BACK AGAIN TO ME
by Gretchen Hirsch
Booksurge
www.booksurge.com
ISBN: 9781439238011
Corrin McRae has a temper, is fast to voice her opinions, and tends to be a bit of a manipulator and controller. She married the love of her life, only to lose him a few weeks before her daughter Shelly was born. Corrin worked hard as a single mother and did her best to raise Shelly, now 16 years of age with aspirations of being a doctor. Having achieved the title of PR director with the goal of owning her own agency, Corrin is stunned when her daughter tells her she is pregnant and wants to keep the baby. Even more unsettling to Corrin is the fact that her daughter told two of her close friends before confiding in her because she was afraid of her reaction. Although Corrin initially wants Shelly to give the baby up for adoption, she soon discovers she agrees with Shelly’s decision. As Shelly goes through her pregnancy, Corrin discovers things about herself through shared insights of family and friends and begins to realize that her perceptions of her own life and family may not have been as true as she thought them to be.
Back Again to Me offers fascinating character studies of Corrin, her daughter Shelly, and the friends and family that surround them. Family dynamics, interactions of characters, and conflicts between mother and daughter over life decisions are intriguing and well-delivered. The book moves at a fast pace, leading the reader through a young girl’s journey through pregnancy and the difficult choices she must make, along with her mother’s peripheral journey back to her past.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
BACK AGAIN TO ME by Gretchen Hirsch
BACK AGAIN TO ME
by Gretchen Hirsch
Booksurge
www.booksurge.com
ISBN: 9781439238011
Corrin McRae has a temper, is fast to voice her opinions, and tends to be a bit of a manipulator and controller. She married the love of her life, only to lose him a few weeks before her daughter Shelly was born. Corrin worked hard as a single mother and did her best to raise Shelly, now 16 years of age with aspirations of being a doctor. Having achieved the title of PR director with the goal of owning her own agency, Corrin is stunned when her daughter tells her she is pregnant and wants to keep the baby. Even more unsettling to Corrin is the fact that her daughter told two of her close friends before confiding in her because she was afraid of her reaction. Although Corrin initially wants Shelly to give the baby up for adoption, she soon discovers she agrees with Shelly’s decision. As Shelly goes through her pregnancy, Corrin discovers things about herself through shared insights of family and friends and begins to realize that her perceptions of her own life and family may not have been as true as she thought them to be.
Back Again to Me offers fascinating character studies of Corrin, her daughter Shelly, and the friends and family that surround them. Family dynamics, interactions of characters, and conflicts between mother and daughter over life decisions are intriguing and well-delivered. The book moves at a fast pace, leading the reader through a young girl’s journey through pregnancy and the difficult choices she must make, along with her mother’s peripheral journey back to her past.
by Gretchen Hirsch
Booksurge
www.booksurge.com
ISBN: 9781439238011
Corrin McRae has a temper, is fast to voice her opinions, and tends to be a bit of a manipulator and controller. She married the love of her life, only to lose him a few weeks before her daughter Shelly was born. Corrin worked hard as a single mother and did her best to raise Shelly, now 16 years of age with aspirations of being a doctor. Having achieved the title of PR director with the goal of owning her own agency, Corrin is stunned when her daughter tells her she is pregnant and wants to keep the baby. Even more unsettling to Corrin is the fact that her daughter told two of her close friends before confiding in her because she was afraid of her reaction. Although Corrin initially wants Shelly to give the baby up for adoption, she soon discovers she agrees with Shelly’s decision. As Shelly goes through her pregnancy, Corrin discovers things about herself through shared insights of family and friends and begins to realize that her perceptions of her own life and family may not have been as true as she thought them to be.
Back Again to Me offers fascinating character studies of Corrin, her daughter Shelly, and the friends and family that surround them. Family dynamics, interactions of characters, and conflicts between mother and daughter over life decisions are intriguing and well-delivered. The book moves at a fast pace, leading the reader through a young girl’s journey through pregnancy and the difficult choices she must make, along with her mother’s peripheral journey back to her past.
DEATH WILL HELP YOU LEAVE HIM by Elizabeth Zelvin
DEATH WILL HELP YOU LEAVE HIM
by Elizabeth Zelvin
Minotaur Books
St. Martin’s Publishing Group
175 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10010
www.minotaurbooks.com
ISBN: 9780312582661
Recovering alcoholic Bruce Kohler is taking things one day at a time with the help of his friends Jimmy and Barbara, while trying to place limits with his ex-wife who has bouts of depression and sporadically threatens suicide. Barbara, an addictions counselor, talks Bruce and Jimmy into doing some independent sleuthing when Luz Colon, her Al-Anon sponsee, is suspected of murdering her abusive boyfriend, Frankie Iacone. Frankie, a former drug dealer married to someone else, had just gotten out of rehab hours before being found dead in Luz’s apartment. Barbara hopes Bruce and Jimmy may be able to learn more about Frankie and the people he knew through their AA connections. Along with Luz, the three team up and separate and team up again as they try to unearth the murderer. Eventually they step on the wrong toes, which places Bruce’s and Luz’s lives in danger.
This, the second in the mystery series featuring recovering alcoholic Bruce Kohler, is an intriguing whodunit set against the gritty backdrop of New York City and its diverse cultures. As with the first, much emphasis is placed on the recovery process and Zelvin relays Kohler’s, as well as others’, constant battle with addiction in a realistic, empathetic manner. The plot moves at a quick pace with enough suspects to keep the reader guessing.
by Elizabeth Zelvin
Minotaur Books
St. Martin’s Publishing Group
175 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10010
www.minotaurbooks.com
ISBN: 9780312582661
Recovering alcoholic Bruce Kohler is taking things one day at a time with the help of his friends Jimmy and Barbara, while trying to place limits with his ex-wife who has bouts of depression and sporadically threatens suicide. Barbara, an addictions counselor, talks Bruce and Jimmy into doing some independent sleuthing when Luz Colon, her Al-Anon sponsee, is suspected of murdering her abusive boyfriend, Frankie Iacone. Frankie, a former drug dealer married to someone else, had just gotten out of rehab hours before being found dead in Luz’s apartment. Barbara hopes Bruce and Jimmy may be able to learn more about Frankie and the people he knew through their AA connections. Along with Luz, the three team up and separate and team up again as they try to unearth the murderer. Eventually they step on the wrong toes, which places Bruce’s and Luz’s lives in danger.
This, the second in the mystery series featuring recovering alcoholic Bruce Kohler, is an intriguing whodunit set against the gritty backdrop of New York City and its diverse cultures. As with the first, much emphasis is placed on the recovery process and Zelvin relays Kohler’s, as well as others’, constant battle with addiction in a realistic, empathetic manner. The plot moves at a quick pace with enough suspects to keep the reader guessing.
DOG ON IN by Spencer Quinn
DOG ON IT
by Spencer Quinn
Atria Books/Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com
ISBN: 9781416585831
Chet, the canine narrator of Dog On It, may have flunked out of K-9 school but he’s found his niche as partner to Bernie Little, owner of Little Detective Agency. Bernie is divorced and lonely and misses his son Charlie. Chet doesn’t understand the concept of money but takes his cues from Bernie and knows Bernie is worried about their finances. Bernie is hired by a divorced mom to find her missing daughter, Madison, who turns up unharmed with a story that’s obviously made up. A few days later, Madison is missing once more and this time Bernie suspects it’s the real thing. With Chet leading the way, they follow Madison’s trail, which takes them to a group of nefarious Russians determined to stop them from finding Madison.
Told from a dog’s point of view, Dog On It offers a refreshing addition to the mystery genre. Chet perceives most things through body language, odors, and tone of voice. His perceptions are adept and it is amusing how food and other things distract him. Chet’s thinking processes seem much like what this reviewer would attribute to a dog’s thoughts. The voice of Chet is amusing and a bit noir-ish, which suits the book. Fun read.
by Spencer Quinn
Atria Books/Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com
ISBN: 9781416585831
Chet, the canine narrator of Dog On It, may have flunked out of K-9 school but he’s found his niche as partner to Bernie Little, owner of Little Detective Agency. Bernie is divorced and lonely and misses his son Charlie. Chet doesn’t understand the concept of money but takes his cues from Bernie and knows Bernie is worried about their finances. Bernie is hired by a divorced mom to find her missing daughter, Madison, who turns up unharmed with a story that’s obviously made up. A few days later, Madison is missing once more and this time Bernie suspects it’s the real thing. With Chet leading the way, they follow Madison’s trail, which takes them to a group of nefarious Russians determined to stop them from finding Madison.
Told from a dog’s point of view, Dog On It offers a refreshing addition to the mystery genre. Chet perceives most things through body language, odors, and tone of voice. His perceptions are adept and it is amusing how food and other things distract him. Chet’s thinking processes seem much like what this reviewer would attribute to a dog’s thoughts. The voice of Chet is amusing and a bit noir-ish, which suits the book. Fun read.
FIRST DEGREE by David Rosenfelt
FIRST DEGREE
by David Rosenfelt
Warner Books
1271 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
www.twbookmark.com
ISBN: 978-0446555111
Attorney Andy Carpenter has been basking in the notoriety he gained by proving a client on death row innocent while living off the millions he inherited from his father. Andy has been more occupied lately with hanging out with Tara, the “best dog in the universe”, and trying to find a worthy charity to share his money with, and isn’t in too big of a hurry to get back in the courtroom. But when his investigator/lover Laurie Collins is arrested for the brutal death of a policeman she filed an ethics charge against, Andy’s on the case and ready to defend Laurie against a frame-up. But the evidence against Laurie keeps stacking up and Andy is faced with a formidable challenge: how to convince the jury of Laurie’s innocence.
This witty courtroom drama bypasses many of the same genre simply because it’s so much fun to read. Characters are well-developed and especially appealing is Tara, a dog Andy rescues from doggy death row at the animal shelter and to whom Andy is totally committed. There are plenty of legal maneuverings wrapped around a mystery that at times seems unsolvable. Rosenfelt’s first-tense presentation is filled with witty cynicisms amid an intriguing, fast-paced plot.
by David Rosenfelt
Warner Books
1271 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
www.twbookmark.com
ISBN: 978-0446555111
Attorney Andy Carpenter has been basking in the notoriety he gained by proving a client on death row innocent while living off the millions he inherited from his father. Andy has been more occupied lately with hanging out with Tara, the “best dog in the universe”, and trying to find a worthy charity to share his money with, and isn’t in too big of a hurry to get back in the courtroom. But when his investigator/lover Laurie Collins is arrested for the brutal death of a policeman she filed an ethics charge against, Andy’s on the case and ready to defend Laurie against a frame-up. But the evidence against Laurie keeps stacking up and Andy is faced with a formidable challenge: how to convince the jury of Laurie’s innocence.
This witty courtroom drama bypasses many of the same genre simply because it’s so much fun to read. Characters are well-developed and especially appealing is Tara, a dog Andy rescues from doggy death row at the animal shelter and to whom Andy is totally committed. There are plenty of legal maneuverings wrapped around a mystery that at times seems unsolvable. Rosenfelt’s first-tense presentation is filled with witty cynicisms amid an intriguing, fast-paced plot.
PLUM SPOOKY by Janet Evanovich
PLUM SPOOKY
by Janet Evanovich
St. Martin’s Press
175 Fifth Ave.
New York, NY 10010
www.stmartins.com
ISBN 9780312383329
Bounty hunter Stephanie Plum’s latest bond jumper is Munch, a quantum physics genius who looks like a kid. Munch has been seen hanging out with a tall man who strongly resembles a vampire and disappears in a cloud of smoke. Mysterious super-bounty hunter Diesel shows up at Stephanie’s apartment, telling her he’s tracking his cousin Wulf Grimoire, the very man who has befriended Munch. Wulf doesn’t mind twisting people’s necks and leaving his hand print branded on their skin, and his pairing with Munch cannot be good. Both are unstable and Diesel suspects Wulf has found the perfect person to help him gain power to control the world. Stephanie and Diesel team up to capture the two miscreants, who have taken up residence in the Pine Barrens, home to the Jersey Devil and all sorts of weird persons and creatures.
Stepping outside the Plum numerical series, Janet Evanovich offers her readers a fun romp with Stephanie and Diesel as they pursue Munch and Wulf. Add to this mix a monkey Stephanie is babysitting who seems more human than monkey and plays an integral part in the investigation. This is the perfect book to be read at Halloween, with some very strange goings on in the Pine Barrens, along with Diesel and Wulf, whose powers are a bit out of this world.
by Janet Evanovich
St. Martin’s Press
175 Fifth Ave.
New York, NY 10010
www.stmartins.com
ISBN 9780312383329
Bounty hunter Stephanie Plum’s latest bond jumper is Munch, a quantum physics genius who looks like a kid. Munch has been seen hanging out with a tall man who strongly resembles a vampire and disappears in a cloud of smoke. Mysterious super-bounty hunter Diesel shows up at Stephanie’s apartment, telling her he’s tracking his cousin Wulf Grimoire, the very man who has befriended Munch. Wulf doesn’t mind twisting people’s necks and leaving his hand print branded on their skin, and his pairing with Munch cannot be good. Both are unstable and Diesel suspects Wulf has found the perfect person to help him gain power to control the world. Stephanie and Diesel team up to capture the two miscreants, who have taken up residence in the Pine Barrens, home to the Jersey Devil and all sorts of weird persons and creatures.
Stepping outside the Plum numerical series, Janet Evanovich offers her readers a fun romp with Stephanie and Diesel as they pursue Munch and Wulf. Add to this mix a monkey Stephanie is babysitting who seems more human than monkey and plays an integral part in the investigation. This is the perfect book to be read at Halloween, with some very strange goings on in the Pine Barrens, along with Diesel and Wulf, whose powers are a bit out of this world.
THE SCARECROW by Michael Connelly
THE SCARECROW
by Michael Connelly
Little, Brown and Company/
Hachette Book Group
237 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10017
www.hachettebookgroup.com
ISBN: 9780316166300
Jack McEvoy became a national bestselling author when he wrote a book about his experience with a serial killer named the Poet, and since then, he’s worked as a crime reporter for the Los Angeles Times. The Times, facing financial woes, decides to lay off 100 employees and Jack’s number 99. Jack decides to make a grand exit by writing a book about a 16-year-old drug dealer who claims he did not confess to strangling a young woman and stuffing her in the trunk of her car, although the police investigators state otherwise. Jack’s research connects this murder to one of a similar nature in Las Vegas, at which time, he notifies FBI agent Rachel Walling, whose arrival saves Jack’s life from a serial murderer enraged that Jack has “outed” him and means to stop Jack from further investigating.
Fans of The Poet will enjoy Jack McEvoy’s reappearance in this book. Connelly takes his reader into the world of print newspapers, emphasizing their continuing decline due to the internet and cable news programs. McEvoy is a character with flaws, which makes him all the more interesting. He teams up with Rachel Walling, who played a part in The Poet, and the two are a strong team as they track the killer, a computer whiz who has stayed below the radar for years while killing and isn’t too happy someone is trying to stop him.
by Michael Connelly
Little, Brown and Company/
Hachette Book Group
237 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10017
www.hachettebookgroup.com
ISBN: 9780316166300
Jack McEvoy became a national bestselling author when he wrote a book about his experience with a serial killer named the Poet, and since then, he’s worked as a crime reporter for the Los Angeles Times. The Times, facing financial woes, decides to lay off 100 employees and Jack’s number 99. Jack decides to make a grand exit by writing a book about a 16-year-old drug dealer who claims he did not confess to strangling a young woman and stuffing her in the trunk of her car, although the police investigators state otherwise. Jack’s research connects this murder to one of a similar nature in Las Vegas, at which time, he notifies FBI agent Rachel Walling, whose arrival saves Jack’s life from a serial murderer enraged that Jack has “outed” him and means to stop Jack from further investigating.
Fans of The Poet will enjoy Jack McEvoy’s reappearance in this book. Connelly takes his reader into the world of print newspapers, emphasizing their continuing decline due to the internet and cable news programs. McEvoy is a character with flaws, which makes him all the more interesting. He teams up with Rachel Walling, who played a part in The Poet, and the two are a strong team as they track the killer, a computer whiz who has stayed below the radar for years while killing and isn’t too happy someone is trying to stop him.
LIFE SENTENCES by Laura Lippman
LIFE SENTENCES
by Laura Lippman
Harper Collins
10 East 53rd Street
New York, NY 10022
www.harpercollins.com
ISBN 9780061128899
Author Cassandra Fallows, with two successful memoirs behind her, tries her hand at fiction, which falls flat. When Cassandra reads about a former school friend jailed for contempt for not revealing the whereabouts of her baby’s body, Cassandra gets the idea to write about her childhood and her friends, and the events that lead them to their present-day lives. She returns to Baltimore to interview her family and friends, only to be met with resistance. Calliope Jenkins, the woman accused of murdering her baby and hiding his body, has disappeared and no one wants to talk about where she is or what happened. As Cassandra digs deeper into the past, painful truths about her own life and those of her friends are revealed which could impact their lives in a negative way if disclosed.
Laura Lippman, known for the Tess Monaghan series, is adroit at character development, slowly peeling away layers of persona as the book progresses. Life Sentences is a compelling read, exploring the dynamics of childhood friendships and family relationships.
by Laura Lippman
Harper Collins
10 East 53rd Street
New York, NY 10022
www.harpercollins.com
ISBN 9780061128899
Author Cassandra Fallows, with two successful memoirs behind her, tries her hand at fiction, which falls flat. When Cassandra reads about a former school friend jailed for contempt for not revealing the whereabouts of her baby’s body, Cassandra gets the idea to write about her childhood and her friends, and the events that lead them to their present-day lives. She returns to Baltimore to interview her family and friends, only to be met with resistance. Calliope Jenkins, the woman accused of murdering her baby and hiding his body, has disappeared and no one wants to talk about where she is or what happened. As Cassandra digs deeper into the past, painful truths about her own life and those of her friends are revealed which could impact their lives in a negative way if disclosed.
Laura Lippman, known for the Tess Monaghan series, is adroit at character development, slowly peeling away layers of persona as the book progresses. Life Sentences is a compelling read, exploring the dynamics of childhood friendships and family relationships.
Monday, October 5, 2009
LONESOME POINT by Ian Vasquez
LONESOME POINT
by Ian Vasquez
St. Martin’s/Minotaur Books
175 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10010
www.minotaurbooks.com
ISBN: 9780312378103
Leo Valera works the night shift on a psychiatric ward but his real passion is poetry. Leo’s brother Patrick is commissioner for Miami-Dade County with plans to run for mayor in the upcoming election. The two brothers are polar opposites: Leo is lackadaisical and prefers to spend time smoking pot and composing poems while Patrick is aggressive and ambitious and will do anything to accomplish his goals. Leo’s girlfriend is pregnant and he knows he needs to do something more with his life but isn’t motivated. Patrick, married to Leo’s former girlfriend, is as content as Leo to keep their relationship at a distance. Both brothers share one thing in common: escaping the vile secrets from their past which will undo them if revealed. When Freddie Robinson, a friend from their childhood, shows up where Leo works and tries to coerce Leo into releasing one of the patients, Leo reaches out to his brother for help, not realizing this is the first step for the two brothers in a sequence of events leading them back to their past and the demons they have tried to elude.
Ian Vasquez writes with an interesting style, drawing the reader in with his flowing cadence wrapped around a fast-paced plot filled with mystery and suspense. Character development is superb. Leo, the quintessential underachiever, is forced to take a serious look at his life and choose whether to remain uninvolved or become the man he should have been. Patrick’s true character is revealed when he is confronted with having to decide what matters most: family or career. Dialogue stands out, especially with the secondary characters, who add an extra dimension to this engaging thriller.
by Ian Vasquez
St. Martin’s/Minotaur Books
175 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10010
www.minotaurbooks.com
ISBN: 9780312378103
Leo Valera works the night shift on a psychiatric ward but his real passion is poetry. Leo’s brother Patrick is commissioner for Miami-Dade County with plans to run for mayor in the upcoming election. The two brothers are polar opposites: Leo is lackadaisical and prefers to spend time smoking pot and composing poems while Patrick is aggressive and ambitious and will do anything to accomplish his goals. Leo’s girlfriend is pregnant and he knows he needs to do something more with his life but isn’t motivated. Patrick, married to Leo’s former girlfriend, is as content as Leo to keep their relationship at a distance. Both brothers share one thing in common: escaping the vile secrets from their past which will undo them if revealed. When Freddie Robinson, a friend from their childhood, shows up where Leo works and tries to coerce Leo into releasing one of the patients, Leo reaches out to his brother for help, not realizing this is the first step for the two brothers in a sequence of events leading them back to their past and the demons they have tried to elude.
Ian Vasquez writes with an interesting style, drawing the reader in with his flowing cadence wrapped around a fast-paced plot filled with mystery and suspense. Character development is superb. Leo, the quintessential underachiever, is forced to take a serious look at his life and choose whether to remain uninvolved or become the man he should have been. Patrick’s true character is revealed when he is confronted with having to decide what matters most: family or career. Dialogue stands out, especially with the secondary characters, who add an extra dimension to this engaging thriller.
206 BONES by Kathy Reichs
206 BONES
by Kathy Reichs
Scribner/Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com
9780743294393
Forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan is called to North Carolina, where she is accused of mishandling an autopsy. Brennan is determined to find out who is behind the accusation through an incriminating phone call, but the man who received the call dies shortly after he relays this. Brennan returns to Montreal and, with her former lover Lt. Andrew Ryan, begins investigating the deaths of several older women that may be connected, although she and Ryan are having a hard time finding the one thing that links them. As their investigation proceeds, Brennan is accused of ineptitude more than once and begins to strongly suspect she is being sabotaged by an ambitious newcomer whose motives lie with advancing her career. Coworkers are acting mysterious around her and her boss is hinting at dismissal, but Brennan plunges ahead, unknowingly placing her life in danger.
Reichs’s series is always rich with forensic anthropology, a good mystery and plenty of suspense. This 12th installment, however, does not live up to prior books in the series with regard to mystery and suspense. Brennan comes across as flighty and not too observant, as if she’s off her game. She seems more concerned with her relationship with Bryan than the fact that someone is out to get her and her career may be in jeopardy. The plot moves slowly at times, although forensics data is, as always, interesting and well delivered.
by Kathy Reichs
Scribner/Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com
9780743294393
Forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan is called to North Carolina, where she is accused of mishandling an autopsy. Brennan is determined to find out who is behind the accusation through an incriminating phone call, but the man who received the call dies shortly after he relays this. Brennan returns to Montreal and, with her former lover Lt. Andrew Ryan, begins investigating the deaths of several older women that may be connected, although she and Ryan are having a hard time finding the one thing that links them. As their investigation proceeds, Brennan is accused of ineptitude more than once and begins to strongly suspect she is being sabotaged by an ambitious newcomer whose motives lie with advancing her career. Coworkers are acting mysterious around her and her boss is hinting at dismissal, but Brennan plunges ahead, unknowingly placing her life in danger.
Reichs’s series is always rich with forensic anthropology, a good mystery and plenty of suspense. This 12th installment, however, does not live up to prior books in the series with regard to mystery and suspense. Brennan comes across as flighty and not too observant, as if she’s off her game. She seems more concerned with her relationship with Bryan than the fact that someone is out to get her and her career may be in jeopardy. The plot moves slowly at times, although forensics data is, as always, interesting and well delivered.
PROMISES IN DEATH by J.D. Robb
PROMISES IN DEATH
by J.D. Robb
Penguin Group
375 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
www.penguin.com
9780399155482
Amaryllis Coltraine transfers to the New York City police force from Atlanta, GA, and begins a relationship with chief medical examiner Li Morris. When Amaryllis’s body is found in the basement of her apartment building, Eve Dallas is on the case, determined to find Amaryllis’s killer for two primary reasons: as a fellow cop, Eve take this killing personally and will not let the killer get away, and she wants to do this for Morris, a good friend. Eve’s usual “force” is around her, along with husband Roarke, who discovers a connection between Amaryllis and a long-time nemesis. Although this man is incarcerated off planet, Eve suspects he’s found a way to taunt them through this murder.
The In Death series remains one of the bestselling series in America due to the intriguing characters Robb has inserted into these books. In Promises in Death, Eve is showing signs of maturing and mellowing. She’s more involved in her marriage, more attuned to Roarke and his needs. She even treats some people with respect and manages to hold her tongue at times, something she has had trouble with in the past. Although this is a nice change, some readers may long for the more cynical, jaded Eve.
by J.D. Robb
Penguin Group
375 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
www.penguin.com
9780399155482
Amaryllis Coltraine transfers to the New York City police force from Atlanta, GA, and begins a relationship with chief medical examiner Li Morris. When Amaryllis’s body is found in the basement of her apartment building, Eve Dallas is on the case, determined to find Amaryllis’s killer for two primary reasons: as a fellow cop, Eve take this killing personally and will not let the killer get away, and she wants to do this for Morris, a good friend. Eve’s usual “force” is around her, along with husband Roarke, who discovers a connection between Amaryllis and a long-time nemesis. Although this man is incarcerated off planet, Eve suspects he’s found a way to taunt them through this murder.
The In Death series remains one of the bestselling series in America due to the intriguing characters Robb has inserted into these books. In Promises in Death, Eve is showing signs of maturing and mellowing. She’s more involved in her marriage, more attuned to Roarke and his needs. She even treats some people with respect and manages to hold her tongue at times, something she has had trouble with in the past. Although this is a nice change, some readers may long for the more cynical, jaded Eve.
TERMINAL FREEZE by Lincoln Child
TERMINAL FREEZE
by Lincoln Child
Doubleday Publishing Group
New York, NY
ISBN: 9780385515511
www.doubleday.com
Paleoecologist Evan Marshall is part of a scientific team studying the effects of global warming in Alaska’s Federal Wildlife Zone. Exploring an ice cave, the team discovers a mysterious animal frozen in ice. When their sponsor, a media conglomerate, learns of this, they send a film crew to the Zone to film a documentary about the unthawing of the animal. But once the unthawing begins, the animal disappears. The film’s director suspects the scientists have something to do with it, which they deny. When one of his employees is found slashed to death, the scientists begin to suspect the animal may not have been dead, after all.
Lincoln Child delivers a suspense-filled thriller, setting a host of characters, from military men, to scientists, to a film crew in a remote area, in the middle of a snowstorm with a killing machine wreaking havoc. The usual obsessive persona is present in the form of demanding director, flanked by flunkies catering to his every whim, nonsensical or not. Marshall is an empathetic character, a scientist dealing with a past trauma who has sworn to never again hold a gun in his hand but is forced to. Once the action gets going, the plot becomes fast-paced and tense.
by Lincoln Child
Doubleday Publishing Group
New York, NY
ISBN: 9780385515511
www.doubleday.com
Paleoecologist Evan Marshall is part of a scientific team studying the effects of global warming in Alaska’s Federal Wildlife Zone. Exploring an ice cave, the team discovers a mysterious animal frozen in ice. When their sponsor, a media conglomerate, learns of this, they send a film crew to the Zone to film a documentary about the unthawing of the animal. But once the unthawing begins, the animal disappears. The film’s director suspects the scientists have something to do with it, which they deny. When one of his employees is found slashed to death, the scientists begin to suspect the animal may not have been dead, after all.
Lincoln Child delivers a suspense-filled thriller, setting a host of characters, from military men, to scientists, to a film crew in a remote area, in the middle of a snowstorm with a killing machine wreaking havoc. The usual obsessive persona is present in the form of demanding director, flanked by flunkies catering to his every whim, nonsensical or not. Marshall is an empathetic character, a scientist dealing with a past trauma who has sworn to never again hold a gun in his hand but is forced to. Once the action gets going, the plot becomes fast-paced and tense.
THE LIFE PLAN by Sybil Baker
THE LIFE PLAN
by Sybil Baker
Casperian Books
PO Box 161026
Sacramento, CA 95816-1026
www.casperianbooks.com
ISBN: 9781934081167
Patent attorney Kat Miller has had a life plan since college and means to stick to it. So far, she’s gotten the husband and satisfying career and next on the list is a house and kids. But her husband Dan, unemployed and lackadaisical about finding a job, has other plans. Dan enrolls in a massage therapy course in Thailand and tells Kat she can come or not; either way, he’s going. Kat, suspecting Dan’s interest in Thailand has to do with a beautiful yoga mate from that country, decides to accompany her husband just in case. Once they arrive in Thailand, Dan changes from loving husband to irritable spouse and decides to pursue his enlightened course which translates to “share the love”. Kat wallows in misery for awhile then decides since she’s in an exotic country, she might as well enjoy it. Through friends she meets, she travels the countryside, visiting Buddhist ruins and spending time in a jungle village, and along the way rediscovers herself. By the time Kat’s vacation is over, she has a big decision to make: continue on with the life plan or simply let life happen.
Sybil Baker pens a hilarious peek at one woman’s journey as she discovers more about herself than she thinks possible. Kat Miller is an engaging character, a woman with insecurities and idiosyncrasies who initially seems frail and vulnerable but shows a propensity to roll with the punches and come out ahead. Secondary characters are well-developed and add zest to this thoroughly entertaining book.
by Sybil Baker
Casperian Books
PO Box 161026
Sacramento, CA 95816-1026
www.casperianbooks.com
ISBN: 9781934081167
Patent attorney Kat Miller has had a life plan since college and means to stick to it. So far, she’s gotten the husband and satisfying career and next on the list is a house and kids. But her husband Dan, unemployed and lackadaisical about finding a job, has other plans. Dan enrolls in a massage therapy course in Thailand and tells Kat she can come or not; either way, he’s going. Kat, suspecting Dan’s interest in Thailand has to do with a beautiful yoga mate from that country, decides to accompany her husband just in case. Once they arrive in Thailand, Dan changes from loving husband to irritable spouse and decides to pursue his enlightened course which translates to “share the love”. Kat wallows in misery for awhile then decides since she’s in an exotic country, she might as well enjoy it. Through friends she meets, she travels the countryside, visiting Buddhist ruins and spending time in a jungle village, and along the way rediscovers herself. By the time Kat’s vacation is over, she has a big decision to make: continue on with the life plan or simply let life happen.
Sybil Baker pens a hilarious peek at one woman’s journey as she discovers more about herself than she thinks possible. Kat Miller is an engaging character, a woman with insecurities and idiosyncrasies who initially seems frail and vulnerable but shows a propensity to roll with the punches and come out ahead. Secondary characters are well-developed and add zest to this thoroughly entertaining book.
THE LIFE PLAN by Sybil Baker
THE LIFE PLAN
by Sybil Baker
Casperian Books
PO Box 161026
Sacramento, CA 95816-1026
www.casperianbooks.com
ISBN: 9781934081167
Patent attorney Kat Miller has had a life plan since college and means to stick to it. So far, she’s gotten the husband and satisfying career and next on the list is a house and kids. But her husband Dan, unemployed and lackadaisical about finding a job, has other plans. Dan enrolls in a massage therapy course in Thailand and tells Kat she can come or not; either way, he’s going. Kat, suspecting Dan’s interest in Thailand has to do with a beautiful yoga mate from that country, decides to accompany her husband just in case. Once they arrive in Thailand, Dan changes from loving husband to irritable spouse and decides to pursue his enlightened course which translates to “share the love”. Kat wallows in misery for awhile then decides since she’s in an exotic country, she might as well enjoy it. Through friends she meets, she travels the countryside, visiting Buddhist ruins and spending time in a jungle village, and along the way rediscovers herself. By the time Kat’s vacation is over, she has a big decision to make: continue on with the life plan or simply let life happen.
Sybil Baker pens a hilarious peek at one woman’s journey as she discovers more about herself than she thinks possible. Kat Miller is an engaging character, a woman with insecurities and idiosyncrasies who initially seems frail and vulnerable but shows a propensity to roll with the punches and come out ahead. Secondary characters are well-developed and add zest to this thoroughly entertaining book.
by Sybil Baker
Casperian Books
PO Box 161026
Sacramento, CA 95816-1026
www.casperianbooks.com
ISBN: 9781934081167
Patent attorney Kat Miller has had a life plan since college and means to stick to it. So far, she’s gotten the husband and satisfying career and next on the list is a house and kids. But her husband Dan, unemployed and lackadaisical about finding a job, has other plans. Dan enrolls in a massage therapy course in Thailand and tells Kat she can come or not; either way, he’s going. Kat, suspecting Dan’s interest in Thailand has to do with a beautiful yoga mate from that country, decides to accompany her husband just in case. Once they arrive in Thailand, Dan changes from loving husband to irritable spouse and decides to pursue his enlightened course which translates to “share the love”. Kat wallows in misery for awhile then decides since she’s in an exotic country, she might as well enjoy it. Through friends she meets, she travels the countryside, visiting Buddhist ruins and spending time in a jungle village, and along the way rediscovers herself. By the time Kat’s vacation is over, she has a big decision to make: continue on with the life plan or simply let life happen.
Sybil Baker pens a hilarious peek at one woman’s journey as she discovers more about herself than she thinks possible. Kat Miller is an engaging character, a woman with insecurities and idiosyncrasies who initially seems frail and vulnerable but shows a propensity to roll with the punches and come out ahead. Secondary characters are well-developed and add zest to this thoroughly entertaining book.
THE SOLDIER'S RIDE
THE SOLDIER’S RIDE
by Edie Hand with Jeffery Addison
Parkway Publishers Inc.
www.parkwaypublishers.com
ISBN: 9781932251677
Diana Meade is a busy career woman who spends the majority of her time working. Divorced from her husband, away fighting in Iraq, she has sole responsibility of their son. When Diana’s car breaks down at a busy intersection, she is frustrated beyond measure but something compels her to cross the street to a veteran’s cemetery. There, she sits on a bench to cool off and notices an elderly woman who seems to come from nowhere. The older woman tells Diana she is an angel and begins to relay a story about a young soldier during World War II, a man with great promise who went off to war and returned injured and cynical. The woman tells part of the story, followed by another angel, an older man, who relays the rest of the soldier’s inspiring tale, and a third angel, a young soldier, who delivers his own saga. Diana, irritated at first by their intrusion, becomes fascinated and slowly begins to understand what compels soldiers, including her ex-husband, to go to war and the great sacrifices they make in doing so.
This novella, written as a salute to all veterans and their sacrifices, as well as those they leave behind, is insightful, inspirational and heartwarming, and it is hoped will reach denizens of countries across the world dealing with war and strife. The messages it delivers about faith and love and redemption are poignant and powerful and so very important. Readers will shed tears over the soldiers’ sacrifices, rejoice at their deliverance, and appreciate what motivates these glorious heroes to serve their countries.
by Edie Hand with Jeffery Addison
Parkway Publishers Inc.
www.parkwaypublishers.com
ISBN: 9781932251677
Diana Meade is a busy career woman who spends the majority of her time working. Divorced from her husband, away fighting in Iraq, she has sole responsibility of their son. When Diana’s car breaks down at a busy intersection, she is frustrated beyond measure but something compels her to cross the street to a veteran’s cemetery. There, she sits on a bench to cool off and notices an elderly woman who seems to come from nowhere. The older woman tells Diana she is an angel and begins to relay a story about a young soldier during World War II, a man with great promise who went off to war and returned injured and cynical. The woman tells part of the story, followed by another angel, an older man, who relays the rest of the soldier’s inspiring tale, and a third angel, a young soldier, who delivers his own saga. Diana, irritated at first by their intrusion, becomes fascinated and slowly begins to understand what compels soldiers, including her ex-husband, to go to war and the great sacrifices they make in doing so.
This novella, written as a salute to all veterans and their sacrifices, as well as those they leave behind, is insightful, inspirational and heartwarming, and it is hoped will reach denizens of countries across the world dealing with war and strife. The messages it delivers about faith and love and redemption are poignant and powerful and so very important. Readers will shed tears over the soldiers’ sacrifices, rejoice at their deliverance, and appreciate what motivates these glorious heroes to serve their countries.
Monday, September 7, 2009
REVENGE OF THE SPELLMANS by Lisa Lutz
REVENGE OF THE SPELLMANS
by Lisa Lutz
Simon and Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
ISBN: 9781416593386
$25.00
www.simonandschuster.com
Private investigator Isabel Spellman quit her job with her family’s detective business and is working part-time as a bartender at her friend Milo’s bar while trying to decide what to do next. She’s also been through one block of court-ordered therapy and has been passed by that therapist on to another. Milo persuades Isabel to take on a relatively simple case for one of his friends, whose wife is acting mysterious and bringing home expensive items. Meanwhile, Isabel’s brother David returns from a secret trip and stops going to work. Isabel finds out David has a secret apartment in his basement so moves in without his permission. Isabel’s sister Rae’s been accused of cheating on the PSATs and has finally made Detective Henry Stone angry enough he is no longer speaking to her. Isabel can’t sleep in her new home due to her fear of being found by David, so takes naps on buses. She tails the wife, only to be tailed herself. If that isn’t bad enough, her car keeps disappearing. And her feelings for Henry Stone just can’t stay put.
Once more Lisa Lutz provides readers with a fun-filled whodunit which is more about the wacky Spellman family than the actual mystery, but readers won’t mind one bit. The Spellmans are a fascinating, dysfunctional family with individual quirks and laugh-out-loud personas. A definite must-read for those who enjoy a good dose of humor along with a good book.
by Lisa Lutz
Simon and Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
ISBN: 9781416593386
$25.00
www.simonandschuster.com
Private investigator Isabel Spellman quit her job with her family’s detective business and is working part-time as a bartender at her friend Milo’s bar while trying to decide what to do next. She’s also been through one block of court-ordered therapy and has been passed by that therapist on to another. Milo persuades Isabel to take on a relatively simple case for one of his friends, whose wife is acting mysterious and bringing home expensive items. Meanwhile, Isabel’s brother David returns from a secret trip and stops going to work. Isabel finds out David has a secret apartment in his basement so moves in without his permission. Isabel’s sister Rae’s been accused of cheating on the PSATs and has finally made Detective Henry Stone angry enough he is no longer speaking to her. Isabel can’t sleep in her new home due to her fear of being found by David, so takes naps on buses. She tails the wife, only to be tailed herself. If that isn’t bad enough, her car keeps disappearing. And her feelings for Henry Stone just can’t stay put.
Once more Lisa Lutz provides readers with a fun-filled whodunit which is more about the wacky Spellman family than the actual mystery, but readers won’t mind one bit. The Spellmans are a fascinating, dysfunctional family with individual quirks and laugh-out-loud personas. A definite must-read for those who enjoy a good dose of humor along with a good book.
THE EMPTY CHAIR by Jeffery Deaver
THE EMPTY CHAIR
by Jeffery Deaver
Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
ISBN: 0684855631
www.simonandschuster.com
Quadriplegic, criminalist Lincoln Rhyme, accompanied by his lover, investigator Amelia Sachs and his assistant Thom, is in Avery, North Carolina, where he hopes to undergo experimental surgery to aid with spinal cord regeneration. His first day there, Rhyme is visited by Jim Bell, sheriff of Paquenoke County, where two women have been kidnapped and a young man killed by 16-year-old Garrett Hanlon, nicknamed the Insect Boy because of his interest in bugs. Garrett’s on the run and Bell wants Rhyme to help find him before he kills the two women he kidnapped. Sachs talks Rhyme into looking into the case and the two begin their unique investigating: Rhyme examining the forensic evidence in a lab with Sachs doing the legwork. They eventually track Garrett through forensics and he is arrested but refuses to reveal the whereabouts of the two women. Sachs thinks there is more to what’s going on than they’ve been told, so she lets Garrett go under the condition he will lead her to the two women. Now Sachs is in a world of trouble with the law and Rhyme’s trying to trace her whereabouts, fearing she will be shot either by Garrett or law enforcement.
Rhyme and Sachs are two very likable characters who mesh well together. Rhyme, frustrated with the physical limitations he is forced to endure, seeks a way to become whole again while Sachs secretly wants him to remain a quadriplegic, fearing he will not want her once he is mobile. As with each book in the series, the forensics investigation is fascinating. The mystery of Garrett and his reason for kidnapping the women is well-done, as is the suspense as Sachs and Garrett are pursued.
by Jeffery Deaver
Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
ISBN: 0684855631
www.simonandschuster.com
Quadriplegic, criminalist Lincoln Rhyme, accompanied by his lover, investigator Amelia Sachs and his assistant Thom, is in Avery, North Carolina, where he hopes to undergo experimental surgery to aid with spinal cord regeneration. His first day there, Rhyme is visited by Jim Bell, sheriff of Paquenoke County, where two women have been kidnapped and a young man killed by 16-year-old Garrett Hanlon, nicknamed the Insect Boy because of his interest in bugs. Garrett’s on the run and Bell wants Rhyme to help find him before he kills the two women he kidnapped. Sachs talks Rhyme into looking into the case and the two begin their unique investigating: Rhyme examining the forensic evidence in a lab with Sachs doing the legwork. They eventually track Garrett through forensics and he is arrested but refuses to reveal the whereabouts of the two women. Sachs thinks there is more to what’s going on than they’ve been told, so she lets Garrett go under the condition he will lead her to the two women. Now Sachs is in a world of trouble with the law and Rhyme’s trying to trace her whereabouts, fearing she will be shot either by Garrett or law enforcement.
Rhyme and Sachs are two very likable characters who mesh well together. Rhyme, frustrated with the physical limitations he is forced to endure, seeks a way to become whole again while Sachs secretly wants him to remain a quadriplegic, fearing he will not want her once he is mobile. As with each book in the series, the forensics investigation is fascinating. The mystery of Garrett and his reason for kidnapping the women is well-done, as is the suspense as Sachs and Garrett are pursued.
THE KEEPSAKE by Tess Gerritsen
THE KEEPSAKE
by Tess Gerritsen
Ballantine Books
1745 Broadway in New York, NY 10019
ISBN: 9780345497628
www.ballantineboks.com
The discovery of a preserved mummy in the basement of Boston’s Crispin Museum causes much media attention. Egyptologist/ archeologist Josephine Pulcillo, in hopes of not disturbing the wrappings, plans to scan the mummy beforehand to see what they can learn. Medical examiner Maura Isles is invited to be present for the scan and discovers this is no Egyptian mummy of ancient times but a woman who died more recently. When a shrunken head is discovered behind a wall in the museum, homicide detective Jane Rizzoli and Dr. Isles become suspicious they have a serial killer on their hands who is proficient in the ancient rites of preservation. This notion is confirmed when a bog-preserved body is found in the trunk of Josephine Pulcillo’s car. The only thing the three bodies have in common: Josephine Pulcillo, whom Rizzoli suspects is hiding secrets from her past.
This latest in Gerritsen’s series involving Maura Isles and Jane Rizzoli is an exceptional read; filled with historical information regarding mummification and forensics, enmeshed within a thrilling mystery. Dr. Isles is still involved in an illicit affair with a priest and Rizzoli remains in her stable relationship with an FBI agent. The two women are tough and independent and very likable. Rizzoli is maturing and mellowing in her marriage while Isles is in a relationship that brings her more despair than happiness. This well-written series continues to remain strong and fresh not only because of these strong women characters but the issues they face, forensically and personally.
by Tess Gerritsen
Ballantine Books
1745 Broadway in New York, NY 10019
ISBN: 9780345497628
www.ballantineboks.com
The discovery of a preserved mummy in the basement of Boston’s Crispin Museum causes much media attention. Egyptologist/ archeologist Josephine Pulcillo, in hopes of not disturbing the wrappings, plans to scan the mummy beforehand to see what they can learn. Medical examiner Maura Isles is invited to be present for the scan and discovers this is no Egyptian mummy of ancient times but a woman who died more recently. When a shrunken head is discovered behind a wall in the museum, homicide detective Jane Rizzoli and Dr. Isles become suspicious they have a serial killer on their hands who is proficient in the ancient rites of preservation. This notion is confirmed when a bog-preserved body is found in the trunk of Josephine Pulcillo’s car. The only thing the three bodies have in common: Josephine Pulcillo, whom Rizzoli suspects is hiding secrets from her past.
This latest in Gerritsen’s series involving Maura Isles and Jane Rizzoli is an exceptional read; filled with historical information regarding mummification and forensics, enmeshed within a thrilling mystery. Dr. Isles is still involved in an illicit affair with a priest and Rizzoli remains in her stable relationship with an FBI agent. The two women are tough and independent and very likable. Rizzoli is maturing and mellowing in her marriage while Isles is in a relationship that brings her more despair than happiness. This well-written series continues to remain strong and fresh not only because of these strong women characters but the issues they face, forensically and personally.
THE SLEEPING DOLL by Jeffery Deaver
THE SLEEPING DOLL
by Jeffery Deaver
Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com
ISBN: 9780743260947
California Bureau of Investigation Special Agent Kathryn Dance is a renowned interrogator with an expertise in kinesics. Kathryn is sent to question prisoner Daniel Pell, known as the “son of Manson” due to his cult activities and the brutal slaying of the wealthy Croyton family in Carmel, mimicking the murders committed by the Manson family years earlier. Pell has recently been linked to another murder and Kathryn hopes to learn more about Pell and his reasons behind the murders. After the interview, Pell manages to escape and begins a murderous rampage, targeting those he feels have maligned him in the past in some way. Kathryn leads the investigation, aided by her good friend Michael O’Neil, chief deputy with the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office, and Winston Kellogg, a cult expert from the FBI. Kathryn turns to the three women who were part of Pell’s family years before, as well as the one victim he left behind when he murdered the Croytons, in hopes they can offer clues as to where Pell may be hiding.
This series is a refreshing addition to the mystery genre; exploring the intriguing world of kinesics and the role it plays in criminal investigations as well as everyday life. Kathryn Dance is captivating, an intelligent woman who is now widowed and whose priority is keeping her small family together. As always, Deaver offers his reader plenty of forensics information packed within a suspenseful plot.
by Jeffery Deaver
Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com
ISBN: 9780743260947
California Bureau of Investigation Special Agent Kathryn Dance is a renowned interrogator with an expertise in kinesics. Kathryn is sent to question prisoner Daniel Pell, known as the “son of Manson” due to his cult activities and the brutal slaying of the wealthy Croyton family in Carmel, mimicking the murders committed by the Manson family years earlier. Pell has recently been linked to another murder and Kathryn hopes to learn more about Pell and his reasons behind the murders. After the interview, Pell manages to escape and begins a murderous rampage, targeting those he feels have maligned him in the past in some way. Kathryn leads the investigation, aided by her good friend Michael O’Neil, chief deputy with the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office, and Winston Kellogg, a cult expert from the FBI. Kathryn turns to the three women who were part of Pell’s family years before, as well as the one victim he left behind when he murdered the Croytons, in hopes they can offer clues as to where Pell may be hiding.
This series is a refreshing addition to the mystery genre; exploring the intriguing world of kinesics and the role it plays in criminal investigations as well as everyday life. Kathryn Dance is captivating, an intelligent woman who is now widowed and whose priority is keeping her small family together. As always, Deaver offers his reader plenty of forensics information packed within a suspenseful plot.
THE TALL WOMAN by Wilma Dykeman
THE TALL WOMAN
by Wilma Dykeman
Holt, Rinehart and Winston
10801 N. MoPac Expressway, Austin, TX 78759
ISBN: 0030309654
http://www.harcourt.com
Lydia Moore grew up in the Appalachian region before the Civil War and married Mark McQueen shortly after it began. Her husband went off to fight for the Union while her father and brother fought for the Confederates. While the men were gone, outliers raided Lydia’s mother’s home, assaulting her and stealing the livestock. A pregnant Lydia returned to her old home place to tend to her mother and brothers and sisters. When her labor began, the doctor was too inebriated to come, so Lydia’s Aunt Tildy delivered the baby, who was turned the wrong way, causing brain damage. After the war, when Mark returned, Lydia learned he had been imprisoned. Her Mark was a changed man who dealt with demons from the war and harbored a deep hatred for the men who had raided Lydia’s mother’s home, blaming his son’s mental problems on them. Through the years, Lydia had more children while dealing with her husband’s alienation and cynicism, hoping that through her love, he would become the man he used to be. Times were rough in their mountain region, but Lydia worked hard, trying to do her best for her children and their small community.
Lydia McQueen is the epitome of a strong Southern woman. She never let challenges daunt her and plowed ahead, trying to do the right thing and persevere through. The Tall Woman tells one woman’s journey through life and the lives she touches as well as the changes she leaves behind.
by Wilma Dykeman
Holt, Rinehart and Winston
10801 N. MoPac Expressway, Austin, TX 78759
ISBN: 0030309654
http://www.harcourt.com
Lydia Moore grew up in the Appalachian region before the Civil War and married Mark McQueen shortly after it began. Her husband went off to fight for the Union while her father and brother fought for the Confederates. While the men were gone, outliers raided Lydia’s mother’s home, assaulting her and stealing the livestock. A pregnant Lydia returned to her old home place to tend to her mother and brothers and sisters. When her labor began, the doctor was too inebriated to come, so Lydia’s Aunt Tildy delivered the baby, who was turned the wrong way, causing brain damage. After the war, when Mark returned, Lydia learned he had been imprisoned. Her Mark was a changed man who dealt with demons from the war and harbored a deep hatred for the men who had raided Lydia’s mother’s home, blaming his son’s mental problems on them. Through the years, Lydia had more children while dealing with her husband’s alienation and cynicism, hoping that through her love, he would become the man he used to be. Times were rough in their mountain region, but Lydia worked hard, trying to do her best for her children and their small community.
Lydia McQueen is the epitome of a strong Southern woman. She never let challenges daunt her and plowed ahead, trying to do the right thing and persevere through. The Tall Woman tells one woman’s journey through life and the lives she touches as well as the changes she leaves behind.
BLOOD GAME by Iris Johansen
BLOOD GAME
by Iris Johansen
St. Martin’s Press
175 5th Ave. New York, NY 10010.
www.stmartins.com
ISBN: 9780312368128
Forensic sculptor Eve Duncan has dealt with evil killers before but Kevin Jelak is by far the worst. Jelak believes that if he consumes enough “rich” blood from strong women, he will become a vampiric god. Targeting Eve as the one woman whose blood will ensure eternal life, he leaves a goblet of blood in Eve’s refrigerator and begins playing the blood game with her. But first he must reach the proper level to receive her blood, so in the interim kills young women. When Jelak murders a Senator’s daughter, Eve’s lover, detective Joe Quinn is drawn into the hunt for Jelak. Joe is acting strange and Eve can’t figure out why and worries Joe is growing tired of her obsessive need to find the killer of her daughter years before. Seth Caleb joins the hunt, claiming he is attuned to Jalek and has been tracking him for years. Joe is reluctant at first to allow his help but eventually realizes Caleb has a connection to Jelak. But will either man find Jalek before he takes from Eve what he feels he deserves?
This latest in the Eve Duncan Forensic Thriller series touches on the paranormal through one of its primary characters. Jelak is deliciously evil and Johansen does a good job relaying his unstable mindset. Eve and Joe are interesting characters, both independent and strong and realistically portrayed as a couple. Seth Caleb is intriguing and adds dimension. Forensics takes a bit of a back seat with this thriller, but this does not detract from an exciting, suspenseful read.
by Iris Johansen
St. Martin’s Press
175 5th Ave. New York, NY 10010.
www.stmartins.com
ISBN: 9780312368128
Forensic sculptor Eve Duncan has dealt with evil killers before but Kevin Jelak is by far the worst. Jelak believes that if he consumes enough “rich” blood from strong women, he will become a vampiric god. Targeting Eve as the one woman whose blood will ensure eternal life, he leaves a goblet of blood in Eve’s refrigerator and begins playing the blood game with her. But first he must reach the proper level to receive her blood, so in the interim kills young women. When Jelak murders a Senator’s daughter, Eve’s lover, detective Joe Quinn is drawn into the hunt for Jelak. Joe is acting strange and Eve can’t figure out why and worries Joe is growing tired of her obsessive need to find the killer of her daughter years before. Seth Caleb joins the hunt, claiming he is attuned to Jalek and has been tracking him for years. Joe is reluctant at first to allow his help but eventually realizes Caleb has a connection to Jelak. But will either man find Jalek before he takes from Eve what he feels he deserves?
This latest in the Eve Duncan Forensic Thriller series touches on the paranormal through one of its primary characters. Jelak is deliciously evil and Johansen does a good job relaying his unstable mindset. Eve and Joe are interesting characters, both independent and strong and realistically portrayed as a couple. Seth Caleb is intriguing and adds dimension. Forensics takes a bit of a back seat with this thriller, but this does not detract from an exciting, suspenseful read.
Monday, August 3, 2009
THE WRONG SIDE OF MEMPHIS
THE WRONG SIDE OF MEMPHIS
by Claire Applewhite
L&L Dreamspell
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603181167
Dimond Redding, former Vietnam War field nurse, moves to St. Louis for some peace and quiet, thinking to retire there. But that’s not to be. Two weeks later, a man is murdered in the apartment across the hall from Di. Di suspects the investigating detective is focusing on the wrong person when he arrests a friend of one of the tenants in Di’s building. Elvin Suggs, Green Beret during the Vietnam War, is reeling from his wife’s demands for a divorce. Suggs takes his dog and heads to St. Louis to visit Di, his best friend’s widow. Suggs, a private investigator, suspects something afoul when more people are murdered in Di’s apartment building, including his wife. When Suggs is accused of his wife’s murder, he decides to investigate on his own and soon finds his own life in danger.
Applewhite brings focus to Vietnam vets via the characters in this book, stressing their outlook on the war and the role they played in it as well as the lives they lead and the friendships they cherish from that time period. This whodunit has plenty of suspects with several shifty characters, all with secrets of their own, occupying the apartment building. Suggs is an appealing character with a warm heart and zest for life. His dog Vanna adds an appealing dimension to the read, as does Cobra, the homeless Vietnam vet Suggs helps.
by Claire Applewhite
L&L Dreamspell
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603181167
Dimond Redding, former Vietnam War field nurse, moves to St. Louis for some peace and quiet, thinking to retire there. But that’s not to be. Two weeks later, a man is murdered in the apartment across the hall from Di. Di suspects the investigating detective is focusing on the wrong person when he arrests a friend of one of the tenants in Di’s building. Elvin Suggs, Green Beret during the Vietnam War, is reeling from his wife’s demands for a divorce. Suggs takes his dog and heads to St. Louis to visit Di, his best friend’s widow. Suggs, a private investigator, suspects something afoul when more people are murdered in Di’s apartment building, including his wife. When Suggs is accused of his wife’s murder, he decides to investigate on his own and soon finds his own life in danger.
Applewhite brings focus to Vietnam vets via the characters in this book, stressing their outlook on the war and the role they played in it as well as the lives they lead and the friendships they cherish from that time period. This whodunit has plenty of suspects with several shifty characters, all with secrets of their own, occupying the apartment building. Suggs is an appealing character with a warm heart and zest for life. His dog Vanna adds an appealing dimension to the read, as does Cobra, the homeless Vietnam vet Suggs helps.
THE RESQUETH REVOLUTION
THE RESQUETH REVOLUTION
by Mark H. Phillips
iUniverse
www.iuniverse.com
ISBN: 9781440109539
Steve Marks may be a brilliant physicist but his reputation is in the gutter due to past unethical behavior. Marks lands a job with a group of paranormal investigators tracking and destroying entities from another dimension they call “demons” who feed off human terror. With the help of his team, Marks devises a way to kill the demons, which backfires to the point of taking out prominent humans associated with these entities. The team is taken hostage by the U.S. military and forced to help find a way to cross dimensions and destroy the demons. Aware that demons have strong allies in governmental positions, the team doesn’t know who to trust and ultimately become involved in warfare with humans and demons.
Phillips’ concept is a bit complex but he is adept at delivering the story in such a way most readers will have no problem understanding the basic mechanics of quantum physics and the theory of dimensional worlds. The plot moves quickly and is filled with action, suspense and deception. Primary characters are well-developed and an integral part of the story. The premise is thrilling and readers will be so intrigued with this well-written sci-fi they will be reluctant to put the book aside once it’s finished.
by Mark H. Phillips
iUniverse
www.iuniverse.com
ISBN: 9781440109539
Steve Marks may be a brilliant physicist but his reputation is in the gutter due to past unethical behavior. Marks lands a job with a group of paranormal investigators tracking and destroying entities from another dimension they call “demons” who feed off human terror. With the help of his team, Marks devises a way to kill the demons, which backfires to the point of taking out prominent humans associated with these entities. The team is taken hostage by the U.S. military and forced to help find a way to cross dimensions and destroy the demons. Aware that demons have strong allies in governmental positions, the team doesn’t know who to trust and ultimately become involved in warfare with humans and demons.
Phillips’ concept is a bit complex but he is adept at delivering the story in such a way most readers will have no problem understanding the basic mechanics of quantum physics and the theory of dimensional worlds. The plot moves quickly and is filled with action, suspense and deception. Primary characters are well-developed and an integral part of the story. The premise is thrilling and readers will be so intrigued with this well-written sci-fi they will be reluctant to put the book aside once it’s finished.
THE RESQUETH REVOLUTION
THE RESQUETH REVOLUTION
by Mark H. Phillips
iUniverse
www.iuniverse.com
ISBN: 9781440109539
Steve Marks may be a brilliant physicist but his reputation is in the gutter due to past unethical behavior. Marks lands a job with a group of paranormal investigators tracking and destroying entities from another dimension they call “demons” who feed off human terror. With the help of his team, Marks devises a way to kill the demons, which backfires to the point of taking out prominent humans associated with these entities. The team is taken hostage by the U.S. military and forced to help find a way to cross dimensions and destroy the demons. Aware that demons have strong allies in governmental positions, the team doesn’t know who to trust and ultimately become involved in warfare with humans and demons.
Phillips’ concept is a bit complex but he is adept at delivering the story in such a way most readers will have no problem understanding the basic mechanics of quantum physics and the theory of dimensional worlds. The plot moves quickly and is filled with action, suspense and deception. Primary characters are well-developed and an integral part of the story. The premise is thrilling and readers will be so intrigued with this well-written sci-fi they will be reluctant to put the book aside once it’s finished.
by Mark H. Phillips
iUniverse
www.iuniverse.com
ISBN: 9781440109539
Steve Marks may be a brilliant physicist but his reputation is in the gutter due to past unethical behavior. Marks lands a job with a group of paranormal investigators tracking and destroying entities from another dimension they call “demons” who feed off human terror. With the help of his team, Marks devises a way to kill the demons, which backfires to the point of taking out prominent humans associated with these entities. The team is taken hostage by the U.S. military and forced to help find a way to cross dimensions and destroy the demons. Aware that demons have strong allies in governmental positions, the team doesn’t know who to trust and ultimately become involved in warfare with humans and demons.
Phillips’ concept is a bit complex but he is adept at delivering the story in such a way most readers will have no problem understanding the basic mechanics of quantum physics and the theory of dimensional worlds. The plot moves quickly and is filled with action, suspense and deception. Primary characters are well-developed and an integral part of the story. The premise is thrilling and readers will be so intrigued with this well-written sci-fi they will be reluctant to put the book aside once it’s finished.
YOUR ONE AND ONLY
YOUR ONE AND ONLY
by Angie Best-Boss
L&L Dreamspell
ISBN: 9781603180825
http://www.lldreamspell.com
Production coordinator Brynne Sanderlin needs a man. Not for herself, although that would be nice, but for her boss, producer Stephen Long. Long’s TV program, Your One and Only, a reality show pitting a bachelor against ten single women, has had three disastrous seasons without one proposal. Long’s pushing hard for a happy outcome, meaning engagement, and Brynne needs a winner if she wants to move up in the production industry. She meets Colin Walker, a high school Social Studies teacher, at a coffee shop and decides this sexy, personable man would be the perfect bachelor. It takes some persuasion, but Brynne manages to get Colin to agree, and off they fly to Ocracoke Island, NC for filming. But Brynne has a dilemma on her hands: she’s attracted to Colin and wouldn’t mind having him for her own, but if he doesn’t pick a potential bride, her career’s down the tubes.
Angie Best-Boss has penned a charming, fun-filled romance offering endearing characters and laugh-out-loud scenarios. The chemistry between Brynne and Colin sparkles amidst an engaging plot that readers will enjoy to the fullest. Ms. Best-Boss raises the bar for romance writers with this well-written, entertaining story, which moves at a fast pace and is one that readers will be reluctant to put aside.
by Angie Best-Boss
L&L Dreamspell
ISBN: 9781603180825
http://www.lldreamspell.com
Production coordinator Brynne Sanderlin needs a man. Not for herself, although that would be nice, but for her boss, producer Stephen Long. Long’s TV program, Your One and Only, a reality show pitting a bachelor against ten single women, has had three disastrous seasons without one proposal. Long’s pushing hard for a happy outcome, meaning engagement, and Brynne needs a winner if she wants to move up in the production industry. She meets Colin Walker, a high school Social Studies teacher, at a coffee shop and decides this sexy, personable man would be the perfect bachelor. It takes some persuasion, but Brynne manages to get Colin to agree, and off they fly to Ocracoke Island, NC for filming. But Brynne has a dilemma on her hands: she’s attracted to Colin and wouldn’t mind having him for her own, but if he doesn’t pick a potential bride, her career’s down the tubes.
Angie Best-Boss has penned a charming, fun-filled romance offering endearing characters and laugh-out-loud scenarios. The chemistry between Brynne and Colin sparkles amidst an engaging plot that readers will enjoy to the fullest. Ms. Best-Boss raises the bar for romance writers with this well-written, entertaining story, which moves at a fast pace and is one that readers will be reluctant to put aside.
LESS DEAD
LESS DEAD
by Laura Elvebak
L&L Dreamspell
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603180405
After shooting a teenager in self-defense, homicide investigator Niki Alexander quits the force and turns to counseling at a teen shelter. Although Niki works hard to help runaway teens, she is haunted by guilt over the shooting. Abandoned by her father several months earlier, Jessica Keeling lives on the street, going by the name of Jade. When she wakes up next to a dead man, Jade panics and flees the scene, only to disappear. Jade’s friend Rube, convinced Jade isn’t running from the police but that someone has taken her, implores Niki to help him find her. Niki’s former partner, Luis Perez, searching for the young woman seen running away from the dead man, teams up with Niki to try to find Jade. Their investigation uncovers crimes of a more serious nature: the mutilated bodies of missing teen girls.
Elvebak delivers a gritty mystery focusing on the sad and traumatic lives of runaway teens. Plenty of red herrings are offered along with a suspenseful plot and realistic characters. Elvebak’s credible dialogue enhances the story, which moves at a fast pace. Visual imagery is at times graphic, although essential to this well-written thriller.
by Laura Elvebak
L&L Dreamspell
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603180405
After shooting a teenager in self-defense, homicide investigator Niki Alexander quits the force and turns to counseling at a teen shelter. Although Niki works hard to help runaway teens, she is haunted by guilt over the shooting. Abandoned by her father several months earlier, Jessica Keeling lives on the street, going by the name of Jade. When she wakes up next to a dead man, Jade panics and flees the scene, only to disappear. Jade’s friend Rube, convinced Jade isn’t running from the police but that someone has taken her, implores Niki to help him find her. Niki’s former partner, Luis Perez, searching for the young woman seen running away from the dead man, teams up with Niki to try to find Jade. Their investigation uncovers crimes of a more serious nature: the mutilated bodies of missing teen girls.
Elvebak delivers a gritty mystery focusing on the sad and traumatic lives of runaway teens. Plenty of red herrings are offered along with a suspenseful plot and realistic characters. Elvebak’s credible dialogue enhances the story, which moves at a fast pace. Visual imagery is at times graphic, although essential to this well-written thriller.
HELL SWAMP
HELL SWAMP
by Susan Whitfield
L&L Dreamspell
ISBN: 9781603180948
www.lldreamspell.com
SBI agent Logan Hunter is called back from personal leave to investigate a brutal murder along the banks of the Black River in Ivanhoe, North Carolina, where animal rights activist Clara Banoak is found hanging from her chandelier, gutted like a deer. Logan quickly learns that Banoak was outspoken in her views against harming animals and had more enemies than friends in this hunter-infested area. Due to an outbreak of the flu, Logan is initially on her own as she investigates the murder, developing a long list of suspects. When she gets too close, Logan is assaulted and left to die in Hell Swamp. More determined than ever, she doggedly pursues her case, uncovering other heinous crimes, with danger lurking around every corner.
Hell Swamp, book number three in the Logan Hunter Mystery series, is an intriguing thriller. Logan Hunter is an interesting character: a woman with backbone who does not let the threat of peril get in her way; an investigator committed to her case who will not stop until it’s closed. Whitfield adds a nice touch of romance with Logan’s lover, fellow SBI agent Chase Riley. The plot moves at a fast pace with an abundance of suspense and suspects, offering a mystery readers will be challenged to solve.
by Susan Whitfield
L&L Dreamspell
ISBN: 9781603180948
www.lldreamspell.com
SBI agent Logan Hunter is called back from personal leave to investigate a brutal murder along the banks of the Black River in Ivanhoe, North Carolina, where animal rights activist Clara Banoak is found hanging from her chandelier, gutted like a deer. Logan quickly learns that Banoak was outspoken in her views against harming animals and had more enemies than friends in this hunter-infested area. Due to an outbreak of the flu, Logan is initially on her own as she investigates the murder, developing a long list of suspects. When she gets too close, Logan is assaulted and left to die in Hell Swamp. More determined than ever, she doggedly pursues her case, uncovering other heinous crimes, with danger lurking around every corner.
Hell Swamp, book number three in the Logan Hunter Mystery series, is an intriguing thriller. Logan Hunter is an interesting character: a woman with backbone who does not let the threat of peril get in her way; an investigator committed to her case who will not stop until it’s closed. Whitfield adds a nice touch of romance with Logan’s lover, fellow SBI agent Chase Riley. The plot moves at a fast pace with an abundance of suspense and suspects, offering a mystery readers will be challenged to solve.
A LITTLE MURDER
A LITTLE MURDER
by Cindy Davis
L&L Dreamspell
9781603181006
http://www.lldreamspell.com
ER nurse Angie Deacon thinks a fishing trip on her husband’s birthday might help ease the tension between them. Will has been acting strange and Angie can’t figure out what’s going on with him. In the middle of the trip, the boat’s captain, Nolan Little, is found dead, a filet knife through his chest. Detective Colby Jarvis initially thinks this will be an easy solve; other than Nolan and his wife Valerie, there were only five passengers on the boat. But Jarvis can find nothing linking any of the passengers to Little or his murder. Angie, feeling sorry for Valerie, befriends her and the two women decide to investigate the murder on their own, uncovering deadly secrets of the other passengers, some of whom will kill to keep them.
Davis takes what looks to be a simple murder mystery and adds enough twists and turns to produce a real whodunit readers will be challenged to figure out. Characters are solidly developed and dimensional, the plot fast-paced and peppered with suspense.
by Cindy Davis
L&L Dreamspell
9781603181006
http://www.lldreamspell.com
ER nurse Angie Deacon thinks a fishing trip on her husband’s birthday might help ease the tension between them. Will has been acting strange and Angie can’t figure out what’s going on with him. In the middle of the trip, the boat’s captain, Nolan Little, is found dead, a filet knife through his chest. Detective Colby Jarvis initially thinks this will be an easy solve; other than Nolan and his wife Valerie, there were only five passengers on the boat. But Jarvis can find nothing linking any of the passengers to Little or his murder. Angie, feeling sorry for Valerie, befriends her and the two women decide to investigate the murder on their own, uncovering deadly secrets of the other passengers, some of whom will kill to keep them.
Davis takes what looks to be a simple murder mystery and adds enough twists and turns to produce a real whodunit readers will be challenged to figure out. Characters are solidly developed and dimensional, the plot fast-paced and peppered with suspense.
LIFE IS ONE BIG TO DO LIST
LIFE IS ONE BIG TO-DO LIST
A WOMAN’S LIFE AFTER 40
by Terri Lee Ryan
Eloquent Books
ISBN: 9781606935675
www.eloquentbooks.com
Terri Lee Ryan, marketing consultant and career coach, has penned a witty self-help book aimed at women over 40 regarding life’s unending chaotic moments and how to deal with them. Ryan focuses on issues ranging from lust versus love to aging parents, children, and pets. She writes about divorce, changes in friendships, dysfunctional families, career challenges, volunteering for charity work, along with dealing with housework, irritating people, computers, aging, and much more.
Life is One Big To-Do List addresses many important issues in a way readers will find humorous and relatable. Women over 40, as well as women and men of all ages, are sure to benefit from the author’s candid, cleverly-written text. Ryan poignantly ends with: “My goal is to live each day as if it was my last and keep a stock of pens and paper handy for my to-do lists, knowing that when I quit writing them, my life is over. I would urge you to do the same.” Well said.
A WOMAN’S LIFE AFTER 40
by Terri Lee Ryan
Eloquent Books
ISBN: 9781606935675
www.eloquentbooks.com
Terri Lee Ryan, marketing consultant and career coach, has penned a witty self-help book aimed at women over 40 regarding life’s unending chaotic moments and how to deal with them. Ryan focuses on issues ranging from lust versus love to aging parents, children, and pets. She writes about divorce, changes in friendships, dysfunctional families, career challenges, volunteering for charity work, along with dealing with housework, irritating people, computers, aging, and much more.
Life is One Big To-Do List addresses many important issues in a way readers will find humorous and relatable. Women over 40, as well as women and men of all ages, are sure to benefit from the author’s candid, cleverly-written text. Ryan poignantly ends with: “My goal is to live each day as if it was my last and keep a stock of pens and paper handy for my to-do lists, knowing that when I quit writing them, my life is over. I would urge you to do the same.” Well said.
LIFE IS ONE BIG TO DO LIST
LIFE IS ONE BIG TO-DO LIST
A WOMAN’S LIFE AFTER 40
by Terri Lee Ryan
Eloquent Books
ISBN: 9781606935675
www.eloquentbooks.com
Terri Lee Ryan, marketing consultant and career coach, has penned a witty self-help book aimed at women over 40 regarding life’s unending chaotic moments and how to deal with them. Ryan focuses on issues ranging from lust versus love to aging parents, children, and pets. She writes about divorce, changes in friendships, dysfunctional families, career challenges, volunteering for charity work, along with dealing with housework, irritating people, computers, aging, and much more.
Life is One Big To-Do List addresses many important issues in a way readers will find humorous and relatable. Women over 40, as well as women and men of all ages, are sure to benefit from the author’s candid, cleverly-written text. Ryan poignantly ends with: “My goal is to live each day as if it was my last and keep a stock of pens and paper handy for my to-do lists, knowing that when I quit writing them, my life is over. I would urge you to do the same.” Well said.
A WOMAN’S LIFE AFTER 40
by Terri Lee Ryan
Eloquent Books
ISBN: 9781606935675
www.eloquentbooks.com
Terri Lee Ryan, marketing consultant and career coach, has penned a witty self-help book aimed at women over 40 regarding life’s unending chaotic moments and how to deal with them. Ryan focuses on issues ranging from lust versus love to aging parents, children, and pets. She writes about divorce, changes in friendships, dysfunctional families, career challenges, volunteering for charity work, along with dealing with housework, irritating people, computers, aging, and much more.
Life is One Big To-Do List addresses many important issues in a way readers will find humorous and relatable. Women over 40, as well as women and men of all ages, are sure to benefit from the author’s candid, cleverly-written text. Ryan poignantly ends with: “My goal is to live each day as if it was my last and keep a stock of pens and paper handy for my to-do lists, knowing that when I quit writing them, my life is over. I would urge you to do the same.” Well said.
Friday, July 3, 2009
THE COFFIN DANCER by Jeffery Deaver
THE COFFIN DANCER
By Jeffery Deaver
Simon & Schuster Inc.
www.simonandschuster.com
ISBN: 0684852853
Hardback, 360 pages, $25.00
Genre: Mystery
A bomb used to murder a federal witness convinces criminologist Lincoln Rhyme that the Coffin Dancer has returned to New York. Rhyme would like nothing more than to arrest the Coffin Dancer, who murdered several of his team members years before. But the Coffin Dancer is a master of disguise and always seems to stay one step ahead of the police. The two remaining targeted federal witnesses are taken into protective custody but the killer manages to infiltrate their safe houses each time the witnesses are moved. Amelia Sachs conducts a physical investigation while Rhyme, a quadriplegic, investigates from his own lab, both working against a forty-eight hour time frame.
This second book in the Lincoln Rhyme mystery series confirms this is a series that will be around for awhile. Deaver offers his reader a thrilling mystery packed with forensic science. Rhyme and Sachs are a winning combination and Deaver delves a little deeper into their personas and attraction to one another. A page turner that will hold the reader vested throughout.
By Jeffery Deaver
Simon & Schuster Inc.
www.simonandschuster.com
ISBN: 0684852853
Hardback, 360 pages, $25.00
Genre: Mystery
A bomb used to murder a federal witness convinces criminologist Lincoln Rhyme that the Coffin Dancer has returned to New York. Rhyme would like nothing more than to arrest the Coffin Dancer, who murdered several of his team members years before. But the Coffin Dancer is a master of disguise and always seems to stay one step ahead of the police. The two remaining targeted federal witnesses are taken into protective custody but the killer manages to infiltrate their safe houses each time the witnesses are moved. Amelia Sachs conducts a physical investigation while Rhyme, a quadriplegic, investigates from his own lab, both working against a forty-eight hour time frame.
This second book in the Lincoln Rhyme mystery series confirms this is a series that will be around for awhile. Deaver offers his reader a thrilling mystery packed with forensic science. Rhyme and Sachs are a winning combination and Deaver delves a little deeper into their personas and attraction to one another. A page turner that will hold the reader vested throughout.
MIA'S GIFT by Victoria and Craig Weeden
MIA’S GIFT
by Victoria and Craig Weeden
Illustrated by Del Hopewell
Jazz Angel Press
Banner Elk, NC
ISBN: 9781439213292
Trade paperback, 132 pages, $12.99
Genre: Children’s fiction, ages 6-12
Since her mother’s death, Mia is trying harder than ever to be closer to her dad, who researches manatees. Like her mother, Mia senses manatees and helps her dad locate them but what Mia’s dad doesn’t know is that Mia can also communicate with the manatees. Mia’s favorite manatee, Muzzles, is pregnant and Mia worries about her safety. Shortly after Muzzles gives birth, her baby is stolen, and Mia and her friend Clark place their own lives in danger to save her.
This is a creative, well-illustrated book which children will treasure. Mia is a sweet character and her friend Clark, who stutters and whose family is down on their luck, is the perfect counterpart. The story is heart-warming, the characters engaging, and the message concerning manatees and the dangers they encounter from humans important and welcome and very much needed. Parents and teachers will appreciate the premise for this book, which would be the perfect addition for school classrooms as well as school, home, and public libraries.
by Victoria and Craig Weeden
Illustrated by Del Hopewell
Jazz Angel Press
Banner Elk, NC
ISBN: 9781439213292
Trade paperback, 132 pages, $12.99
Genre: Children’s fiction, ages 6-12
Since her mother’s death, Mia is trying harder than ever to be closer to her dad, who researches manatees. Like her mother, Mia senses manatees and helps her dad locate them but what Mia’s dad doesn’t know is that Mia can also communicate with the manatees. Mia’s favorite manatee, Muzzles, is pregnant and Mia worries about her safety. Shortly after Muzzles gives birth, her baby is stolen, and Mia and her friend Clark place their own lives in danger to save her.
This is a creative, well-illustrated book which children will treasure. Mia is a sweet character and her friend Clark, who stutters and whose family is down on their luck, is the perfect counterpart. The story is heart-warming, the characters engaging, and the message concerning manatees and the dangers they encounter from humans important and welcome and very much needed. Parents and teachers will appreciate the premise for this book, which would be the perfect addition for school classrooms as well as school, home, and public libraries.
A CORPSE IN THE SOUP by Morgan St. James and Phyllice Bradner
A CORPSE IN THE SOUP
by Morgan St. James and Phyllice Bradner
L&L Dreamspell
Spring, TX
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603181204
Trade paperback, 262 pages, $16.95
Genre: Mystery
Goldie Silver and Godiva Olivia DuBois may be identical twins with the ability to communicate with one another telepathically, but that’s where their similarity ends. Fashion-conscious Godiva, living in Beverly Hills, writes an advice column called Ask G.O.D. Free spirit Goldie lives in Juneau, Alaska, where she owns an antique store. Godiva takes Goldie’s daughter Chili, a sous chef, to the taping of popular Chef Caesar Romano’s show. Romano asks Godiva to sample the food and she passes out from food poisoning. Goldie flies in to help, and at the hospital, Romano confides that someone is sabotaging his show. Romano offers Chili a job as his assistant, and Goldie and Godiva put their heads together to try to figure out who’s got it in for Romano. When his nemesis Biff Wellington is found with a knife in his back, Romano’s the number one suspect and Godiva, romantically interested in Romano, is out to prove him innocent, along with the help of her sister Goldie and their mother and uncle, two former Vaudeville magicians.
This fun mystery romp will keep the reader guessing while enjoying the antics of Goldie and Godiva, along with their quirky family. The characters are amusing and endearing, and even the dog Waldo has his humorous moments. The plot moves along crisply, offering plenty of red herrings, and is twisty enough to provide a good whodunit. A Corpse in the Soup, first of the Silver Sisters Mystery series written by sisters St. James and Bradner, is a refreshing addition to the mystery world.
by Morgan St. James and Phyllice Bradner
L&L Dreamspell
Spring, TX
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603181204
Trade paperback, 262 pages, $16.95
Genre: Mystery
Goldie Silver and Godiva Olivia DuBois may be identical twins with the ability to communicate with one another telepathically, but that’s where their similarity ends. Fashion-conscious Godiva, living in Beverly Hills, writes an advice column called Ask G.O.D. Free spirit Goldie lives in Juneau, Alaska, where she owns an antique store. Godiva takes Goldie’s daughter Chili, a sous chef, to the taping of popular Chef Caesar Romano’s show. Romano asks Godiva to sample the food and she passes out from food poisoning. Goldie flies in to help, and at the hospital, Romano confides that someone is sabotaging his show. Romano offers Chili a job as his assistant, and Goldie and Godiva put their heads together to try to figure out who’s got it in for Romano. When his nemesis Biff Wellington is found with a knife in his back, Romano’s the number one suspect and Godiva, romantically interested in Romano, is out to prove him innocent, along with the help of her sister Goldie and their mother and uncle, two former Vaudeville magicians.
This fun mystery romp will keep the reader guessing while enjoying the antics of Goldie and Godiva, along with their quirky family. The characters are amusing and endearing, and even the dog Waldo has his humorous moments. The plot moves along crisply, offering plenty of red herrings, and is twisty enough to provide a good whodunit. A Corpse in the Soup, first of the Silver Sisters Mystery series written by sisters St. James and Bradner, is a refreshing addition to the mystery world.
DEAD WRECKONING by Sylvia Dickey Smith
DEAD WRECKONING
by Sylvia Dickey Smith
L&L Dreamspell
P.O. Box 1984
Friendswood, TX 77549
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603181389
Trade Paperback, 252 pages, $16.95
Genre: Mystery
Sidra Smart, divorced from her controlling husband of thirty years and present owner of the Third Eye Detective Agency, temporarily keeps her office at her Aunt Annie’s house, where she lives with her aunt and dog Slider. Sidra is reluctant to take on the case of Boo Murphy, a woman accused of murdering her neighbor. Sidra isn’t too sure Boo’s all there, as Boo claims to have seen an 18th century pirate schooner in the Texas swamp, and Boo doesn’t have the means to pay an investigator. But when Sidra sees the schooner for herself, she is intrigued and begins to look into the case, only to be warned off by her mentor and assaulted by unknown assailants. With the aid of her dog Slider, Sidra pursues her investigation, which leads her into the past, to the days of pirate Jean Lafitte and Mary Anne Radcliff, Lafitte’s partner and Boo’s ancestor.
Smith adds plenty of action and adventure to this installment of the Third Eye mystery series, with an interesting dose of piratical history and ghosts. Sidra Smart is an engaging character, a woman fiercely committed to her independence. She is beginning to find her place in life and isn’t afraid to stand up for herself, even against the bad guys. She’s smart and likeable, and many women will identify with her. Sidra’s dog Slider plays an important part, and Smith nicely weaves his abusive past into the story. This page turner will hold readers’ attention throughout as they follow Sidra’s growth as a woman and investigator.
by Sylvia Dickey Smith
L&L Dreamspell
P.O. Box 1984
Friendswood, TX 77549
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603181389
Trade Paperback, 252 pages, $16.95
Genre: Mystery
Sidra Smart, divorced from her controlling husband of thirty years and present owner of the Third Eye Detective Agency, temporarily keeps her office at her Aunt Annie’s house, where she lives with her aunt and dog Slider. Sidra is reluctant to take on the case of Boo Murphy, a woman accused of murdering her neighbor. Sidra isn’t too sure Boo’s all there, as Boo claims to have seen an 18th century pirate schooner in the Texas swamp, and Boo doesn’t have the means to pay an investigator. But when Sidra sees the schooner for herself, she is intrigued and begins to look into the case, only to be warned off by her mentor and assaulted by unknown assailants. With the aid of her dog Slider, Sidra pursues her investigation, which leads her into the past, to the days of pirate Jean Lafitte and Mary Anne Radcliff, Lafitte’s partner and Boo’s ancestor.
Smith adds plenty of action and adventure to this installment of the Third Eye mystery series, with an interesting dose of piratical history and ghosts. Sidra Smart is an engaging character, a woman fiercely committed to her independence. She is beginning to find her place in life and isn’t afraid to stand up for herself, even against the bad guys. She’s smart and likeable, and many women will identify with her. Sidra’s dog Slider plays an important part, and Smith nicely weaves his abusive past into the story. This page turner will hold readers’ attention throughout as they follow Sidra’s growth as a woman and investigator.
THE FOSTER GIRLS by Lin Stepp
THE FOSTER GIRLS
by Lin Stepp
Parkway Publishers
P.O. Box 3678
Boone, NC
www.parkwaypublishers.com
ISBN: 9781933251660
Trade paperback, 240 pages, $14.95
Genre: Romance
College professor Vivian Delaney rents a house near the Smoky Mountains, claiming she’s on sabbatical. Scott Jamison, whose family owns the house Vivian is renting, runs neighboring Buckeye Knob Camp. When Scott meets Vivian, he suspects there’s more to her story than Vivian is telling, but Vivian is adamant about her reason for being there. The two are attracted to one another although Scott is reluctant to love someone he feels he can’t trust. Vivian eventually earns Scott’s confidence, but their relationship is threatened by Vivian’s attachment to a foster girl.
Lin Stepp creates a heartwarming tale of love and redemption, family and faith. Her visual imagery nicely establishes time and place, and readers will fall in love with not only her charming characters but the picturesque setting for this inspirational story. This debut novel in the Smoky Mountain Series is sure to garner fans across genres, offering a plot filled with romance and suspense, set amidst the backdrop of the breathtaking Smoky Mountains.
by Lin Stepp
Parkway Publishers
P.O. Box 3678
Boone, NC
www.parkwaypublishers.com
ISBN: 9781933251660
Trade paperback, 240 pages, $14.95
Genre: Romance
College professor Vivian Delaney rents a house near the Smoky Mountains, claiming she’s on sabbatical. Scott Jamison, whose family owns the house Vivian is renting, runs neighboring Buckeye Knob Camp. When Scott meets Vivian, he suspects there’s more to her story than Vivian is telling, but Vivian is adamant about her reason for being there. The two are attracted to one another although Scott is reluctant to love someone he feels he can’t trust. Vivian eventually earns Scott’s confidence, but their relationship is threatened by Vivian’s attachment to a foster girl.
Lin Stepp creates a heartwarming tale of love and redemption, family and faith. Her visual imagery nicely establishes time and place, and readers will fall in love with not only her charming characters but the picturesque setting for this inspirational story. This debut novel in the Smoky Mountain Series is sure to garner fans across genres, offering a plot filled with romance and suspense, set amidst the backdrop of the breathtaking Smoky Mountains.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
A STILL POINT IN TIME by Marsha Briscoe
A STILL POINT IN TIME
by Marsha Briscoe
Whiskey Creek Press
P.O Box 51052
Casper, WY 82605-1052
www.whiskeycreekpress.com
ISBN: 1593742002
Trade paperback, 334 pages, $14.95
Genre: Romance
College professor Laura Bouvoire, 43-years-old and pregnant by in vitro fertilization, is confused by her feelings for Dante Giovanni, a student 12 years her junior. Dante, the product of an abusive childhood, opposes her choice to have an IVF baby, yet cannot deny his love for Laura. When Laura spies an amethyst brooch at an antique store, she is drawn to the jewelry and spontaneously purchases it. From that point on, Laura is besieged by dreams of a woman connected to the brooch and her lover, a famous poet and artist of the 19th century. Laura begins researching the couple and learns the brooch is a gift the poet gave his wife. Dante, in turn, is having dreams of the couple but narrow-mindedly rejects Laura’s theory that she and Dante were the poet and his wife in a past life and are bound by karma. In the past, the couple’s relationship ended tragically, and now, Laura’s and Dante’s love is endangered by a man obsessed with Laura.
Marsha Briscoe has penned a lovely romance here, relaying the tales of two couples, past and present, with strong emotions for one another, yet dealing with their own personal demons which draw them apart. Briscoe peppers the plot with spine-tingling suspense while offering a charming couple readers will empathize with and root for. Character development is excellent, and the story one that will remain with the reader long after the book is finished.
by Marsha Briscoe
Whiskey Creek Press
P.O Box 51052
Casper, WY 82605-1052
www.whiskeycreekpress.com
ISBN: 1593742002
Trade paperback, 334 pages, $14.95
Genre: Romance
College professor Laura Bouvoire, 43-years-old and pregnant by in vitro fertilization, is confused by her feelings for Dante Giovanni, a student 12 years her junior. Dante, the product of an abusive childhood, opposes her choice to have an IVF baby, yet cannot deny his love for Laura. When Laura spies an amethyst brooch at an antique store, she is drawn to the jewelry and spontaneously purchases it. From that point on, Laura is besieged by dreams of a woman connected to the brooch and her lover, a famous poet and artist of the 19th century. Laura begins researching the couple and learns the brooch is a gift the poet gave his wife. Dante, in turn, is having dreams of the couple but narrow-mindedly rejects Laura’s theory that she and Dante were the poet and his wife in a past life and are bound by karma. In the past, the couple’s relationship ended tragically, and now, Laura’s and Dante’s love is endangered by a man obsessed with Laura.
Marsha Briscoe has penned a lovely romance here, relaying the tales of two couples, past and present, with strong emotions for one another, yet dealing with their own personal demons which draw them apart. Briscoe peppers the plot with spine-tingling suspense while offering a charming couple readers will empathize with and root for. Character development is excellent, and the story one that will remain with the reader long after the book is finished.
BEYOND REACH by Karin Slaughter
BEYOND REACH
by Karin Slaughter
Bantam Dell/Random House
New York, New York
www.randomhouse.com
ISBN: 9780385339476
Paperback, 608 pages, $7.99
Genre: Mystery
Pediatrician/medical examiner Sara Linton is reeling from a vicious malpractice suit and having to close her clinic when her husband, police chief Jeffrey Tollier, receives word that Lena Adams, one of his detectives, has been arrested in Reese, GA. Sara accompanies Jeffrey to the small, backwater town. When they arrive, Lena uses Sara to escape and from that point on manages to stay one step ahead of Jeffrey and the sheriff of Reese. As Jeffrey tries to find Lena, bodies pile up and he and Sara find their own lives threatened. Meanwhile, Lena is trying to locate her Uncle Hank and the man he claims killed her mother when she stumbles upon a group of white supremacists who deal in meth trafficking.
This sixth installment of the Grant County, GA crime series is as gritty and realistic as real life. Slaughter touches upon the devastating effects of methamphetamine on its users and the vicious cruelty of its makers and traffickers. Slaughter adroitly leads the reader through two investigations: Lena as she tracks her uncle and tries to find out what really happened to her mother, and Jeffrey and Sara as they search for Lena. Slaughter provides an ending which is unexpected and which some readers will find traumatic and unsettling.
by Karin Slaughter
Bantam Dell/Random House
New York, New York
www.randomhouse.com
ISBN: 9780385339476
Paperback, 608 pages, $7.99
Genre: Mystery
Pediatrician/medical examiner Sara Linton is reeling from a vicious malpractice suit and having to close her clinic when her husband, police chief Jeffrey Tollier, receives word that Lena Adams, one of his detectives, has been arrested in Reese, GA. Sara accompanies Jeffrey to the small, backwater town. When they arrive, Lena uses Sara to escape and from that point on manages to stay one step ahead of Jeffrey and the sheriff of Reese. As Jeffrey tries to find Lena, bodies pile up and he and Sara find their own lives threatened. Meanwhile, Lena is trying to locate her Uncle Hank and the man he claims killed her mother when she stumbles upon a group of white supremacists who deal in meth trafficking.
This sixth installment of the Grant County, GA crime series is as gritty and realistic as real life. Slaughter touches upon the devastating effects of methamphetamine on its users and the vicious cruelty of its makers and traffickers. Slaughter adroitly leads the reader through two investigations: Lena as she tracks her uncle and tries to find out what really happened to her mother, and Jeffrey and Sara as they search for Lena. Slaughter provides an ending which is unexpected and which some readers will find traumatic and unsettling.
ODD HOURS by Dean Koontz
ODD HOURS
by Dean Koontz
Bantam Dell/Random House
www.randomhouse.com
ISBN: 9780553807059
Hardback, $27.00
Genre: Thriller
Odd Thomas sees ghosts, and although they can hear him, they cannot communicate with him other than through gestures. After leaving the seminary, Odd has taken a job in Magic Beach, California as cook for a film star of the 1940s and ‘50s who now writes children’s books. Elvis has gone over to the other side but now Frank Sinatra is hanging out with Odd, as is Odd’s ghost dog Boo. Odd has a recurring apocalyptic dream which disturbs him. On the beach, he sees a young pregnant woman and recognizes her as part of his dream. Odd stops to talk to her, and from that point, everything seems to go wrong. Three brutes try to kill him but Odd manages to get away. He takes refuge in a church only to be betrayed by the pastor, who calls the police. Through wily measures, Odd learns officials of Magic Beach are corrupt and have cleared the way for terrorists to bring nuclear weapons into America.
Koontz excels at moving his plots forward at a fast pace, packed with action and suspense. Odd Thomas is an endearing character, a simple man who wants nothing more than to live a simple life which, through his “gift”, is denied him. Although questions are left unanswered, Koontz is certain to clear things up with following books in this series.
by Dean Koontz
Bantam Dell/Random House
www.randomhouse.com
ISBN: 9780553807059
Hardback, $27.00
Genre: Thriller
Odd Thomas sees ghosts, and although they can hear him, they cannot communicate with him other than through gestures. After leaving the seminary, Odd has taken a job in Magic Beach, California as cook for a film star of the 1940s and ‘50s who now writes children’s books. Elvis has gone over to the other side but now Frank Sinatra is hanging out with Odd, as is Odd’s ghost dog Boo. Odd has a recurring apocalyptic dream which disturbs him. On the beach, he sees a young pregnant woman and recognizes her as part of his dream. Odd stops to talk to her, and from that point, everything seems to go wrong. Three brutes try to kill him but Odd manages to get away. He takes refuge in a church only to be betrayed by the pastor, who calls the police. Through wily measures, Odd learns officials of Magic Beach are corrupt and have cleared the way for terrorists to bring nuclear weapons into America.
Koontz excels at moving his plots forward at a fast pace, packed with action and suspense. Odd Thomas is an endearing character, a simple man who wants nothing more than to live a simple life which, through his “gift”, is denied him. Although questions are left unanswered, Koontz is certain to clear things up with following books in this series.
ROAD DOGS by Elmore Leonard
ROAD DOGS
by Elmore Leonard
William Morrow/Harper Collins
10 East 53rd Street
New York, NY 10022
www.harpercollins.com
ISBN: 9780061733147
Hardback, 272 pages, $26.99
Genre: Fiction
Elmore Leonard brings back three characters from previous books for an encore performance in his latest comedic foray into the criminal world. Bank robber Jack Foley (Out of Sight), and Cundo Rey (LaBrava), meet in prison and quickly become friends, referring to themselves as Road Dogs. Rey’s lawyer has arranged for his early release from prison and Rey offers her services to Foley, who’s in for thirty years. She manages to get Foley’s prison term reduced to thirty months and Foley is released two weeks before Rey. Rey offers Foley one of his houses in Venice Beach but admonishes him to keep his hands off his girlfriend, Dawn (Riding the Rap), a psychic/ghost hunter patiently waiting for Rey’s release so she can con him out of his millions. When she meets Foley, Dawn knows he is her way to the money and tries to work her magic on him. Foley is intrigued but distracted by an FBI agent tailing him, waiting to capture him after he robs his next bank.
As usual, Leonard adroitly moves the story forward through realistic, at times quirky, dialogue and the inner thoughts of some pretty wacky people. He excels at delivering entertaining scenes of duplicity and complicity among characters on the wrong and right side of the law. Foley takes the lead in this comedy and is a cool guy who manages to stay one step ahead of those who have no qualms about taking him out, legally or illegally. The interplay between Foley and the others will keep the readers turning pages, laughing along the way. This is one fun read.
by Elmore Leonard
William Morrow/Harper Collins
10 East 53rd Street
New York, NY 10022
www.harpercollins.com
ISBN: 9780061733147
Hardback, 272 pages, $26.99
Genre: Fiction
Elmore Leonard brings back three characters from previous books for an encore performance in his latest comedic foray into the criminal world. Bank robber Jack Foley (Out of Sight), and Cundo Rey (LaBrava), meet in prison and quickly become friends, referring to themselves as Road Dogs. Rey’s lawyer has arranged for his early release from prison and Rey offers her services to Foley, who’s in for thirty years. She manages to get Foley’s prison term reduced to thirty months and Foley is released two weeks before Rey. Rey offers Foley one of his houses in Venice Beach but admonishes him to keep his hands off his girlfriend, Dawn (Riding the Rap), a psychic/ghost hunter patiently waiting for Rey’s release so she can con him out of his millions. When she meets Foley, Dawn knows he is her way to the money and tries to work her magic on him. Foley is intrigued but distracted by an FBI agent tailing him, waiting to capture him after he robs his next bank.
As usual, Leonard adroitly moves the story forward through realistic, at times quirky, dialogue and the inner thoughts of some pretty wacky people. He excels at delivering entertaining scenes of duplicity and complicity among characters on the wrong and right side of the law. Foley takes the lead in this comedy and is a cool guy who manages to stay one step ahead of those who have no qualms about taking him out, legally or illegally. The interplay between Foley and the others will keep the readers turning pages, laughing along the way. This is one fun read.
THREE'S THE CHARM BY ELLEN DYE
THREE’S THE CHARM
by Ellen Dye
The Wild Rose Press
PO Box 706
Adams Basin, NY 14110-0706
www.thewildrosepress.com
ISBN: 1601542909
Paperback, 240 pages, $11.99
Genre: Romance
Growing up, Rachel Griffin’s mother warned her against trusting in love, assuring her that a man would only break her heart. Rachel, throwing caution to the wind, married Heath Ransom, her high school sweetheart, thinking they would live happily together for the rest of their lives. But reality intervened when Heath began taking classes in veterinary medicine and Rachel worked to support the two of them. Through a series of misunderstandings and Rachel’s perceived failings on the part of Heath, Rachel, thinking her mom was right, called it quits on their relationship and returned home.
A year later, Heath has his DVM degree and is ready to start his practice but his first priority is getting his wife back. Rachel, however, would just as soon never set eyes on Heath Ransom again. But when her horse is attacked by wild dogs, Heath’s the only vet around and she’s forced to deal with him. As the two continue to come in contact with one another, sparks fly and accusations hurl, both unaware that a traumatic development looms just ahead which will offer each the opportunity to make amends for what went wrong in their marriage. But first, Rachel must let go of the past and trust in love again.
Dye has penned a charming romance here, creating two very likeable characters enmeshed within a galvanizing plot, ensuring a thoroughly enjoyable read. The chemistry between Rachel and Heath is nicely delivered and the character development exceptional. Dialogue is realistic and perfectly enhances time and place. The reader will be vested in the outcome, shedding tears at times and experiencing delight at others, always rooting for Heath and Rachel to find their “happily ever after”.
by Ellen Dye
The Wild Rose Press
PO Box 706
Adams Basin, NY 14110-0706
www.thewildrosepress.com
ISBN: 1601542909
Paperback, 240 pages, $11.99
Genre: Romance
Growing up, Rachel Griffin’s mother warned her against trusting in love, assuring her that a man would only break her heart. Rachel, throwing caution to the wind, married Heath Ransom, her high school sweetheart, thinking they would live happily together for the rest of their lives. But reality intervened when Heath began taking classes in veterinary medicine and Rachel worked to support the two of them. Through a series of misunderstandings and Rachel’s perceived failings on the part of Heath, Rachel, thinking her mom was right, called it quits on their relationship and returned home.
A year later, Heath has his DVM degree and is ready to start his practice but his first priority is getting his wife back. Rachel, however, would just as soon never set eyes on Heath Ransom again. But when her horse is attacked by wild dogs, Heath’s the only vet around and she’s forced to deal with him. As the two continue to come in contact with one another, sparks fly and accusations hurl, both unaware that a traumatic development looms just ahead which will offer each the opportunity to make amends for what went wrong in their marriage. But first, Rachel must let go of the past and trust in love again.
Dye has penned a charming romance here, creating two very likeable characters enmeshed within a galvanizing plot, ensuring a thoroughly enjoyable read. The chemistry between Rachel and Heath is nicely delivered and the character development exceptional. Dialogue is realistic and perfectly enhances time and place. The reader will be vested in the outcome, shedding tears at times and experiencing delight at others, always rooting for Heath and Rachel to find their “happily ever after”.
THREE'S THE CHARM by Ellen Dye
THREE’S THE CHARM
by Ellen Dye
The Wild Rose Press
PO Box 706
Adams Basin, NY 14110-0706
www.thewildrosepress.com
ISBN: 1601542909
Paperback, 240 pages, $11.99
Genre: Romance
Growing up, Rachel Griffin’s mother warned her against trusting in love, assuring her that a man would only break her heart. Rachel, throwing caution to the wind, married Heath Ransom, her high school sweetheart, thinking they would live happily together for the rest of their lives. But reality intervened when Heath began taking classes in veterinary medicine and Rachel worked to support the two of them. Through a series of misunderstandings and Rachel’s perceived failings on the part of Heath, Rachel, thinking her mom was right, called it quits on their relationship and returned home.
A year later, Heath has his DVM degree and is ready to start his practice but his first priority is getting his wife back. Rachel, however, would just as soon never set eyes on Heath Ransom again. But when her horse is attacked by wild dogs, Heath’s the only vet around and she’s forced to deal with him. As the two continue to come in contact with one another, sparks fly and accusations hurl, both unaware that a traumatic development looms just ahead which will offer each the opportunity to make amends for what went wrong in their marriage. But first, Rachel must let go of the past and trust in love again.
Dye has penned a charming romance here, creating two very likeable characters enmeshed within a galvanizing plot, ensuring a thoroughly enjoyable read. The chemistry between Rachel and Heath is nicely delivered and the character development exceptional. Dialogue is realistic and perfectly enhances time and place. The reader will be vested in the outcome, shedding tears at times and experiencing delight at others, always rooting for Heath and Rachel to find their “happily ever after”.
by Ellen Dye
The Wild Rose Press
PO Box 706
Adams Basin, NY 14110-0706
www.thewildrosepress.com
ISBN: 1601542909
Paperback, 240 pages, $11.99
Genre: Romance
Growing up, Rachel Griffin’s mother warned her against trusting in love, assuring her that a man would only break her heart. Rachel, throwing caution to the wind, married Heath Ransom, her high school sweetheart, thinking they would live happily together for the rest of their lives. But reality intervened when Heath began taking classes in veterinary medicine and Rachel worked to support the two of them. Through a series of misunderstandings and Rachel’s perceived failings on the part of Heath, Rachel, thinking her mom was right, called it quits on their relationship and returned home.
A year later, Heath has his DVM degree and is ready to start his practice but his first priority is getting his wife back. Rachel, however, would just as soon never set eyes on Heath Ransom again. But when her horse is attacked by wild dogs, Heath’s the only vet around and she’s forced to deal with him. As the two continue to come in contact with one another, sparks fly and accusations hurl, both unaware that a traumatic development looms just ahead which will offer each the opportunity to make amends for what went wrong in their marriage. But first, Rachel must let go of the past and trust in love again.
Dye has penned a charming romance here, creating two very likeable characters enmeshed within a galvanizing plot, ensuring a thoroughly enjoyable read. The chemistry between Rachel and Heath is nicely delivered and the character development exceptional. Dialogue is realistic and perfectly enhances time and place. The reader will be vested in the outcome, shedding tears at times and experiencing delight at others, always rooting for Heath and Rachel to find their “happily ever after”.
TIMELESS MIST by Terisa Wilcox
TIMELESS MIST
by Terisa Wilcox
L&L Dreamspell
Spring, TX
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603181105
Trade Paperback, 288 pages, $17.95
Genre: Historical romance
College student Kristianna Campbell has disturbing dreams about a Scotsman just prior to her planned visit to Scotland. At Castle MacGregor, Kristianna recognizes this man in the portrait of Iain MacGregor, laird of the MacGregor clan for a short time before he disappeared in 1604. On a visit to a small village, Kris spies an antique gold watch and touches it, immediately conjuring the image of Iain MacGregor, the watch’s owner. That night, examining the watch, she finds a small, hidden compartment and when she reads the verse inside is transported back in time to 1603. The first person she sees is Iain, who is suspicious of her appearance. Aware of the intense hatred between the MacGregors and the Campbells, Kris lies about her last name, terrified that Iain will consider her a spy if he knows. Iain MacGregor, worried about the safety of his clan and battling enemies from all sides, is intrigued by Kristianna, but he’s been betrothed twice before, both of whom betrayed him, and isn’t about to trust another lass. Realizing she is falling in love with Iain, Kris knows she must tell him the truth but is wary of Iain’s reaction and fears he will reject her.
Terisa Wilcox has penned an intriguing story, filled with interesting historical detail and dialogue so realistic as to transport the reader back in time to Scotland of the 17th century. Kristianna and Iain are charming characters and Wilcox relays their attraction to one another in a fun, entertaining way. The plot moves quickly and will hold the reader’s attention throughout as Wilcox cleverly weaves conflicts into the story that threaten the two lovers’ future.
by Terisa Wilcox
L&L Dreamspell
Spring, TX
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603181105
Trade Paperback, 288 pages, $17.95
Genre: Historical romance
College student Kristianna Campbell has disturbing dreams about a Scotsman just prior to her planned visit to Scotland. At Castle MacGregor, Kristianna recognizes this man in the portrait of Iain MacGregor, laird of the MacGregor clan for a short time before he disappeared in 1604. On a visit to a small village, Kris spies an antique gold watch and touches it, immediately conjuring the image of Iain MacGregor, the watch’s owner. That night, examining the watch, she finds a small, hidden compartment and when she reads the verse inside is transported back in time to 1603. The first person she sees is Iain, who is suspicious of her appearance. Aware of the intense hatred between the MacGregors and the Campbells, Kris lies about her last name, terrified that Iain will consider her a spy if he knows. Iain MacGregor, worried about the safety of his clan and battling enemies from all sides, is intrigued by Kristianna, but he’s been betrothed twice before, both of whom betrayed him, and isn’t about to trust another lass. Realizing she is falling in love with Iain, Kris knows she must tell him the truth but is wary of Iain’s reaction and fears he will reject her.
Terisa Wilcox has penned an intriguing story, filled with interesting historical detail and dialogue so realistic as to transport the reader back in time to Scotland of the 17th century. Kristianna and Iain are charming characters and Wilcox relays their attraction to one another in a fun, entertaining way. The plot moves quickly and will hold the reader’s attention throughout as Wilcox cleverly weaves conflicts into the story that threaten the two lovers’ future.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
RUNNING FROM THE DEVIL by Jamie Freveletti
RUNNING FROM THE DEVIL
by Jamie Freveletti
William Morrow/Harper Collins
10 East 53rd Street
New York, NY 10022
www.harpercollins.com
ISBN: 9780061684227
Hardback, 320 pages, $24.99
Biochemist, ultramarathon runner Emma Caldridge is returning to Colombia when her plane is hijacked and crash lands outside of Bogota. Emma is thrown from the plane and, hidden, watches in horror as guerrillas take the surviving passengers captives. Emma manages to text a cell phone message to her boss, relaying what has happened, and follows the guerillas, hoping her message got through and a rescue team is on the way. The Department of Defense, made aware of the downed plane, turns to Edward Banner and his specialized forces for help in what looks to be a kidnap-for-ransom scheme by the guerrillas, not knowing that Emma is the real reason behind the hijacking. Emma utilizes her skills as a chemist to survive while being pursued by men intent on capturing her for her knowledge and the secret, deadly weapon in her possession.
Emma Caldridge is the quintessential female action hero. She’s smart, athletic, and tough mentally and physically. Her knowledge of plants and skills as a chemist enhance this debut thriller, which is filled with action and suspense. Freveletti weaves into the story the complex political situation between Washington DC and the Colombian government, and gives the reader a better understanding of the Colombian drug cartels and FARC, Colombia’s infamous paramilitary organization known for its kidnapping attempts. An excellent debut novel.
by Jamie Freveletti
William Morrow/Harper Collins
10 East 53rd Street
New York, NY 10022
www.harpercollins.com
ISBN: 9780061684227
Hardback, 320 pages, $24.99
Biochemist, ultramarathon runner Emma Caldridge is returning to Colombia when her plane is hijacked and crash lands outside of Bogota. Emma is thrown from the plane and, hidden, watches in horror as guerrillas take the surviving passengers captives. Emma manages to text a cell phone message to her boss, relaying what has happened, and follows the guerillas, hoping her message got through and a rescue team is on the way. The Department of Defense, made aware of the downed plane, turns to Edward Banner and his specialized forces for help in what looks to be a kidnap-for-ransom scheme by the guerrillas, not knowing that Emma is the real reason behind the hijacking. Emma utilizes her skills as a chemist to survive while being pursued by men intent on capturing her for her knowledge and the secret, deadly weapon in her possession.
Emma Caldridge is the quintessential female action hero. She’s smart, athletic, and tough mentally and physically. Her knowledge of plants and skills as a chemist enhance this debut thriller, which is filled with action and suspense. Freveletti weaves into the story the complex political situation between Washington DC and the Colombian government, and gives the reader a better understanding of the Colombian drug cartels and FARC, Colombia’s infamous paramilitary organization known for its kidnapping attempts. An excellent debut novel.
BLUEPRINT FOR LOVE by Monya Clayton
BLUEPRINT FOR LOVE
by Monya Clayton
Wild Rose Press
www.thewildrosepress.com
ISBN: 9781601543455
Tradeback, 220 pages, $11.99
Genre: Romance
Embittered since his divorce, entrepreneur/property developer Paul McIvor hides his emotions behind a cold exterior. But when he meets Cathy Brown, the environmentalist leading a protest against his latest project, Paul has to work hard to hide his attraction to her. Cathy, a blunt, modern woman, sees through his ruse and challenges him, something Paul is not used to and does not appreciate. Circumstances keep throwing the two of them together, which ultimately lead to fiery clashes between them. Can an old-fashioned, traditional man and a brash, contemporary woman develop an enduring relationship? A disastrous accident holds the answer for both.
Set in Australia, Blueprint for Love offers the reader everything they could want: heartwarming romance, handwringing suspense, a bit of a mystery, and two very likeable characters who are complete opposites embroiled in conflict. Clayton’s character development is excellent as is her propensity for visual imagery. Her gentle message regarding the environment is certainly appreciated in this charming romance.
by Monya Clayton
Wild Rose Press
www.thewildrosepress.com
ISBN: 9781601543455
Tradeback, 220 pages, $11.99
Genre: Romance
Embittered since his divorce, entrepreneur/property developer Paul McIvor hides his emotions behind a cold exterior. But when he meets Cathy Brown, the environmentalist leading a protest against his latest project, Paul has to work hard to hide his attraction to her. Cathy, a blunt, modern woman, sees through his ruse and challenges him, something Paul is not used to and does not appreciate. Circumstances keep throwing the two of them together, which ultimately lead to fiery clashes between them. Can an old-fashioned, traditional man and a brash, contemporary woman develop an enduring relationship? A disastrous accident holds the answer for both.
Set in Australia, Blueprint for Love offers the reader everything they could want: heartwarming romance, handwringing suspense, a bit of a mystery, and two very likeable characters who are complete opposites embroiled in conflict. Clayton’s character development is excellent as is her propensity for visual imagery. Her gentle message regarding the environment is certainly appreciated in this charming romance.
BUTCHERS HILL by Laura Lippman
BUTCHERS HILL
by Laura Lippman
William Morrow/Harper Collins
10 East 53rd Street
New York, NY 10022
www.harpercollins.com
ISBN: 9780061255717
Hardback, 274 pages, $19.95
Genre: Mystery
Private investigator Tess Monaghan’s first official client is Luther Beale, known as the Butcher of Butchers Hill. Five years earlier, Luther was imprisoned for shooting a young boy vandalizing his car, and Luther wants Tess to find the children who witnessed the shooting so he can make amends to them. Almost immediately, two of those children are found murdered and the police target Beale as the killer. Tess’s second case, which becomes a parallel investigation, involves a sophisticated fundraiser who wants Tess to find the child her sister gave up for adoption thirteen years earlier. Tess soon finds herself chasing clues on two cases based on deception, one of which will lead Tess back to her own childhood.
Tess Monaghan is a refreshing character; an athletic woman with flawed characteristics and a dysfunctional family who strives to do the ethical thing. Lippman provides two mysteries based on misconceptions and falsehoods which the reader will enjoy trying to solve along with Tess.
by Laura Lippman
William Morrow/Harper Collins
10 East 53rd Street
New York, NY 10022
www.harpercollins.com
ISBN: 9780061255717
Hardback, 274 pages, $19.95
Genre: Mystery
Private investigator Tess Monaghan’s first official client is Luther Beale, known as the Butcher of Butchers Hill. Five years earlier, Luther was imprisoned for shooting a young boy vandalizing his car, and Luther wants Tess to find the children who witnessed the shooting so he can make amends to them. Almost immediately, two of those children are found murdered and the police target Beale as the killer. Tess’s second case, which becomes a parallel investigation, involves a sophisticated fundraiser who wants Tess to find the child her sister gave up for adoption thirteen years earlier. Tess soon finds herself chasing clues on two cases based on deception, one of which will lead Tess back to her own childhood.
Tess Monaghan is a refreshing character; an athletic woman with flawed characteristics and a dysfunctional family who strives to do the ethical thing. Lippman provides two mysteries based on misconceptions and falsehoods which the reader will enjoy trying to solve along with Tess.
DEATH BY PANTYHOSE by Laura Levine
DEATH BY PANTYHOSE
By Laura Levine
Kensington Books
www.kensingtonbooks.com
ISBN: 9780758207852
Hardback, 244 pages, $22.00
Genre: Mystery
Freelance writer Jaine Austen’s finances are looking pretty good until a con man, under the guise of a potential employer, takes her for a free lunch and her Toyota. Now Jaine has to come up with enough funds for a new car. Desperate for money, she reluctantly agrees to become a writer for feminist comedian Dorcas MacKenzie whose signature is cutting up a pair of pantyhose and throwing it at her audience. On and off stage, Dorcas is heckled by Vic, a mean-spirited comedian who can’t keep his hands off the ladies. Luck seems to follow Vic around until the night he jeers Dorcas one too many times and Dorcas assaults him in front of a bar filled with people. Later that night, Vic’s found strangled to death by a pair of pantyhose, leading to Dorcas’s arrest. Jaine’s on the case in a heartbeat, conducting her own investigation, trying to figure out who among the many suspects offed Vic.
Jaine Austen is a fun character, a woman who can’t resist fattening foods and her moody cat, Prozac. The emails from her parents (this time over a lucky shirt of her dad’s) bump the humor bar even higher, and the characters Jaine contends with while doing her amateur sleuthing generate plenty of laughs.
By Laura Levine
Kensington Books
www.kensingtonbooks.com
ISBN: 9780758207852
Hardback, 244 pages, $22.00
Genre: Mystery
Freelance writer Jaine Austen’s finances are looking pretty good until a con man, under the guise of a potential employer, takes her for a free lunch and her Toyota. Now Jaine has to come up with enough funds for a new car. Desperate for money, she reluctantly agrees to become a writer for feminist comedian Dorcas MacKenzie whose signature is cutting up a pair of pantyhose and throwing it at her audience. On and off stage, Dorcas is heckled by Vic, a mean-spirited comedian who can’t keep his hands off the ladies. Luck seems to follow Vic around until the night he jeers Dorcas one too many times and Dorcas assaults him in front of a bar filled with people. Later that night, Vic’s found strangled to death by a pair of pantyhose, leading to Dorcas’s arrest. Jaine’s on the case in a heartbeat, conducting her own investigation, trying to figure out who among the many suspects offed Vic.
Jaine Austen is a fun character, a woman who can’t resist fattening foods and her moody cat, Prozac. The emails from her parents (this time over a lucky shirt of her dad’s) bump the humor bar even higher, and the characters Jaine contends with while doing her amateur sleuthing generate plenty of laughs.
DECEPTIVE CLARITY by Betty Gordon
DECEPTIVE CLARITY
by Betty Gordon
L&L Dreamspell
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603180887
Softback, 260 pages, $16.95
Genre: Mystery
Private Investigator Lisa Martin, weary of tracking philandering spouses in acrimonious divorce cases, is intrigued when businessman Don Sekoli hires her to find his missing drinking buddy, importer/exporter Ryan Lucas. The only information Sekoli can give her is a cell phone number and the name of Lucas’s girlfriend. Aided by her partner Guy Roberts and her quasi boyfriend, news journalist Tony Miller, Lisa’s investigation leads the team to Cairo and on to London, straight into a case being conducted by Scotland Yard. While Tony’s busy trying to garner information from Scotland Yard, Lisa finds herself falling for her client. As the investigation unfolds, Lisa is threatened and her offices ransacked while Tony’s being tailed in London. Then Sekoli disappears.
Lisa Martin is a refreshing character; a young woman with a strong personality who has confidence in her abilities to defend herself and others. Her pairing with her partner is ideal and her uncertainty regarding her feelings for her boyfriend realistic and identifiable. This international thriller delivers plenty of suspense wrapped around a mystery readers will be hard-put to solve on their own but will enjoy trying to figure out. Gordon’s skill at flavoring the read with international history and geographical detail is a bonus, as is the spicy chemistry between Lisa and Sekoli, which combine to deliver an exciting, thrilling read.
by Betty Gordon
L&L Dreamspell
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603180887
Softback, 260 pages, $16.95
Genre: Mystery
Private Investigator Lisa Martin, weary of tracking philandering spouses in acrimonious divorce cases, is intrigued when businessman Don Sekoli hires her to find his missing drinking buddy, importer/exporter Ryan Lucas. The only information Sekoli can give her is a cell phone number and the name of Lucas’s girlfriend. Aided by her partner Guy Roberts and her quasi boyfriend, news journalist Tony Miller, Lisa’s investigation leads the team to Cairo and on to London, straight into a case being conducted by Scotland Yard. While Tony’s busy trying to garner information from Scotland Yard, Lisa finds herself falling for her client. As the investigation unfolds, Lisa is threatened and her offices ransacked while Tony’s being tailed in London. Then Sekoli disappears.
Lisa Martin is a refreshing character; a young woman with a strong personality who has confidence in her abilities to defend herself and others. Her pairing with her partner is ideal and her uncertainty regarding her feelings for her boyfriend realistic and identifiable. This international thriller delivers plenty of suspense wrapped around a mystery readers will be hard-put to solve on their own but will enjoy trying to figure out. Gordon’s skill at flavoring the read with international history and geographical detail is a bonus, as is the spicy chemistry between Lisa and Sekoli, which combine to deliver an exciting, thrilling read.
DECEPTIVE CLARITY by Betty Gordon
DECEPTIVE CLARITY
by Betty Gordon
L&L Dreamspell
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603180887
Softback, 260 pages, $16.95
Genre: Mystery
Private Investigator Lisa Martin, weary of tracking philandering spouses in acrimonious divorce cases, is intrigued when businessman Don Sekoli hires her to find his missing drinking buddy, importer/exporter Ryan Lucas. The only information Sekoli can give her is a cell phone number and the name of Lucas’s girlfriend. Aided by her partner Guy Roberts and her quasi boyfriend, news journalist Tony Miller, Lisa’s investigation leads the team to Cairo and on to London, straight into a case being conducted by Scotland Yard. While Tony’s busy trying to garner information from Scotland Yard, Lisa finds herself falling for her client. As the investigation unfolds, Lisa is threatened and her offices ransacked while Tony’s being tailed in London. Then Sekoli disappears.
Lisa Martin is a refreshing character; a young woman with a strong personality who has confidence in her abilities to defend herself and others. Her pairing with her partner is ideal and her uncertainty regarding her feelings for her boyfriend realistic and identifiable. This international thriller delivers plenty of suspense wrapped around a mystery readers will be hard-put to solve on their own but will enjoy trying to figure out. Gordon’s skill at flavoring the read with international history and geographical detail is a bonus, as is the spicy chemistry between Lisa and Sekoli, which combine to deliver an exciting, thrilling read.
by Betty Gordon
L&L Dreamspell
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603180887
Softback, 260 pages, $16.95
Genre: Mystery
Private Investigator Lisa Martin, weary of tracking philandering spouses in acrimonious divorce cases, is intrigued when businessman Don Sekoli hires her to find his missing drinking buddy, importer/exporter Ryan Lucas. The only information Sekoli can give her is a cell phone number and the name of Lucas’s girlfriend. Aided by her partner Guy Roberts and her quasi boyfriend, news journalist Tony Miller, Lisa’s investigation leads the team to Cairo and on to London, straight into a case being conducted by Scotland Yard. While Tony’s busy trying to garner information from Scotland Yard, Lisa finds herself falling for her client. As the investigation unfolds, Lisa is threatened and her offices ransacked while Tony’s being tailed in London. Then Sekoli disappears.
Lisa Martin is a refreshing character; a young woman with a strong personality who has confidence in her abilities to defend herself and others. Her pairing with her partner is ideal and her uncertainty regarding her feelings for her boyfriend realistic and identifiable. This international thriller delivers plenty of suspense wrapped around a mystery readers will be hard-put to solve on their own but will enjoy trying to figure out. Gordon’s skill at flavoring the read with international history and geographical detail is a bonus, as is the spicy chemistry between Lisa and Sekoli, which combine to deliver an exciting, thrilling read.
ECHO BURNING by Lee Child
ECHO BURNING
by Lee Child
G.P. Putnam’s Sons
375 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
ISBN: 0399147268
Hardback, 354 pages, $24.95
Genre: Thriller
Jack Reacher travels the country with the clothes on his back and a folding toothbrush in his pocket. Hitchhiking through Texas, he’s picked up by Carmen Greer, a beautiful Hispanic woman. Although Carmen’s husband Sloop Greer is from a rich family, she only has $1.00 in her purse. Her husband’s in prison and Carmen hopes he stays there but Sloop’s worked out a deal with the federal authorities and is expected home. Carmen’s been cruising the streets, looking for someone she can talk into murdering her husband because he physically abused her before he went to prison and she’s afraid he’ll kill her once free. Reacher agrees to go with Carmen to Sloop’s ranch to protect her but tells her he will not commit murder. Just hours after Sloop’s home, he’s found in his bedroom, shot to death by Carmen’s gun. Carmen’s arrested and Reacher teams up with a lawyer from the legal mission to find out who really shot Sloop Greer.
Reacher is one of the best characters written today; a strong man who is comfortable with himself and his own personal scruples. He’s a cultured man with intelligence who lives a nomadic, asocial lifestyle and can be brutal without remorse if he feels it’s deserved. In Echo Burning, there are plots and subplots which Child ties together nicely, providing a boatload of suspense along the way.
by Lee Child
G.P. Putnam’s Sons
375 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
ISBN: 0399147268
Hardback, 354 pages, $24.95
Genre: Thriller
Jack Reacher travels the country with the clothes on his back and a folding toothbrush in his pocket. Hitchhiking through Texas, he’s picked up by Carmen Greer, a beautiful Hispanic woman. Although Carmen’s husband Sloop Greer is from a rich family, she only has $1.00 in her purse. Her husband’s in prison and Carmen hopes he stays there but Sloop’s worked out a deal with the federal authorities and is expected home. Carmen’s been cruising the streets, looking for someone she can talk into murdering her husband because he physically abused her before he went to prison and she’s afraid he’ll kill her once free. Reacher agrees to go with Carmen to Sloop’s ranch to protect her but tells her he will not commit murder. Just hours after Sloop’s home, he’s found in his bedroom, shot to death by Carmen’s gun. Carmen’s arrested and Reacher teams up with a lawyer from the legal mission to find out who really shot Sloop Greer.
Reacher is one of the best characters written today; a strong man who is comfortable with himself and his own personal scruples. He’s a cultured man with intelligence who lives a nomadic, asocial lifestyle and can be brutal without remorse if he feels it’s deserved. In Echo Burning, there are plots and subplots which Child ties together nicely, providing a boatload of suspense along the way.
HOUNDING THE PAVEMENT by Judi McCoy
HOUNDING THE PAVEMENT
by Judi McCoy
New American Library/Penguin
375 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
ISBN: 9780451226310
Paperback, 336 pages, $6.99
Genre: Mystery
Ellie Engleman is committed to making her own way in life sans pantyhose and power suits. The first thing Ellie does after her divorce is rescue a dog from the shelter to replace the one she had to give up when she married. Ellie’s delighted to learn she can communicate with her dog and that he is the reincarnate of her former dog, who was hit by a car. She begins her own dog-walking business, where she finds herself harassed by two other dog walkers unhappy with the competition. Ellie discovers the dead body of one of her clients and quickly becomes the number-one suspect of sexy Sam Ryder, a wise-cracking detective who can’t seem to convince Ellie to stay out of his investigation. But Ellie is anxious to find her murdered client’s kidnapped dog, a Westminster champion, while clearing her name, and nothing’s going to stop her. Not even the sizzling chemistry between her and Sam Ryder.
Hounding the Pavement, the first book in the Dog Walker Mystery series, is simply delightful. Ellie is a refreshing character, a size-16 woman finished with compromising her wants and needs and determined to live life on her own terms. Dog lovers will identify with Ellie’s love for these furry creatures and will appreciate that this author is donating all royalties to Best Friends Animal Society. Readers will be entertained by the conversations Ellie has with not only her dog but other dogs who choose to converse with her. The plot is interesting and moves at a fast pace, with plenty of red herrings thrown into the mix to provide a good mystery. Excellent debut to this series.
by Judi McCoy
New American Library/Penguin
375 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
ISBN: 9780451226310
Paperback, 336 pages, $6.99
Genre: Mystery
Ellie Engleman is committed to making her own way in life sans pantyhose and power suits. The first thing Ellie does after her divorce is rescue a dog from the shelter to replace the one she had to give up when she married. Ellie’s delighted to learn she can communicate with her dog and that he is the reincarnate of her former dog, who was hit by a car. She begins her own dog-walking business, where she finds herself harassed by two other dog walkers unhappy with the competition. Ellie discovers the dead body of one of her clients and quickly becomes the number-one suspect of sexy Sam Ryder, a wise-cracking detective who can’t seem to convince Ellie to stay out of his investigation. But Ellie is anxious to find her murdered client’s kidnapped dog, a Westminster champion, while clearing her name, and nothing’s going to stop her. Not even the sizzling chemistry between her and Sam Ryder.
Hounding the Pavement, the first book in the Dog Walker Mystery series, is simply delightful. Ellie is a refreshing character, a size-16 woman finished with compromising her wants and needs and determined to live life on her own terms. Dog lovers will identify with Ellie’s love for these furry creatures and will appreciate that this author is donating all royalties to Best Friends Animal Society. Readers will be entertained by the conversations Ellie has with not only her dog but other dogs who choose to converse with her. The plot is interesting and moves at a fast pace, with plenty of red herrings thrown into the mix to provide a good mystery. Excellent debut to this series.
THE BRASS VERDICT by Michael Connelly
THE BRASS VERDICT
by Michael Connelly
Little, Brown and Co.
Hachette Book Group
www.hachettebookgroup.com
ISBN: 9780316166294
Hardback, 422 pages, $26.99
Genre: Mystery
After two years recuperating from a gunshot wound and subsequent addiction to pain pills, defense attorney Mickey Haller thinks he’s ready for work, although he intends to take things slow and easy. When his colleague Jerry Vincent is murdered, Haller, as Vincent’s surrogate, inherits his active cases, one of which is garnering much media attention. Hollywood producer Walter Elliott has been accused of murdering his wife and her lover, and his trial’s coming up within days. Elliott refuses to allow a continuance and Haller’s scrambling to prepare for trial while butting heads with Harry Bosch, the detective investigating Vincent’s murder. As the case moves forward, Haller delves deeper into the case file, revealing secrets that will place his own life in danger and forever change his views of the judicial system.
The Brass Verdict, the second in the Mickey Haller series, pits Haller against Connelly’s popular series character, Harry Bosch. The two, although antagonistic toward one another, are more alike than not and make for an interesting combination. Connelly gives the reader a good mystery to solve, surrounded by characters supportive of Haller who look out for him. The plot moves at a fast pace and readers will enjoy “seeing” Bosch through another character’s eyes.
by Michael Connelly
Little, Brown and Co.
Hachette Book Group
www.hachettebookgroup.com
ISBN: 9780316166294
Hardback, 422 pages, $26.99
Genre: Mystery
After two years recuperating from a gunshot wound and subsequent addiction to pain pills, defense attorney Mickey Haller thinks he’s ready for work, although he intends to take things slow and easy. When his colleague Jerry Vincent is murdered, Haller, as Vincent’s surrogate, inherits his active cases, one of which is garnering much media attention. Hollywood producer Walter Elliott has been accused of murdering his wife and her lover, and his trial’s coming up within days. Elliott refuses to allow a continuance and Haller’s scrambling to prepare for trial while butting heads with Harry Bosch, the detective investigating Vincent’s murder. As the case moves forward, Haller delves deeper into the case file, revealing secrets that will place his own life in danger and forever change his views of the judicial system.
The Brass Verdict, the second in the Mickey Haller series, pits Haller against Connelly’s popular series character, Harry Bosch. The two, although antagonistic toward one another, are more alike than not and make for an interesting combination. Connelly gives the reader a good mystery to solve, surrounded by characters supportive of Haller who look out for him. The plot moves at a fast pace and readers will enjoy “seeing” Bosch through another character’s eyes.
THE BROKEN WINDOW by Jeffery Deaver
THE BROKEN WINDOW
by Jeffery Deaver
Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com
ISBN: 9781416549970
Hardback, 420 pages, $26.95
Genre: Thriller
Criminologist, quadriplegic Lincoln Rhymes has been estranged from his cousin Arthur for years. When Arthur is arrested for the murder of a young woman, Arthur’s wife implores Lincoln to help. The forensic evidence against Arthur strongly links him to the murder, but Lincoln’s paramour Amelia Sachs is suspicious that everything is so clear-cut and suspects Arthur has been set up. She and Lincoln, with the aid of NYPD, learn Arthur isn’t the first person who has been framed for a murder he didn’t commit. Their investigation takes them into the world of data mining and identity theft and pits the duo against a psychopathic serial killer who manages to stay one step ahead.
This thriller hits on a subject some may find a bit disturbing, the ability of computers to follow us on our daily journeys and pinpoint our location at any point in time. Deaver offers the reader a look into Lincoln’s past family life, as well as his present relationship with Amelia. Forensics are exceptional and the plot filled with suspense and terror. Another great addition to this excellent series.
by Jeffery Deaver
Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com
ISBN: 9781416549970
Hardback, 420 pages, $26.95
Genre: Thriller
Criminologist, quadriplegic Lincoln Rhymes has been estranged from his cousin Arthur for years. When Arthur is arrested for the murder of a young woman, Arthur’s wife implores Lincoln to help. The forensic evidence against Arthur strongly links him to the murder, but Lincoln’s paramour Amelia Sachs is suspicious that everything is so clear-cut and suspects Arthur has been set up. She and Lincoln, with the aid of NYPD, learn Arthur isn’t the first person who has been framed for a murder he didn’t commit. Their investigation takes them into the world of data mining and identity theft and pits the duo against a psychopathic serial killer who manages to stay one step ahead.
This thriller hits on a subject some may find a bit disturbing, the ability of computers to follow us on our daily journeys and pinpoint our location at any point in time. Deaver offers the reader a look into Lincoln’s past family life, as well as his present relationship with Amelia. Forensics are exceptional and the plot filled with suspense and terror. Another great addition to this excellent series.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
THE RASNER EFFECT
THE RASNER EFFECT
by Mark Rosendorf
L&L Dreamspell
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603180849
Tradeback, 348 pages $18.95
Genre: Thriller
Two men, one connected to a terrorist group called the Duke Organization and the other hired to obliterate it, survive a bridge explosion while battling one another. Seven years later, Rick Rasner, an unwitting participant in a secret military experiment, has no memory of his life prior to the explosion. Jake Scarberry, living a mundane, unsatisfactory existence under the witness protection program, misses the excitement of his past life. Rick takes a job as a counselor at a children’s psychiatric residence where he connects with one of the patients, 15-year-old Clara Blue, whose volatile temperament keeps her in trouble with the sadistic director. Scarberry resides in a college town, working low-paying jobs and trying to stay out of trouble. Both men, feeling out of place and adrift, are unaware the Duke Organization is about to resurface, which will bring them full circle to their past adversarial positions, each intent on the destruction of the other.
Rosendorf delivers plenty of nail-biting suspense along with chillingly evil characters and a thrilling plot as two opposing forces clash and re-clash in a battle to the death. Is this good versus evil or evil versus evil? The reader will have to make that decision while enjoying a galvanizing psychological suspense.
by Mark Rosendorf
L&L Dreamspell
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603180849
Tradeback, 348 pages $18.95
Genre: Thriller
Two men, one connected to a terrorist group called the Duke Organization and the other hired to obliterate it, survive a bridge explosion while battling one another. Seven years later, Rick Rasner, an unwitting participant in a secret military experiment, has no memory of his life prior to the explosion. Jake Scarberry, living a mundane, unsatisfactory existence under the witness protection program, misses the excitement of his past life. Rick takes a job as a counselor at a children’s psychiatric residence where he connects with one of the patients, 15-year-old Clara Blue, whose volatile temperament keeps her in trouble with the sadistic director. Scarberry resides in a college town, working low-paying jobs and trying to stay out of trouble. Both men, feeling out of place and adrift, are unaware the Duke Organization is about to resurface, which will bring them full circle to their past adversarial positions, each intent on the destruction of the other.
Rosendorf delivers plenty of nail-biting suspense along with chillingly evil characters and a thrilling plot as two opposing forces clash and re-clash in a battle to the death. Is this good versus evil or evil versus evil? The reader will have to make that decision while enjoying a galvanizing psychological suspense.
THE RASNER EFFECT
THE RASNER EFFECT
by Mark Rosendorf
L&L Dreamspell
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603180849
Tradeback, 348 pages $18.95
Genre: Thriller
Two men, one connected to a terrorist group called the Duke Organization and the other hired to obliterate it, survive a bridge explosion while battling one another. Seven years later, Rick Rasner, an unwitting participant in a secret military experiment, has no memory of his life prior to the explosion. Jake Scarberry, living a mundane, unsatisfactory existence under the witness protection program, misses the excitement of his past life. Rick takes a job as a counselor at a children’s psychiatric residence where he connects with one of the patients, 15-year-old Clara Blue, whose volatile temperament keeps her in trouble with the sadistic director. Scarberry resides in a college town, working low-paying jobs and trying to stay out of trouble. Both men, feeling out of place and adrift, are unaware the Duke Organization is about to resurface, which will bring them full circle to their past adversarial positions, each intent on the destruction of the other.
Rosendorf delivers plenty of nail-biting suspense along with chillingly evil characters and a thrilling plot as two opposing forces clash and re-clash in a battle to the death. Is this good versus evil or evil versus evil? The reader will have to make that decision while enjoying a galvanizing psychological suspense.
by Mark Rosendorf
L&L Dreamspell
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603180849
Tradeback, 348 pages $18.95
Genre: Thriller
Two men, one connected to a terrorist group called the Duke Organization and the other hired to obliterate it, survive a bridge explosion while battling one another. Seven years later, Rick Rasner, an unwitting participant in a secret military experiment, has no memory of his life prior to the explosion. Jake Scarberry, living a mundane, unsatisfactory existence under the witness protection program, misses the excitement of his past life. Rick takes a job as a counselor at a children’s psychiatric residence where he connects with one of the patients, 15-year-old Clara Blue, whose volatile temperament keeps her in trouble with the sadistic director. Scarberry resides in a college town, working low-paying jobs and trying to stay out of trouble. Both men, feeling out of place and adrift, are unaware the Duke Organization is about to resurface, which will bring them full circle to their past adversarial positions, each intent on the destruction of the other.
Rosendorf delivers plenty of nail-biting suspense along with chillingly evil characters and a thrilling plot as two opposing forces clash and re-clash in a battle to the death. Is this good versus evil or evil versus evil? The reader will have to make that decision while enjoying a galvanizing psychological suspense.
CURSE OF THE SPELLMANS
CURSE OF THE SPELLMANS
by Lisa Lutz
Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com
ISBN: 9781416532415
Hardback, 410 pages, $25.00
Genre: Mystery
Izzy Spellman works for her parents’ private investigative service, where family members are acting strangely. Izzy’s brother, David, a lawyer, has resorted to staying home, watching TV in his pajamas and eating junk food. Her father, Albert, is sneaking out of the house at all hours, returning with wet hair, while her mom, Olivia, is sneaking out of the house in early-morning hours and wreaking havoc on a motorbike. Her sister, Rae, runs over SFPD Inspector Henry Stone, her one and only friend. When a good-looking man moves in next door to her parents, Izzy intends to make him ex-boyfriend number 11. The two begin dating, but Izzy is intrigued by the man’s common name, John Brown, and that he keeps a room in his apartment locked. Izzy decides to investigate Brown and becomes suspicious that she can’t find out any real information concerning him. She manages to convince herself he’s up to no good and begins following him and breaking into his apartment, which lands her in jail four different times, although she claims two don’t count.
The Spellmans are a hoot, and although this is considered a mystery, it’s actually more about the characters and their interactions. This is a fast read, with short chapters, written from Izzy’s point of view. The Stone and Spellman Show Episodes are hilarious and the footnotes are ingenious, as is the Appendix. A refreshing take on the mystery genre, and a book guaranteed to bring plenty of laughs.
by Lisa Lutz
Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com
ISBN: 9781416532415
Hardback, 410 pages, $25.00
Genre: Mystery
Izzy Spellman works for her parents’ private investigative service, where family members are acting strangely. Izzy’s brother, David, a lawyer, has resorted to staying home, watching TV in his pajamas and eating junk food. Her father, Albert, is sneaking out of the house at all hours, returning with wet hair, while her mom, Olivia, is sneaking out of the house in early-morning hours and wreaking havoc on a motorbike. Her sister, Rae, runs over SFPD Inspector Henry Stone, her one and only friend. When a good-looking man moves in next door to her parents, Izzy intends to make him ex-boyfriend number 11. The two begin dating, but Izzy is intrigued by the man’s common name, John Brown, and that he keeps a room in his apartment locked. Izzy decides to investigate Brown and becomes suspicious that she can’t find out any real information concerning him. She manages to convince herself he’s up to no good and begins following him and breaking into his apartment, which lands her in jail four different times, although she claims two don’t count.
The Spellmans are a hoot, and although this is considered a mystery, it’s actually more about the characters and their interactions. This is a fast read, with short chapters, written from Izzy’s point of view. The Stone and Spellman Show Episodes are hilarious and the footnotes are ingenious, as is the Appendix. A refreshing take on the mystery genre, and a book guaranteed to bring plenty of laughs.
DEATH'S WITNESS
DEATH’S WITNESS
by Paul Batista
Sourcebooks Inc.
P.O. Box 4410
Naperville, IL 60567-4410
www.sourcebooks.com
ISBN: 9781402206658
Hardback, 313 pages, $24.95
Genre: Mystery
Former Heisman winner turned lawyer Tom Perini is shot at close range while jogging in Central Park. Perini had been part of the defense team for Congressman Danny Fonseca, who is being tried on charges of bribery. Perini’s wife Julie is questioned by FBI agent John McGlynn, who leaves Julie with the impression that he is not willing to put much effort into finding her husband’s killer. Julie decides to use her skills as a journalist to begin her own investigation into her husband’s death and starts with his case files. Subsequently, Perini’s client Selig Klein, an alleged mobster, is gunned down, and Julie is sure the two murders are connected and that somehow McGlynn is involved. When the FBI subpoenas her husband’s files, hinting they believe he was involved with money laundering, Julie implores Tom’s defense partner Vincent Sorrentino to help her stop McGlynn from ruining her husband’s reputation. What the two discover is not only shocking but may be the only way to save the lives of Julie and her daughter.
Death’s Witness is the debut novel for Paul Batista, criminal defense attorney and media pundit. The mystery, although easily solved, is filled with twist and turns, and Batista entertains the reader with an onslaught of red herrings to consider. Although the ending is somewhat predictable, this is overall a good read.
by Paul Batista
Sourcebooks Inc.
P.O. Box 4410
Naperville, IL 60567-4410
www.sourcebooks.com
ISBN: 9781402206658
Hardback, 313 pages, $24.95
Genre: Mystery
Former Heisman winner turned lawyer Tom Perini is shot at close range while jogging in Central Park. Perini had been part of the defense team for Congressman Danny Fonseca, who is being tried on charges of bribery. Perini’s wife Julie is questioned by FBI agent John McGlynn, who leaves Julie with the impression that he is not willing to put much effort into finding her husband’s killer. Julie decides to use her skills as a journalist to begin her own investigation into her husband’s death and starts with his case files. Subsequently, Perini’s client Selig Klein, an alleged mobster, is gunned down, and Julie is sure the two murders are connected and that somehow McGlynn is involved. When the FBI subpoenas her husband’s files, hinting they believe he was involved with money laundering, Julie implores Tom’s defense partner Vincent Sorrentino to help her stop McGlynn from ruining her husband’s reputation. What the two discover is not only shocking but may be the only way to save the lives of Julie and her daughter.
Death’s Witness is the debut novel for Paul Batista, criminal defense attorney and media pundit. The mystery, although easily solved, is filled with twist and turns, and Batista entertains the reader with an onslaught of red herrings to consider. Although the ending is somewhat predictable, this is overall a good read.
STRANGER IN PARADISE
STRANGER IN PARADISE
by Jackie Griffey
Five Star
295 Kennedy Memorial Drive
Waterville, Maine 04901
ISBN: 9781594147531
Hardcover, 258 pages, $25.95
Genre: Romance
Raised by her Aunt Sophie, Laura Carroll lived a sheltered life until her aunt’s death, at which time, Laura is shocked to learn her aunt’s will stipulates that Laura must take an exotic vacation for a minimum of two weeks After much debate, Laura decides to go to Isla Verde, a tiny island off Puerto Rico. There, she meets Esteban, a man she is attracted to who does not speak English. The two manage to overcome this barrier using hand signals and speaking the few foreign words they know. In a short time, they realize they are in love but Esteban receives a mysterious message and signals to Laura he must go but will return. When Laura’s stay is up, she has not heard from him and returns home, determined to get over her love for Esteban. Circumstances take her to Hawaii, where she meets a man she recognizes from Isla Verde and finds her life in danger due to her relationship with Esteban.
Jackie Griffey delivers a sweet romance touched with a bit of mystery and topped off with thrilling adventure. The chemistry between Laura and Esteban is nicely portrayed, and the reader will root for the two lovers to find a way to be together. The story moves along at a nice pace, allowing the reader to experience the exotic locale and fall in love with the very likeable characters.
by Jackie Griffey
Five Star
295 Kennedy Memorial Drive
Waterville, Maine 04901
ISBN: 9781594147531
Hardcover, 258 pages, $25.95
Genre: Romance
Raised by her Aunt Sophie, Laura Carroll lived a sheltered life until her aunt’s death, at which time, Laura is shocked to learn her aunt’s will stipulates that Laura must take an exotic vacation for a minimum of two weeks After much debate, Laura decides to go to Isla Verde, a tiny island off Puerto Rico. There, she meets Esteban, a man she is attracted to who does not speak English. The two manage to overcome this barrier using hand signals and speaking the few foreign words they know. In a short time, they realize they are in love but Esteban receives a mysterious message and signals to Laura he must go but will return. When Laura’s stay is up, she has not heard from him and returns home, determined to get over her love for Esteban. Circumstances take her to Hawaii, where she meets a man she recognizes from Isla Verde and finds her life in danger due to her relationship with Esteban.
Jackie Griffey delivers a sweet romance touched with a bit of mystery and topped off with thrilling adventure. The chemistry between Laura and Esteban is nicely portrayed, and the reader will root for the two lovers to find a way to be together. The story moves along at a nice pace, allowing the reader to experience the exotic locale and fall in love with the very likeable characters.
STRANGERS IN DEATH
STRANGERS IN DEATH
by J. D. Robb
G.P. Putnam’s Sons/Penguin Group
New York, New York
ISBN: 9780399154706
Hardback, 356 pages, $25.95
Genre: Mystery
Lt. Eve Dallas of the New York Police and Security Department is called to the scene of a murder where it appears philanthropist Thomas Anders died during a kinky sexual encounter. Evidence suggests the victim was sedated at the time of his demise and a lapse in the security system’s recordings signifies this was not an accidental death. Eve quickly hones in on a suspect but can find nothing to connect the killer to Anders at the time he died. But this doesn’t stop the lieutenant, who uses everyone at her disposal, including husband billionaire Roarke, as she meticulously unravels the mystery being Anders’s death.
This series attracts many fans, and for a good reason. Robb’s writing is tight, flows well, and she offers characters her fans have grown to love. The mystery is a good one, with plenty of twists and turns, and, as always, Eve Dallas’s intense personality and mindset pull the reader along with her as she seeks to resolve a mystery she takes personally.
by J. D. Robb
G.P. Putnam’s Sons/Penguin Group
New York, New York
ISBN: 9780399154706
Hardback, 356 pages, $25.95
Genre: Mystery
Lt. Eve Dallas of the New York Police and Security Department is called to the scene of a murder where it appears philanthropist Thomas Anders died during a kinky sexual encounter. Evidence suggests the victim was sedated at the time of his demise and a lapse in the security system’s recordings signifies this was not an accidental death. Eve quickly hones in on a suspect but can find nothing to connect the killer to Anders at the time he died. But this doesn’t stop the lieutenant, who uses everyone at her disposal, including husband billionaire Roarke, as she meticulously unravels the mystery being Anders’s death.
This series attracts many fans, and for a good reason. Robb’s writing is tight, flows well, and she offers characters her fans have grown to love. The mystery is a good one, with plenty of twists and turns, and, as always, Eve Dallas’s intense personality and mindset pull the reader along with her as she seeks to resolve a mystery she takes personally.
THE DARKEST EVENING OF THE YEAR
THE DARKEST EVENING OF THE YEAR
by Dean Koontz
ISBN: 9780553804829
Bantam Books/Random House
www.randomhouse.com
Paperback, 480 pages, $7.99
Genre: Thriller
Amy Redwing, former victim of an abusive relationship, devotes her life to running a
rescue organization for golden retrievers, where she searches for the perfect forever home for the abandoned ones and seeks treatment and rehabilitation for the abused and neglected ones. When Amy and her boyfriend, architect Brian McCarthy attempt to rescue a golden named Nickie, they find themselves in the middle of a domestic dispute. Amy senses a connection to Nickie and decides to keep her, unknowing that a chain of events are occurring which will lead Amy and Brian back to traumatic events of their past lives and into extreme danger, and that Nickie may be the only one to save them.
Koontz has been described as a master storyteller and this reviewer agrees. His love for dogs shines through with this book and enhances the story. The plot moves at a fast pace, with plenty of evil characters to entertain thrill-seekers, buffeted by Amy and Brian’s love for one another and for dogs. Excellent book.
by Dean Koontz
ISBN: 9780553804829
Bantam Books/Random House
www.randomhouse.com
Paperback, 480 pages, $7.99
Genre: Thriller
Amy Redwing, former victim of an abusive relationship, devotes her life to running a
rescue organization for golden retrievers, where she searches for the perfect forever home for the abandoned ones and seeks treatment and rehabilitation for the abused and neglected ones. When Amy and her boyfriend, architect Brian McCarthy attempt to rescue a golden named Nickie, they find themselves in the middle of a domestic dispute. Amy senses a connection to Nickie and decides to keep her, unknowing that a chain of events are occurring which will lead Amy and Brian back to traumatic events of their past lives and into extreme danger, and that Nickie may be the only one to save them.
Koontz has been described as a master storyteller and this reviewer agrees. His love for dogs shines through with this book and enhances the story. The plot moves at a fast pace, with plenty of evil characters to entertain thrill-seekers, buffeted by Amy and Brian’s love for one another and for dogs. Excellent book.
THE HUSBAND
THE HUSBAND
by Dean Koontz
Bantam Books
www.bantamdell.com
ISBN 9780553804799
Hardback, 400 pages, $27
Genre: Mystery
Mitchell Rafferty’s happy living a middle-class life. He owns his own landscaping company and is deeply in love with his wife Holly. Mitch is somewhat amazed everything seems so normal for him, considering the way he and his four siblings were raised by his nontraditional parents. But his world tilts off balance with one phone call, the man on the other end of the line telling him he has his wife and she will be killed unless Mitch can raise two million dollars within 70 hours. Mitch knows he can’t go to the cops because the kidnappers seem to know his every move, so turns to his older brother Anson. Anson assures Mitch he can get the money, but Mitch’s world crumbles when Anson betrays him. From that point on, Mitch is on his own and will do whatever it takes to return Holly safely to him.
From page one, the book is packed with suspense and action, keeping the reader riveted to the story and rooting for Mitch to overcome obstacle after obstacle as he tries to find a way to save Holly. As always, characterization is excellent; no one does evil characters better than Koontz, nor the sweet romance between a good man and woman. Consider this another great book by the master of fiction.
by Dean Koontz
Bantam Books
www.bantamdell.com
ISBN 9780553804799
Hardback, 400 pages, $27
Genre: Mystery
Mitchell Rafferty’s happy living a middle-class life. He owns his own landscaping company and is deeply in love with his wife Holly. Mitch is somewhat amazed everything seems so normal for him, considering the way he and his four siblings were raised by his nontraditional parents. But his world tilts off balance with one phone call, the man on the other end of the line telling him he has his wife and she will be killed unless Mitch can raise two million dollars within 70 hours. Mitch knows he can’t go to the cops because the kidnappers seem to know his every move, so turns to his older brother Anson. Anson assures Mitch he can get the money, but Mitch’s world crumbles when Anson betrays him. From that point on, Mitch is on his own and will do whatever it takes to return Holly safely to him.
From page one, the book is packed with suspense and action, keeping the reader riveted to the story and rooting for Mitch to overcome obstacle after obstacle as he tries to find a way to save Holly. As always, characterization is excellent; no one does evil characters better than Koontz, nor the sweet romance between a good man and woman. Consider this another great book by the master of fiction.
THE SUREST POISON
THE SUREST POISON
by Chester D. Campbell
Night Shadows Press
8987 E. Tanque Verde #309-135
Tucson, AZ 85749-9399
www.nightshadowspress.com
ISBN: 9780979916786
Tradeback, 272 pages, $15.95
Genre: Mystery
Former police chief turned private investigator Sid Chance is hired by a businessman who’s being sued for a chemical spill on a piece of property he owns. People in the surrounding area have been suffering from physical disorders and the water supply has been polluted. The businessman, however, claims the spill was left by a former company that occupied that parcel. With the help of his good friend, business owner and computer whiz Jaz LeMieux, Sid tries to find the owners of an auto parts rehab business that operated at that location for several years, but everyone seems to have disappeared, including former employees. And the few employees he does manage to unearth either die suspiciously or are too terrified to speak to him. As Sid doggedly pursues the case, he is threatened to back off, but when he doesn’t comply, finds his life in mortal danger.
The pairing of Sid and Jaz makes for a dynamic investigative team. Both have their own unique talents and skills to bring to the table, and their chemistry as a team is appealing. Campbell delivers a tough-to-solve mystery, with plenty of red herrings and enough twists and turns to keep the reader turning pages.
by Chester D. Campbell
Night Shadows Press
8987 E. Tanque Verde #309-135
Tucson, AZ 85749-9399
www.nightshadowspress.com
ISBN: 9780979916786
Tradeback, 272 pages, $15.95
Genre: Mystery
Former police chief turned private investigator Sid Chance is hired by a businessman who’s being sued for a chemical spill on a piece of property he owns. People in the surrounding area have been suffering from physical disorders and the water supply has been polluted. The businessman, however, claims the spill was left by a former company that occupied that parcel. With the help of his good friend, business owner and computer whiz Jaz LeMieux, Sid tries to find the owners of an auto parts rehab business that operated at that location for several years, but everyone seems to have disappeared, including former employees. And the few employees he does manage to unearth either die suspiciously or are too terrified to speak to him. As Sid doggedly pursues the case, he is threatened to back off, but when he doesn’t comply, finds his life in mortal danger.
The pairing of Sid and Jaz makes for a dynamic investigative team. Both have their own unique talents and skills to bring to the table, and their chemistry as a team is appealing. Campbell delivers a tough-to-solve mystery, with plenty of red herrings and enough twists and turns to keep the reader turning pages.
REAL COUNTRY: FROM THE FAST TRACK TO APPALACHIA
REAL COUNTRY:
FROM THE FAST TRACK TO APPALACHIA
by Leslie Brunetsky
Mill City Press
212 3rd Avenue North Suite 570
Minneapolis, MN 55401
www.millcitypublishing.com
ISBN: 9781934937488
Tradeback, 172 pages, $13.95
Genre: Humor
Life partners Leslie and Hope lived a busy life near Washington DC, working long hours and spending much of their commuting time stuck in traffic. Leslie had always dreamed of living in the mountains so the two decided to find property on a mountain and build a log cabin there once Leslie retired. After much research, they settled on the Appalachian region in North Carolina and spent the next five years counting the days. Once Leslie retired, they moved to a temporary house while their own log cabin was being built, and Leslie began sending epistles to family and friends updating them on the progress of their dream home and their transition to living in the Bible Belt surrounded by Republicans.
The two, unused to Southern speak, struggle to understand what is being said to them while trying to acclimate to a more leisurely lifestyle. Nicknaming themselves the Two Stooges Construction Company, they are challenged with trying to figure out how to put furniture together and put up a mailbox while dealing with mice that have taken up residence in their attic. On top of which, their new home seems jinxed, with a washing machine that won’t stop dancing and an oven that quits in the middle of baking.
Real Country is based on the real-life experiences of two Northern women trying to blend into the Appalachian way of life and be accepted by its populace. The author’s witty style will bring plenty of laughs via her characters’ reactions to a totally unfamiliar culture and its divergent perspectives relating to most aspects of life, including religion, politics, and social dynamics. Highly recommended.
FROM THE FAST TRACK TO APPALACHIA
by Leslie Brunetsky
Mill City Press
212 3rd Avenue North Suite 570
Minneapolis, MN 55401
www.millcitypublishing.com
ISBN: 9781934937488
Tradeback, 172 pages, $13.95
Genre: Humor
Life partners Leslie and Hope lived a busy life near Washington DC, working long hours and spending much of their commuting time stuck in traffic. Leslie had always dreamed of living in the mountains so the two decided to find property on a mountain and build a log cabin there once Leslie retired. After much research, they settled on the Appalachian region in North Carolina and spent the next five years counting the days. Once Leslie retired, they moved to a temporary house while their own log cabin was being built, and Leslie began sending epistles to family and friends updating them on the progress of their dream home and their transition to living in the Bible Belt surrounded by Republicans.
The two, unused to Southern speak, struggle to understand what is being said to them while trying to acclimate to a more leisurely lifestyle. Nicknaming themselves the Two Stooges Construction Company, they are challenged with trying to figure out how to put furniture together and put up a mailbox while dealing with mice that have taken up residence in their attic. On top of which, their new home seems jinxed, with a washing machine that won’t stop dancing and an oven that quits in the middle of baking.
Real Country is based on the real-life experiences of two Northern women trying to blend into the Appalachian way of life and be accepted by its populace. The author’s witty style will bring plenty of laughs via her characters’ reactions to a totally unfamiliar culture and its divergent perspectives relating to most aspects of life, including religion, politics, and social dynamics. Highly recommended.
Monday, March 2, 2009
THE GOOD GUY by Dean Koontz
THE GOOD GUY
by Dean Koontz
Bantam Dell/Random House
www.bantamdell.com
ISBN: 9780553804812
Hardback, 386 pages, $27.00
Genre: Thriller
Timothy Carrier is a man who keeps to himself and tries to live as simple a life as possible. Until one day when a man sits beside Timothy at a bar and passes him an envelope with ten thousand dollars and a picture of a beautiful woman named Linda Paquette. Timothy is intrigued by the woman but horrified to know the man has mistaken him for the contract killer he employed to murder her. When the killer later arrives and mistakes Timothy for the man who hired him, Timothy tells him the hit is off and gives him the money but pockets the picture. However, the killer makes it clear he will not be stopped. Timothy rushes to Linda’s house to warn her, and from that point on, both are engaged in a cat-and-mouse game with the killer who now is determined to kill Timothy as well and will go to any length to do so.
Koontz excels at creating evil characters and allowing the reader a glimpse into the mind of a deranged murderer. The story moves at a fast pace and is filled with gut-wrenching suspense and continuous action. Timothy and Linda are two damaged souls who immediately connect and trust one another. Koontz’s ubiquitous dog is present, and, as always, appreciated. The killer is deliciously malevolent and intense, and the story one that will keep the reader turning pages.
by Dean Koontz
Bantam Dell/Random House
www.bantamdell.com
ISBN: 9780553804812
Hardback, 386 pages, $27.00
Genre: Thriller
Timothy Carrier is a man who keeps to himself and tries to live as simple a life as possible. Until one day when a man sits beside Timothy at a bar and passes him an envelope with ten thousand dollars and a picture of a beautiful woman named Linda Paquette. Timothy is intrigued by the woman but horrified to know the man has mistaken him for the contract killer he employed to murder her. When the killer later arrives and mistakes Timothy for the man who hired him, Timothy tells him the hit is off and gives him the money but pockets the picture. However, the killer makes it clear he will not be stopped. Timothy rushes to Linda’s house to warn her, and from that point on, both are engaged in a cat-and-mouse game with the killer who now is determined to kill Timothy as well and will go to any length to do so.
Koontz excels at creating evil characters and allowing the reader a glimpse into the mind of a deranged murderer. The story moves at a fast pace and is filled with gut-wrenching suspense and continuous action. Timothy and Linda are two damaged souls who immediately connect and trust one another. Koontz’s ubiquitous dog is present, and, as always, appreciated. The killer is deliciously malevolent and intense, and the story one that will keep the reader turning pages.
THE DEVIL'S BONES by Jefferson Bass
THE DEVIL’S BONES
By Jefferson Bass
William Morrow/Harper Collins
10 East 53rd Street
New York, NY 10022
www.harpercollins.com
ISBN: 9780060759858
Hardback, 315 pages, $24.95
Genre: Mystery
Forensic anthropologist Bill Brockton is trying to figure out who murdered Mary Latham and how her car caught fire and burned so extensively when his criminal defense attorney gives him what are claimed to be the cremains (cremated remains) of his aunt, which look more like concrete mix than bone ash. With the help of forensic scientist Art Bohanan, Brockton investigates the crematorium in Georgia that was responsible for the cremation but keeps butting up against stone walls. Eventually, he discovers a horror the likes of which he has never seen before. Meanwhile, he learns that his nemesis, former medical examiner Garland Hamilton, has escaped from prison and is on the prowl. Knowing he’s in Hamilton’s sites, Brockton is relieved to learn Hamilton’s charred body is discovered at a fire scene in Cooke County. However, as Brockton soon finds out, things are not always as they seem.
This third installment in the Body Farm series is, as usual, chock full of interesting forensics information relayed through Brockton and his assistant, Miranda. Readers may find the book distracting as it seems to meander along from one investigation to the other, then dashes off to the conflict between Brockton and Hamilton. Although the three mysteries within the plot are good ones, perhaps focusing on one or two would provide a stronger read. The forensics investigations help buffer the distraction and will keep the reader invested throughout the book.
By Jefferson Bass
William Morrow/Harper Collins
10 East 53rd Street
New York, NY 10022
www.harpercollins.com
ISBN: 9780060759858
Hardback, 315 pages, $24.95
Genre: Mystery
Forensic anthropologist Bill Brockton is trying to figure out who murdered Mary Latham and how her car caught fire and burned so extensively when his criminal defense attorney gives him what are claimed to be the cremains (cremated remains) of his aunt, which look more like concrete mix than bone ash. With the help of forensic scientist Art Bohanan, Brockton investigates the crematorium in Georgia that was responsible for the cremation but keeps butting up against stone walls. Eventually, he discovers a horror the likes of which he has never seen before. Meanwhile, he learns that his nemesis, former medical examiner Garland Hamilton, has escaped from prison and is on the prowl. Knowing he’s in Hamilton’s sites, Brockton is relieved to learn Hamilton’s charred body is discovered at a fire scene in Cooke County. However, as Brockton soon finds out, things are not always as they seem.
This third installment in the Body Farm series is, as usual, chock full of interesting forensics information relayed through Brockton and his assistant, Miranda. Readers may find the book distracting as it seems to meander along from one investigation to the other, then dashes off to the conflict between Brockton and Hamilton. Although the three mysteries within the plot are good ones, perhaps focusing on one or two would provide a stronger read. The forensics investigations help buffer the distraction and will keep the reader invested throughout the book.
KILLING BRIDEZILLA by Laura Levine
KILLING BRIDEZILLA
By Laura Levine
Kensington Books
850 Third Avenue
New York, NY 1002
www.kensingtonbooks.com
ISBN: 9780758220431
Hardback, 247 pages, $22.00
Genre: Mystery
Jaine Austen’s career as a writer hasn’t been so fluid. Best known for a plumbing company ad, Jaine is surprised when her former high school nemesis Patti Marshall asks her to write a balcony scene for her wedding ceremony. When Patti tells Jaine she wants the lines to be a mix between Romeo and Juliet and Friends, Jaine wants to turn down the job but she needs the money. Jaine is hopeful Patti has matured from the bully she was in high school, but that’s not the case. Patti turns out to be the bridezilla from hell, demanding her idea of perfection from everyone around her while belittling them and making enemies of all. During the wedding ceremony, while Patti is saying her lines, she falls from her balcony and is impaled on a Cupid statuette below. The number of people who hated Patti is endless, and when one of Jaine’s former high school friends is arrested for the murder, she decides to conduct her own investigation and find out who really offed the high school diva.
This is a humorous series built around a refreshing protagonist, a woman who can’t say no to the wrong kinds of food and is a magnet for trouble. Jaine’s perceptions of her cat’s moods and expressions are amusing, as are the emails she receives from her parents who have retired to Florida. The mystery is a good one, and the characters are simply fun.
By Laura Levine
Kensington Books
850 Third Avenue
New York, NY 1002
www.kensingtonbooks.com
ISBN: 9780758220431
Hardback, 247 pages, $22.00
Genre: Mystery
Jaine Austen’s career as a writer hasn’t been so fluid. Best known for a plumbing company ad, Jaine is surprised when her former high school nemesis Patti Marshall asks her to write a balcony scene for her wedding ceremony. When Patti tells Jaine she wants the lines to be a mix between Romeo and Juliet and Friends, Jaine wants to turn down the job but she needs the money. Jaine is hopeful Patti has matured from the bully she was in high school, but that’s not the case. Patti turns out to be the bridezilla from hell, demanding her idea of perfection from everyone around her while belittling them and making enemies of all. During the wedding ceremony, while Patti is saying her lines, she falls from her balcony and is impaled on a Cupid statuette below. The number of people who hated Patti is endless, and when one of Jaine’s former high school friends is arrested for the murder, she decides to conduct her own investigation and find out who really offed the high school diva.
This is a humorous series built around a refreshing protagonist, a woman who can’t say no to the wrong kinds of food and is a magnet for trouble. Jaine’s perceptions of her cat’s moods and expressions are amusing, as are the emails she receives from her parents who have retired to Florida. The mystery is a good one, and the characters are simply fun.
FUZZY NAVEL by J. A. Konrath
FUZZY NAVEL
By J. A. Konrath
Hyperion
77 West 66th Street
New York, NY 10023
ISBN: 9781401302801
Hardback, 270 pages, $23.95
Genre: Mystery
Chicago PD Lieutenant Jacqueline “Jack” Daniels is going through a good period in her life. She’s engaged to Latham, a guy she’s crazy about, is living with her mom in a house outside the city, and has just received word her archenemy Alex Kork is dead. Jack and her partner Herb Benedict are called to the scene of a murder, where a sex offender has been killed by a sniper. But the sniper isn’t finished and keeps taking potshots at Jack and the police officers investigating the crime scene. Jack manages to get the officers out of danger, attracting the attention of the sniper, and learns that two other snipers have murdered sex offenders in other parts of Chicago. In the midst of all this, Jack gets a call from her mother telling her she needs to come home. Jack, feeling something isn’t right, rushes home, where she finds her mother and Latham held prisoner by Kork. From that point on, Jack is engaged in a battle to save her own life, as well as her mom’s and Latham’s, and even that of her ex-partner Harry McGlade when he shows up. And not just from Kork, but from the snipers, who have tracked Jack down and want in on the fun.
Take a deep breath before beginning this book because there’s nonstop action and nail-biting suspense from the first page. Jack Daniels is a tough cop but Kork proves herself to be more than a worthy adversary and is as relentless as the Energizer bunny. The book moves along at a fast pace, with plenty of dark humor and witticisms thrown around, and a quirky surprise involving the obnoxious McGlade. Some readers may feel cheated by the ending, which leaves a question unanswered.
By J. A. Konrath
Hyperion
77 West 66th Street
New York, NY 10023
ISBN: 9781401302801
Hardback, 270 pages, $23.95
Genre: Mystery
Chicago PD Lieutenant Jacqueline “Jack” Daniels is going through a good period in her life. She’s engaged to Latham, a guy she’s crazy about, is living with her mom in a house outside the city, and has just received word her archenemy Alex Kork is dead. Jack and her partner Herb Benedict are called to the scene of a murder, where a sex offender has been killed by a sniper. But the sniper isn’t finished and keeps taking potshots at Jack and the police officers investigating the crime scene. Jack manages to get the officers out of danger, attracting the attention of the sniper, and learns that two other snipers have murdered sex offenders in other parts of Chicago. In the midst of all this, Jack gets a call from her mother telling her she needs to come home. Jack, feeling something isn’t right, rushes home, where she finds her mother and Latham held prisoner by Kork. From that point on, Jack is engaged in a battle to save her own life, as well as her mom’s and Latham’s, and even that of her ex-partner Harry McGlade when he shows up. And not just from Kork, but from the snipers, who have tracked Jack down and want in on the fun.
Take a deep breath before beginning this book because there’s nonstop action and nail-biting suspense from the first page. Jack Daniels is a tough cop but Kork proves herself to be more than a worthy adversary and is as relentless as the Energizer bunny. The book moves along at a fast pace, with plenty of dark humor and witticisms thrown around, and a quirky surprise involving the obnoxious McGlade. Some readers may feel cheated by the ending, which leaves a question unanswered.
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