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David B. Gilmore is an American author of World War Two and historical fiction. In his spare time he enjoys growing his own food, traveling and exploring archaeological sites. He is also an avid reader and likes to be reading at least one fiction and nonfiction book at all times.
The importance of Calcutta, India during World War Two has often been over looked. It is remembered as the supply depot for the China Burma India Theater of the war, but Calcutta was more. It was also a refuge for people fleeing Japanese advancement. One by one all of the neighboring colonies had fallen to the Japanese. As this happened, many colonist had made their way to Calcutta and safety. Most of these refugees were simply trying to escape the war, but not all. Some were double agents working for the Japanese, or came with their own agendas. Plus, at the time, there was a strong and well established Indian independence movement. These groups were very diverse and each had their own goals. The common thread that kept them from uniting and demanding independence was the threat of being under Japanese control. Combined with an ever growing American presence in the area, Calcutta became a complicated hotbed of international and political intrigue. Thus, the perfect setting for a novel.
Reviewed by Patricia Day for Readers' Favorite
Operation Blue Sapphire by David B. Gilmore contains adventure in surplus. This is a story of some magnitude. An exciting tale of murder, subterfuge, OSS engagement, drug dealing and arms smuggling. As if that were not enough excitement for one book, the tale takes place with World War II as a backdrop. When Blaine Phillips is killed, it is critical to find the perpetrators, so enters the OSS. This catalyst starts the thrilling novel, with plots appearing one after the other, causing the reader to hang onto every word for fear of missing the next nugget of information leading to the last, and the next crime. Blaine Phillips was obviously not the ordinary office worker he claimed to be. His work was infinitely more important to local and international governments, which is why the OSS is put into action on hearing of his untimely death.
Taking place in India, the British, Americans, Russians, and Vietnamese all feature in this roller-coaster ride, with the Japanese invasions causing background concern. There is deceit and corruption galore, so be prepared for a real page-turner read. I found I was hooked from the beginning of the story. The pace is fast; the mystery constantly changing, keeping you on the edge of your seat in anticipation of the outcome. Whatever that might be. It is a well-written story, with just enough detail, colorful characters, and enigmatic villains to capture and hold the reader's attention. Taking sides was practically impossible as I made vain attempts to guess who the real villains were, and why they were doing the things they were doing. An exciting read. Superb story. Highly recommended for lovers of action.
