Reviews by Christy

WISHLESS

2011-11-02T14:32:00.001-07:00

WISHLESS
by Louise Caiola
L&L Dreamspell
http://www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 978-1603183208
$13.95 paperback/$4.99 ebook

Stricken with a terminal disease, 16-year-old Chessie Madrid fights for her life while keeping her illness a secret between herself and her grandmother, with whom she lives. Chessie pretends to be well around her friends and is a bit bemused that every fortune cookie she opens always seem to mock her with the proverb she will live a long and happy life. In a moment of despair, Chessie makes a wish list hoping for a brother or sister, for her best friend’s brother Johnny to fall in love with her, and for her father to suffer for abandoning her as a child. When an unknown half-sister shows up, Chessie’s delighted, but when her father seeks a way into her life, she’s angry and bitter. And when Johnny turns an interested eye her way, she’s happy for the attention but fearful it’s for the wrong reason. As Chessie’s disease progresses and her wishes are fulfilled, her life takes a different direction and she begins to wonder if her wish list was such a good idea after all.

This heartwarming coming-of-age story will bring tears and smiles as the reader becomes vested in Chessie and her fight to live while keeping her chin up and her secret close. Chessie is intriguing, a young woman with a strong spirit who accepts her life may be cut short but intends to live it to its fullest without infringing on others. Chessie’s lingering grief over her mother’s death and her struggle with her feelings over her father as he tries to make amends for his absence over the years, as well as the way she deals with her illness, are powerfully portrayed and well-told. The plot is exceptional and so well-written this reviewer was reluctant to put the book aside. Although couched as a book for young adults, older readers will be just as absorbed by Chessie’s story.

THE HUNGER GAMES

2011-11-02T14:31:00.003-07:00

THE HUNGER GAMES
by Suzanne Collins
Scholastic Press
978-0439023528
$8.99 paperback; $4.69 Ebook

In a futuristic world, the United States, now called Panem, is divided into 12 districts. At one point, there was one more, but the 13th district was destroyed to quash a rebellion. Each year, the government, in order to remind the 12 remaining districts of the brutality of the rebellion and as a means of controlling its citizenry, holds the Hunger Games, in which a male and female representative from each district is chosen and subsequently must fight to the death in an arena the government has devised. The Games are televised and it is mandated that each citizen must watch; another maneuver to thwart rebellion and to instill compliance. The winner will live a life of luxury for the rest of their life; the only caveat, they must mentor subsequent competitors from their district. 16-year-old Katniss lives in District 12, known as the mining district and one of the poorest. Since her father’s death, Katniss has been sole provider for her family and is an expert hunter. When her sister is chosen for the Games, Katniss volunteers to take her place. The male chosen is Peeta, the baker’s son, who once saved Katniss and her family from starvation. Although Katniss does not want to go into the Games owing anyone, she cannot deny Peeta’s charitable nature. During the opening ceremonies, Peeta declares his unrequited love for Katniss, endearing them to viewers. Now Katniss is indebted to him more, because as the favored couple, they will receive gifts to help them during the Games. If it comes to a fight between Katniss and Peeta, will she be able to kill the young man to whom she owes so much?

Collins depicts a cruel world in which the government controls every aspect of its citizens’ lives and freedom seems unattainable. The author excels at revealing the complexities of the characters, including tertiary ones. Although Katniss seems a cold, calculating young woman, deep down, she cares for others yet is wary of acknowledging these feelings, even to herself. Peeta is personable, a warm, gentle young man who does everything he can to protect Katniss, even when it doesn’t appear he is doing so. When he declares his love for Katniss, she isn’t sure if this is true or if this is a ruse to gain more favor for himself. The Games are brutal and vividly depicted. The plot is excellent and moves along at a fast pace. Readers will root for Katniss and Peeta in the first book of this galvanizing trilogy.

TEMPEST IN THE TEA LEAVES

2011-11-02T14:31:00.001-07:00

TEMPEST IN THE TEA LEAVES
by Kari Lee Townsend
Berkley Prime Crime
ISBN: 9780425242759
$7.99 US

Sylvia “Sunny” Meadows has always felt like a square peg trying to fit into a round whole in her parents’ hoity-toity world in New York City. At 29, Sunny packs her worldly goods into her Volkswagen bug and heads for Divinity, New York where she’s purchased an old Victorian house and plans to open up a fortune-telling business. Her first client is the town librarian and Sunny is troubled when the tea leaves show the woman’s life is in danger. After the librarian leaves, Sunny deems it best to tell the police, but by then, it’s too late; the woman’s already dead. And the investigating officer, Detective Mitch Stone, suspects Sunny’s the culprit. Although there’s major chemistry between them, the two get off to a rocky start which becomes even more treacherous when the mayor decides he wants Sunny to team up with Detective Stone to help solve the murder. Sunny’s parents arrive to help clear their daughter’s name and Sunny’s frantic to find the murderer while the murderer is busy planting evidence against her.

This cozy mystery is charming and fun, although one distraction is the protagonist’s demeanor. Although she’s 29 years of age, she seems much younger, doing such things as sticking out her tongue at people and calling the detective names such as “Mr. Grumpy Pants”. Her relationship with her parents is more along the lines of a rebellious teenager than a grown woman. Townsend adds a touch of the paranormal with a mysterious cat named Morty who hangs around Sunny’s house, inexplicably appearing and disappearing, and scaring visitors. A bit implausible to this reader was the mayor’s decision to partner not only a newcomer to town, but a suspect in the murder, with the detective investigating said murder. All in all, an engaging read with certain aspects readers might find distracting or may choose to ignore.

A HYSTERICAL SITE

2011-11-02T14:30:00.003-07:00

A HYSTERICAL SITE
by Jackie Griffey
Amazon Digital Services
ASIN: B005FM7XGC
$3.99

Jeweler Edwin Wildermuse’s body is found in an alley of New York City, missing one hand and the courier case carrying expensive jewelry to which it had been handcuffed. ID on the body leads Detective Eric O’Shaughnessy to contact Sheriff Cas Larkin of Maryvale, Tennessee, searching for relatives of Edwin. Cas locates Edwin’s cousins, Bedrov Dedd and Svetlana Wildermuse, living in a large, rundown house on the outskirts of town. The cousins tell Cas that Edwin had a nephew in New York City, master chef Edgar Wildermuse. Edgar is devastated by the news and surprised to learn he stands to inherit millions from his uncle. Edgar wants to make sure Bedrov and Svetlana are taken care of so he and his partner visit Maryvale and hire a contractor to begin renovating the old place, unaware the two criminals who murdered his uncle are in the area searching for a valuable set of jewelry they suspect Edwin buried shortly before his death.

Reading the Maryvale series is as comforting as visiting well-loved family and friends. The town of Maryvale is enchanting, it’s characters warm and likable. Griffey adds a touch of the paranormal to this latest installment , enhancing the story even more, and introduces new characters who will hopefully appear in future books. A charming cozy readers, mystery and otherwise, will enjoy.

HOT FLASH

2011-11-02T14:30:00.001-07:00

HOT FLASH
by Kathy Carmichael
Medallion Press
ASIN: B004IK8TN8
$4.99 Ebook

Sous chef Jill Morgan Storm, hoping to discover the secret of successful relationships, gets the bright idea to send out a “Marriage Satisfaction Survey” to couples who have been together for a good while. Jill’s reeling from being dumped by her most recent lover, a college professor now dating one of his young students who won’t let loose of Jill’s favorite skillet. If that isn’t bad enough, Jill’s ready to hit panic mode. Her son will be entering college soon, and since his grades won’t qualify for a scholarship, she has to come up with the tuition money. Jill’s ex-husband, who is now a woman, isn’t much help and Jill’s well-to-do father is in prison, so Jill decides she needs a man with financial means. But the men she meets and dates seem to have more problems than Jill, who’s beginning to suffer menopausal symptoms. One constant irritant: her son’s former teacher, hanging around in the guise of helping her son, but Jill thinks it’s only to needle her about her mothering skills. Jill determinedly forges ahead with her dating plans, unaware the answer to her problems has been there all along.

Kathy Carmichael offers her reader a rollicking good romp with this romantic comedy. Jill’s a likable character, a woman who loves her son and wants the best for him but can’t seem to find a way to make that happen. The men she meets and dates are quirky and the scenarios surrounding them laugh-out-loud funny.

THE BODYGUARD AND THE BODYGUARD - Coffee Time Romance & More

2011-09-24T09:27:00.000-07:00

THE BODYGUARD AND THE BODYGUARD - Coffee Time Romance & More

DREAM REACHERS II

2011-09-08T14:06:00.001-07:00

DREAM REACHERS II
by Betty Dravis and Chase Von
Von Chase Publishing
ISBN: 978-0982346471

The authors’ motto is: “Only those who stretch to reach their dreams find themselves living them.” Very profound and borne out by this second installment of the Dream Reachers books by Betty Dravis and Chase Von. Encased within are fascinating interviews with 33 celebrities across a vast range of public personalities, including actors, musicians, authors, a psychic, female boxer, singers, artists, entrepreneurs, and many others. Some have reached their dreams and others are well on their way, but a peek into their personal philosophies and the stories behind their dreams is intriguing and so inspiring to those of us who are still on that road to our own personal dreams.

Dravis and Von do a great service to us dreamers by sharing these inspiring stories of hard work and determination driven by a positive and persevering attitude. This is one book to be placed nearby instead of on a bookshelf for constant motivation or simply to be uplifted by the optimistic words and wise outlooks of other dreamers.

VALLEY OF OBSESSIONS

2011-09-08T14:02:00.004-07:00

VALLEY OF OBSESSIONS
by Betty Gordon
L&L Dreamspell
London, TX
ISBN: 9781603182829

Desiree Roberts talks her best friend Sandy Olson into sharing her lifelong dream of visiting Egypt. While there, the two take a boat drip down the Nile, where Desiree makes friends with mysterious Italian Mike Lapuccio and loner Richard Daniels, an advertising executive from Houston, TX, as well as two Egyptian couples. But Desiree provokes the ire of English businesswoman Amanda Pritchard, who is jealous of the relationship between Desiree and her niece. When Desiree and Sandy return to the Cairo Hilton, Desiree begins to date Lapuccio and Daniels. After clubbing with Lapuccio one night, she never makes it back to her hotel room. Lapuccio claims he left Desiree at the elevator after which she was seen getting into the taxi of her friend Femi, who holds a law degree yet makes his living driving a cab. Her body is found in Opet’s Chapel in Karnak dressed in authentic Egyptian clothing except for the head gear. Sandy hires Vicki Sanders to come to Egypt to investigate the murder, and Vicki finds herself mired in a plethora of suspicious characters who surrounded Desiree. When her life is threatened, her boyfriend, fellow investigator Paul Barlow, joins her in Egypt and Vicki, Paul and Sandy begin looking into the backgrounds of the people with whom Desiree had contact, upping the number of suspects and placing their lives in danger.

Betty Gordon has penned a fine mystery here packed with plenty of red herrings and nail-chewing suspense. Her descriptions of Egypt and its historical monuments are captivating and enhance the plot. Characterization is well-done and the page-turning story well-written.

WEB OF TYRANNY

2011-09-08T14:02:00.001-07:00

WEB OF TYRANNY
by Laurel Rain Snow
BookSurge Publishing
ISBN: 978-1419656866

As a child, Meg Graham does not understand her father’s cold, overly harsh attitude toward her and wants nothing more than to escape from her strict fundamentalist upbringing. College offers her the chance but Meg ends up in a similar situation when she marries a man who is controlling, overly critical and manipulative. Meg finds the strength to leave the marriage with her toddler son in tow and begins life anew as a social worker, subsequently changing her name to Lainey. She joins the protest movement and through a feminist group meets supportive women, enjoying the freestyle life of San Francisco during the ‘60s, experimenting with sex and drugs. Ultimately, Meg/Lainey questions her problems with intimacy, which she can only overcome via the use of alcohol, and enters treatment. Through therapy, she confronts the demons of her past and allows her repressed memories to emerge, learning why she continues to sabotage her own happiness.

With great skill, Snow captures the essence of the ‘60s via her depiction of that era’s fashions, vernacular, sexual mores, protests against the Viet Nam War, and women’s efforts for egalitarianism through the feminist movement. Although two separate subplots at times threaten to overpower Meg’s story, this does not happen, and the unveiling of the relationship between Rainbow and Natasha enhances more than takes away from the plot. Young adults of today would be well-advised to read this novel if only to get a good grasp of what life was like for women during this fascinating, history-changing time period.

THE IMPALER by Gregory Funaro

2011-09-08T13:59:00.000-07:00

THE IMPALER
by Gregory Funaro
Kensington Publishing Corp.
ISBN: 9780786022137

The impaled bodies of two male victims are discovered in a cemetery with the cryptic message “I have returned” on their torsos. When the impaled body of a criminal defense attorney is subsequently found, the killer is given the nickname The Impaler, named for Vlad the Impaler, upon whom Bram Stroker’s Dracula was based. This is the first case for FBI agent Sam Markham since his promotion to Raleigh, North Carolina. Markham, still grieving his wife’s death, tries not to be distracted by the execution date of her killer looming in the near future. He immerses himself in the investigation, frustrated by the lack of DNA or trace evidence at each crime scene. He begins to suspect the serial killer’s reason for impaling his victims has nothing to do with Vlad Tepes but is connected to a stolen Babylonian seal and the god Nergal, guardian of the underworld. At first the victims seem to have nothing in common but Markham finds a connection and he and his team begin to close in on their killer whose kills are escalating and who always seems one step ahead of them. As Markham zeroes in, he’s unaware the Impaler is now focused on him.

Funaro came out swinging with The Sculptor and does not disappoint his readers with The Impaler. Although some scenes are gruesome, they are intrinsic to the plot and well-executed. The characterization of the serial killer is fascinating as the reader learns of past traumas he experienced that formed him into the deranged monster he is. One sympathizes with Markham and his ongoing bereavement of his wife’s violent death. The plot is complicated yet so well-written readers will not have trouble following along. Rarely does this reviewer read a book that captures the attention so thoroughly. Characterization, plot, and dialogue excel. Funaro proves himself worthy of status on the best-seller list with this intense, electrifying thriller which deserves more than 5 stars.

HERA'S REVENGE

2011-08-05T15:02:00.000-07:00

HERA’S REVENGE
AN YVONNE SUAREZ TRAVEL MYSTERY
by Wendy Dingwall
Canterbury House Publishing
Vilas, North Carolina
www.canterburyhouosepublishing.com
ISBN: 9780982905425

Yvonne Suarez, travel agent with the Pinkerton Travel Agency in Fort Lauderdale, FL, books a group tour to the Greek Islands. From the beginning of the tour, when a man’s body is found on the baggage claim conveyor belt in Athens, the trip goes awry. Bad luck follows the group as they continue on their tour, and Yvonne begins to suspect some of the passengers aren’t who they say they are. When two of the women meet with accidents which could have been fatal, Yvonne teams up with fellow traveler David Ludlow in hopes of keeping her tourist group safe. Yvonne is attracted to David but her years married to an abusive husband interfere with her ability to trust him. David, on the other hand, would like nothing more than to begin a relationship with Yvonne. But danger lurks ahead for the two, in more ways than one.

The premise for this mystery series is a refreshing addition to the mystery genre. The author excels at interweaving interesting historical and mythological data into the plot. This, along with her vivid visual descriptive, leaves the reader feeling as if s/he is actually touring the Greek Isles along with the group. Although characters abound, the author’s unique ability to introduce and flesh out each one voids any sort of confusion as to who’s who. Yvonne Suarez is an intriguing character, a woman who had the strength to leave an abusive relationship and harbors empathy for those in like situations. The mystery is one readers will be challenged to solve, filled with twists and turns and plenty of red herrings.

RASNER'S REVENGE

2011-08-05T14:59:00.000-07:00

RASNER’S REVENGE
THE RASNER EFFECT III
by Mark Rosendorf
L&L Dreamspell
London, TX
http://www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603183437

Two weeks after the breakup of the Duke Organization, its leader, Rick Rasner, is incarcerated in a mental asylum with a roommate who claims to be king of an African island. Rick plots his escape with one goal in mind: to kill General William Straker, the man who put him there, before Straker can kill him. Teenager Clara Blue, whom Rick helped escape from the Brookhill Psychiatric Institute, is trying to rebuild the Duke organization so she can rescue Rick, but not having much luck. Clara has a secret, one which will be the end of her life if Rick finds out, but she is willing to take that chance in order to help the man she perceives as her surrogate father. She ultimately decides the only one who can help her is Rick’s nemesis, Jake Scarberry. Although Jake has tried to kill Rick twice before, Clara hopes if she offers him enough money, his mercenary skills can be bought and he can put aside his hatred for Rick long enough to save his life.

Once more, Rosendorf fills the book with unlikeables, bringing to life characters who are merciless and cruel and whom readers will not feel much sympathy for. However, this ingenious strategy works for this series, and redemption hovers for some. The plot moves fast, packed with action and suspense and nicely tuned twists and turns.

ST. LOUIS HUSTLE

2011-08-05T14:58:00.000-07:00

ST. LOUIS HUSTLE
‘NAM NOIR SERIES
by Claire Applewhite
L&L Dreamspell
London, TX
http://www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603183062

In this second installment of the ‘Nam Noir Series, Elvin Suggs and Dimond “Di” Redding, along with their friend, fellow Vietnam vet Cobra Glynes, have begun a new chapter in their lives: moving to a new home and starting the Grapevine Detective Agency. Their first case is to trail Nick Davies, husband of Emily, who suspects Nick is having an affair. This is confirmed when they follow Nick to the Coral Court Motel, a cheap place popular for secret love trysts. There’s something about Emily Di doesn’t trust, and this is borne out when Emily is spotted at the same motel her husband utilizes. The investigators come up against a block wall when they try to question the secretive desk clerk, who refuses to divulge any information about the motel’s regulars. After Nick’s girlfriend is found dead, the police zone in on Nick. When the bodies of two other women are discovered, Detective Reggie Combs has his hands full trying to figure out if the murders are connected, who is behind them, and the possible motive. The investigators team up with the detective, ultimately placing their own lives in danger.

This mystery, which takes place in the gritty back streets of south St. Louis, Missouri, is replete with suspicious characters. The plot is a good one, offering a mystery readers will be challenged to solve. Applewhite conveys the seediness of characters and locales in a vivid, colorful manner. Her characters are fleshed out and real, enhanced with dialogue that rings true.

A DOG'S PURPOSE

2010-11-02T09:20:00.001-07:00

A DOG’S PURPOSE
by W. Bruce Cameron
Tor-Forge
75 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10010
www.tor-forge.com
ISBN: 9780765326263

Toby, a mixed-breed pup, lives a feral life with his mother, brothers and sister until they are rescued by a woman who takes care of abandoned dogs. When she’s forced to shut her rescue down, Toby, suffering an injury, is euthanized. He’s reborn as Bailey, a golden retriever who finds a happy home with a young boy and lives a full life sharing adventures with the boy. When he dies, he reincarnates as Ellie, a female German shepherd trained as a search and rescue dog. Toby’s next reincarnation is as Buddy, a black Lab. In this lifetime, Toby/Buddy realizes each life he lived has brought him to this one and understands his true purpose as a dog.

This wonderful book is joyously heartwarming, humorous, and at times sad, so keep tissues nearby. Told from a dog’s perspective, A Dog’s Purpose illustrates the love and affection dogs have for their human companions and the lengths they will go to to protect and serve. As a dog lover and rescue worker, I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Those who have dogs will find themselves left with a deeper understanding of their dog’s behavior and mindset and hopefully those who don’t will understand how a dog can positively impact their life and decide to rescue a dog and save a life. Absolutely one of the best dog books out there.

NO SUCH THING AS A SECRET

2010-11-02T09:19:00.001-07:00

NO SUCH THING AS A SECRET
by Shelly Fredman
AuthorHouse
1663 Liberty Drive, Suite 200
Bloomington, Indiana
www.authorhouse.com
ISBN: 978-1420843811

Brandy Alexander headed for LA after her cop boyfriend dumped her, where she landed a job as (what she considers) a puff-piece reporter for a local TV station. Four years later, she’s back in Philadelphia for the wedding of her best friend. Brandy’s happy to be back with family and friends, but these warm feelings are short-lived when her good friend Johnny’s boat blows up while he’s onboard. Brandy suspects this is no accident, since Johnny confided in her that he had evidence related to the recent death of a gay man which he turned over to the police, on top of which, he thought he was being followed. But the cops don’t have the evidence, nor does the DA’s office. If that isn’t bad enough, Bobby DiCarlo, Brandy’s ex, seems to be involved in the cover-up. Brandy, determined to find the murderer, plays amateur sleuth which gets her in a world of trouble with her ex and an axe-wielding mystery man who keeps trying to kill her. She joins forces with just-this-side-of-the-law Nicholas Santiago, who’s so hot, Brandy sizzles every time she’s around him. Bodies pile up and suspects abound but will Brandy survive long enough to reveal the murderer?

If book one in the Brandy Alexander mystery series is any indication of what’s to follow, this series is a guaranteed bestseller. Fredman excels at characterization and is adept at pulling the reader into the story so that they will feel as if they’re part of the gang, along for the ride. Brandy Alexander is a refreshing character, a girl-next-door type who doesn’t seem to realize the impact she has on others. No crazy diets for this girl, she’s a sweets-lover through and through and not afraid to prove it. Dialogue is so realistic, readers will think they’re in Philly enjoying all the great food and locales. First-person narrative is witty and entertaining, leading to lots of laughter. The chemistry between Brandy and Bobby and Brandy and Nicholas is teasing and fun. The plot is thick with suspects and readers will be challenged to solve the mystery. All in all, an outstanding debut for this entertaining series.

THE NIGHT KILLER

2010-11-02T09:18:00.000-07:00

THE NIGHT KILLER:
A DIANE FALLON FORENSIC INVESTIGATION
by BeverlyConnor
Penguin Group
375 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
http://us.penguingroup.com
ISBN: 978-0451229601

Forensic anthropologist Dr. Diane Fallon, director of the RiverTrail Museum of Natural History and the Rosewood, GA crime lab, is returning from a trip to the mountains of Rendell County, Georgia where she arranged for the loan of an arrowhead collection from Roy Barre. Diane’s SUV is struck by a tree during a storm and a skeleton rolls across the hood of her car. Unsettled by this, Diane gets out of her vehicle and is accosted by a stranger. She escapes into the forest, pursued by the stranger’s dogs. Diane meets up with a man who tells her he had been taking photographs when he heard the commotion and offers his aid. When Diane refuses his help, he loans her his poncho and knife and agrees to call the police. Diane makes her way back to the Barre place, only to find Roy Barre and his wife have been brutally murdered. From that point on, Diane is involved in two separate cases: identifying the human bones in the tree that hit her SUV and finding the murderer of the Barres. But the sheriff of Rendell County isn’t making things easy for her when he orders her out of his county and off the case. Even worse, the killer soon murders another couple and appears to have targeted Diane.

Beverly Connor’s versatile thriller will appeal to readers on many levels. Her incorporation of forensics, geology and anthropology into an intriguing plot creates an excellent whodunit. Connor tackles complicated forensics in several different fields, but her straightforward, didactic narrative not only proves intriguing and entertaining but easy to follow and understand. Connor’s smart writing, evolving characters, captivating storylines, and fascinating forensics ensure this series’ continued popularity.

MERRYWINDS

2010-11-02T09:17:00.000-07:00

MERRYWINDS
A DOWRY GIRLS ADVENTURE
by Jackie Griffey
Five Star
ISBN: 9781594149207

Good friends Gwenneth Hume and Patience O’Connor are fast approaching marrying age but there are no acceptable suitors in their small English community. Gwenneth’s father owns an inn, where Gwenneth helps out, and Patience, an orphan, lives in a convent, where she trained as a midwife but must leave within the year. When they hear of an offer for young women to sail to America for free passage in exchange for marrying within a specified time limit, they sign up with a French shipping company and set sail on the Merrywinds to the New World. During the voyage, the young women’s skills are put to good use: Gwenneth takes over when the cook falls ill and Patience helps treat the sick and injured. Before they reach their destination, each young woman has met the man she wishes to marry but will the seas keep them apart?

Jackie Griffey has penned an enchanting historical romance. Dialogue and characterization are realistic as to the time period and the plot heartwarming and entertaining. Griffey adds a bit of adventure and suspense to the story, which readers will enjoy as they join Gwenneth and Patience on their journey to a new world and new life.

DELICIOUS AND SUSPICIOUS

2010-10-04T08:52:00.000-07:00

DELICIOUS AND SUSPICIOUS
by Riley Adams
Berkley Prime Crime
375 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
www.penguingroup.com
ISBN: 9780425235539

Lulu Taylor is matriarch of a family that runs Aunt Pat’s barbeque restaurant, a favorite eatery in Memphis, TN. Hoping to win a spot on the Cooking Channel show, Lulu intends to wow the show’s scout, Rebecca Adrian, when she visits. But Rebecca is arrogant, rude, and not so easily impressed with the food or colorful characters gracing Aunt Pat’s. Rebecca manages to insult most of the people she meets, and when she’s found dead in her hotel room from food poisoning, all eyes turn to Aunt Pat’s, the last place she ate. In hopes of saving her restaurant’s reputation, Lulu turns amateur sleuth, but suspects keep adding up, most of whom are patrons of Aunt Pat’s, some of whom are members of Lulu’s own family.

Readers who enjoy eccentric characters will not be disappointed with Adams’ first book in her Memphis BBQ mystery series. Adams places the series against an appealing backdrop: Memphis, Tennessee, with its gentle Southern charm, charming vernacular and mouth-watering food. Although the plot at times takes a second seat to a plethora of zany characters, Adam’s witty narrative and dialogue move the story along in a fun, entertaining way. An added bonus: great recipes at the end of the book.

HEART WITH JOY

2010-10-04T08:50:00.001-07:00

HEART WITH JOY
by Steve Cushman
Canterbury House Publishing
Vilas, North Carolina
www.canterburyhousepublishing.com
ISBN: 9780982539637

Fifteen-year-old Julian Hale is not the typical teenage male. Instead of playing sports or actively dating, Julian loves spending time cooking with his mother. Julian’s world is upended when his mother unexpectedly moves to Florida and suspects her reason, to manage her parents’ motel, is just an excuse. Julian, who rarely interacts with his father, blames him but remains behind, determined to move to Florida after the school year ends. When an elderly neighbor befriends Julian, he begins to enjoy his time with her, feeding and watching the birds in her yard. Through her, Julian begins to understand it’s important to know someone other than superficially and to follow one’s passion. Since Julian’s passion is cooking, he begins to make dinners for his father and befriends a young woman who shares his love for cooking. When school ends, Julian is faced with the decision to move to Florida or stay at home with his father and new friends.

This well-written coming-of-age novel is heartwarming and poignant. Characterization is exceptional and realistic, the plot meaningful and intriguing. The development of the relationship between Julian and his father as it evolves is insightful and well-done. Through Julian’s narrative, the reader witnesses his journey of self-discovery, acceptance of his parents’ estranged relationship, and love of family and friends.

ITINERANT

2010-10-04T08:49:00.001-07:00

ITINERANT
by Jane Sasser
Finishing Line Press
Georgetown, KY
www.finishinglinepress.com
ISBN: 9781599244976

Jane Sasser’s eloquent poems speak of life’s journey via memories of childhood, parents and relationships.

Of her mother’s infirmity:

Uncertain on her feet, my mother
stumbles like a toddler, each step
a whole new learning of the world—
as thought she were not the woman
who at thirteen strode around the bend
of a country road right into
the midst of a chain gang…

Of the death of her father:

I see no final sadness
which I cannot resign
no regrets left
like half-done sketches,
just these haunting memories
my bones will not let go.

A relationship:

Lying awake, I thought about endings,
how sometimes there’s an explosion
of tangled limbs and veined leaves,
but sometimes there’s simply a slump,
the quiet droop of riven wood
sinking from the green canopy.

The words tumble pleasingly off the tongue with a soothing cadence, filled with emotion and wistfulness, subtle humor, and profound insight, each poem executed with great skill and deftness, instilling the need to return to read and savor again and again.

DOWN TO THE WIRE

2010-10-04T08:46:00.001-07:00

DOWN TO THE WIRE
by David Rosenfelt
St. Martin’s Press
175 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10010
www.minotaurbooks.com
ISBN: 9780312373948

Chris Turley, reporter for the Bergen News, lives in the shadow of his father, award-winning investigative reporter Edward Turley. Chris’s anonymity comes to an end when he witnesses the explosion of an office building while waiting to meet a source. Chris rescues five people and is hailed a hero, finding himself an instant celebrity. Chris’s life and career take a dramatic turn when his source subsequently feeds him information that establishes Chris as an investigative journalist. But Chris’s celebrity status fades as the mysterious source begins randomly killing people, using Chris as his reason for doing so. Law enforcement personnel and the FBI initially suspect Chris is the culprit but eventually turn their investigation outward, following clues that lead to nowhere.

Rosenfelt is best known for his light, comedic Andy Carpenter mystery series. This standalone thriller offers a fast-moving plot filled with twists and turns. Chris is a likable character, an everyday guy thrust into a complicated situation from which there seems no escape. Although some may question the reason behind the murders, the psychopathic killer is well portrayed and adds a thrilling dimension to the plot.

BREATHLESS

2010-10-04T08:45:00.000-07:00

BREATHLESS
by Dean Koontz
Bantam Books/
Random House Publishing
www.bantamdell.com
ISBN: 9780553807158

Recluse Grady Adams and his Irish wolfhound Merlin spot two white, unidentifiable animals while on a walk one afternoon. That evening, the two animals make their presence known and Grady calls his good friend, veterinarian Camillia Rivers. Camillia is fascinated by the animals, who show distinct human characteristics, but can find no record of such species. When she calls two former colleagues, she puts in motion a series of events that could lead to the destruction of the two friendly animals. Homeland Security shows up, declaring the two could be a threat to national security, and Grady and Camillia fear for their safety, unaware more animals of like nature have appeared across the globe and strange things are happening around them.

This standalone is hard to classify as to genre, enveloping a bit of most into its content. The plot moves along at a fast pace, offering suspenseful scenarios and a mystical feel. Koontz’s usual characters are evident: man, woman and dog, each involved in a suspenseful plot, and all well developed and essential to the story.

DYING FOR A DATE

2010-09-02T11:41:00.002-07:00

DYING FOR A DATE
by Cindy Sample
L&L Dreamspell
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603182485

Laurel McKay, a recently divorced soccer mom who works as a mortgage loan underwriter, signs up for a six-month membership with a dating service called The Love Club. Her first date ends abruptly after she breaks her date’s nose when he gets too frisky. Laurel’s ready to give it up but can’t justify losing her money, so decides to try once more. But before that occurs, she finds herself the number one suspect when her first date’s body is found in his car with his head bashed in. If that isn’t bad enough, Laurel’s definitely feeling something for the hot detective investigating the case but can’t tell if the heated looks he’s sending her are reciprocal or skeptical. When her second date dies during their dinner together, the police have a large target painted on Laurel’s back, which sends her into panic mode. Before they come for her with handcuffs, Laurel, along with her mother and a couple of friends, decide to do some amateur sleuthing, leading them down a hazardous road filled with danger.

Dying for a Date is packed with zany characters, humorous situations, and laugh-out-loud narrative. Laurel McKay is amusing, her antics entertaining, and her interactions with her family and friends bring smiles as well as nods of recognition. There are several standout characters but this reviewer’s favorite is Laurel’s mother. The relationship Laurel has with her mom, who is a bit jaded and critical, is not only realistic but hilarious. The sizzling chemistry between Laurel and Detective Hunter adds a nice touch to this comedic mystery. Consider reading this book in one setting, because once you start, you will be reluctant to put it aside.

TESTAROSSA

2010-09-02T11:41:00.001-07:00

TESTAROSSA
by Julie Dolcemaschio
Krill Press
www.krillpress.com
ISBN: 9780982144350

LA homicide detective John Testarossa harbors a dark secret, one connecting him to the death of his father, an undercover cop with the New York Police Department, and Testarossa’s brief career there. When an arm is found on Santa Monica Beach, Testarossa and his partner, Alex Ortiz, are called to the scene. It doesn’t take long to find the decomposing body of the arm’s owner, a young college athlete. Although the young man’s death is suspected to be suicide, Testarossa and Ortiz think otherwise and determinedly pursue their investigation, taking them into the dark world of collegiate and professional athletes and their illegal efforts to perform better than their colleagues.

Testarossa’s a jaded man who looks at life through a cop’s eyes yet cares deeply for those around him. He holds women at a distance simply because he doesn’t want to put them through the pain he watched his mother go through when his father was killed. All this changes when he meets Dr. Karen Gennaro, an open woman who expects nothing but the truth from him. But how can he tell her the dark secret from his past and expect her to stay?

Dolcemaschio takes her reader into the gritty world of police officers, their comrades, and the grim world they inhabit. Testarossa is a welcome character to the mystery community; a man fueled by events from his past with a deep need to connect with others and be the best cop he can. The relationship between Testarossa and his partners is nicely portrayed, as is the chemistry between Testarossa and Dr. Gennaro. The Italian dishes described guaranty a growling stomach. The romantic interludes are sizzling and sensual, a nice bonus for romance readers. Dolcemaschio’s well-written debut novel is an intriguing, powerful read, proof positive she’s in position to “run with the big dogs”.

HAIR OF THE DOG

2010-09-02T10:42:00.003-07:00

HAIR OF THE DOG
An Angie Deacon Mystery
by Cindy Davis
L&L Dreamspell
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 978-1-60318-299-7

This follow-up to A Little Murder finds former ER nurse Angie Deacon co-owner of a theater and in a relationship with Detective Colby Jarvis. Angie and Jarvis hope to spend a few days relaxing in nearby Weirs, but the constant barking of a dog in the cottage next to theirs proves a deterrent. The dog finally stops barking, to Angie’s relief, but soon after, she finds the body of the dog’s owner, Simon York, on his living room floor. Due to an altercation Angie had with York over the dog, she’s targeted by the investigating detective as a suspect. Angie subsequently has the bad luck to discover the body of York’s ex-wife, Darlene Lonergan, dog breeder and owner of Lonergan Cosmetics. The common denominator between the two murders: Angie. Angie and Jarvis suspect the deaths are related to suspicious goings-on at the local bar, Hair of the Dog. In an effort to clear Angie of the murders, they begin their own investigation while caring for York’s dog, only to find their lives in mortal danger.

This well-written mystery offers plenty of suspects as Davis takes the reader into two diverse worlds: the dog show venue and the cosmetics industry. Angie and Jarvis are unique in that they are portrayed so realistically, each with their own strengths and weaknesses; a couple trying to work out the kinks of their relationship. The mystery will challenge readers as they follow the clues and filter through suspicious characters and circumstances. Dog lovers will appreciate the presence of Guinness, an Irish Setter, along with a nice dose of information concerning dog shows and breeding.

A SPORTING MURDER

2010-09-02T10:42:00.001-07:00

A SPORTING MURDER
by Chester D. Campbell
Night Shadows Press
8987 E. Tanque Verde
Tucson, AZ 85749
ISBN: 9780984604401

Jill and Greg McKenzie, owners of McKenzie Investigations, have been hired by an attorney for a group of Nashville Predators NHL hockey fans to investigate rumors there are efforts to bring an NBA basketball team to Nashville. Greg receives a phone call from a young man from Germany that he has important information about this, but when Greg goes to their meeting place, he finds the young man dead. Greg begins a parallel investigation into this death which ties into what look to be ominous mechanisms of the financiers behind the basketball deal. To make matters worse, he learns a man he put in prison years before has been released and is in the area. When Greg and Jill are almost poisoned and their jeep blown up, they’re not sure whether the culprit is the felon or has connections to the basketball financiers. But they continue onward, more determined than ever to solve these two cases and find the murderer.

This series is cozy mystery’s answer to Dashiell Hammett’s Thin Man series. Greg and Jill McKenzie are a charming couple who complement one another and work well together. Their interactions are heartwarming and refreshing and a nice bonus to the story. The plot moves at a fast pace, offering a mystery readers will be challenged to solve.

RELATIVELY CRAZY

2010-08-01T13:01:00.001-07:00

RELATIVELY CRAZY
by Ellen Dye
L&L Dreamspell
Spring, TX
http://www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603181662

Wanda Jo Ashton grew up in a small town in West Virginia with one goal in mind: to get as far away from her penny-pinching life as she could. Twenty years later, on her 40th birthday, Wanda Jo, who now calls herself Ashton and lives in San Francisco, is expecting an expensive birthday gift from her attorney husband, Reed, only to be rejected by him on a popular TV talk show. Reed, choosing to assume the role of boy toy to a wealthy elderly woman, leaves Wanda Jo destitute and desperate. With her 16-year-old daughter in tow, Wanda Jo returns to her hometown and eccentric family, where she tries to figure out what to do with her life while expecting her husband to eventually rescue her. But what Wanda Jo thinks she wants may not be what she actually gets.

Relatively Crazy is, as we say in the South, a hoot and a half. Filled with fun characters and witty dialogue, it starts off with a bang and doesn’t let up. This humorous tale of a woman’s journey as she deals with a broken marriage while beginning a new and completely different life than the one she led is heart-warming and thoroughly entertaining. There’s a touch of romance, which spices up the story, along with a refreshing dose of camaraderie among some of the women characters. A book readers will truly enjoy (and not want to put down).

UNDER THE DOME

2010-08-01T12:57:00.000-07:00

UNDER THE DOME
by Stephen King
Scribner
1230 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com
ISBN: 9781439148501

Iraq veteran Dale (Barbie) Barbara is on his way out of Chester’s Mill when an invisible shield drops down, running along the small town’s boundaries. Planes, cars and birds crash into it, people run into it, and no one can figure out what it is. The US military’s calculations are that a large force field in the shape of a dome has settled over Chester’s Mill, cutting the town off from the rest of the country. Their efforts to destroy the dome are fruitless, as are their attempts to figure out who did this. The president places Barbie in charge of Chester’s Mill but that doesn’t set well with second selectman Big Jim Rennie, who likes being a big fish in a small pond and isn’t about to let anyone else assume control. Besides, Jesus told the sanctimonious Big Jim that he’s the one in charge. In an effort to keep Barbie from taking over, Rennie maneuvers behind the scenes, manipulating the people of Chester’s Mill with the aid of his new police chief and several newly appointed deputies. As the air turns bad and greenery dies, Big Jim’s focus remains on using Barbie as a scapegoat for several unexplained murders, while Barbie and several others, on the run from Big Jim and his minions, try to put an end to the dome.

This lengthy novel is well worth the time, reminding this reviewer of King’s best novel, The Stand, following the same basic concept: good versus evil, although this battle is among humans. The large cast of characters works well; each is well-developed and essential to the storyline. The thrilling plot is fast-paced, filled with suspense and action. Absolutely one of King’s best in recent years.

GONE TOMORROW

2010-08-01T12:54:00.001-07:00

GONE TOMORROW
by Lee Child
Bantam Dell
New York, NY
www.bantamdell.com
ISBN: 9780385340571

Jack Reacher, riding a New York subway in the early morning hours, notices a woman passenger acting strangely. Reacher watches her, ticking off the 12 points identifying her as a suicide bomber. When Reacher approaches her, she pulls a gun and kills herself. Since Reacher was the last one to speak to the woman, he’s taken to the police station for questioning. When the feds show up, Reacher suspects there’s more to this story than a depressed woman committing suicide. This is confirmed when he’s approached by governmental and foreign organizations wanting to know what the woman passed to him before she died. Curious about what everyone is looking for, Reacher begins his own investigation which puts him at odds with law enforcement and leads him to the White House and its past connection to the Soviet war in Afghanistan during the ‘80s.

Lee Child’s 13th offering in the Reacher series is a tense thriller with plenty of bad guys and ample graphic violence. Reacher is a dangerous man confident in his abilities and with his own sense of justice. He isn’t timid when dealing with the FBI, Homeland Security, the Department of Defense, and terrorists, all of whom are after him. His brusque, at times edifying narrative, as always, carries the plot forward in an intriguing, entertaining way, and readers will root for Reacher to take care of matters in the way only Reacher can.

HAMILTON SWOOP, WIZARD OF GREEN RIDGE

2010-08-01T12:50:00.000-07:00

HAMILTON SWOOP
WIZARD OF GREEN RIDGE
by L. Stewart Hearl
L&L Dreamspell
Spring, TX
ISBN: 978163181129

As a youngster, Hamilton Swoop apprenticed under Master Wizard Obsidian. At 20, subsequent to Obsidian’s death, Hamilton returned home after being stripped of his magic by the Wizards Guild. Forty years later, he owns his own antiques business and lives a paltry life with a cat as his only companion. But his life changes when he unpacks a trunk purchased at an estate sale containing a mysterious orb, cloak and the bones of Obsidian. Hamilton sets out for Center City where he intends to turn Obsidian’s bones over to the Wizards Guild. Once there, he learns the new Guildmaster of the Guild of Magic Users and Wizards has been waiting for his return, hoping he will destroy a magical dragon wreaking havoc on the city. Hamilton is reluctant to help an organization that turned its back on him, but when he is offered his magic back, he agrees. From that point, he faces extreme danger as he tries to find a way to battle the dragon and a mysterious, very powerful wizard.

Hamilton Swoop is an interesting character, a passive man with powerful magical abilities. The plot moves quickly, with moments of great suspense. The telepathic communications Hamilton shares with his cat lend humor to this intriguing story. Consider this one of those unique books for youngsters and adults alike who enjoy an exciting story filled with magic and suspense.

GIRL

2010-07-02T11:16:00.001-07:00

GIRL
by Bart Bare
Canterbury House Publishing
225 Ira Harmon Rd.
Vilas, NC 28692-9369
www.canterburyhousepublishing.com
ISBN: 9780982539644

Although 14 years old, Loren Creek is independent enough to care for her terminally ill mother while maintaining their small farm. When her mother passes away, Loren fights for emancipation but is ordered into foster care. Unhappy with her foster family, Loren escapes to a small town in North Carolina. To avoid detection, she cuts her hair, dresses like a boy and changes her name to Lorne Land. Loren rents a small house from a mountain man who has little respect for the law and, at his suggestion, pretends to be his grandson. Guised as a boy, she enters high school, where she’s easily accepted, and joins the track team her freshman year. Her sophomore year, she joins the football team, earning respect as a kicker. But life isn’t easy for Loren; she finds her choice confusing and even dangerous at times and is aware her cover can be blown any moment. Even worse: her foster caseworker is tracking her, slowly getting closer.

Bart Bare has penned a heartwarming tale about a young woman’s journey as she loses the only family she thinks she has and gains a more extended family, touching lives along the way. Loren is a wonderful character, an intelligent, independent teenager who is not afraid to live life as she wants and is open to new adventures and friends. The author paints a colorful picture of the people and mountains of North Carolina, further enriching a truly lovely story.

GIRL GONE NOVA

2010-07-02T11:07:00.000-07:00

GIRL GONE NOVA
by Pauline Baird Jones
L&L Dreamspell
Friendsville, TX
ISBN: 9781603182041

Delilah Oliver Clementyne (Doc) is a genius whose expertise is making the impossible possible. Doc’s secret name is the Chameleon and she fits this moniker well, being able to change herself at will to blend in with whatever situation she finds herself. Doc’s aboard the Doolittle, in the Garradian Galaxy, waiting for instructions from her superior, when she meets Helfron Giddioni, leader of the Gadi. Doc is shocked at her attraction for him but there is strife between the Earth ship and the Gadi and war seems imminent. When Doc heads toward the small planet Kikk in order to try to access their weaponry, she is kidnapped by a band of aliens trolling the galaxy, collecting wives for the men on their planet. Doc manages to get away, only to find herself time-traveling with the Gadi leader, trying to avert a war that will destroy her ship and its people while dodging the leader of the wife-stealers, who is intent on having her as his own.

Jones is adept at creating kick-butt women characters who can give as good as they get. Doc is mentally quick and physically lethal. She’s a woman who has never felt like she fit in until she meets Giddioni, whom she is instantly attracted to. But that doesn’t stop her from doing her job, even if it means battling the Gadi leader and his minions. The action is nonstop, the suspense gut-wrenching, and the plot rollicking fun.

STORM SHADOWS

2010-07-02T10:47:00.000-07:00

STORM SHADOWS
by Caitlyn Hunter
L&L Dreamspell
Friendsville, TX
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 978-1603182065

Long ago, four Cherokee cousins were cursed by the Shamans to eternal life after violating the laws of their tribe. Matt, Luke, Marc and Jon Tassel also possess psychic abilities and each can shift into the form of the animal they are destined to watch over. For years, Marc, a cougar shape-shifter, has had visions of a woman with storm-colored eyes tending to him at his death, but sometimes, in these dreams, the woman dies instead. Betty Sue Corn grew up under the shadow of a beautiful sister and considers herself merely ordinary, with a tendency toward awkwardness to the point of constantly having bruises and cuts from her stumbles. When Jon inadvertently causes Betty Sue’s suspension from her job, he offers her his cabin on Eternity Mountain, where Betty Sue hopes to chase a dream or two. When Betty Sue meets Marc by accident, the chemistry between them is intense. Marc, however, realizing Betty Sue is the woman in his dreams, tries to keep his distance from her due to his fear he may cause her death but finds this near-impossible. Betty Sue, tired of her prior timid existence, is not frightened by Marc’s ability to shift or his vision of death, and is willing to risk her life to prove this.

The genteel cadence of Hunter’s poetic prose draws the reader into a lovely story steeped in Cherokee legend, filled with romance sweet and heady and tantalizing. The plot excels, along with characters strong and vivid and intriguing. Betty Sue is fresh and fun, and many women will identify with and root for her. The four Cherokee cousins are not only endowed with pulchritude but each has an appealing persona readers will love. This well-written paranormal romance, book 2 in the Eternal Shadows series, rises above others of its genre due to the author’s unique voice as well as her prolific skill with characterization, dialogue and narration. Highly recommended.

BROKEN

2010-06-03T11:17:00.000-07:00

BROKEN
by Karin Slaughter
Random House/Bantam Dell
New York, New York
www.bantamdell.com
ISBN 9780385341974

Former coroner Sara Linton hasn’t visited her hometown in Grant County, Georgia since the death of her husband, Police Chief Jeffrey Tolliver. Almost four years later, she returns, planning to spend Thanksgiving with her family. Shortly thereafter, Tommy Braham, a mentally disabled young man, is arrested for the murder of Allison Spooner and asks that Sara, his former pediatrician, visit him. When Sara arrives at the jail, it appears Tommy has committed suicide. Sara, who blames the arresting officer, Lena Adams, for her husband’s death, immediately suspects Lena mishandled the interrogation and provided the young man the means to kill himself. After she calls in the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Special Agent Will Trent arrives in Grant County, where he is met with stubborn resistance from the police department. Sara is asked to perform autopsies on Tommy and Allison as Trent investigates both murders while trying to unravel the complexities of Lena’s involvement in Tommy’s murder, as well as that of Chief Tolliver.

Slaughter once more provides a tense thriller centered around Sara Linton. Although the character Jeffrey Tolliver is certainly missed, this book proves the series can move forward without his presence. Slaughter is adept at providing dark, complex characters and does not disappoint with this outing. Her revelations concerning the desperate measures hardworking, indigent people will resort to is insightful and empathetic.

THE COLD ROOM

2010-06-03T11:14:00.000-07:00

THE COLD ROOM
by J.T. Ellison
MIRA Books
225 Duncan Mill Road
Don Mills, Ontario M3B3K9
Canada
www.mirabooks.com
ISBN: 9780778327141

Due to restructuring of the Nashville Metro Police Department, homicide detective Taylor Jackson’s been demoted from her prior position of lieutenant. If that isn’t bad enough, she’s being pursued by a serial killer called the Pretender. Now another serial killer’s in Nashville, one who abducts young black women, starves them to death and, after performing necrophilia, poses them per scenes from famous paintings. It isn’t long before Jackson’s fiancé, FBI profiler Dr. John Baldwin, connects Jackson’s serial killer to one he’s been investigating in Europe named the Conductor. Jackson and Baldwin team up with Scotland Yard detective James “Memphis” Highsmythe, and the chase is on as the three try to determine if they’re dealing with only one killer or perhaps two. As the investigation proceeds, Jackson’s trying not to be distracted by the chemistry between her and Highsmythe, which is unexpected and confusing, and her superior’s strange actions, which are hampering her efforts to investigate her case.

This fourth installment of the Taylor Jackson series is as suspenseful and intriguing as the first. This psychological thriller is gritty and realistic and filled with intense action. The chemistry between Jackson and Highsmythe, although not expected, is nicely delivered. Jackson’s a great character, a woman who’s tough mentally and physically but a real softy on the inside. The colorful backdrop of Nashville is a bonus to readers, as is Ellison’s intelligent writing.

NOTHING TO LOSE

2010-06-03T11:13:00.000-07:00

NOTHING TO LOSE
by Lee Child
Batam Dell/Random House
New York, NY
www.randomhouse.com
ISBN: 9780385340564

Drifter Jack Reacher travels the country with the clothes on his back and a fold-up toothbrush and ATM card in his pocket. Reacher’s goal is to cross America diagonally, beginning in Calais, Maine and ending in San Diego, California. Taking buses and hitching when he has to, the trip proves uneventful until he leaves the small town of Hope, Colorado and walks to Despair, the next town over. Stopping in a diner for a cup of coffee, Reacher is refused service and ordered out of town by the cops. This gets Reacher’s back up and when he refuses to leave, he’s arrested as a vagrant, escorted out of town and told never to come back. On the way back to Hope, he stumbles over the body of a dead man and the ex military cop in Reacher suspects the man’s death has something to do with Despair. So, over the next few days, Reacher, with the aid of a female cop in Hope, investigates why Despair has a no-visitors policy, what’s going on with the town’s metal recycling plant with an impregnable fence, and why young men are disappearing.

In this 12th installment of the Jack Reacher series, there’s plenty of action as Reacher kicks butt in Despair, diligently and persistently trying to find out what the metal recycling plant is actually doing inside its secret compound and why a military base is guarding it. Reacher is absolutely one of the coolest characters written. He’s tough mentally and physically, a vigilante seeking justice for those who deserve it while doling out his own kind of two-fisted justice for those who need it.

THE FRIDAY NIGHT CLUB

2010-06-03T11:09:00.000-07:00

THE FRIDAY NIGHT CLUB
by Jacob Nelson Lurie
BookSurge
http://thefridaynightclub.com
ISBN: 9781439262474

Although Davis Robertson’s getting married in a few days, he finds his mind dwelling on past loves and friendships. As he hangs out with his best friends and groomsmen, Davis relives past experiences with these men, former college mates who formed The Friday Night Club, which was nothing more than a party club. Although Davis loves his fiancée, his thoughts keep turning to the one woman he never really had, a woman he’s always held in high regard but never pursued. He fears committing, fears an uncertain future, but tells himself it’s time to grow up and move forward. While partying with his friends, Davis vacillates from being certain he wants to marry to doubting his commitment to his fiancée.

This quasi-autobiography isn’t your typical bachelor’s last fling, although there are the quintessential drunken parties, humorous scenarios, assaults and ultimate arrest. Although couched as a coming-of-age story, The Friday Night Club goes beyond that, delivering poignant, profound insights into the struggling mindset of a young man as he passes into adulthood. Lurie skillfully pulls his reader into Davis’s angst, his at-times conflictual relationships with his Friday Night Club partners, his earnest yearning for something he thinks is unattainable. This intriguing book doesn’t limit itself to men; women will enjoy the read as much, if not more.

TELL ME ABOUT ORCHARD HOLLOW

2010-06-03T11:07:00.000-07:00

TELL ME ABOUT ORCHARD HOLLOW
by Lin Stepp
Canterbury House Publishing Ltd.
225 Ira Harmn Rd.
Vilas, NC 28692
www.canterburyhousepublishing.com
ISBN: 9780982539613

Jenna Howell grew up under the dominion of a controlling mother only to marry a man of the same mindset. Both her mother and husband are verbally abusive and make light of Jenna’s artistic talent, whittling away at Jenna’s self-confidence and enjoyment of life. Reality hits hard when Jenna catches her husband in the arms of another woman. Jenna decides to take a break from her marriage at the mountain cabin of a friend in the picturesque town of Townsend, TN. There, Jenna meets local artist Boyce Hart. Although the two are attracted to one another, Jenna is still married and feels she is too vulnerable to begin a relationship. Boyce becomes a good friend to Jenna and through his kindness, respect and deep faith shows her there can be a better life for her, if she is strong enough to leave her past behind.

Book two in Lin Stepp’s Smoky Mountain series is a sweet love story filled with engaging characters set against the beautiful background of the Smoky Mountains. Although the plot is not a new one, this inspiring story focuses on family values, deep faith and a woman’s journey of self-discovery as she begins to believe in her own worth while seeking to become a stronger person.

THE NAKED TRUTH ABOUT BOOK PUBLISHING

2010-05-03T09:36:00.000-07:00

THE NAKED TRUTH ABOUT BOOK PUBLISHING
by Linda Houle
Wisdom Trends
Spring, Texas
www.wisdomtrends.com
ISBN: 9781603188036 (Ebook)
ISBN: 9781603188029 (Print)
Who better to offer a guide to publishing than someone who, after extensively researching the field, has actually entered the fray? Linda Houle, co-owner of L&L Dreamspell Publishing Company, has written an informative, easy-to-understand handbook about book publishing and the choices available to authors. Respecting the direction a writer takes with regard to publishing their book lies with the writer, Houle presents the facts about the publishing industry and its evolving changes in a clear, concise manner without sugarcoating or denigration.

Houle explains the different publishing options now available to authors and clarifies diverse modes of publishing, such as offset printing; POD, or print-on-demand; and ebooks, or electronic books. Explaining the pros and cons with each one, she takes the reader on a publishing journey with a hypothetical author who uses each of the publishing methods, including traditionally published with a large press, traditionally published with a small or indie press, subsidy published, and self or author published.

A step-by-step checklist for authors who wish to self-publish print and/or ebooks is included. Tips on promoting are offered, as well as red flags to be aware of concerning publishers and agents who are not the real deal. She offers an informative Q&A section, glossary explaining publishing lingo, and extensive list of resources for authors at the end of the book.

Without a doubt, this highly recommended handbook should be a major resource for writers across the board, from those thinking about publishing to those who have established themselves as authors.

ALL THE PRETTY GIRLS

2010-05-03T09:34:00.001-07:00

ALL THE PRETTY GIRLS
by J.T. Ellison
MIRA Books
225 Duncan Mill Road
Don Mills, Ontario, Canada M3B 3K9
www.MIRABooks.com
ISBN: 9780778324430

Nashville Homicide Lieutenant Taylor Jackson is called to the scene of a homicide, where the body of a young woman, sans hands, has been discovered. When a hand is found near the crime scene, DNA proves it doesn’t belong to the murdered woman but to another woman, whose body was found in another state. This brings the FBI into play, via Taylor’s lover, profiler Dr. John Baldwin. The Southern Strangler, as the killer comes to be known, goes on a killing spree throughout the South, crossing state lines, leaving the bodies of young women behind, all missing their hands, but with another woman’s hand nearby. And his kills are escalating at a fast rate. Baldwin and Taylor team up to catch him although Taylor gets temporarily sidetracked pursuing a serial rapist named the Rainman while Baldwin travels in the killer’s footsteps. But soon the two are back together, hot on the heels of the killer.

Taylor Jackson is not your archetypical Southern Belle. A woman from a wealthy family, she chose the life of a cop over that of a privileged soccer mom. She’s well-educated, intelligent and tough mentally and physically, but her one weakness is Baldwin. The two are a winning combo and their personas complement one another. Peripheral characters are nicely developed, as is the chemistry between Taylor and Baldwin. The plot moves at a fast pace, with gut-wrenching suspense and plenty of action. Ellison’s smart writing places this one apart from other mystery series and is sure to garner a plethora of fans eager for the next book.

COLD WINTER NIGHTS

2010-05-03T09:33:00.000-07:00

COLD WINTER NIGHTS
A LAKE GEORGE MYSTERY
by Anne White
Hilliard and Harris
P.O. Box 275
Boonsboro, MD 21713
www.hilliardandharris.com
ISBN: 1591332982

Emerald Point, NY Mayor Loren Graham is looking forward to enjoying the holiday season with her fiancé and friends. The festivities have just begun when the body of well-respected nurse Denise McNaughton is found, beaten to death. Graham’s friend, Deputy Sheriff Jim Thompson, in charge of the investigation and aware of Loren’s propensity for amateur sleuthing, warns her to stay out of the case. Rumors are flying about McNaughton’s social life and Loren, fearing for her town’s safety, takes it upon herself to question those who knew McNaughton well. There are plenty of suspects, including a homeless vagrant and the ex-husband of Loren’s best friend, both of whom reach out to Loren for help in proving their innocence. It isn’t long before Loren’s efforts to help these men turn the killer’s eyes on her.

In this fifth installment of her Lake George Mystery series, White thrusts the reader into a thrilling whodunit, weaving into the story popular Lake George festivities, such as the New Year’s Day Polar Bear Plunge. Loren is an interesting character, a strong woman who feels protective of her town and job as mayor. Secondary characters continue to evolve and are heartwarming and entertaining. This cozy whodunit will prove a challenging read for those trying to solve the mystery for themselves.

TALES FROM THE PORCH

2010-05-03T09:29:00.000-07:00

TALES FROM THE PORCH
by Curtis R. Blanton
Illustrated by James C. Sellers
Porchtales
P.O. Box 811
Norris, TN 37828
www.porchtales.com
ISBN: 0978556003

Author Curtis Blanton has penned a humorous collection of “tall tales and short stories” about his childhood in the mountains of North Carolina. Utilizing realistic mountain vernacular, the book is filled with humorous stories and colorful characters surrounding events Blanton experienced growing up. This reviewer particularly enjoyed the stories about the formation of numerous churches due to warring congregants, the prank played on the owner of a virgin mule, frantic reaction to and cause of black snow, the wampuscat and “cats-purr fever”, along with a multitude of others. Blanton is a true storyteller and holds his readers’ interest regaling stories about the entertaining and endearing mountain folks he knew growing up, some of whom have names that are as colorful as the characters. Readers will also appreciate that Blanton maintains the dialect of the mountain people throughout, adding an extra dimension to some really good storytelling.

THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN

2010-05-03T09:27:00.000-07:00

THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN
by Garth Stein
Harper Collins Publishers
10 East 53rd Street
New York, NY 10022
www.harpercollins.com
ISBN: 9780061537936

Enzo loves nothing more than racing around a racetrack with his master, up-and-coming race car driver Denny Swift. Enzo has been with Denny since puppyhood and the two share a heartwarming relationship. Enzo is Denny’s best friend and confidante and Enzo dreams of one day returning to Earth as a human with hopes of meeting Denny in that form.

The book begins on the eve of Enzo’s death, and from that point backtracks to the life shared by a caring man and his dog. We read about the changes in their lives as Denny marries, has a daughter, loses his wife to an early death, then his daughter to her grandparents. We’re part of Denny’s angst and frustration as he determinedly tries to regain custody of his daughter, whom he lost due to unjust allegations. And through it all, his dog Enzo, by his side, grieving with him, rejoicing with him, ready to help his master any way he can. The plot moves like life: up and down, filled with intense pain and great happiness.

Enzo’s take on life is refreshing and insightful and the analogies he makes between life and race car driving are poignant and eye-opening. Be sure to keep plenty of tissues handy, because this is a book that, although heart-crushingly sad, is at the same time uplifting and touching.

ASHES OF THE RED HEIFER

2010-04-04T14:47:00.000-07:00

ASHES OF THE RED HEIFER
by Shannon Baker
L&L Dreamspell
Spring, TX
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603181600

Veterinarian Annie Grant grew up on a cattle ranch in Nebraska, working closely with her father, whose religiosity eventually caused a break in their relationship. Because of this, Annie shuns all forms of religion and has not spoken to her family for years. Working for a pharmaceutical company in Israel, she thinks she’s found the cure for a deadly bovine disease which has crossed over to humans. But before she can verify this, her lab is bombed and Annie, her best friend and lab partner Hassan, and her boss David (whom she is attracted to) are forced to flee to Jerusalem. In Jerusalem, Annie and Hassan are kidnapped by a Jewish corporation threatening Hassan’s life if she doesn’t find the cure for the virus and subsequently fulfill a Jewish prophecy by producing a perfect red heifer. Annie is caught between fanatics on all sides: the Jewish corporation willing to murder for the red heifer, the Muslim Silim who are intent on finding Annie before she can produce the red heifer, and her father, unwilling to help her or forgive her. She faces danger at every turn as she tries to find a way to save bovine and human populations without giving in to the wishes of the fanatics.

From the bombing at the beginning of the book to the last page, this action-packed thriller moves at a fast pace with suspense around every corner. Annie is an appealing character: a compassionate woman loyal to her friends who loves deeply yet is torn about her own beliefs. The grief she feels over the rift with her father is nicely and realistically portrayed. The author’s exceptional visuals draw the reader into a world of warring religions set in the desert sands of the Middle East. Action scenes, characterization, and plot excel in this debut thriller.

THE LIFE IN THE WOOD WITH JONI PIP

2010-04-04T14:42:00.001-07:00

THE LIFE IN THE WOOD WITH JONI-PIP
by Carrie King
Bothy Books
United Kingdom
ISBN: 9780955524646

Joni-Pip lived a pampered life with her family in Bath, England until the bombings of World War II forced them to escape to Knotty Knook, their cottage in Windy Woods on the outskirts of Sherwood Forest. On their journey there, Joni-Pip meets three young strangers who suddenly appear, briefly speak to her, and then disappear. Unaware they will play an important part in her life, Joni-Pip soon forgets about them. At Knotty Knook, Joni-Pip and her teddy bear Ethelred-Ted (who is much, much more than an ordinary teddy bear) play in the woods and visit her grandfather at his nearby cottage. But magical things happen in Sherwood Forest, and through what appears to be a tragic event, Joni-Pip begins a magical journey through time.

It’s hard to attribute any one genre to this wonderful book. It offers readers everything they could ask for: time-travel, action and adventure, suspense, mystery, science fiction, and bits of history. Carrie King’s poetic, imaginative prose delivers a delightful book for all readers, no matter the age. Her creative imagination, the gorgeous illustrations, and magical story are enthralling. Filled with enchanting characters (animal and human alike), humor, and a heartwarming tale involving friendship, family, and a quest for a better future, this first book in the Circles trilogy is sure to garner many fans. Readers (including this reviewer) will be anxious to read the next two books in the series.

Certainly, the literary field needs more writers like the talented Carrie King who takes her readers on a fascinating journey as she opens their minds to the extraordinary while delivering a very important message. Here’s hoping this fantastic book finds its place in libraries, classrooms, and children’s homes across the world.

THE ELEVENTH VICTIM

2010-04-04T14:38:00.000-07:00

THE ELEVENTH VICTIM
by Nancy Grace
Hyperion
114 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10011
ISBN: 9781401303457
www.harpercollins.com

Hailey Dean’s interest in psychology falters when her fiancée is murdered weeks before their wedding. From that point, Hailey, committed to seeking justice, obtains her law degree. As an assistant district attorney Atlanta, she becomes known for her success record and vigilance in seeing criminals fully prosecuted. But her final case, that of a serial killer who murders prostitutes, takes its toll. After the killer is sentenced to death, Hailey packs up her belongings and heads to New York City, where she begins her psychology practice in hopes of leaving her past behind. But two years later, two of her patients are murdered, similar to those in Atlanta, and the evidence points to Hailey, who must find the killer before she herself ends up on death row.

Grace’s fiction debut seems to be loosely based on herself, which is interesting, but at times reads like a first novel with awkward dialogue, overuse of exclamation points, and repetitions of the same words. Confusing to this reviewer are the two separate plots which are not related to one another and the way the author switches back and forth between the two. Each is viable enough to stand alone without sharing space in the same book. Hailey Dean is a very likable character and the mystery regarding her portion of the book intriguing, although inconsistencies (such as the fact that the serial killer’s conviction is reversed and no one seems to know about it) are distracting. Now that Dean has established herself as a mystery writer, it will be interesting to see what’s next.

LAST CALL

2010-04-04T14:36:00.000-07:00

LAST CALL
by James Grippando
Harper Collins
10 East 53rd Str.
New York, NY 10022
www.harpercollins.com
ISBN: 9780060831165

This installment of Grippando’s Jack Swytek series focuses on Jack’s best friend Theo Knight, a man Jack saved from death row. Theo owns his own bar and is on the verge of expanding his business when Isaac Reems, former gang member and an escaped convict, shows up asking for help. Theo isn’t so inclined but Reems’s bargaining chip is that he can reveal the identity of the person who killed Theo’s mother 20 years earlier. The FBI, hot on the trail of Reems, suspects Theo is helping the convict, and when Reems is murdered, their focus is on Theo. Jack and Theo suspect all is tied to his mother’s death but that road leads to danger.

This addition to the series is middle-of-the-road, better than some, not as good as others. Grippando brings back FBI agent Andie Henning, and although chemistry is hinted at between Andie and Jack, it’s just not there. Swytek seems off his game and Theo’s constant emotion is anger, although there is good cause. More is learned of Theo’s Uncle Cy, an interesting character.

THE WAY HOME

2010-04-04T14:31:00.001-07:00

THE WAY HOME
by George Pelecanos
Little, Brown and Company
237 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10017
www.hachettebookgroup.com
ISBN: 9780316156493

Although Thomas Flynn never attended college, he became a successful entrepreneur. All he wants for his son, Chris, is to see him go to college and succeed in life. But Chris has no interest in school and drifts toward a life of drugs and petty crime. Placed in a juvenile facility until 18, Chris takes a job with his father once he graduates high school. Although Flynn is disappointed in Chris and Chris resents his father’s plans for his future, the two learn to work together without conflict. Thomas begins to hope that Chris is maturing and leaving behind the past, but when one of Chris’s friends is murdered and Chris begins acting suspiciously, Flynn fears his son has slipped back into the past, to a place he can never leave behind.

The predominant theme is a character study of two men in a contentious relationship, one not uncommon to many fathers and sons. Through characters and plot, Pelecanos relays his own message concerning juvenile detention centers and rehabilitating young criminals. He adds suspense to the story with the murder of Chris’s friend and nicely develops a back story reflecting on Chris’s time in the juvenile facility, touching upon the injustices Chris endures in that center as well as his relationship with the other young boys facing the same fate.

WITHOUT HESITATION

2010-04-04T14:28:00.001-07:00

WITHOUT HESITATION,
THE RASNER EFFECT II
by Mark Rosendorf
L&L Dreamspell
Friendsville, TX
www.lldreamspell.com
ISBN: 9781603182126

In this sequel to The Rasner Effect, adolescent Clara Blue is back where she started, as a resident of a mental institution for children, where she, once more, is in constant conflict with the director. After the death of Rick Rasner, member of the Duke Organization and the one who helped Clara escape the psychiatric residence in book one, Clara longs for nothing more than her freedom. When Jennifer Duke appears, posing as a counselor, Clara reluctantly agrees to recruit young people for the Duke Organization, which Jen wants to revitalize. Jake Scarberry, the man responsible for the death of Rick Rasner and the breakup of the Duke Organization, is now living a normal life under the witness protection program. Jake enjoys his life and plans to never return to his former occupation as mercenary. But if Jennifer Duke has her way, Jake may be forced back into a life he wants to leave behind.

The only likable character in this series is Jake Scarberry, and that isn’t constant. However, the lack of likable characters works for this series. Clara Blue at times evokes empathy and one searches for redeeming qualities, but her propensity to kill without plan or intent is unsettling and places her more in the psychotic range than normal. Jennifer Duke, well-portrayed by the author, is evil personified among an array of maniacal, ominous characters, some supposedly on the side of good, others on the side of evil. Rosendorf nicely delivers a couple of unexpected twists which readers will not see coming. This intense, action-packed thriller packs quite a wallop and leaves the reader anxious for the next book.

THE IMPOSTER? HOW A JUVENILE CRIMINAL SUCCEEDED IN BUSINESS AND LIFE

2010-03-07T11:08:00.000-08:00

THE IMPOSTER?
HOW A JUVENILE CRIMINAL SUCCEEDED
IN BUSINESS AND LIFE
by Kip Kreiling
TransformationHelp Press
ISBN: 9780615320557

From an early age, Kip Kreiling stole from his family, set fires, was arrested, and ended up in juvenile detention centers. He spent time in group homes, street shelters and living with foster families and, between the ages of 11 and 26, moved 34 times among these facilities. By the time he was 16, he had been arrested 13 times and was a drug dealer and small-time crime operator. His mother was told by a counselor that Kip would most likely spend most of his life in prison and to let go of her son. So, how did Kip go from this traumatic, damaging lifestyle to obtaining a master’s degree in business and working for companies highly regarded in the business world? The author explains his eight principles of transformation in this insightful, moving book.

This isn’t your typical self-help book heaped with platitudes and banal statistics. The author uses his life story as an exemplar as he explains the principles he utilized to transform his life. His story is intriguing and the historical anecdotes he presents interesting and on-point as he takes his reader on his journey toward changing negative behavior to positive in an effort to lead a better, more productive life. His plan doesn’t limit itself to those dealing with addiction but reaches out to everyone. Even those who may feel their lives don’t need changing or improving will benefit from reading this book. Its positive format and didactic message are uplifting and eye-opening and truly inspiring.

Review of THE SCULPTOR by Gregory Funaro

2010-03-03T12:55:00.001-08:00

THE SCULPTOR
by Gregory Funaro
Pinnacle Books/Kensington
119 West 40th Street
New York, NY 10018
www.kensingtonbooks.com
ISBN 9780786022120

A hunt for a deranged killer begins when a replica of Michelangelo’s Bacchus, formed from human corpses, is discovered in a topiary garden. FBI Special Agent Sam Markham contacts art historian Cathy Hildebrant for two reasons: she published a book on Michelangelo’s work and the killer dedicated the sculpture to her. Hildebrant is brought into the investigation as a consultant, working closely with Markham. Both grieving the loss of their spouses - Hildebrant through divorce and Markham through death - are somewhat surprised at their attraction to one another. The media quickly learns of the macabre sculpture and dubs the killer The Michelangelo Killer. When another statue is discovered, this one a replica of the Pieta, the killer leaves a message calling himself The Sculptor. Through extensive research, Markham and Hildebrant begin uncovering clues as to The Sculptor’s identity. The killer, now seeing Hildebrant’s aid to the FBI as betrayal, begins to plan his next sculpture, one utilizing Hildebrant’s body.

Funaro delivers a galvanizing thriller, packed with suspense around a mystery readers will enjoy trying to solve. Woven into the story are intriguing historical facts about Michelangelo and his works of art which enrich the read. Characterization is exceptional and the plot moves at a fast pace and with such intensity the reader will be vested throughout the book. An excellent debut thriller.

Review of BAD TO THE BONE by Bo Hoefinger

2010-03-03T12:54:00.001-08:00

BAD TO THE BONE:
MEMOIR OF A REBEL DOGGIE BLOGGER
by Bo Hoefinger
Citadel Press/Kensington Publishing Corp.
www.kensingtonbooks.com
119 West 40th Street
New York, NY 10018
ISBN: 9780806531298

Bo Hoefinger is a 1’10”, 63-pound dog who claims to be a “mutt on the outside” but “a purebred on the inside.” Bo takes the reader on a delightful journey as he relays his life, beginning as a shelter dog who finds his forever home through a “revenge adoption”. We meet Bo’s feline sister Moose who suffers from constipation, canine sister Copper who passes gas when she walks, and Bo’s owners, a naïve young couple who don’t know what they’re in for when they adopt Bo. This dog blogger’s antidotes about his family and furry friends are heartwarming and filled with humor. Sprinkled throughout the book are Bo’s lists, including his favorite non-food smells (we can all guess what the first one will be), ten things he’s had in his mouth, and states he’s peed in. From the preface to the interview at the end, this dog biography is zany and so laugh-out-loud funny, the reader will be reluctant to put the book aside. Bad to the Bone is sure to be a favorite among animal lovers and those who enjoy a fun read or simply want (or need) a good laugh.

Important to note is that the book is dedicated to rescue and shelter workers and a portion of the proceeds is donated to help homeless dogs. Bravo!

MIND YOUR OWN WELLNESS by Alex Ong

2010-03-03T12:48:00.000-08:00

MIND YOUR OWN WELLNESS:
TURNING THOUGHTS INTO REALITY
by Alex Ong
OCL Publishing
P.O. Box 5618
Villa Park, IL 60181
ISBN: 9780980155662

Author Alex Ong incorporates the disciplines he learned in martial arts into his guide to naturally losing weight, improving health, having more energy, boosting confidence and reducing pain. He begins by relaying the dismaying statistics about America’s poor health, moving on to the worst foods and drinks Americans consume and how they negatively affect our bodies, physically and mentally. He stresses the difference between organic and processed foods and the damage processed foods can cause. He provides a Letter of Commitment for readers to sign and read twice a day. He discusses the power of positive thought; mental, physical and financial burdens of eating unhealthy; the role stress plays in our lives and ways to combat it; the importance of getting enough sleep and drinking enough water; and provides simple breathing and physical exercises to do. His color belt strategies (white, green, purple, red, and black) are simple and easy to follow as the reader progresses from eating mostly junk food to eating light and healthy.

The program Ong has devised is by far the best this reviewer has read simply because it’s basic, pragmatic, and very easy to follow. No superfluous data or advice is given, providing a guide book packed with essential information readers can use as they go about their daily lives. This is one book that should be in every home.

A KILLER'S KISS by William Lashner

2010-03-03T12:47:00.000-08:00

A KILLER’S KISS
by William Lashner
Harper Collins
10 East 53rd Street
New York, NY 10022
www.harpercollins.com
ISBN: 9780061143465

Although Philadelphia defense attorney Victor Carl’s fiancée left him for another man, the flame for her has never completely diminished. When she steps back into his life, claiming regret, Victor once more finds himself falling for a woman who never reveals much about herself. When her husband is murdered, the evidence initially points to Julia, but Victor becomes a person of interest because he was with Julia the night her husband was killed. It isn’t long before the case takes a serious turn as more evidence is garnered, with Victor now the primary suspect. Victor’s goal is to prove himself and Julia innocent, but his efforts are hampered by a Russian thug and his hit man, who want Victor to find the 1.7 million dollars Julia’s husband stole from them.

This seventh installment of the Victor Carl series is as entertaining and fun to read as the first. Victor Carl is a man of cynicism and wit, with a high sense of self-awareness as to his flaws, yet who is not invested in changing his, at times, unethical behaviors. Lashner inserts the usual cast of quirky characters in a plot that moves at a fast pace and is amusing throughout. This reviewer is disappointed to read this series is going on hiatus while Lashner pursues other writing endeavors. Hopefully, fans will see Victor Carl in print again soon.

RELENTLESS by Dean Koontz

2010-02-04T12:53:00.000-08:00

RELENTLESS
by Dean Koontz
Bantam Dell/Random House
New York, NY
www.bantamdell.com
ISBN: 9780553807141
$27.00

Bestselling author Cullen “Cubby” Greenwich, having survived a traumatic experience as a child, considers himself a lucky man. He’s married to the love of his life, has a six-year-old son who’s a genius, and a dog named Lassie Cubby suspects may have supernatural abilities. When Cubby’s latest novel is given a scorching review by acclaimed reviewer Shearman Waxx, everyone advises Cubby to let it go. But Cubby’s curious about the man whose review is filled with misstated facts about his book. Cubby manages to lunch where the reviewer has a reservation, and from that point on, finds himself and his family targeted by Waxx, inexplicably intent on ending their lives. After researching Waxx and learning other authors and their families have met torturous demise at the hands of Waxx and his minions, Cubby and his family flee from a demented sociopath who is relentless in his efforts to find them.

Koontz excels at providing exciting thrillers involving wholesome, very likeable characters pursued by evil. This book is reminiscent of Koontz’s earlier works, filled with breath-taking suspense and gripping scenes. Characterization is in-depth and revealing, and the plot fast-paced and intriguing.

SCARPETTA by Patricia Cornwell

2010-02-04T12:52:00.000-08:00

Scarpetta
by Patricia Cornwell
Berkley/Penguin
375 Hudson Street
New York New York 10014
www.penguingroup.com
ISBN: 978-0425230169
$27.95

This 16th installment of Cornwell’s series featuring forensic pathologist Kay Scarpetta finds Scarpetta living in Massachusetts with an apartment in New York, both shared with her husband, former FBI forensic profiler Benton Wesley. Scarpetta’s called to Bellevue, where Oscar Bane, a man suspected of killing his girlfriend, is being held. Bane insists he will talk to no one but Scarpetta and is adamant that he did not murder his girlfriend, although all evidence points to him. Bane also claims he is being stalked by the actual killer. As Scarpetta collects DNA from Bane and listens to his declarations, she suspects he is infatuated with her. But Scarpetta is limited by doctor-patient confidentiality and cannot relay to Benton or the police her conversation with or suspicions about Bane. Pete Marino, once Scarpetta’s right-hand investigator, now employed by the NYPD, is pulled into the investigation by the prosecutor, as is Scarpetta’s niece, Lucy, due to her computer expertise. Someone claiming to be Scarpetta had been corresponding with the deceased via email and Scarpetta is being attacked by an online gossip column, all of which tie into the murder, linked to others of a similar nature.

This series started strong, seemed to lag, and is, with this installment, on its way back. The reason: Scarpetta, Wesley, Marino and Lucy are together again, using their unique talents and collective intelligence in investigating cases that are twisting and complex. Although the revelation of the killer is unexpected, there are loose ends left dangling as to his ability to move around so easily without being detected and his motivation as to Scarpetta. However, this is a very good read, and this reviewer is happy to see the old crowd back together.

FINGER LICKIN' FIFTEEN by Janet Evanovich

2010-02-04T12:51:00.002-08:00

FINGER LICKIN’ FIFTEEN
by Janet Evanovich
St. Martin’s Press
175 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10010
www.stmartins.com
ISBN: 9780312383282
$27.95

Bounty hunter Stephanie Plum’s back for another wacky adventure in this 15th outing of the Plum series. Former hooker, now file clerk, bounty hunter wannabe Lula witnesses the decapitation of celebrity chef Stanley Chipotle and insists the only cop she’ll talk to is Joe Morelli, Stephanie’s on-again, off-again boyfriend. (At this point, they’re off-again.) Stephanie’s working part-time for the mysterious Ranger, trying to figure out how someone is accessing his clients’ alarm systems long enough to disarm them and burglarize. She’s also tracking felons for her cousin Vinnie but proves as inept as usual in this regard. Morelli figures the murder was a professional hit, but the killers have now targeted Lula, who manages to evade them, leaving blown up cars and buildings behind. When a million dollar reward is offered for the killers, Lula persuades Stephanie and her Grandma Mazur to help find them and split the reward.

With each book, Evanovich delivers humor, a zany plot, and outside-the-box characters. The teasing, triangular relationship between Stephanie, Morelli and Ranger continues with no end in sight. Characters are familiar and entrenched in personas and situations that do not change, although remain fun to read.

FACES OF FEAR by John Saul

2010-02-04T12:51:00.001-08:00

FACES OF FEAR
by John Saul
Ballantine Books/Random House
New York, NY
ISBN: 9780345487056
www.ballantinebooks.com
$26.00

15-year-old Alison Shaw enjoys her middle-class life with her parents, a real estate agent and a TV production manager. However, her world is turned upside down when her parents’ marriage dissolves after her father reveals he is gay. Alison’s mother marries acclaimed plastic surgeon Conrad Dunn, whose wife committed suicide after a boating accident left her perfect (albeit surgery-enhanced) face permanently scarred. Alison moves with her mother to Dunn’s mansion and has trouble adjusting to an affluent lifestyle with friends who think nothing of paying thousands of dollars for clothes and indulging in plastic surgery to fix perceived flaws. Meanwhile, a demented murderer named the Frankenstein Killer is harvesting parts of women’s faces, as well as their adrenal and thymus glands, leaving behind mutilated corpses. As the killer picks up the pace, Alison and her mother are peripherally aware of the frantic search by the police, although unaware that Alison may be the motive behind the killings.

Faces of Fear, Saul’s 35th novel, has mystery, suspense, characters wholesome and likable and those adroitly portrayed as evil and maniacal. Although slow to start, the book does pick up speed, yet savvy readers will figure out the mystery well before it is revealed.

DEAD ON ARRIVAL by Jackie Griffey

2010-02-04T12:50:00.000-08:00

DEAD ON ARRIVAL
by Jackie Griffey
Five Star Publishing
295 Kennedy Memorial Drive
Waterville, ME 04901
ISBN: 9781594148460

Maggie Murphy finds herself adrift after her husband dies in a motorcycle accident. Their finances weren’t in the best of shape and Maggie needs to find a job. Maggie’s offered temporary employment at her cousin Hank’s newspaper, replacing an advice columnist who hasn’t shown up for work in a couple of days, and she takes it, hoping to find a real job in the interim. When Maggie discovers the columnist’s dead body behind the office dumpster, she meets Patrolman Joe Driver, who agrees to provide Maggie the police report of her husband’s death. Hank offers Maggie the columnist job full-time and things are looking up for her financially and personally as her relationship with Joe begins to blossom. After Maggie learns her husband may have been drugged before his accident, she begins receiving mysterious phone calls and her former house is bombed. As their relationship moves forward, Maggie and Joe sort out clues as to the deaths of her husband and the newspaper columnist, unaware her husband’s spirit is hanging around, looking out for Maggie, who is in more danger than she and Joe realize.

Griffey provides her readers with a fun romp in book one of her Joe and Maggie Mystery series. This cozy mystery is filled with humor and suspense enmeshed within a plot peppered with suspicious characters and plenty of twists and turns. Characters are warm and engaging and the plot interesting and fresh and viable.

BACK AGAIN TO ME by Gretchen Hirsch

2009-11-03T12:26:00.000-08:00

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.

DEATH WILL HELP YOU LEAVE HIM by Elizabeth Zelvin

2009-11-03T12:24:00.000-08:00

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.

DOG ON IN by Spencer Quinn

2009-11-03T12:21:00.000-08:00

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.

FIRST DEGREE by David Rosenfelt

2009-11-03T12:19:00.001-08:00

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.

PLUM SPOOKY by Janet Evanovich

2009-11-03T12:16:00.000-08:00

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.

THE SCARECROW by Michael Connelly

2009-11-03T12:15:00.000-08:00

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.

LIFE SENTENCES by Laura Lippman

2009-11-03T12:11:00.000-08:00

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.

LONESOME POINT by Ian Vasquez

2009-10-05T09:13:00.000-07:00

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.

206 BONES by Kathy Reichs

2009-10-05T09:09:00.000-07:00

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.

PROMISES IN DEATH by J.D. Robb

2009-10-05T09:08:00.000-07:00

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.

TERMINAL FREEZE by Lincoln Child

2009-10-05T09:04:00.000-07:00

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.

THE LIFE PLAN by Sybil Baker

2009-10-05T09:02:00.001-07:00

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.

THE SOLDIER'S RIDE

2009-10-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

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.

REVENGE OF THE SPELLMANS by Lisa Lutz

2009-09-07T12:50:00.000-07:00

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.

THE EMPTY CHAIR by Jeffery Deaver

2009-09-07T12:49:00.000-07:00

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.

THE KEEPSAKE by Tess Gerritsen

2009-09-07T12:48:00.001-07:00

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.

THE SLEEPING DOLL by Jeffery Deaver

2009-09-07T12:46:00.000-07:00

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.

THE TALL WOMAN by Wilma Dykeman

2009-09-07T12:45:00.000-07:00

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.

BLOOD GAME by Iris Johansen

2009-09-07T12:44:00.000-07:00

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.

THE WRONG SIDE OF MEMPHIS

2009-08-03T13:57:00.000-07:00

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.

THE RESQUETH REVOLUTION

2009-08-03T13:54:00.000-07:00

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.

YOUR ONE AND ONLY

2009-08-03T13:41:00.000-07:00

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.

LESS DEAD

2009-08-03T13:37:00.001-07:00

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.

HELL SWAMP

2009-08-03T13:31:00.000-07:00

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.

A LITTLE MURDER

2009-08-03T13:25:00.000-07:00

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.

LIFE IS ONE BIG TO DO LIST

2009-08-03T12:14:00.000-07:00

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.

THE COFFIN DANCER by Jeffery Deaver

2009-07-03T12:55:00.000-07:00

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.

MIA'S GIFT by Victoria and Craig Weeden

2009-07-03T12:53:00.000-07:00

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.

A CORPSE IN THE SOUP by Morgan St. James and Phyllice Bradner

2009-07-03T12:49:00.001-07:00

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.

DEAD WRECKONING by Sylvia Dickey Smith

2009-07-03T12:47:00.001-07:00

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.

THE FOSTER GIRLS by Lin Stepp

2009-07-03T12:46:00.001-07:00

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.

A STILL POINT IN TIME by Marsha Briscoe

2009-06-03T13:22:00.002-07:00

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.

BEYOND REACH by Karin Slaughter

2009-06-03T13:22:00.001-07:00

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.

ODD HOURS by Dean Koontz

2009-06-03T13:21:00.001-07:00

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.

ROAD DOGS by Elmore Leonard

2009-06-03T13:20:00.000-07:00

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.

THREE'S THE CHARM by Ellen Dye

2009-06-03T13:19:00.000-07:00

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”.

TIMELESS MIST by Terisa Wilcox

2009-06-03T13:18:00.000-07:00

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.

RUNNING FROM THE DEVIL by Jamie Freveletti

2009-05-02T10:23:00.001-07:00

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.

BLUEPRINT FOR LOVE by Monya Clayton

2009-05-02T10:19:00.000-07:00

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.

BUTCHERS HILL by Laura Lippman

2009-05-02T10:16:00.000-07:00

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.

DEATH BY PANTYHOSE by Laura Levine

2009-05-02T10:12:00.000-07:00

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.