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Off the Record

A Novel

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Off the Record

By: Sara Goodman Confino
Narrated by: Helen Laser
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An aspiring newspaper reporter comes across a mystery that threatens to turn the Cold War hot in a funny, thrilling, and strictly undercover romantic comedy by the bestselling author of Don’t Forget to Write.

In 1962, opportunities are typically few for nice Jewish girls clacking away at ninety words per minute in a newspaper typing pool. Except Judy Greenberg isn’t typical. An aspiring reporter in DC, she’s aiming for journalistic greatness—not finding a husband. Just don’t tell her mother.

Then one day she answers her boss’s private line. The message is curiously cryptic. It’s also delivered in a Russian accent. Judy is certain she has stumbled upon a scoop. Charming reporter Jack Fields isn’t one to dismiss Judy’s instincts. Perfect. A seasoned ally she can trust, not to mention pass off as a pretend boyfriend around her relieved parents. Together, they’re following the leads—from a clandestine hotel bar to the dressing room of a slinky Cuban nightclub singer to an exhilarating underground of secrets and spies stretching from Moscow to Havana to Texas.

Now Judy must choose between the safe life expected of her or one hell of a dangerous story that could make her career. She might even fall in love for real. If her ambitions don’t get her killed.

Family Life Genre Fiction Historical Jewish Mystery Romantic Comedy Women's Fiction World Literature Russia Exciting Funny Cold War
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Critic reviews

“Helen Laser narrates Sara Goodman Confino’s latest historical novel, set in 1960s Washington, D.C., with her usual blend of charm, comic timing, and versatile character portrayals. Laser fully inhabits brash, savvy recent college graduate Judy Greenberg’s fervent pursuit of a journalism career in a male-dominated field.… Laser presents Judy and Jacob’s subtle romantic tension, as well as Judy’s sometimes demanding family, with humor. An atmospheric romp.” Kirkus Audiobook Reviews

“One of the joys of reading is starting a book and being hooked from the first page. With Off the Record, Sara Goodman Confino accomplishes that and more…This combination of spy thriller, historical fiction, rom-com, and family drama is extremely fun to read. If you are looking for a clever, humorous, and engaging summer read, look no further.” —Bookreporter

“A constant page-turner…Confino has crafted a story that is equal parts inspiring and entertaining, making Off the Record a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction with heart.” —Jewish Book Council

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The book starts strong as a fun historical fiction about a woman chasing her journalism dreams, featuring a Jewish mother who gives The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel vibes. However, the plot gets a bit too wild and convenient in the second half, and the romance feels flat with no chemistry. Still, it’s a lighthearted and entertaining listen.

Entertaining

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