Dasha and Cole never suspected Nell did more than take photos during the Cold War. Will they discover all before her memory fails?

When secrets of Nell's hidden past unravel, her family pieces shocking truths together. Can she forgive and embrace her losses after all this time?

For Nell at 80, dementia is setting in. Cole discovers a trove of puzzling items from her past. Figuring out their significance becomes an obsession for his sister Dasha, despite his concern about breaching Nell's privacy.

Asking about Nell's past could unfairly remind her of some of the darkest and most dangerous times of her young adult years, and re-traumatize her now that her mind doesn't always function clearly. But remembering, if she can, might unlock pride in her achievements and bring lasting happiness.

Storytelling in this family puzzle mystery has elements of psychological and historical fiction. Time shifts between the present day where Dasha and Cole deepen their knowledge of family, and scenes of the old woman's adventures long buried.

If you like cozy detective stories that hunt for truth and significance, Aunt Nell's Hidden Past if for you.