely ride that included danger, lies, misunderstandings, manipulations, the affects of war, but most of all, love.
There's something to be said about a writer that can create a flawed character that can still capture the reader, such as Leo Hoffman. Despite the fact that he seems to act with good intentions in mind, Leo doesn't necessarily operate on the "right side" of the law. While his adventure starts out with him being taken advantage of, and it precipitates a quick escape from his home, Leo is still culpable in many of the actions that he takes throughout this story. However, I thought that, perhaps in spite of his mistakes, Leo is also a character that I could sympatize and empathize with.
Truthfully, it was the locales that Malcolm included in HEART OF LIES that kept me reading the book, as well as their history. The characters were rich and interesting, but Malcolm's research and depth as she describes the places is truly enthralling. This is the real star of the book. The places and the everyday people that inhabit them. Malcolm infuses the novel with such detail, while still telling Leo's story, that the cities he spends time in become just as important to the plot, as the things he does while there.
4/5 for plot
3.5/5 for characters
3.5/5 for language
My Rating: 11/15 Recommend
HEART OF LIES by M.L. Malcolm is a sweeping historical novel that travels from eastern Europe, to Asia, and even to America. I was taken on a lovely ride that included danger, lies, misunderstandings, manipulations, the affects of war, but most of all, love.
There's something to be said about a writer that can create a flawed character that can still capture the reader, such as Leo Hoffman. Despite the fact that he seems to act with good intentions in mind, Leo doesn't necessarily operate on the "right side" of the law. While his adventure starts out with him being taken advantage of, and it precipitates a quick escape from his home, Leo is still culpable in many of the actions that he takes throughout this story. However, I thought that, perhaps in spite of his mistakes, Leo is also a character that I could sympatize and empathize with.
Truthfully, it was the locales that Malcolm included in HEART OF LIES that kept me reading the book, as well as their history. The characters were rich and interesting, but Malcolm's research and depth as she describes the places is truly enthralling. This is the real star of the book. The places and the everyday people that inhabit them. Malcolm infuses the novel with such detail, while still telling Leo's story, that the cities he spends time in become just as important to the plot, as the things he does while there.
4/5 for plot
3.5/5 for characters
3.5/5 for language
My Rating: 11/15 Recommend
August 24, 2010
Leo Hoffman was born with a gift for languages. When his dreams for the future are destroyed by World War I, the dashing young Hungarian attempts to use his rare talent to rebuild his life, only to find himself inadvertently embroiled in an international counterfeiting scheme. Suddenly Leo is wanted across the European continent for a host of crimes, including murder. Left with no options, he must escape to Shanghai with his lover, carrying with him a stolen treasure that could be his salvation . . . or his death warrant. But the gangsters who control the decadent Asian city have no intention of letting him outrun his past. And when the Japanese invade, one wrong move could cost Leo Hoffman everything he holds dear.
An epic tale of intrigue, passion, and adventure, Heart of Lies heralds the arrival of a remarkable writer.
A love story so strong in places that it takes your breath away.
An epic tale of intrigue, passion, and adventure, Heart of Lies heralds the arrival of a remarkable writer.
A love story so strong in places that it takes your breath away.
August 26, 2010
As an avid fan of historical fiction, particularly the period between WWI and WWII, I found "Heart of Lies" to be riveting and highly enjoyable while maintaining scrupulous attention to historical detail. Although the novel is replete with intrigue, white knuckle adventure and spicy romance it does not do this at the expense of historical realism. The description of Europe and Shanghai during this exciting period is as interesting and compelling as the plot and the characters in the novel. This was truly a novel that I "couldn't put down". As the author's first novel it is a remarkably impressive accomplishment.
And for those who love sequels (as I do), the second novel "Deceptive Intentions" is also an absolute gem.
And for those who love sequels (as I do), the second novel "Deceptive Intentions" is also an absolute gem.
September 23, 2010
I started reading it a little while ago, but read the bulk of it in one fell swoop. I enjoyed it very much until I got near the end. I felt like the last part was sort of rushed and cobbled together, for the sole purpose of setting up a sequel. I'm the kind of person who almost always wants to read more after finishing a good book, and I would like to know more about what happens to the characters in this novel. However, to stand on its own, I think the ending should have been less pat. The characters suffered way too much emotional trauma for me to accept that things could be tied up with a neat little bow.
March 8, 2011
A truly intelligent version of Leo's life and encounter with the early twentieth century's cascade of wars.
Leo Hoffman begins with finding the love of his life, Martha, at the same time that his native country, Hungary, sucks him into illegalities. He must leave his love and survive under lies. The same lies that give him a new life bring Martha to him in the city he fled to for safety, Shanghai. Lies and evidence can never be hidden forever. They follow Leo and continually guide his decisions. All he wants is the best for his wife an daughter, although happiness and disaster are close cousins.
After reading this, I immediately ordered the sequel.
Leo Hoffman begins with finding the love of his life, Martha, at the same time that his native country, Hungary, sucks him into illegalities. He must leave his love and survive under lies. The same lies that give him a new life bring Martha to him in the city he fled to for safety, Shanghai. Lies and evidence can never be hidden forever. They follow Leo and continually guide his decisions. All he wants is the best for his wife an daughter, although happiness and disaster are close cousins.
After reading this, I immediately ordered the sequel.
May 21, 2011
If you are looking for a good read that is historically accuratel, this is the book for you. The novel follows Leo Hoffman, born with a gift for languages, through the years after W.W.I through those of W.W.II. It spans life from Hungary, to Germany, and ultimately Shanghai. Leo's gift rewards him with unbelievable riches, but also unbelievable grief. It is a tale of passion, guilt, and grief. Sit on the beach and enjoy. I think a book group would appreciate this.
March 29, 2013
4 stars might be a bit generous but I was at the beach and this seemed to be the perfect book for that.. fast paced, interesting characters and seems historically accurate (keep in mind I am was an accounting major so take that comment with a grain of salt). If I analyze the book too much, I'd probably knock it down to a 3 star as the story is far-fetched and liking the characters requires a leap of faith but overall I'd definitely recommend the book.
July 31, 2014
This book was good, in fact if there were 1/2 stars it would of ended up as a 3 1/2.
It had a half way decent plot, and did fairly well to keep me hooked. I think the ending is what dropped off a star point for me.
Now if M.L. Malcolm plans on making this book into a 2 to 3 part series, then I would give it a higher rating....
But the book pretty much leaves me with some unanswered questions and hanging.
She could easily tie up the book in a neat package by writing a squeal.
It had a half way decent plot, and did fairly well to keep me hooked. I think the ending is what dropped off a star point for me.
Now if M.L. Malcolm plans on making this book into a 2 to 3 part series, then I would give it a higher rating....
But the book pretty much leaves me with some unanswered questions and hanging.
She could easily tie up the book in a neat package by writing a squeal.
December 11, 2010
I would have giving this 4 1/2 stars if that were available. The story is complex and thrilling and the characters well developed. The protagonist, Leo Hoffman, is someone you will come to care about, though he is not quite heroic. I don't want to give the plot away, but the story is filled with longing, tragedy and complex relationships. I recommend it, but have your Kleenex ready!
December 26, 2013
Heart of Lies is an intriguing story. The author seamlessly switches back and forth between many points of view. The constantly rising and falling action keeps your attention tightly, while the storyline remains believable. A story of love, pain, and war - placed far away from the majority of stories heard written about this era - Heart of Lies is purely unique.
October 2, 2010
I LOVED this book, it has everything! Romance, adventure, intrigue. In fact it has been the most intriguing book I have ever read. Its emotionally touching, and you cant help but like the main character, Leo!
April 3, 2011
I heard M.L. Malcolm speak at the California Writers Club meeting in February. Her book, "Heart of Lies", sounded so intriguing that I bought it and am now about half way through. It is definitely a page turner. I'll review it when I'm finished.
March 31, 2012
This writer is wonderful. Her words flow like water and her descriptions are so vivid. I loved this book, and it is not the kind I normally read. The main character, Leo, is so intriguing. Love a man who can speak 7 languages and outsmart his enemies. I'm now devouring the sequel.
September 4, 2016
I enjoyed this book got stale 3/4 way through them picked up again
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