Blog written by Marty C
"The main character, Thomas Nesbit, after divorcing his wife chooses to move to a small town in USA.
His daughter forwards to him a box sent to him with the name of his former lover in Berlin 25 years previous.
Thus begins his story of his sojourn in Berlin during the Cold War at the time of the Berlin Wall.
Thomas recounts his meeting and instant attraction (mutual) with Petra Dussman.
The box which he subsequently opens reveals her perspective of their love affair and time spent together in West Berlin.
As well as these two main characters we meet a colourful Gay Brit Alistair Fitzsimons-Ross from whom Thomas Nesbit rents the upper floor of his premises.
The backdrop of Berlin in the the 80s with the presence of Stasi in East Berlin reveals what a police state it was. The Wall in a way also becomes a character to me.
Discussion ensued as to what The Moment referred.
As it was the last book of the year perhaps there was not a representative view as some had not read or started the book.
Following our meeting Meredeth felt she may have been somewhat harsh and commented on The Moment that it was a "great setting in Berlin and compelling at times" which I feel is probably a fair comment..
I actually felt it quite compelling reading especially Petra's story.
I do recommend as a follow up read Anna Funda's
"Stasiland" She is a wonderful researcher.
Happy New Year
Looking forward to book club 2014"
We rated the book 7 out of 10.
Our next meeting will be on Jan 30th, 2014 at Meredith's and the book chosen is Burial Rites by Hannah Kent.
Happy New Year everyone and happy reading over the holidays!
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