She moved to Ottawa later on to work and also raise her family. After working for more than 25 years as a Child Psychologists, Barbara has retired so that she can focus more on writing. Despite the fact that she appeared for the very first time in print in the year , Barbara has been writing ever since she was 5 years of age.
While working as a psychologist she is able to get more inspiration and insight for her murderous plots. Additionally, she is also a member of Ladies Killing circle which is a group that edits compilations of short stories written by Canadian ladies. Barbara Fradkin has three kids, a cat and two dogs. Whenever, she can find a little bit of free time, she partakes in skiing, reading travelling and kayaking.
Most of her dark and compelling short stories have been featured in various magazines like the story teller and also in anthologies like The Ladies Killing Circle and New Canadian Noir series. However, Barbara is mostly known for her brilliantly written police procedural series which features the exasperating Ottawa Police Inspector, Michael Green. Currently, there are a total of 7 books in the series with the first book being Do or Die, which was published in the year by Rendezvous press.
In this book we are introduced to one Michael Green who is totally obsessed with his work, something which has threatened to ruin his marriage several times. When one of the biggest cases in his career as an inspector comes up his relationship and position and several other lines are placed in danger. A student and scion of an exceedingly rich family is found expertly stabbed within the stacks of a University Library. No one seems to have an idea of what could be the motive behind the killing. As Inspector Green looks into the reasons and circumstances which led to the killing of the student, he discovers a web of jealousy and conspiracy.
While investigating the crime scene, the evidence presented forth is too scarce for an amateur. An exceedingly likeable man who has no enemies whatsoever has been involved in a groundbreaking neuropsychology. Later on, Inspector Green discovers that Blair had crossed paths with a den of ambitious workmates led by an extremely arrogant professor who has a world class reputation.
None So Blind: (Sight Unseen Book 1) | Chautona Havig
Inspector Green is also expected to track a girl of Lebanese origins who is protected by her powerful family. Sulivan, Inspector Green battles against personal demons so as to bring the culprits to justice. When an old man dies unexpectedly, in what appears to be a natural death. It is only Inspector Green who finds the death suspicious. Something about the case which was apparently closed way back, catches his eye. He notices that the family is most likely hiding something about the old man and why he lived in isolation for a very long time.
While searching his house, he discovers that there is a hidden compartment which contains a German national identity card that dates back to World War 2. Was the victim a Nazi soldier or a Jewish camp survivor trying to run away from imprisonment? Is there a possibility that someone had already tracked him down so as to get even. Despite of all of his experience, Green may have never imagined the truth. As a sequel to the Do or Die book, Once Upon a Time is not only a compelling story of unhealed emotional wounds but also a tightly plotted police story. Using the mysterious death of an old man, Inspector Green follows a journey where he not only uncovers pain but also enlightenment.
She talks about how He is with this family through thick and thin no matter what their problems are. He is with us no matter what we just have to ask and talk to Him as tho He were here in person. I am glad He is my one true friend that I can count on no matter what. I'm also glad that Ella found him again through David. I really admired David's faih and I'll never tire of saying so. Thank you Chautona for a wonderful story and taking me where no man has ever gone before. Jun 21, Amy rated it really liked it. This was my first book by Chautona and I have to say, Yay!
I have just found another author I enjoy! It was tough to put this one down and I had it read in just a few days. She did an amazing job of writing a compelling story that felt believable and yet, I sure hope it doesn't happen to me. The characters drew me in immediately. I struggled with Dani, the main character. She had some really good qualities, or at least the new Dani, now Ella did. But she also grated just a little on my nerves, an This was my first book by Chautona and I have to say, Yay! But she also grated just a little on my nerves, and I can't really put my finger on why.
Some times I wanted to cheer her on and praise her for all she was accomplishing and other times I wanted to wring her neck. David her husband was probably my favorite character, mostly I guess because he was somewhat of a hero. He was there for her regardless and he could easily have chosen an out. Another character I really liked was Charity. This woman made the people from the Bible seem like her best friends and she could totally give you a Bible character to relate to for whatever situation you found yourself in. I thought the emotional tension in the book was very real!
I cannot imagine waking up one day and not knowing who I was, or on the flip side, not being remembered by my spouse or parent. Sometimes I wanted to laugh and sometimes I wanted to cry, or maybe scream! I loved the way Ella and David worked through their differences, how the pastor helped David see what he needed to do, and how David was so patient in waiting on Ella, and yet it was obvious that he struggled too! Thank you Chautona for writing an amazing book! One that is still on my mind as I cannot get these characters out of my head. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
This book was provided to me free from Celebrate Lit to read. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own. Jun 19, Tina at Mommynificent rated it really liked it. Usually when I find out one of my favorite authors has a new book out, I can't start reading it soon enough, but for some reason, this book has been sitting unread in my Kindle library since a few months after it came out almost four years ago. I just couldn't get excited about the premise for some reason. I knew I'd eventually read it because Chautona Havig's books are always worth it, but I needed something to push it to the front of my TBR list.
That something came when I saw this tour happen Usually when I find out one of my favorite authors has a new book out, I can't start reading it soon enough, but for some reason, this book has been sitting unread in my Kindle library since a few months after it came out almost four years ago. That something came when I saw this tour happening in anticipation of book 2 in the series which will come out later this year!
As expected, I did have a hard time getting into the book, but once I did, I struggled to put it down. I folded laundry while reading it, did a puzzle with my littlest while reading it, and was up way too late several nights in a row with it. Havig knows how to weave a tale! What I loved the most about the book was the mystery of it all - how did this happen and how could it possibly resolve well?
And a few other questions I won't share because of spoilers. What I didn't love about the book was that very little of the mystery was resolved.
- A Final Cry for Justice.
- Blindsight - Wikipedia.
- None So Blind (Sight Unseen #1) by Chautona Havig.
- Blindsight.
By the end, I realized that the book was supposed to be more about the journey than the mystery, but I had been on the wrong "train," and I wasn't really that into the journey. I know from experience that Mrs. Havig is very responsive to reader questions so I zipped her a message asking if we would ever have any resolution to the mystery. As I expected, she responded quickly and graciously that my questions will be answered I can hardly stand it!!! Well, at least book 2 is coming out later this summer Stay tuned for my review of Will Not See at the end of August because now that I've started this series, there will be no holding me back!
Jun 14, Kathleen E. Having no relational "database" to draw from, you do not have a beginning or an end before today. How long have you been gone? Returning to your family when you look the same on the outside but are unaware of a time before.
I liked how the author portrayed each character's thoughts and actions. Some secondary characters giving information that was not beneficial and how the main characters threaded through those entanglements by searching and replacing with truth. The reactions of the children showed an underlying foundation they had of trust and security; to approach uncertainty while remaining steadfast in daily activity.
Loss of memory is real. Whether blocked by trauma suddenly or over time closing off association that cannot be remembered. This story is a gathering of change to move forward. Determination and relearning steps brought Daniella Weeks to a life with openings and not deterioration in a gradual decline. Viewpoints of those to let in or selectively remove was a big denominator in this story. Those who came alongside to encourage brought great depth. True love is an act of the will——a conscious decision to do what is best for the other person instead of ourselves.
This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received. May 25, Darlene Bocek rated it it was amazing Shelves: Is this a parable? Is this a mystery? Is this a Christian fairy tale? If it's anything, it's a hidden message to women everywhere about identity, and the link between our past, our present, and our role in our own fate. It is a dream that takes on reality and pushes the reader to consider what your life says to others.
What are you living for? Why are you the way you are? When we read, we live vicariously through the main character. This is not a story as much as it is a motivating allegory to not settle for what you have, but to pursue life and joy and real relationships. It shows the fulfilling life that the Proverbs 31 woman found, and compares her with the one in Proverbs And in the end, the reader is shaken to apply the secret sermon to your own life.
Very much enjoyed this strange and mind-boggling journey into changing. And it all started for her on Easter weekend. Jun 27, Kristine Morgan rated it it was amazing. I have just finished reading None So Blind. Why would a woman, a wife and mother in a stable relationship wake up one day not knowing who she was?
Publication Order of Cedric O’Toole Books
Every memory is gone, Her choices are a mental facility or go home to strangers. How would you react? I really enjoyed the storyline, I believe it to be unique to anything I have read. I liked how David put Ella's needs before his own. A wonderful book and I look forward to reading Will Not See due out this summer. None So Blind Author: Chautona Havig Release date: September 29, Genre: Contemporary Dani and Ella Weeks—two women who share one thing in common.
The same life, the same family, and the same body. In a desperate attempt to separate the old life from the new, Dani insists on a new name, a twist of her old one—Ella. Through her novels, she hopes to encourage Christians in their walk with Jesus. She asked how I was. I always thought that Mrs. A minute or two later, she gave me a big smile and asked if she knew me. People often assume that the worst part of losing my memory are the memories that disappeared, too. For me, not remembering their first day of kindergarten is an inconvenience. I do now, of course, but not at first.
She tries, but she could walk out of our lives tomorrow and never miss us. Women with tears running down their cheeks as loved ones patted their hands and tried to comfort. Their dementia had gotten bad enough that their lives had gone from constant frustration to, by comparison, blissful oblivion. And their families withered with each forgotten face, name, moment. It caused them pain that just resurfaced every time something new happened.
And since that visit, I have a greater compassion and awareness of just how amazing and powerful memories are. I know that those sins were in there because the ones I committed yesterday are there today. But the Lord has wiped them clean. But all those years before that horrible morning… gone. Maybe I stole something. It was forgiven, wiped clean, and then wiped from my memory.
Do I wish I could stop hurting my family with my blank past? But am I also grateful for a living picture of the fresh start the Lord gives His people at salvation? I hope I never take it for granted again. Blog Stops June Blogging With Carol June Genesis June Lane Hill House June Red Headed Book Lady June The Scribbler June Moments Dipped in Ink June Back Porch Reads June The Power of Words June Carpe Diem June Christian Bookaholic June Quiet Quilter June The Fizzy Pop Collection June Seasons of Opportunities June Pursuing Stacie June Pause for Tales June Avid Reader Book Reviews June Lots of Helpers June Blossoms and Blessings June Margaret Kazmierczak June His Grace is Sufficient June Henry Happens June Check out this cool video from Chautona: Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!
Jun 27, Margaret Kazmierczak rated it it was amazing Shelves: Each day we, as a family had to deal with this dilemma. It was exhausting for us and frustrating for dad. Reading None So Blind therefore has been interesting to read as it deals with the issues of memory loss. David Book review None So Blind by Chautona HavigDavid, the gentle backbone of the family, tries to keep things together, inwardly weeping for his wife, Dani.
His love reflected the love of Jesus who never gives up on us. Did I like the story? This well-crafted story had me wondering if David and Ella would overcome. Though brief and somewhat wistful, the tentative movements forged delicate chains linking their hearts. I loved the Christian elements weaving in and out adding weight and substance to the plot. My verdict This narrative, unique in its telling, is worth reading as it will have you jumping from one emotion to the next, right up to the last pages.
To top it all it does not finish there! I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own. May 16, Alicia rated it it was amazing. There are no answers as to the cause of this sudden memory loss, although similar symptoms occur from head injuries. There is no cure, at least as far as anyone knows. Suddenly you are rebuilding your life, learning to do things over, learning to trust yourself and others "None So Blind" Sight Unseen Volume 1 by Chautona Havig What if you woke up tomorrow and couldn't remember anything about your past, who the people around you are, the place you are residing, and how exactly you should look?
Suddenly you are rebuilding your life, learning to do things over, learning to trust yourself and others around you, learning to be comfortable in your own skin. Becoming someone you and other people like better than your previous self. Experiencing "firsts," because you don't remember having been through them before. What would you do if this happened to you?
None So Blind: (Sight Unseen Book 1)
Chautona Havig has written a truly wonderful novel about a woman who goes through the above. She writes of her struggles and accomplishments. She writes of her worries and gains. Her trust issues as they falter and improve. She writes of the story of Ella There is a psychiatrist that may give you the creeps I disliked her from word one and didn't trust her. A church leader who has great guidance and suggestions, while also faltering at times given the odd situation. Friends and neighbors who want to be supportive but are also curious.
And of course a husband and children who have to walk this new path with her, while hopefully not losing her. I loved Ella and the joy she brought to her family and how she made her own way little by little. I loved that she had her own style and way of looking at things. The joy she brought to her family, even when she had personal doubts. I loved that she found her own way She is an honest and truthful character. The others are realistic and believable. The situation one plausible, albeit potentially not in this odd situation.
It is just a truly wonderful, engaging, and interesting novel. Honestly, I believe both men and women would find "None So Blind" a great read. I know I sure did, both times I read it. Jun 18, Karla rated it it was amazing. Having had read some of Chautona's other novels, I was looking forward to this new one, which seemed to be very different from her usual creations. I certainly was NOT disappointed!! This author has a very special talent enabling her to portray faith, always in a positive light, in all of her main characters!
Yes, some of them falter, as any other person does, in the difficult journey that life takes us on, however, there is always hope at the end of tunnel. Chautona outdid herself in this novel Having had read some of Chautona's other novels, I was looking forward to this new one, which seemed to be very different from her usual creations.
Chautona outdid herself in this novel! Her characters were so realistic and well described that I immediately found myself living with Ella , experiencing her every pain and confused thought. What a horrible fear she must have felt! She went to bed one day, awoke another, not knowing who or where she was!!!
None So Blind
Who were these strangers who seemed to know her, even when she did not know herself?? I absolutely loved the way the author portrayed a positive faith by the characters, even when in their darkest moments. Ella was a unique individual who had strength beyond measure. I so admired her. She managed to bring happiness to others even while she faltered with her own life. Honestly, can you imagine living in a situation having had no memories of the past?? All of the characters were lovable in their own way. They had unbelievable struggles that took faith and time to overcome.
The plot moves steadily towards a happy ending. Does Ella regain her memory??? That, I can not tell you! However, this very strange situation this family finds themselves in , becomes the most positive , valuable experience that each has ever had. There were a few twists and turns, but I was kept busy just guessing what Ella would attempt to do with her life next!!
The underlying theme of forgiveness, second chances and the acceptance of change comes through loud and clear. We all need to have the faith that this family exhibits! Was this book different from the usual that this author creates? But in a great way!! Don't miss this novel! This book was a gift. The thoughts and opinions expressed are honest and my own. Jun 21, Patti Pierce rated it it was amazing. I can not fathom the idea of faking such a thing.
I can not imagine someone going to such drastic measures and being able to fool everybody around her. If Ella is faking because she so disliked what her life had become, I find that to be incredible. Another plot twist arises when Ella finds a large sum of money hidden in her garage. This twist is mentioned briefly but is never resolved. I am really interested to see if this situation is resolved in the coming book s in the series. The reliance on their Christian faith clearly helps the family endure the changes the memory loss brings.
Also, I loved the contrast between Dani as a Christian before the memory loss to Ella after the memory loss. Dani takes avid notes and almost in some ways seems selfish and self-centered, although she clearly loves her family. Ella, on the other hand, appears to find other things to capture her attention and interest including improving her appearance. He gives her space and time she needs to come to terms with all that has happened and their relationship.
The guidance and counsel of their pastor and his wife again show true Christian values. I truly enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it to my family and friends. Jun 17, Debbie rated it it was amazing. Wow, is my first thought when I think of this book now that I have finish reading it.
Yes, while reading it I was thinking I want it to end a certain way but now that I have read the story to the end I think it had the perfect ending and I am anxiously awaiting book 2 in this series. I was thinking I want to wake up and not remember the parts ab Wow, is my first thought when I think of this book now that I have finish reading it. I was thinking I want to wake up and not remember the parts about me that I don't like just like Dani Weeks and then to be able to be make myself into someone that people like.
But the more I think about it, I don't think I would like that because not only does Ella not remember the things she doesn't like about Dani yes the characters in the story tells her what she was like in the past she doesn't remember her children! How awful is that for Dani and the kids! I know this is maybe just too much info in a review but I am thinking about my grandma before she died, she was forgetting things and names, but I prayed "Please don't let her forget me" and I will be forever grateful and thankful that she remember me till the end!
I really thought it was interesting to consider the two points of view of rather Ella was still bound to David and her wedding vows because even through Dani had kinda of died not body wise but had no remembrance of saying them. I know what my thoughts are considering this and would love having feedback on other readers thoughts considering this! I think I am going to say that my favorite character in this story is David, and that is because he supported both Dani and Ella.
I really didn't like Dani's parents,I was thinking Wow, we all know how Dani turned out to be the way she was. I really feel sorry for Dani because she wasn't able to share her story and why she wasn't a likable person. There is a mystery in the book and it is unsolved so I am hoping that the mystery is waiting to be unraveled in book 2. I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit.
These opinions are my own. Jun 13, Anne Rightler rated it really liked it. None So Blind by Chautona Havig is a fascinating look at a 'what if' kind of story. What if you woke up one morning and didn't know who or where you were? Dani did just that. Who were these people who said they were her husband and three children? Who is that person in the mirror? Is it just a sci-fi dream? How can this be real? Readers are pulled into the story immediately with a scream of terror as a face appears out from under the covers in Dani's bed The author does a masterful job of portraying the emotions and reactions of each individual in Dani's family.
Panic, fear, anger, loss of control--of self, disbelief, helplessness. And the questions that arise-what happened to my mom? The characters are strong and realistic and the story moves quickly with several twists and turns to the plot. Through it all is woven a strong thread of faith in a God who is there and a journey of learning to trust in Him. One sentence that was thought-provoking to me as Dani reflected on a friend's positive spin on the situation was "Loss of myself--is that what it means to die to self? As Dani and her husband deal with the aftermath of the amnesia, they hear counsel from several sources and realize that as logical as some advice is, looking to the truth of God's Word is the best source for counsel.
None So Blind is a book that captured my imagination and has me wanting to read more of Havig's books. And also just wondering I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via CelebrateLit. A favorable review was not required and opinions are my own. This review is part of a CelebrateLit blog tour. Jun 17, Jennifer Bunderle rated it it was amazing. My Review How many of us have wished for a new start — a blank slate wiped clean of past regrets, mistakes and painful memories? However, if we did get that blank slate, also gone would be the wonderful memories, thoughts and feelings, too.
I found myself what-iffing and considering what life would look like if something like this happened to me or my loved ones. The clarity and depth with which this story is written clearly convey the bittersweet nature of life for everyone who loves someone living with profound memory loss.
You need to read this book because it is a very well written and amazing story that will leave you pondering your own reality and the essential fragility of life. Another five stars for an amazingly gifted and prolific author, Chautona Havig!! A few favorite quotes: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.
Jun 16, Janelle rated it really liked it. I liked this book! It was interesting concept and it ended up being different from what I was expecting it to be. I loved the whole concept of waking up with all your memories and personality erased and how in a way it allowed you to live your life differently from what it was before.
It also made me appreciate my memories and that they are often something that I take for granted. I loved watching Ella develop as a character especially since she started out as a "blank slate" at the beginning of I liked this book! I loved watching Ella develop as a character especially since she started out as a "blank slate" at the beginning of the novel. I felt like her reactions were realistic and it was interesting to see how she became a totally different person from who she used to be, and a lot of the changes are for the better.
I also loved David, I think he was a great character especially in the love he shows towards Ella who is very different from the woman that married and how he takes the time to get to know. I also liked how he didn't just try to figure things out on his own - he also sought counsel from his pastor and put it into action. I loved the three children, even though they were more side characters I liked how we got their perspective several times throughout the novel and saw how they had to deal with a "different" mother. I also liked the other interactions that Ella had with other people as she tries to navigate through life.
As I mentioned before this was an interesting novel and it dealt with an interesting concept in regards to memory loss, personality change and getting a second chance to live a different life. I am looking forward to reading the next book, Will Not See, soon. Jun 21, Suzie Waltner rated it really liked it. The author did an excellent job of turning my opinion of the main character around. As Ella figures out her life and how to do new-to-her things, she also has to navigate relationships with people who already have an impression of her.
The impression they formed via the before impression of Dani. The kids are a nice addition to the story as Ella takes the time to learn who they are. As every parent well knows, no two children are alike. They each have their own unique personalities and they each deal with stress in different ways. There are some POV issues and a bit of head hopping but once Ella began to settle into her life, I quit noticing them. Overall, an enjoyable read with likable characters and a satisfying ending. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Give me a moment to fangirl. I loved this book! I loved the premise, the execution, just the whole amazing mysterious thing. Don't get me wrong, it wasn't perfect but good gravy Mavis, it was amazing. Picture yourself in Daniella Weeks' shoes.