A fascinating read - part fiction, part non-fiction, the story revolved around the time of the Cold War, which is not a war that I have read much about. I've read a ton of WWII fiction, but not so much the aftermath with the Soviets. I learned a lot, and found myself attached to the characters. I appreciated that Bob let the author interview him and that he was willing to share so much about his past.

Excellent! Inspired by actual events!

When I'm constantly updating my husband about how a book progresses, its a 5 star read. Some people are disappointed when they read this type of book, that "based on a true story" aren't very exciting; but I thought that this book was exceptionally well done.

The beginning of the book includes
- a Historical Timeline that interweaves major historical milestones with Bob Inama's life events
- a Character Chart that indicates Historical (actual) characters vs Fictional characters
- Map of Allied-Occupied Germany 1945-1989

The end of the book includes an Afterword (that answers what is fictional vs real) a really comprehensive "Chapter Notes" (about 27 pages) that includes several internet links that provide additional information.

I do plan to purchase this book once it is released; there is someone that I think who would really enjoy this one.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher (Shadow Mountain) and the author Heather B. Moore for the opportunity to review this advance read copy in exchange for an honest review. Publication date is 7 Sept 2021.

This was an enjoyable read and I found myself racing through to the end, keen to see what would happen. It was a compelling story set in Soviet - occupied East Germany at the time of the Cold War. Each chapter begins with a brief historical note to remind the reader what was being decided in government or what was being reported in the media at the time. I found myself intrigued by this recent history of Stasiland and Heather Moore did a great job of taking someone else's story and bringing it to life.

I did notice that the main character was a Mormon and whilst this was alluded to in the book, the author chose to label him as having a Christian faith. This is not an accurate representation of his beliefs and I would rather the author have clearly outlined his beliefs than leave it vague.

"He wanted to excel, to make a mark in the world...see how far he could go...a remarkable man, a humble man who served his country, looked beyond himself, and changed lives around him...serving in the epicenter of the Cold War...going undercover in East Berlin and sending nuclear target information back to the United States Army."

In the early 1960's, Bob Inama, having worked as a missionary for his church, was bound and determined to become a government lawyer. The draft intervened. Now he would be trained for field artillery, his education on hold. Bob was ever hopeful and resilient, a man of faith. His resolve would be tested above and beyond human endurance. He was still ever thankful. Just ask Adolf. Adolf's life was forever blessed by their time together.

"The Slow March of Light" by Heather B. Moore is a well crafted tome of historical fiction. The Author's Note and Historical Timeline preceding the novel created the context for the unfolding events. The Character Chart denoting historical as well as fictional figures was quite helpful. I had to constantly remind myself of the reality of the role Luisa Voigt as well as that of Adel and Mrs. Herrmann played. Author Moore's writing seamlessly blended fact and fiction. Overall, I was blown away by the courage and humility of Bob Inama, an inspiration, a man whose awe inspiring story will resonate with me for a long time. Highly recommended.

Thank you Callie Hansen of Shadow Mountain Publishing and Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The Slow March of Light by Heathet B. Moore is a stunning historical fiction novel that takes place in the aftermath of WWII in Berlin during the time of the Cold War and the infamous Berlin Wall.

This book is just truly amazing. It was fascinating to read even more about what life was like for the people in Berlin and surrounding areas after the Berlin Wall was placed. The separation of friends, loved ones, and families that ended up on opposite sides of the Wall were so close to one another, but yet worlds apart.

I loved the alternate stories of Luisa and Bob. Luisa ends up being separated from her grandmother whom is now on the East side of Berlin. This trauma, and the awareness that there are so many more affected, leads Luisa to join the underground groups that help rescue individuals that want to escape the atrocities of communist East Berlin and make it to West Berlin.

Bob is an American that has been enlisted and placed into covert and secret operations within the communist regime...however ends up being caught, imprisoned, and at times tortured.

Both end up meeting before their harrowing paths take them on separate missions, and find that they have feelings for one another. Both end up going through their own acts of heroism and selflessness in hopes of trying to help others.

The reader ends up being able to follow along both characters as their paths cross, separate, and hopefully cross again. This book was fascinating, gripping, suspenseful, and heart wrenching. But, through it all we see hope, love, life, and the possibilities of a better tomorrow with the help of good people such as the two main characters.

I truly loved this book, and enjoyed it even more-so when reading the Author’s note at the beginning informing us that the story of Bob Inama was true and that with the Chapter notes at the end of the book just took my breath away.

What an amazing story of a brave and honorable man. It is a privilege to be able to read his experience amd I thank him for his service.

Thank you NG and Shadow Mountain Publishing for this stunning arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR, Instagram, and Bookbub accounts immediately (as of 4/5/21 no BB listing has yet been created) and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 9/7/21.

My thanks to NetGalley for this advance copy.

“Come what may, and love it”.

The author’s introductory note and the Timeline are essential reading before embarking on this true story about Bob Inama. The Chapter Notes also give clarity to the historical facts. The Cold War is a particularly difficult period during history, some parts still very much alive to those affected by it, but the author through thorough research and interviews has captured the very essence of the subject.

With a previously very limited knowledge of the Cold War, this novel brings to light an insight into the lives of those Inhabitants of living in Berlin, their fear and treatment by the Stasi and the East German border guards, and the part America played in their commitment to seek peace.

Nicely set up with Bob’s departure from the US after enlistment into the forces, and his arrival in Germany when his future takes a sharp turn. The inclusion of the fictional character of Luisa adds flavour and depth to the story, displaying the bravery and nerve of the underground. Bob Inama is a truly remarkable man who commands great respect.

For anyone with an interest in history, combined with a romantic element, this is a great read.

Bob Inama's plans for life are suddenly derailed in 1960 when he is drafted. Bob ends up in Germany where he crosses path with Luisa Voigt, a hospital nurse. Their budding relationship is derailed when Luisa moves to West Berlin with her father to be closer to her Oma, who lives in East Berlin, and Bob is sent on a secret mission as a spy to record locations of Soviet targets. Meanwhile, Luisa gets wrapped up in helping an underground organization assisting East Berlin citizens in their escape to the West.
Bob and Luisa's stories are inspiring. The realities of Germany during the Cold War are heartbreaking and reading the stories of two people who bravely are fighting against the Soviets was eye opening. I loved the two characters, especially Bob's never-ending gratitude and kindness to everyone, no matter which side they are on. I walked away wanting to be more like him. Reading a historical fiction novel that takes place sometime other than WWII was great as I was able to learn about something I did not know as much about.