Mark Downer's "Ghosts of the Past" is a high-octane historical thriller that splices the dark secrets of World War II with a modern-day international treasure hunt. It’s a compelling read perfect for anyone who enjoys the blend of historical detail, globe-trotting adventure, and complex espionage, evoking the spirit of classic thrillers centered on Nazi loot. The narrative is built on a fantastic hook: the final, cryptic crash of Major Max Hignite’s Luftwaffe transport in the Swiss Alps, which wasn't carrying military cargo, but a priceless collection of artwork stolen under the authority of Hermann Goering. This single event in 1945 casts a chilling, deadly shadow decades later. In 2001, when protagonist Matt Ferguson inherits his great uncle Max’s mysterious legacy, the pace shifts into high gear. What begins as a simple discovery—a hidden safe, military gear, and a list of stolen art—quickly explodes into a life-or-death scenario. Ferguson, an ordinary American, is plunged into the underworld with the help of the assistant curator, Courtney Lewis. Their partnership is the emotional core of the novel, navigating ups and downs of trust as they are hunted by multiple parties. Downer populates the world with compelling antagonists, from the wealthy and ruthless art collector Guillermo Rocca, who deploys his associate Juan to track every move, to the mysterious Bolivar. The stakes are underscored by a wave of violence, including break-ins and the attack on Dr. Karl, lending immediate credence to the book’s subtitle: this collection is, indeed, worth killing for. Read the full review here: https://www.printedwordreviews.com/bookreviews/9781938462504