Storytimers are readers who have left reviews for the stories. While I have never met them and don’t know the names of many, Storytimers’ opinions matter deeply. They are proof dreams come true. 

Five Star reviews

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Reviewed on Amazon, November 2024 from “Nicole Rodriguez”

Amazing Storytelling

This book had me wanting to keep reading til I was finished. The way it’s written I felt like I was right there beside the characters. This is definitely at the top of my list of favorite books

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Reviewed on Amazon, July 2024 from “Crystalopedia”

Powerful Tale of Hope Amidst Hardships

I think it was nice how it showed how life was like for kids in Romanian orphanages during communist times. I learned a lot about communism, maybe a more than I needed. What I loved most was how the kids looked out for each other and stayed hopeful. Their make believe world was really something. I have to say some parts were difficult to read because how bad the kids were treated, but I think it was important to have it in the book. After I finish reading the book I keep thinking about the kids and what happened to them. Not an easy read but interesting deep read.

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Reviewed on Amazon, November 2024 from “Jake Jacob Jingleheimer”

Impactful

This story hits home. It’s very emotional and I loved how the historical elements were used. The characters and world were vivid. Great job by the author.

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Reviewed on Amazon, July 2024 from “Ana”

Emotional childhood story

I love this book because I think it makes us believe again in the illusion of childhood, in thinking that dreams and hopes can always be fulfilled. It’s a very well set story, with four protagonist children who each have their own characteristics but who fit very well into the story and, ultimately, it’s a novel to believe in dreams and magical worlds again. It’s an emotional and magical book!

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Reviewed on Amazon, July 2024 from “Josette Mandela”

Powerful imagery

Book is deep and raw. Can be triggering as it deals with children living under unthinkable conditions in state run Communist institutions. The author’s style takes you into that world and you will never be the same.

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Reviewed on Amazon, May 2024 from “kindredspirits”

Wow

I have read most of the books by Tiffini and this is true to form. She excels at historical novels. I learned more than I needed to know about Communism but my favorite part was the relationship between the children

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Reviewed on Amazon, June 2024 from “Rafael Moraes”

Heartwarming Story

This book tells a touching story about brave kids facing tough times. It’s inspiring and shows how they help each other.

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Reviewed on Amazon, June 2024 from “FL”

A Gritty Journey Through the Shadows of Childhood

This book plunges readers into the harsh realities faced by children in Romanian orphanages under Communist rule through the eyes of four extraordinary children. Each battling their own physical and emotional scars, they dream of escape to a magical world, Taramul Viselor, painted vividly by their friend Alizabet. It’s a raw and riveting exploration of survival, the power of hope, and the strength found in friendship. Anyone interested in historical narratives, children’s resilience, and transformative journeys should read this gripping novel.

Four Star Reviews

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Reviewed on Amazon, August 2024 from “amo72”

Hard but Inspiring

While I love historical fiction, I really haven’t read anything based in Romania during this time period. This book can be a bit hard to read due to the harsh realities the children faced but ultimately left me feeling inspired.

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Reviewed on Amazon, July 2024 from “Xavier T”

Historical novel that’s emotional

Historical novel that’s emotional and follows young children through their experiences

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Reviewed on Amazon, May 2024 from “Weis”

Good

I liked the book. It makes you think about what happens and the characters even after you finish reading.

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Reviewed on Amazon, May 2024 from “William”

Different

I approached this book with curiosity, as I had knew nothing about the subject matter. I enjoyed this book. The author has crafted an immersive tale that will have you thinking about the events and it’s elements long after you’ve finished he book. Recommended.