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A MUST READ!
I have followed the case faithly since May 30, and still read new information in the book! I admire Dave and his determination to bring justice for the disappearance of his daughter! | 4 |
great book... written very good. great service
I received great service and the book was written very well. Dave and Beth Holloway have gone thru hell and back and the Aruban govt. is corrupt and should be taken to task for how they have handled this situation... | 4 |
A great eye opener
This book was an easy read and only takes a day or two of your time but, is very interesting and "scary" about how the Aruban government operates and how corrupt it is. I found myself angry and heartbroken throughout this book. Natalee Holloway's dad Dave does a great job of being honest and open minded about what could have happened to his daughter. My heart goes out to his family. I had just gotten back from Aruba when I read this book and to be honest I am sort of glad I didn't read it before I went. I think everyone should read this book!!!!! | 4 |
Insightful
A fascinating and insightful look into what really went on in the days and months following Natalee's disappearance. I could feel Mr Holloways desperation and frustration as he was confronted with one false hope after another. A must-read for parents of teenagers who are contemplating a senior trip overseas. | 4 |
Aruba : The Tragic Untold Story of Natalee Holloway and Corruption in Paradise
My heart breaks for this family. I thank Dave & Beth for really helping us see the corruption. I recommend this book for all families that have children. Great gift to the one you love, or the local library for others to read. | 4 |
Modern Day Nostradamus
The Shango Riddle, which first popped up on an Aruba-related blog forum, continues to puzzle, and Dave Holloway gives it his best shot here in an appendix, after a brief reading of it in Chapter Seven; but as I see it he is reading into it only the things he knows already. That's the nature of Shango's Riddle, it's like a mirror in which the viewer can see only the shadowy lineaments of his or her oown reflection. Shango, whoever he is, has the Teflon inapplicability of someone like Nostradamus; all his metaphors are slippery, sketchy, and yet taken as a whole the prophecy carries a sense of enormous doom and apocalyptic knowledge. Thus the same way that people now go to Nostradamus and see in it the World Trade center predicted, I believe that in the future folks will be returning to the Shango Riddle and discovering in its quirky tags and syntax all manner of clues to the future.Whether or not it is a cruel hoax remains to be seen. But, if I had the reins of power, I would definitely try to uncover the true identity of Shango. Can't they trace people back through their ISP number and so forth? Look how they nabbed that joker who claimed on Wikipedia that the country newspaper editor had engineered the Bobby Kennedy assassination. Isn't finding Natalee just as important as discovering the source of a libel on Wikipedia?My heart goes out to Dave and Robin, and it is to his credit that he never tries to make Beth and Jug sound like his antagonists, even though reading between the lines it sounds like he's skeptical of the wealthier pair's handling of the case. Good for him, for it's just as well the whole family present a united front, for the people who are responsible for Natalee's disappearance want to divide and conquer, that's for sure. However, is a travel boycott really going to help? | 3 |
No new Facts...just Rumors and Hearsay
This book just rehashes the same rumors that we all have heard on tv. He doesn't offer any proof, just says things like "We've heard that..." How is that proof? In this country that kind of evidence isn't allowed in our courts either. It's called hearsay and this book is filled with it. He also has a romanticized version of the US justice system. Perhaps he needs to spend more time with the relatives of those who go missing every day in the US and are never found and see if they think the US system is any better. All throughout the book, he constantly refers to the sex slave trade and how prolific it is, yet he cannot name one name of one other person that has disappeared from Aruba. How can you claim that it is so rampant yet not have any other names to back up your claim? Once again, there is no proof only rumor. | 0 |
Aruba>>>
I have to say that overall I enjoyed this book. Many people said Dave did this prematurely and maybe he did, but his message still comes through loud and clear...he wants his daughter back. It's unimaginable to not have any idea where your child is and be completely helpless. He doesn't know if she is dead or alive and therefore he can never truly grieve for her. I thought some of the pictures were strange though because in many of the pictures when Natalees family is searching for her they are smiling and looking to be enjoying themselves. This struck me as odd. I truly hope that Natalees family can someday find some closure in this tragic eveny. | 3 |
The Ultimate Cliffhanger!
I saw the reenactment last night on Inside Edition of the night that Natalee Holloway disappeared and it was really slanted, in my opinion. Nobody who has seen Joran would identify him as being with the blonde, American girl "with the Dutch accent."The one thing about this book is that it leaves you hanging...a real cliffhanger. Unfortunately, it's for real and we don't know what happened to Natalee. Hopefully, someday soon we will find out.I really enjoyed the book. I only wish it had a happy ending! | 4 |
Wonderful Book!!!
This book tugs at the heartstrings and leaves you wondering how something like this could happen. I was able to picture the events as they unfolded and feel the frustration that Dave Holloway must have faced. Some of the events were alarming and it's amazing that the Aruban officials were so blatant in their mishandling of Natalee's disappearance. I recommend this book to anyone who likes true crime. It definitely held my attention. | 4 |
Not Sure
The book arrived in good condition, however 2 weeks late and although I tried to communicate with the company I did not receive any information as why or when I would receive the book. The did not reply to to questions.Will not use them again. | 2 |
Wake up Call for All Americans
"Aruba" This is a well written story that all parents and their teenagers should read and realize that the laws in other countries do not protect or cooperate with Americans. I was amazed that the FBI could not do more to find out what happened to Natalie. This book is an eye-opener for all travellers and my heart goes out to Dave Holloway. I can hardly wait to read Beth Holloway's new book, "Loving Natalie" and hope this story stays on top of the news until she is found. Sadly, there is no ending to this journey, but there are lessons to be learned, as there are no fairy tales in this day and age. M. Newton, Los Angeles, Ca. | 4 |
Wonderful Book!
I can't say enough about the way this book touched my heart. As the father of a teenage daughter, my emotions run high for what Dave Holloway must be going through. His words were so telling of the struggle he has faced searching for his daughter in that corrupt place. He suggests what may have happened to her, but cleverly remains objective and allows readers to decide for themselves. After all, only the criminals know for sure who they are. I saw the book on the New York Times Best Seller List and noticed that it has been there for 4 weeks running. It certainly deserves it's place on such a prestigious list!!! And, it is so telling of the kind of man Holloway is that he is donating some of the profits to help other families search for missing loved ones - an incredible gesture from a man who still has no idea what has happened to his own child. I'm praying for the Holloway family that Natalee is returned safely to them. | 4 |
Incredible Story!
I read "Aruba" and felt so much compassion for the family and so much hatred for the Aruban government who did everything they could to hinder the investigation. What kind of police officer would turn to a father before even saying hello and ask him how much money he has? That's not the way a true investigator deals with a parent who is in a panic about his missing daughter! You'd have to be an idiot not to see the truth after all of the reports out of Aruba and the story as told in the book. There is corruption in paradise and we should do everything we can to find out the truth and sink that "One Happy Island."I especially admired Dave for the way he took the lead in the investigation when the Arubans wouldn't. It's so sad that he had to lose his daughter this way and it's pretty obvious that the Arubans really do believe that somebody on their island killed her because they keep holding suspects on suspicion of murder and kidnapping.The book is a quick read because it tells the story in a coherent and interesting fashion. I'm not surpised it made the New York Times best seller list. Everyone I know who read it loved it and my bookstore said they can't keep it on the shelves because it sells out so fast. Anyone who speaks badly of the family or the book obviously doesn't know the story. Many people were writing bad reviews long before the book even came out and I'm sure they are still coming on here and doing that. I can't help but wonder what connection they have to Aruba and why they want the story to go away.The truth will come out. We need to continue to support Natalee's family! Read the book. It's great! | 4 |
Poorly Written
I realize that Mr.Holloway is not a professional author, but the publishers/ghost writers should have done a better job. The book was very poorly written, disorganized and rambled on, I have also recently read Sharon Rochas's book which was presented much better.That said,it is a pity that this case has not been resolved, but having worked in law enforcement for the military in a foreign country it is quite clear to me that not only was the family misguided by media, "professional" searchers and gold diggers who wanted a piece of the the notority and fame, but they probably hindered and interfered with the investigation itself. There is nothing wrong in the police asking Mr Holloway how much money he has in relationship to a potential kidnapping in a country close to South America where kidnap for ransom is quite common yet Holloway seems to be oblivious to this and makes this a huge point of contention. I've seen the mother on TV quite frequently calling these kids rapists and murderers which is wrong,there is no evidence of a rape or even a death. It seems to me there was an interview that Springer or Dr Phil aired which claimed the boys confessed on the tape but it was later proven to have been altered. This is shameful and proves how the media has interfered with and exploited this case.I am sorry for the Holloways, but I am even sorrier that a book which is so poorly written like this was actually published and is what is memorializing this beautiful teenager. Shame on the publisher and the ghost writers for exploiting this family once again. | 0 |
Fascinating Story of Disappearance and the Corrupt Plot to Cover it Up
I have been following this case for almost a year now via the mainstream media, cable TV, online blogs and bulletin boards. This is a huge tragedy. A class of high school graduates went to Aruba for their "graduation event" and all of a sudden, Natalee Holloway disappeared after leaving a bar with the three primary suspects. She just went "poof." What is even worse than her disappearance, is that the Aruban police and authorities laughed it up saying she was probably in a crack house. The authorities waited 10 days before looking for forensic evidence from the three primary suspects, who took those 10 days to get rid of evidence. There was a massive coverup from the beginning and that cover up is still ongoing.Dave Holloway is a class act. You should see him. Soft spoken yet tenacious. He looks and sounds very good on TV. Dave finally had enough of the inept Aruban investigation and wrote this book. It is a heartbreaking story about his experiences in Aruba and how he was treated and lied to by the Aruban authorities. And his daughter is still missing.I rate this book very highly. | 4 |
Exposing the Truth
Dave Holloway's book gives us an inside view of what parents, friends, family have to go through in a foreign country if someone they love disappears. In this case, the focus is on Natalee Holloway who is a young, beautiful eighteen-year-old that went with her classmates to celebrate after graduating from high school with honors and had a bright future ahead of her.Rather than bringing us closer to knowing or understanding how Natalee vanished, it exposes the underbelly of a corrupt country that is ruled by unscrupulous polis and nobody seems to be able to stop them - not even their own mother country, Holland.I couldn't put the book down, it's an easy read, the pages smoke with information, intrigue and heartbreak.It's an important book for anyone who travels, vacations,or visits a foreign country because you learn that there is no protection from your own country when you travel to places like Aruba. The book exposes a need for change.You won't be disappointed in the poignant and well told events of what a father and his family went through and still goes through trying to find his missing daughter while those who are culpable are free.The story demonstrates that there is a fine line between goodness and evil in this world and the loss of innocence with the exposure of the dark secrets that one tiny island has held at bay from the world are no longer tolerated. | 4 |
book
no dialog, kind of boring. I read the whole book and did enjoy parts of it but would have liked to had more dialog that it contained. | 2 |
Credibility?
Before one reads this, they need to consider one of the authors has also written "Breaking Into Acting For Dummies". Click on the author links above, it is listed. Author's personal webpage confirms it. | 0 |
Mothers and fathers, guard your daughters
Again, aristocratic Alabama leads the way as a guardian of morality. Young Natalee's whereabouts are unknown - the worst is loudly feared. The girl was sent off for an innocent good time where the price was cheaper than California and even the Redneck Riviera, it being assumed that America was now potent enough to control the manners, morals and law enforcement of a tin horn state like Aruba. But people were wild, apparently, and disaster struck, apparently. Natalee is missing, the locals will not tell us what apparently happened and audaciously refuse to hang SOMEBODY for the apparently dastardly deed. And, when the Governor of Alabama called off his hawg-calling and cell-phone boosterism long enough to lower the boom on the unruly Arubers, with a boycott, just like the Yankees used to slap on the Heart of Dixie, then, to the blank astonishment of right-thinkin' Alabamians and other Americans who have their heart in the right place though their --- may not be in Dixie, then, the very President of the United States, George Bush Jr., who speaks, otherwise, after the heart of right-thinkin' Alabamians in a way neither Jeff Davis NOR George Corley Wallace ever did (being a religious man, unlike those two) THEN, the Scourge of adDaarAlIslaam himself told the Governor of Alabama to get back to whatever it is he's supposed to be doing down there and leave foreign policy to Washington. D of C. U.S.A.But Alabama, and its sympathisanten, continues to howl. You can't legislate morality. | 4 |
holloways and twittys in fantasyland
It is unfortunate what happened. But David offers no explanations as to where were the chaperones? why did her classmates let her go alone? where is their moral repsonsibility as he eluded to the moral responsiblities or the kalpoes and JVDS; does not David know there is underage drinking, crack houses, slave trade right here in the good old USA? or what rock did he crawl out from under? Where is the proof of corruption in Aruba? Children and young adults go missing everyday here in the US? I think the Holloways and Twittys have no one to blame except themselves as they too do not appear too street smart. | 0 |
Excellent and On Point!
I picked up "Aruba" out of curiosity because I had followed the story and wanted to see if it was going to be just another run of the mill rehash of facts. To my pleasant surprise, I found myself entrenched in Dave Holloway's quest for the truth about his missing daughter. I literally couldn't put it down and finished it in two days (neglecting some of my work). I'm not one to post book reviews, but after reading some of the others on here, I felt compelled to add my own views. The story is one that, as Americans, should make us all band together and scream for justice. Natalee may be just one young woman, but she could have been any one of our family members and, as such, we should not sit back and allow what happened to her to go unnoticed. Rather then complain about the lack of media coverage for other missing persons, as some people have, we should learn from the Holloways how to keep stories like this on the front page. As a parent, I know that I would do anything to find my daughter, and Dave Holloway has done just that. The family's campaign, with Dave in the trenches and Beth on the news, has led us to see Aruba as it really is. There is no "One Happy Island!" It is all smoke and mirrors. Dave Holloway's book lets us see what he experienced during his daily searches for Natalee, the grueling heat, the way the police played games with him, the torture of digging in garbage to find some sign of Natalee, and the constant lies that he was being told. He describes secret meetings in out of the way places where he was in danger, and cat and mouse games that were intended to make it look as though the police were taking the situation seriously. He lets us see some of the thousands of tips that he received after setting up email addresses for people to be able to contact him without fear of retaliation by the Aruban police. He shows the side of Natalee and his relationship with her that we never saw on the news. How anyone cannot hang on his every word is beyond me. As a columnist, I know how hard it is to write something that grasps the reader. But, Dave and his co-authors have done a great job. I definitely give the book a thumbs up! | 4 |
Dave Holloway takes center stage
I have been captivated by this story since day one, especially living within 2 hours of Natalee's hometown. I have attempted to follow every news story and keep up to date with all the latest information (including most recently the 19 year old male that has been arrested). When I read in a magazine that this book was coming out - I could not wait to get my hands on it! Sadly, after reading halfway through the book - I am gravely disappointed. My disappointment started very early on when I was reading the "acknowledgements" (as I do with every book I read). During Mr.Holloway's thanking the "literally thousands of people" who helped during the ordeal - he seemed to have forgotten Beth Holloway Twitty - Natalee's mother. Despite the fact that she is his ex - I thought this was very tasteless. I have noticed several other places in the book where he seems to be talking negatively about Beth and Jug.I remember early on when this story broke I recall wondering, where is Natalee's dad? Why has no one said anything about him? Is he even alive? Beth and Jug were and still are the front runners of this investigation as far as I am concerned.He needs to show a little more respect for the ENTIRE Holloway family that has worked so hard during this process. My thoughts and prayers are with the family today and always. | 0 |
Drama
I'm sorry she's missing but there are countless missing people right in our own country. If we boycott Aruba over this, then we should also boycott the US for it's missing people. The only reason why Natalee got the coverage she did is because the news media needed a soap opera to boost their ratings. And her being beautiful and blonde helped things too. Nobody can deny that if Natalee were unattractive, this story never would have made it on television.Continue the search for Natalee but what is the point in writing books? And no doubt a movie is in the works. | 0 |
I don't think they want her found
I am a psychic and Natalee contacted ME - In a dream, I didn't even know her, She was reaching out to me and, much to my better thought, I called the FBI and got a man who sounded like I interrupted his cozy nap and couldn't care less about my info or the case. This is the state of sad ways we live in these days. I wept for her then told her I tried - I told her I would and I did, but nobody cared nor listened. Maybe nobody wants her to be found.Jimmy Rae, South Florida | 0 |
This poor family!
I purchased the book yesterday at an airport and could not put it down! I have followed this case closely but was still surprised at the obvious corruption this family has faced - all in the name of tourism, politics, and power. Something is not right. Dave is right to press for answers and I hope that this book assists in making it perfectly clear that there surely is TROUBLE IN PARADISE. If you want to know the REAL story about the pure HELL this family has been put through - buy this book! | 4 |
Aruba Mis-Information Campaign
Of course there are fake people here writing reviews against Dave Holloway's book! As with everything else Aruba has done, this is yet another mis-information campaign attempting to smear the Holloway and Twitty family.No real parent could read Dave's book and not feel the heart break and courage of this man as he and his family search for their beloved daughter and only get lip service and corruption from Aruba. Seventy-Five days, Dave searched for Natalee regardless of how undaunting the task. He searched through garbage in the heat and stench looking to return his daughter's remains to America.How sick that Aruba would now bring people here to write false reviews of his book just to be ugly and hateful.Parents and anyone traveling abroad needs to read this book and understand that countries such as Aruba care about your dollars, not investigating a crime committed against you. BOYCOTT ARUBA! | 4 |
A Father's Love
A heart-wrenching story! Natalee IS everyone's child. The story of what happened to Natalee is every parent's nightmare. I have nothing but respect for Dave, Robin, Beth, and Jug. The strength, courage, and dignity exhibited by all four during this tragedy is admirable. I pray for closure for this family. | 4 |
A very sad mystery
I actually learned some things about the case I had not known. I think it's horrible that their daughter vanished into thin air. The family can never have closure unless they get answers. This book really makes you think about what could happen to you or a loved one on a vacation to a foreign country. I would highly recommend this book. | 3 |
Pray for the Holloways!
How sad that the Aruba and Dutch government continue playing games with that poor family by making one arrest after another and releasing suspects every time. They are simply trying to give the false impression that they are working hard on the case. Dave Holloway has it right in his book to call into question the motives of that corrupt little island where girls can disappear and everyone looks the other way. They even tried to point the finger at Natalee, as though anything she did could have done could take away responsibility from the criminals who abducted her and have made her disappear. The book is a winner as the New York Times best seller list has shown. Every parent and teen should read it and see what can happen when you leave this country. One good thing that has come from this whole ordeal is that other missing person's cases are being taken more seriously. It's a must read! | 4 |
ARUBA GROW UP AND COME CLEAN
Stop writing phony reviews to cover up your CORRUPTION IN PARADISE!Read this book and find out the truth!!! | 4 |
It was just okay....
I have just finished reading the book and was kind of let down. I have been following this story since day one and was excited to get the book when it came out. But there was nothing in the book that I didn't already know from the media. I thought the book would be different. Although I rated it with only 3 stars because for me it was just "okay", I truely with all of my heart hope and pray that this family gets some closure to this case. I applaud them for fighting to keep this in the spotlight because if they don't then who will??.... | 2 |
I could not put it down!
I read this book in 1 day! Dave Holloway's book is about everything his family has gone through this past year. I pray everyday that Natalee's family gets answers. It was full of so much information, I could not put it down. | 4 |
Incredibly on Target!
Anyone who reads this book will be astounded by the factual details that Natalee's father was able to put together under the direst of circumstances. And, anyone who would write a review without having read the book, is someone with an obvious agenda...bash the Holloways!! The book made the New York Times best Seller List. As someone who was closely involved in the investigation, I can honestly say that this is the version of events that leaves nothing out. Moreover, Dave Holloway was careful to include every detail that we all wondered about when the media left gaps. This family has suffered tragically and one has to wonder what kind of people would criticize a family who has lost a child. It could only be the cruelest and most heartless monsters who would publicly show their lack of respect and concern for the Holloways. Shame on them! | 4 |
Speculation and Supposition
Having followed the case, there is nothing in this book that I couldn't have written. Rumor and what if are the foundation of the book. Alot of it has been explained to be untrue but still makes its way to the book. I bought the book with the hopes that a" portion of the proceeds will go to the Natalee Holloway foundation for missing persons" but as of yet I can find no specifics that such a foundation exists. Save your money until a book with credible references is available. Hopefully once the case is solved, if ever, we won't have to read about a father theorizing his daughter getting gangraped in a vehicle's backseat explaining why a less than credible witness didn't see the girl in the car. | 0 |
Totally factual and to the point.
Dave Holloway did a great job of laying out the timeline of events surrounding the investigation and disappearance of his daughter, Natalee. I was extremely impressed by his account and also the way that he allowed the readers to decide for themselves what may have happened. He let us in on all of the details and did what any good writer who didn't know the end result would do; he left it to us to think of the possibilities. I'd rather see that than to have an irate father deliberately point the finger at a suspect without really knowing for sure whether or not the person was guilty. It's a real page turner and my book club has already spent the past month discussing it. It reads like a who-done-it and we are all hoping that there is a sequel if the crime is ever solved. You won't be sorry you read it. There is so much in there that wasn't on the news. Who better to write to true story than a parent of the victim? Forget the speculation and gossip and get the real version straight from the person who lived it. This father is one special guy. He truly loves his daughter and has been doing everything he can to find her. I can't even imagine what this poor family has endured, not only in Aruba, but right here in the US and on message boards and blogs. I've seen some of the hate comments and all I can say is this; walk in this man's shoes for one day and then imagine being attacked by a bunch of bored losers whose only motive is to make their lives a little more exciting by dragging someone else down to their level! The book is a winner!!! Don't take my word for it. Read it. It made the NY Time Best Seller List 4 weeks in a row! There's a good reason for that! | 4 |
Great story
I enjoyed this book because it was written from the heart and the feelings of Dave Holloway really came through. | 4 |
America's Tragedy is Aruba's Shame
This tragic episode leads anyone contemplating travel to any of the islands in the Caribbean off the coast of Venezuela or Colombia to think twice, and then think again. The Natalee Holloway case is a worse case scenario of what can happen when tragedy strike a vacation, especially when a crime is implicated as being at the base of the tragedy. Sadly, what typically happens in such cases is that island authorities will first circle the wagons and ask questions later. In any case, top priority will be given to aggressively defending their own local interests: the tourist trade, and then the personal turf of their families. Everything else, including even the investigation of a murder of a young innocent woman, will run a distant third.What actually happened to Natalee Holloway may now never be fully known, for too much time has past and the evidentiary trail has become cold and has been purposefully tampered with and scattered so that whatever may be discovered even in the future, will be hopelessly tainted. Thus this is a cautionary tale that will never have a fairy tale ending. This book is the heart-wrenching story pieced together by Natalee's father's own private investigation. What we learn here is that as Natalee and a group of her fellow graduates ended their vacation at a popular bar, someone apparently slipped a date rape drug into her drink. Independent reports suggest that this "date rape doping ruse" had been repeated many times by the same team of co-conspirators: Joran van der Sloot, the Kolpoe brothers and possibly one or more of the bar's bartenders.Drugged, half conscious and teetering, Natalee was escorted to a waiting car, which she may have thought was a cab but was in fact the car of the Kolpoe brothers, the best friends of her de facto date for the evening, Joran van der Sloot. The three then whisked her away to a secluded spot near the Marriot Hotel where they proceeded to take turns "having their way" with her semi-conscious body. Joran, the pack leader, went first and then left the sexual crumbs to his erstwhile island buddies as he snuck back into his parent's home. At this point, apparently something about this well-oiled "sex-train by date-rape" scenario went horribly off the rails. Most likely it was that Natalie either went into convulsions because of an overdose of the drugs originally slipped into her drink, or else she awoke and began to fight off her rapists. And the brothers, left to pick up the sexual crumbs, were forced to subdue her with deadly force. In either case, the brothers, who were sycophantic followers, rather than leaders panicked and had to cell phone the pack leader, Joran, back to the scene of the original crimes, and hopefully to their rescue. Joran, as usual took control, and either completed the killing of Natalee and proceeded to dispose of her body temporarily in the sands of the beach until a better plan (taking her out to sea in an iron-fishing cage) could be devised. The three then agreed to an alibi: that she had been dropped off at her hotel. However, this well-laid alibi unraveled when security cameras showed that Natalee was never dropped off at the hotel.Had even reasonably competent detectives or police authorities arrested these three "slapstick co-conspirators," their alibis could have been cracked and the three turned against each other in less than an hour. But instead, with Joran's father leading the pack, the Aruban authorities began circling the wagons and refused to engage in even a minimalist investigation -- that is, even if they had been competent enough to engage in one. The result was a botched investigation that brought nothing but colossal shame and disgrace upon that cruel little island and more grief to the Holloway family.My wife and I had Aruba high on our list of possible vacation spots, but now it has been scratched from the list and all the brochures trashed. Until Aruba steps up to the plate and shows the world that it can solve this crime, I urge others to do the same. Two stars | 1 |
Must Read
Find out the facts of the investigation as told by her loving father. | 4 |
American Media has let US down.
If you're like me, you've been addicted to the Natalee Holloway story from day one. It seems like its been YEARS since the Laci Petterson story concluded and we've needed a place to turn the eager eyes of the American Media. Tragically, Ms. Holloway has been that person.I've been pretty skeptical of the Media's covered of this particular story. I mean come on, where's the fair and balanced reporting? Why are we even talking about the War in Iraq, the Economy, Global Warning, Open Borders, Abortion, etc. when we have a girl lost in Aruba? It just makes me sick.Thankfully, Mr. David Holloway gives us the untold story that the media failed to deliver while they were talking about the "War". ***Spoiler Alert *** There is corruption in paradise! I know, it seems odd that in a place called "paradise" there could be such a thing, but as Mr. Holloway points out - there is. | 4 |
Incredible Story!
I have never read a book that was so interesting that I literally couldn't put it down. The story is riveting and Dave and his co-authors relayed the events in such an interesting fashion, with the timeline, Dave's relationship with Natalee, and the corruption in Aruba all intermingled in such a fascinating way. This book is a definite must read. I followed the story from day one and there are many things in the book that I never saw on the news. You won't believe how the story plays out. It's unreal. I wouldn't go to Aruba if they gave me a free trip. From what I hear, that's what they are trying to do to increase their huge drop in tourism. | 4 |
Amazing Book
I think this is truly an amazing book. Natalee's father goes into a lot of detail about things that went on in Aruba. You can really tell how much this father loves his daughter. I think it is really sad about what happened to this family, and I hope one day she can be found for the family's sake. I thing this is a wonderful book and I'm actually thinking about rereading it | 4 |
Sad very sad..
The book was very sad and I feel sorry for this mans pain.. I hope Dave gets the answers that he needs but after reading this book, I am not sure that island will give up her secrets..His daughter is gone, yet leaves no trail and dust that's scattered in that place called the Happy little Island. If one is going out of the country maybe they should read this book, you might have second thoughts. Its short but very powerful if you have a family. I am not sure this book would mean anything to someone that has no family.. | 4 |
sad sad sad
Sad to see a dad take advantage of his daughter's misfortune. I agree with the other post above that this only shows the level of altered media coverage. Having been somebody that followed this case closely I feel like Dave (purposely?) left out some important details about the Aruban government's help in finding this person. Furthermore, some of the "facts" described on the Dr Phil show have been researched and found to be altered.The question this book raises is: if the Aruban government is called corrupt because of the case of this missing person, then what can we say about our own government corruption considering we have hundreds and thousands of such cases on a yearly, monthly, weekly basis?Don't get fooled by the cover of this book; nowhere is it clear how these "facts" or suppositions were acquired. | 0 |
A Must Read for parents and travelers
This book is heart breaking, but a must read for anyone who travels or is a parent. The corruption involved in the investigation was shocking and has mostly gone unreported in the press. I admire Mr Holloway's patience and truly hope he can find answers on his lovely daughter's fate. | 4 |
WONDERFUL BOOK
I found this book to be completely engrossing...thanks for sharing Dave. Well-written, informative. Great book about such a tragic story. Our hearts and prayers go out to you. I am appalled at all the injustice and corruption on this NOT SO HAPPY ISLAND..I hope every American stays away from there. Thanks again Dave and Stephanie for a great read and for sharing, so we can know the truth from the one who lived it. | 4 |
The title says it all...
The tile of the book by Natalee's father, Dave, says it all...Tragic Untold Story of Natalee Holloway and Corruption...The news media is just now (April 2006) catching onto just how badly this case was handled. The Aruban Law Enforcement may not be very professional, but the bottom line is that the truth about this case has been purposefully covered-up. Why? Because of 3 young boys - no! Because of harming tourism - no! There is much more to why Natalee died and her murder covered-up. It's because her killers were of an older-elder group of "higher-ups" in the Dutch elite that rules over the poor Aruban people.Dave's book is an unbelievable read, but every word is true. It's just over-whelming to think that the death of one young girl has lead to such a massive, self-destruction of this Dutch protectorate. | 4 |
Mary Ann Morgan-Psychic Medium
In all of the cases I work on I am compassionate while holding steadfast to remaining objective not subjective to the families. Joyfully, this is one time I have broken my rule. As so many may or maynot know I was extensively involved with Dave Holloway in the search for his beautiful daughter Natalee. I am still very involved, but what most of you do not know is that I am very proud to call the entire Holloway family my dear friends. Therefore, from my heart I ask that you please help further in the effort to right all the wrongs in this case by purchasing this well written book. (Proceeds are being donated to a charity for other families with missing children) To date this book is the truest account of what really happened while we were searching for Natalee in Aruba. I believe you will come away from reading it with a new understanding of how this could have easily been your child, sister, grand-daughter, niece or friend. You will be moved by the out and out corruption surrounding the events in Aruba. You will have a new understanding of how vulnerable our children really are. The Holloway's are the salt of the earth and as I write my heart is uplifted knowing that Dave with the help of two great writers (Larry Garrison and R. Stephanie Good) is finally getting to talk about so many things that up until now had to be left out of interviews. I really feel it is GOD's way of righting so many wrongs.Take the time to find out and understand the truth. | 4 |
Required reading for every parent.
If you have teenagers or kids approaching their teens this book is a must read. Dave Holloway's journey through Aruba to find his daughter will break your heart, but it will also open your eyes to the dangers that not just teenagers but even adults face when they travel to an island whose laws and law enforcement leave much to be desired.This is a primer to the perils that can befall any of our sons and daughters who take off for their senior vacation to an island where drugs are sold openly on the streets and the bars do their best to get their patrons sloshed. This book is an easy read and one well worth it. | 4 |
I loved the Book!
I feel so bad for the Holloways. I don't know how they can deal with losing their daughter. I read the book for a book report because I was asked to read a true story about how kids can get in trouble and my mom got it for me. I figured it would be boring, but I wish they had a movie about it. I read it so fast and now all my friends are getting it and the ones who read it think it's really good. I think it should be in the school library for everyone to read. I learned alot and I wish there was something I could do to help. So that's why I came on here because I want everyone to know it's a really good book to read and especially for kids to see what could happen when you are out with your friends. The Shango part is really cool! | 4 |
Pure speculation
I cannot believe what I have just read. I picked this book up from the library, and read it in two nights (it is a quick read). What saddens me is after reading it, I could care less about the missing girl. Her dad (who sickens me by profiting of his daughters missing after only a few months), paints her to be a saint, but the truth is she was in Aruba, partying it up. I also saw picture on the net of her with booze in her had at partys in her home state of Alabama. So to say she was so straight and narrow is a lie, which may be why the author and his family fail to look at other possibilities.They are so sure of themselves that the three main suspects are the ONLY suspects, they have failed to look at the big picture.It is a sad, boring book. There is nothing in it that would be better than the made for TV movie that I am sure will come out eventually. Tori Spelling as Nat-a-lee? Maybe Mathew Lillard as Joran? How about the guy from the Apprentice (Raj I think) as one of the Kalpoe brothers. The mother can be played by Judith Light from Who's The Boss.Thanks. | 1 |
Disappointing book...
This recounting of events by the tortured father of Natalee Holloway is remarkable only for its plentiful shortcomings, both in substance and style. It is notable for its lack of documentation of recalled events, the characters themselves, and for the author(s) lack of skill in the English language.Too often, for example, he refers to the "police" in Aruba without specifying with whom he spoke. He often alludes to, "others", or "other people" when referring to government and police officials in Aruba----without specifying to whom he is referring! There are repeated referrals to "I heard", or "they said"----again, without names, dates, details! It's not clear if the author simply wasn't adequately prepared with recording techniques at the time of his inquiries, during the book writing process itself, or both.Sadly, he mentions his astonishment in discovering very late in his investigations that The Hague has something to do with the government of Aruba, and that the Aruban officials never led him to this information!! This is astonishing to this me, as the first thing which should have been done was immediately gaining a thorough understanding of the The Dutch Kingdom and its laws, just as he should have done if he suspected the crime had been commited in San Diego, or Duluth!. To not immedately understand that simple fact is inconceivable!Generally, the author comes across as at least somewhat naive and apparently still uninformed on important issues. To wit, the political relationship of Aruba within The Dutch Kingdom is inaccurate as he states it. At one point he refers to Colombia as being 20 miles off the coast of Aruba! Wrong country! He often is contradictory in his conclusions----he speculates that many Arubans and Aruban officials know "the real story", and in the next breath compliments the majority of Arubans for their help and supportive attitude. Now wait! If The Natalee Story is common knowledge among the masses, why has not at least one of them let him in on the secret?He alludes to many "rave houses" and secret sex-slave houses in Aruba where Natalee might be sequestered away----without ever explaining definitively his investigations into the extent and existence of these houses of ill-repute...If he seriously believes in the possibility of Natalee being squirreled away to Colombia, what undercover investigations has he contemplated or undertaken to verify these claims?Stylistically, this is a casual read. The author(s), however, show a disdain for proper grammar that is below even contemporary journalism standards. There are numerous mistakes throughout, and, apparently, the author(s) have a particular dislike for the word "whom".I have not visited Aruba since 1993, when I left after having lived there for 54 weeks. At the time, Aruba was indeed very windy, very hot and humid, and very much a transit point for illicit drugs. Young girls (especially from Holland) and older professional women from the US found the libertarian attitude of Aruba, Curacao, and Bon Aire to be just the right playground, especially for their "black experience", in which to enjoy themselves doing things they would never do back home in Amsterdam or the Bronx!All in all, this work is disappointing in it shortcomings and offers no definite discourse on any aspect of this tragic story.Still, readers wishing to gain insight into the point of view of the "other" parent of Natalee may want to consider it. Or not. | 1 |
Corruption of the legal system in Aruba
It is a critical read for all parents that travel with their children out of the country, or may be considering a trip to the island of Aruba. It describes not only the losing of a beloved child, but the obstacles, corruption, conspiracy, and cover-up that the family continues to deal with in Aruba, in order to find the body of the child they lost, and who was responsible for her disappearance. It covers more in-depth information than you have read and heard on television, and gives it from a different perspective while putting the information in understandable order of occurrence. Dave and Beth will never "give up on Natalee", and after reading the book neither will you. | 4 |
Dont waste your time or money
My heart goes out to Dave and his family. The tragedy of losing a child is indeed a difficult one. However Dave & Beth are not the first, nor the last to lose a child. The book only rehashed the same things we have heard on Cable news over and over for the past 10 months. Corruption with no real proof of what was or who was corrupt. Now with a new arrest it appears the only thing that ruined this investigation were Natalees parents, but applying tunnel vision and not looking at other suspects.I hope every parent uses this book when deciding whether or not to send their child to another country on an all inclusive trip. Remember, youre buying a trip that allows them to do the things we tell them not to at home. Poor Natalee, seems to have been another ever so tragic teen loss to drug and alcohol abuse, along with bad decision making skills. | 0 |
A must read for everyone who cares about people
I have followed the Natalee Holloway case from the beginning. I so admire Dave Holloway and Beth Twitty and their families, and they have my deepest concern and sympathy. Dave pours out his heart in this book, I learned a lot that I had not learned on TV reports, and believe me, I've seen them all. Dave tells it as only a "loving, hurting daddy" could do.The one thing that this whole ordeal has taught me more than anything else is how unprotected Americans are when we travel outside our country. We are at the mercy of the government of the country we choose to visit. Unfortunately, for Natalee, it was a very corrupt Aruba. If you are a compassionate person you will appreciate Dave's book. It's isn't finished, the story isn't over, it won't be until Natalee is found, or at least we know what happened to her, and those responsible are punished.Why has Natalee gotten all of this attention ? Because her mother has stayed behind the media to keep her name in the forefront. Natalee is the girl next door The friend everyone would love to have.Everyone's child...Cindy (Celene) Watts Valley, AL | 4 |
Aruba - Dangerous Paradise!
Aruba was one of my dream vacations. After reading this book, having 2 young daughters and a young son...I changed my mind.Caution to American people! We whine about our system,yet we fail to realize that there is nothing like the "good old USA." When you see blue, warm beaches, tropical palm trees, cold coconut drinks, but if it's outside the US territory, it's a dangerous place (Aruba is no exception). All they want is your American dollar. Go to Hawaii instead, and boycott Aruba. If you get hurt in Hawaii, you can file a lawsuit and fight for your rights; if you die in Aruba, no one cares. This was proven by the fact that when Dave Holloway arrived in Aruba, the police were not even aware of Natalee's disappearance. Lots of American resources had to be involved in finding her.We can only wonder what happened to Natalee Holloway. Since it happened on a foreign soil, I doubt that we will find the answer.Cold Eyes | 4 |
Not great
It was not good writing to keep a persons interest. The book dwelled to much the small details of the investigation. | 4 |
One of My Favorite Case
I bought this book years ago and I still think that this is one of the most fascinating case ever. I have a huge interest ( passion ) for Unsolved Murder Cases and Missing persons cases. Cases like the murder of Cheri Jo Bates, the disappearance of Kristen Modafferi, the abduction of Donna Lass, the murder of Molly Bish and, of course, the disappearance of Natalee Holloway are my favorite cases. This book is great, after reading it I really had the feeling of knowing Natalee and her family. Everything about this book is great, and if you want to know everything about this sad but fascinating case then just buy this book, you won't regret it.Long live Natalee. | 3 |
One of the BEST books I own!
I purchased this book in 2005 when the Holloway tragedy first struck.In 2010, I take it out, again, to revisit.It will tell you things about the investigation that only the Holloway family was privy to.And it will break your heart.It is her father's accounts from Day 1 of her missing investigation.FABULOUS, FABULOUS, FABULOUS read!And I will read it again and again until Van Der Sloot is dead. | 4 |
A different take on a truly heartwrenching event.
I had been wanting to read this book for a few months, but never picked it up. The morning I heard that Joren van der Sloot was wanted in connection for another murder of a young girl, in Peru this time, this book sreamed at me to finally read it. Usually these kind of books are written totally by reporters/crime authors and are very factual and actual and run through the whole case and give the aftermath of the people involved. This book was so different in that you truly got to experience the thoughts and emotions of a father in the search for his daughter and all the BS that he was subjected to, much of it from Americans, that would delay his efforts in the search. Like he said himself about some of the people who came foward to try to help, "people who had too much time on their hands", good hearted people; but many just not that in touch with reality anymore, not enough to help, more than hurt, the search for Natalee. It was heartbreaking going with him and the rest of the family through their struggles in Aruba, all the while the clock ticking, just trying to find the truth about what happened to a precious family member. It was even more heartbreaking, while I was reading the book, to hear in the news that Joren was trying to get money from the family in 2010 in exchange for information about what happened to Natalee, which would have, no doubt, been more of the lies and story changes that he has been using since the day he was first questioned about the whole thing years ago. Some people truly have no class, rot in a Peruvian jail you little bastard. | 3 |
sad story
book well written.very sad story,will always think of natalee and pray for justice for her. | 4 |
Very good reading
Very recomended. From the heart of a very sad story, one not found any where else. | 4 |
A Must-Read for Parents!
Dave Holloway writes of his agonizing search for his daughter Natalee, who is still missing, having disappeared in Aruba the night before she was to leave for home with her schoolmates. This book is an extremely valuable wake-up call to those of us who trust that if our children travel in groups with chaperones from their own school, even to foreign countries, that they will be safe. Do not expect this to be a cliff-hanger suspense chiller in the vein of Ann Rule or John Glatt. It is not meant to provide you with entertaining drama and was not written for purposes of profit or literature awards. It is an honest outpouring of love and determination by a father who is dedicated to finding the truth about his daughter's disappearance, and in so doing uncovers truths about Aruba that many would prefer stay hidden.Reviewer's Note: Evil not only exists in the world, but in places where it runs unchecked, it absolutely flourishes. | 3 |
LXReview
I was severly disappointed in this book. I couldn't separate real facts from Mr. Holloway's opinion. For so many of the claims that he makes he doesn't back them up. When he does give a fact it is so weak it couldn't hold water. | 0 |
GOOD READING!
i've followed the natalee holloway story since last may and it was apparent from the beginning that the aruba police are corrupt & didn't try to find out what happened to her. i feel for what dave and his family went through while reading it. it was excellently written and i read it in 2 days. i recommend this book. it was great. i just wish that dave could have found his beautiful natalee alive. if not, i wish her remains could've been found so the family could find closure.god bless natalee's family. | 3 |
Pray for Natalee
I have followed this case since day 1, and this book was heart wrenching. It takes you through the horrable events that the faimily went through up until now. Half of the proceeds from the book do go to a missing kids organization. It is on the cover of the book stating that. Furthermore, for everyone else's bad review on here, no there is not new information in here, but it does explain a lot of rumors and other things that many of us have wondered, and it also did enlighten me upon details that I didn't already know. This is a very sad book, in which I cried throughout it, but I recommend it highly. | 4 |
Funny thing about that last review
If that reviewer truly read Dave's book, he would know that it was written by her father, not her mother. If that isn't proof that there are people coming on here for the sole purpose of bashing the Holloways and Twittys, I don't know what is! The book is great. | 4 |
A Tragic Untold Story of Irresponsibility
"Aruba: The Tragic Untold Story of Natalee Holloway and Corruption in Paradise"I spent my honeymoon in Aruba. It is a beautiful island with beautiful people. Now I see bumper stickers calling for boycotts of Aruba over Natalee Holloway.While the loss of a child is always tragic. The demonization of a nation are unfair."Corruption in Paradise"What kind of title is that? Aruba dedicated more time and effort toward finding one girl than probably any other nation has. I read a quote that they expended something like 40% of their police budget searching for Natalee. How is that corruption? You don't even get that kind of service in America. And if it were some island like Jamaica such an incident would not even make the news.So what does most of the evidence point to? Neither of the conclusions the father pre-supposes. Of boys out to drug and take advantage of girls. Sorry, it's time to accept the real world. Natalee Holloway was a young girl being irresponsible. She was drinking and likely taking drugs. Flirting with boys she didn't now. Drinking, drugs, and sex. We need to stop denying that this is what goes on during these trips. In all likeliness, she overdosed. The boys buried the body out of fear. Is the 'ductch boy" a scumbbag...very much so. Is he a murderer...probably not.What I very much question is any parent who sends their teenager to a foreign nation alone on a "party" trip. While I sympathize with the father's desire for answers. I am disappointed with his actions of placing the blame on Aruba, who has gone above and beyond to try to solve this case, rather than on his own failings and the failings of his daughter.Aruba should NOT be blamed...in fact, as harsh as it may sound. Perhaps the Holloways should be blamed for tarnishing Aruba's prestine image. Had there been more responsibility on the part of the Holloways, Aruba image would not have been blemished. | 1 |
haunting but real, it happened
I feel this book attempts to explain some speculations that I also pondered over, some new info, and some old info explained in detail, but reading from her Dad's viewpoint, he was faced with pure hell... politics of that island and no info on his beloved daughter that was followed through even with specific evidence on the day and time she was seen last and with whom... so many lies, twisted stories, evidence that was sent "off" for examination to be deemed a null and void, almost unbelievable, would the Aruba government dismiss and coverup this child's disappearance?....Mr. Holloway describes Aruba as attempting to protect it's tourist flow ( which I do believe is accurate) and protect three ( or perhaps 4) indiviuals who must have had very explicit knowledge of what happened to Natalee..numerous suspicious coverups and very questionable tatics to avoid discovery, seems almost impossible with the heat of media happening but it was still pulled off, ...... something is amiss in the etire situation and I don't know what it is but obvious. Something happened to Natalee...and someone knows. | 4 |
KEEP HOPE ALIVE!!
There is no need for a lengthy review. We Natalee followers know the sad story by now. "Aruba" retells it from a heartbroken father's viewpoint. Readers familiar with the case will learn little new, though many sad points will be amply reinforced. That especially applies to the rudeness, incompetence, callousness and elitism of the so called "Law" on that pathetic desert island. What an elitist closed society it must be! The more this observer learns about Natalee, the more he is reminded of the JFK assassination: The bungling, the covering up, the refusal to face facts-and the protection of the guilty by higher ups-it is all here! Why buy "Aruba"? The simple answer is to keep hope alive. Even a small gesture like a book purchase and an amazon review will help in that regard. Page 80 lists 3 websites to help the faithful stay informed and involved. We should never let this case simply die-the whole affair is so egregiously wrong. Wouldn't it be nice if more of the media, and not just Greta, kept up the pressure? A solid first step is to buy this deeply moving and fast reading tale of justice delayed: "Justice delayed is justice denied". | 4 |
A definite must read
As we approach the one year mark in the disappearance of Natalee Holloway many things go through my mind. Dave's book has helped me to understand what the family has gone through in the search for their daughter and the obstacles that have stood in their way. No family should have to go through what they have and I pray for them daily. God Bless Dave Holloway and his family. | 4 |
Natalie - A Father's Startling Truth
Put aside any conclusions you may have drawn and read Natalie's father's book about his hunt for her and a foreign country's infested underbelly that stands in his way. We see re-enactments, interviews, and media coverage about the disappearance of Natalie Holloway; but the mind boggling, startling truth is only revealed in her father's book. The blogger, Shango, speaks in code and appears to take Natalie's disapperance in a chilling and totally different direction. Dave Holloway's book is one everyone should read before you and/or your kids take that next trip outside the U.S. | 3 |
SHAME ON ARUBA!!!
The truth had to be told and Dave Holloway and his co-authors did a great job of letting us know what the Aruban and Dutch officials did to hinder the investigation into Natalee's disappearance. It's just disgraceful!!! I applaud this father's courage in facing up to those people who did everything they could to stop him from finding his daughter!! The book was so good, I read it in three days. It is spellbinding and captivating and it is the best account of the story that I have seen. Bravo to Dave Holloway for letting the truth be known!!! I definitely would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys true crime. The mystery has yet to be solved, so I do hope that there is a resolution to the case and we have the opportunity to read Part 2. | 4 |
Riveting story, tragic, but a recommended read
I enjoyed this book yet it is so very tragic... I now fear having to travel far away. The laws in other countries can be very scary. Having lost your child and not knowing exactly what happened to him is probably the worst thing that can happen to a person. Still, as a story, it is riveting and I do recommend this book to everyone. | 3 |
Slander anybody?
While my heart goes out to Dave and Beth, I must say that I find it rather appalling his accusations of corruption within the Aruban police department. Mr. Holloway makes it seem as though Aruba is the only place in the world where corruption exists. We have a saying that goes "the pot calling the kettle black" and that is what Mr. Holloway does in his book.I think the American people should ask, most importantly, why their tax dollars were spent on sending the FBI to Aruba to look for Natalee when nothing was done to look for Amy Bradley and Royal Caribbean was never called into question on that case. Why was nothing done for the gentleman who appeared on Dateline some time after Natalee's disappearance, stating that neither US nor Mexican authorities were helping him find his daughter, who disappeared near the US-Mexico border. Aruba and its people have bent over backwards to search for a not-so-innocent girl...just because Natalee had a 4.0 does not mean she was the brightest girl.Her own friends stated that she got into the car with the three young men, something she definitely would not have done in dear old Alabama. Her friends stated that they told her they were leaving and she said she would see them later. So please, do not paint her as a saint, for she surely was not.I hope the case is resolved soon, but until then, I would say a definite NO to the purchase of this book, as it is simply a father capitalizing on his daughter's misfortune. | 0 |
Natalie Holloway
I followed the story of Natalee Holloway through the media and several websites so I approached this book with what I thought was a good amount of knowledge on the case. Absent of all the hype and emotion that surrounds the disappearance of Natalee Holloway on her senior trip to Aruba, her father, Dave Holloway, presents his story like the insurance investigator he is. With factual reference, this book flowed easily from start to finish as it outlined the details of his, former wife Beth Twitty, friends and familiy members who joined him in Aruba during the search immediately after her disappearance and in the months following. I appreciated his narration for it's focus on events as they unfolded absent the hysteria. Dave details events as they were presented to him from the moment he learned his daughter was missing, through learning the boy she was last seen with had a father with high official connections and beyond the immediate. He provides specifics, names, dates and unfolds a timeline that, sadly, reveals the ineptness and corruptness of an island political hierarchy seemingly more concerned with their tourist image than finding this missing girl. Recommended to those readers of crime, corruption, family drama, or looking for something interesting and new. Based on true events. Also made for television movie available. | 4 |
What a Wonderful Book!
I have read a lot of true crime books, but this one was so riveting I couldn't put it down. I loved the way the book takes the reader through the entire ordeal while leaving the door open for us to decide for ourselves what actually happened. After all, we really don't know for sure, do we?The Shango riddle is incredible and shows that someone on the inside wanted to let us know what happened, but they were too afraid or too closely involved to come forward.Dave Holloway's passion comes through clearly, thanks to his co-authors who must have spent months listening to his heartfelt frustrations while he was trying desperately to find his daughter. His account of the difficulties faced when attempting to work with the Aruban authorities leaves the reader hating the police while feeling a bit sorry for the native Aruban. How tragic that the authorities didn't let the family know until the last minute that their hands were tied due to their overseers, the Hague. One would think that between the Aruban and Dutch authorities working on the case, they would be able to deal with the crime of a missing person without having to defer to an even higher authority. What a bunch of baloney to hand the family so late in the game!Clearly written, to the point, very articulate and passionate. Quick read, yet thought-provoking and somewhat stunning. I learned things I never saw on the news. The only thing left to be answered is "Who done it?" I'd suggest this book to anyone who loves true crime. It made the New York Times Best Seller list for a reason...it's a truly great book! | 4 |
Amazingly Rational & Focused
This book is unforgettable...as is Natalee Holloway herself. Having recently returned from a week in Aruba, my soul reached out for more information on what happened in Aruba over one year ago when Natalee was there. During the trip, the conversation turned to her disappearance daily. The Aruban people for the most part were caring and I was touched by their reference to Joran as 'the dutch boy'. No love there. I saw the California lighthouse, the beach where they were digging for possible evidence, the pond, the landfill, Carlos & Charlies. I had a strong feeling that Natalee is still alive. I left Aruba knowing that she is still linked to that island. Her father's book is heartwrenching, touching, honest, and totally focused on the 'truth'. He makes no real accusations and no assumptions. He just doesn't know and he describes the search and the daily questioning within himself of where could his daughter be? He doesn't place blame on her classmates, on anyone but he does point out the inconsistencies, the lies, and the faulty processes and conclusions involved in this case. I didn't' realize the scope of facts behind the boycott against Aruba until I read this book. To be honest, I thought the boycott was an emotional response to their loss, but now I realize the boycott is an honest method to denounce the way the disappearance of their daughter was mishandled by the legal system in that country. God bless America and God help Aruba. The people themselves are not bad, but their system of justice is very wrong. As much as I love Aruban itself, the land and the native people, I will not return until Aruba makes a legitimate effort to prove it has sincerely tried to find Natalee and even better than that, until it returns Natalee or gives us someone who can answer all of her father's questions. Read the book, its the ultimate height of honesty from a wounded father's heart. He is right, Natalee is 'everybody's daughter, sister, or female relative.' She is the symbol of the need for safety and justice for our women in the world. God help us all if our women and children cannot live safely in this world protected by a system of international laws. | 4 |
A MUST READ FOR ALL PARENTS
This book is well written, and touched my heart so. I think that all parents should read it, my heart goes out to Dave and Robin, and also Beth and Jug, for what they have had to endure in their search for their daughter. I would like to hope that if this ever happened to one of my kids, that I would have the strength and determination that they all have had to not give up on my search, no matter how long it takes. Dave, the world and God is behind you. | 4 |
Brave Man's Reflections
Beautifully written reflection of a tough time. This loving book allows the reader to see Natalee as she was right up to the day she left for the anticipated graduation trip to Aruba. It then allows us to witness the heartbreaking events that have puzzled many and deceived many more. This family's ability to survive the tragic events is shown in the book to be due to their faith in God, the support of the friends that they had before Natalee was taken from them, the support of millions of people around the world whose hearts were touched by Natalee's story, and by Internet friends who have bonded through chat rooms, discussion forums, and prayer chains. Even if you were not intrigued by this ongoing story before, just read the first paragraph, and you, too, will find yourself praying nightly "God, please bless Natalee, her friends, and family and let this be the day she is discovered and Justice is served. Amen." | 4 |
When you read the first page, have your tissues ready!
When I received this book, I started reading and couldn't put it down until I finished it. Definitely a must read. You can't help but share this family's frustrations and sorrow with what they have been put through. It's heartbreaking. It's always been about Natalee. All they want is to find answers and their daughter! | 4 |
Obviously Aruba doesn't agree
This is for cheriwave and for anyone who has followed this case as close as I did, they will know why there are posters on here for Arubas side. They tend to come into every Holloway forum there is to get their 2 cents in. Its horrible how they not only took the only Natalee that her mom and dad had, now they try to make it look like its their faults also. Aruba the "book" is right on as far as how it all went down from 2005 till now 2007, and Shango is not silly! He was an actual person getting info out to the USA to try to help. Mafia run aruba is trying to cover for their tourism, and the sooner the public understands that the better. Aruba lovers need to go and buy Joran Van der Sloots book, and read some lies that he is making up in order to make money from tragedy. Dave, Stephanie, and Larry are the most down to earth and loving people you will ever meet, AWSOME book to the 3 of you!! I personally have 2 copies, and they go where ever I do, I get the word out to people who don't follow the story. I have so much more to say on this subject, but lets just say, this cover-up is coming to an end, so watch out suspects, you'r justice will be served. The BIG man knows how, and who, and one day you will pay for what you have done. | 4 |
Aruba: The Tragic Untold Story of Natalee Holloway and Corruption in Paradise
I enjoyed this book and appreciate Mr. Halloway's sharing his story, but it is tragic and I no longer want to travel away...the laws in other countries are scary...to not know what happened to your child is an internal hell forever. My prayers are with the family of Natalie... | 4 |
Aruba
This book told me more about the case than I ever heard from the news or television. I cried from page one of a father's story of hunting his missing daughter and thought of my own daughter that age and the one that is a little older. I can't imagine the Hell this family has been through and hope I never have to. I would never want to visit out of the country before checking out the things going on in that country and how their law governs after all of this. We need the USA to step up and better watch out for there US citizens and make a warning of danger for all American's to go to Aruba before these problems are cleared up so we can be safe in a foreign country. Buy the book, it will be one you will never regret buying! It's one of the best books I have read in a long time! | 4 |
A MUST READ
This book will tug at your emotions and take you from outrage to tears. If you've been a casual viewer of the news coverage around Natalee Holloway's disappearance, you have only the preface to a travisty. The more serious follower of the case will learn that there's far more to the story than what has been reported. Dave Holloway's humble character permeates each page and perhaps for the first time, the reader meets Natalee. I finished the book with a deep appreciation for living in a country where crime and corruption unfortunatly exist, but no one is above the values we hold dear, not even our President. This should be required reading for anyone considering travel to Aruba, and a guide for alternate plans. Substantial proceeds from the book go for a fund to help find missing persons abroad. A real page turner, and a tragic reality. | 4 |
Nothing new here
I read this over the weekend. There is nothing new here nor is it particularly well written. It's basically the same thing I've heard over and over again on FOX News Channel and such. Lots of speculation and precious little new info. A picture of Natalee being a near saint is painted for the reader. Sorry to say this but many times the parents are the last to know the truth of what their children may be into. No one deserves what happened to this young lady and her family but, that being said, there are many, many cases in the States that should have this much attention focused on them too. I hope the money made from the sale of this book are being given to non-profits that help find missing children or something similiar. I certainly hope that Mr. Holloway is not keeping any of the profits for personal gain. | 0 |
Little miss I'm NOT an angel
This book doesn't give one specific theory about what happened. And what happened is very tragic. But this book portrays Natalee as an all innocent girl, and this she definitely is not. This could have happened to her anywhere in the US. Natalee proved her parents right, seeing how they are profiting from this tragic case. | 0 |
Review of Aruba - The Natalee Holloway Story
I never finished the book. About 2/3 of the way through I got really tired of hearing the bitterness within the words of the author (Natalees Father). Yes, I felt his pain but he continuously seemed critical of Natalees Mother and it showed in every chapter. Both parents lost a child here and a public book was not the way to express his obvious bitterness about Natalees Mothers 2nd husband or his money. Throughout the book he speaks in terms of "I" as though he were Natalees ONLY parent. As a Mother myself, I felt outraged that it was not "WE". Even though Natalees parents are divorced, they shared this loss.Many statements in the book are extremely contradictary and confusing. At one point it says the people of Aruba seemed to be hiding something and then in the next paragraph it says that almost everyone in Aruba offered to help in the search. I felt this book was more about the author than his daughter and I was greatly disappointed. | 2 |
Very Disappointed
I will start out saying, I'm glad I didn't purchase this book with my hard earned money. I got it from the local Library and didn't have to wait at all. This is a major clue that it wasn't any good. Dave seems to rehash the same old stuff we listened to for over 11 months. I don't see his proof of corruption, although I do believe there is corruption, just not the same kind Dave believes is there. With the new arrest I hope maybe they are finally investigating this case like they should. Dompigs son being involved explains a lot. He went after the Vandersloot boy for a reason it seems. To take the spotlight off his own son. Dave is stuck on one theory and won't even consider another. He's even upset with the new arrest stating Aruba did it because his book came out and they want his sales to go down. This man should be ashamed. All he apparantely wants is to make money off his missing daughter. I am so glad I didn't waste my money on this poorly written book of fiction. Maybe someday someone will write the entire TRUE story about this case, including the activities of the families involved that caused this case to go so far afield. | 0 |
Rehash of what you saw on cable
Holloway and his two(!) co-authors add little in this book, which seems a shallow rehash of the news coverage.Yes, we know, Dave considers his daughter to be a saint, and the Aruban authorities to be corrupt and incompetant. When he gets down to cases, he has little to prove this. Those who have watched Holloway make the rounds of the interview circuit know that he talks over and over about how some Aruban cop asked him "How much money you got?" when Dave approached him about searching for Natalee. That's as far as we really get on the corruption side of things, though Holloway is eager to hint--but not to name names, perhaps for fear of lawsuits.If you want your image of St. Natalee confirmed, and your image of the Aruban authorities (Holloway tries to paint the ordinary islander positively) as dishonest or nonresponsive, by all means buy this book. Everyone else should give it a miss and wait for the facts, rather than a father's attempt at canonization, to come out.Holloway deserves our sympathy. But not our bucks. | 0 |
PURE TRIPE
Don't waste your time. This book is nothing but a bunch of speculation and theories and contradictions! I find it horrible that Natalee's Father is trying to profit from his daughter's mysterious disappearance. Don't waste your money. | 0 |
Stop The Presses
How in the world can this book be released now that Dave Holloway has said, on national television, on March 4, 2006, that he received NO information from the police and the only information he has is from the media?What is going on here? | 0 |
Nothing New
As a parent I can relate to the frustrations Dave Holloway must be facing. It probably helped him to write this book. However, I really didn't learn anything new by reading this book. And Americans should not have to boycot Aruba because of this one incident. Think of all the unsolved murders right here in our own country. Should we ask the rest of the world to boycott America? | 0 |
verydisappointed
This book is written telling only one side of the story. I found that the so-called facts that he presented were 100% inaccurate.He was inconsistent with many of the details. There isn't any basis for many of the claims he made. He states that he doesn't know what happened to Natalee, or if she is alive or dead, but then contradicts himself by saying that Joran harmed her in some way. Just as he and Natalee's mother and stepfather have done in the numerous interviews that they have given. They can't seem to tell the same story twice. This is just a brazen attempt by a conniving, scheming family to get money. | 0 |
Facts and a Father's Insight
Dave's revelation of the case's facts and discussion of various hypotheses is highly interesting. His book is very readable and reveals Natalee's father as a man of patience and persistence.The island's corruption is revealed as a major stumbling block to the discovery of his daughter's fate. He writes with sincerity and with an obvious love for his missing daughter. I highly recommend this book to anyone who has found this case to be a riveting mystery and moving family tragedy. | 3 |
Absorbing and Enjoyable
The White Company was said to be one of Canon Doyle's favorite creations, and it does show the great pains he took in research, both in speech and the customs of the day. The plot ramps up slowly at the start but once it gets going, hang on for the adventure of your life- it is non-stop heart pounding action. And throw in a budding romance and you have one heck of a tale. I found the White Company a more tightly constructed book then Sir Nigel, which was subsequently written as the prequel to the White Company. I found the final ending of the story a tad Hollywoodish, but I suppose he wanted a happy one. All in all, one of the most memorable books I've read. | 4 |
An old favorite revisited
I first read this book over 50 years ago, and wondered how I would like it now. I found it to be an absorbing description of feudal times in England and what we now call France. I can readily see why the French dislike the English, although 700 years seems a long time to hold a grudge! The book is a fine adventure, with lots of detail about combat in the 13th century. The style may be a little slow for those used to a modern pace. | 3 |
Great story of chivalry
My parents had a series of books when I was a child. They a book-of-the-month collection that contained the collected works of many of the most famous western authors such as Shakespeare, Balzac, Wilde, etc. They had them mainly for show but being an avid reader, I went thru many of them.My first introduction to Sherlock Holmes and Watson were in Sir Conan Doyle's volume but the story that fascinated me more than any other was "the White Company." I read that story dozens of times. When my parents moved and decided to give the books to the school library, I kept that volume. Somewhere in the last 35 years it disappeared. Thank goodness I found it and the previously unread companion piece, Sir Nigel. | 4 |
Rich descriptions, adventure, humor - can't beat it.
Each poetically descriptive sentence is as a brushstroke that paints a colorful, lively picture of the scenery, landscape, characters, and events. You can picture everything very vividly in your mind. The characaters were each unique and fascinating. The story unfolded quite differently than I would have expected for a book about a war. It was a beautifully constructed story; an education about chivalry and how wars used to be fought. I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of this book, and hope to re-read it in the future. | 4 |
wonderful
2 of the most wonderful stories EVER written in one volume! How could you go wrong. A must for lovers of chivalry and romance. | 4 |
Subsets and Splits