Game of Desire by Sharon Ibbotson is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
A splendid historical romance!!
Felicity Fox, aka, 'The Queen of Diamonds', treads Game of Desire by Sharon Ibbotson is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
A splendid historical romance!!
Felicity Fox, aka, 'The Queen of Diamonds', treads where no other lady would dare- in ‘Gambling Hells’.
Not only that, she usually comes out the winner, beating any man who dares to challenge her.
However, Edward, Earl of Addington, is not impressed with Miss Fox. Not only does he despise gambling, he caught her red handed, trying to con his father out of a diamond heirloom.
Yet, the necklace in question has been lost and he needs Felicity’s help in recovering it. Felicity makes a pact with Edward, agreeing to help him with his quest, but by gambling with her heart, she's entered into the most dangerous high stakes game she’s ever played…
I haven’t read a historical romance in a long while and was in the right mood for one. I enjoyed Sharon Ibbotson’s debut novel so much, I decided to give her second book a try. I must say, there are no sophomore jitters here!! The only small hitch was a slight loss of momentum just over the halfway point, however, the pacing rebounded nicely.
Other than that, this is a well-balanced romance, with a little action, adventure, and suspense added in for good measure. It’s been a while since I’ve read a historical romance with a good vixen, and sharp dialogue between two female characters. I love a good cat fight! The characters are well-drawn, with plenty of room for development. Felicity is torn between two the only two options for women- either to be owned or to be bought. She fights to retain her hard -won independence, requiring Edward to rethink the options he’s given her. The mild feminist tone is subtle, and is still in keeping with the time frame of the story, while remaining true to Felicity’s character and unique circumstances.
Once more, I appreciated the darker tones in this one, a much welcome reprieve from marriage marts, and silly, whiny, and pampered dukes and earls. In other words, the story has depth and emotion, on top of being a fun and entertaining read.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story, and now, more than ever, I think Sharon Ibbotson is an author to keep an eye on!
The Instant pot is THE hot kitchen tool right now. I don't have an official Instant Pot. I have a standard pressure cooker. However, for the record, tThe Instant pot is THE hot kitchen tool right now. I don't have an official Instant Pot. I have a standard pressure cooker. However, for the record, these recipes can be made in both, but you may want to check with the model you own for specifications. I avoid rice dishes in my Pressure Cooker, but everything else is a go.
That said, this Indian cookbook is a compilation of recipes specifically for the Instant Pot. However, there is also plenty of helpful information included for anyone just starting out with Indian cooking or are new to cooking with an Instant Pot.
A wide array of dishes, spices, and sauces are featured, including snacks, casseroles, legumes and beans, soups, vegetables, desserts and drinks. The directions are easy to follow, estimating prep. time and the amount yielded. There is also an index to help one locate specific recipes quickly. The photos are colorful and will leave your mouth watering! For me, the section on bean and legumes was especially of interest because of how quickly the instant pot cooks them, and the new and tasty ways I found to enjoy them. The vegetarian dishes are plentiful as well, and the egg dishes look very intriguing. I hope to try a few of them soon!
Overall, this is an informative cookbook for those who have an instant pot or plan to purchase one. My husband is a huge fan of pressure cookers and Instant pots, and because we are learning to cook Indian foods, this is a cookbook I am sure we will reference often. However, I think this cookbook would come in handy even if you are a little wary of instant pots. I don’t think it would be too hard to adapt these recipes to cook in more traditional ways.
Waiting for Tom Hanks by Kerry Winfrey is a 2019 Berkley publication.
An adorable ode to classic Rom-Coms!
I am pleased to see this book was so well rWaiting for Tom Hanks by Kerry Winfrey is a 2019 Berkley publication.
An adorable ode to classic Rom-Coms!
I am pleased to see this book was so well received! Rom-Coms were considered circumspect back in their prime, but after a while they became the 'Barry Manilow' of movies, eliciting all manner of hand waving and eye rolls from the super intelligent, who are too smart to indulge in something so sentimental and sweet, playing the tired old 'unrealistic' card. Blah, Blah, Blah! I don't care! I loved those movies!!
I’m so happy to see people are looking back on those wonderful ‘feel good’ movies with fond nostalgia these days and are maybe beginning to relax and realize that a little light gentle fun won’t hurt you- in fact it’s good for the soul!!
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That said, I must, with great chagrin, admit that at times this book was a bit too silly, even for me. The author did do an amazing job of recreating the 1990s Rom-Com format and atmosphere, which also means it was occasionally corny.
The characters are zany, quirky, and downright weird at times, but they are also funny and sweet. The story is predictable, of course, but that's part of its charm.
We find comfort and escape with these stories. They lift our spirits, restore hope, and leave us enveloped in a warm fuzzy glow, but most importantly, they make us smile.
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This book pays tributes to all the great classics- not just ‘Sleepless in Seattle’ or ‘You’ve Got Mail’. I was happy to see the author mention, “While You Were Sleeping’ (Bill Pullman!!!!!) which is my all -time favorite, although ‘When Harry Met Sally’ is a pretty close second- but of course- even stuffy snobs love Tom Hanks!
Overall, this story is super light and easy, very fun and…. It made me smile!
Never Go Back by Kinuko Nakayama (Illustrator), Anne Weale is a 2018 Harlequin/ SB Creative publication.
Nine years ago, Olivia, only nineteen, and heNever Go Back by Kinuko Nakayama (Illustrator), Anne Weale is a 2018 Harlequin/ SB Creative publication.
Nine years ago, Olivia, only nineteen, and her grandfather were forced to leave the mansion where she had grown up after the owner passed away.
Now, as an interior designer, she has been commissioned to renovate the mansion, a lucrative project to be sure. But if she accepts the offer, she will also face Ludwig, the man who inherited the mansion, and forced her out, and in her mind, is responsible for her grandfather’s death. However, the job is simply too good to pass up, not just for the money, but for the opportunity for revenge. Ludwig didn’t seem to remember Olivia, or the dramatic scene she displayed nine years ago, or does he? The more time Olivia spends with Ludwig, the harder it is to remember her vendetta against him. Will Olivia exact her revenge or will succumb to Ludwig’s charms instead?
Out of curiosity, I looked up the original version of this book, written by Anne Weale and published by Harlequin back in 1995. The Goodreads reviews for that book are not good. However, this updated version is okay, although a bit too hurried.
It is a little rushed and the chemistry between Olivia and Ludwig, which should have featured some interesting fireworks, fizzles instead of sizzles and the story overall is a bit bland. But I did like the Olivia’s transformation, and the little twist that put things into a new perspective. Ludwig (that name!!), is a real charmer, and despite being suspicious of him, I grew to like him as much as Olivia did.
Naturally, the artwork is the centerpiece of these reprised stories and although I’ve never been disappointed in the graphics from SB Creative Manga Comics, the work here is a grade above what I’ve encountered previously.
Overall, the story is okay- I give it 3 stars, but the artwork is exceptional and gets a 4.5.
Her Favorite Maverick by Christine Rimmer is a 2019 Harlequin Special Edition publication.
As the story opens, Liv and Caroline- wedding planners in RHer Favorite Maverick by Christine Rimmer is a 2019 Harlequin Special Edition publication.
As the story opens, Liv and Caroline- wedding planners in Rust Creek Falls, Montana- are experiencing a few financial woes. They’ve asked their friend and accountant, Sarah Turner, to have a look at their books.
Just as Sarah is about to deliver the bad news about the state of the ladies’ bank account, Max Crawford all but barges in, announcing he wants Viv and Caroline to find brides for his six sons- and he’s willing to pay them a million dollars for their trouble. While the ladies are flabbergasted by Max’s proposal, their reaction is mild compared to Logan Crawford’s when he overhears his father’s plans.
But, then Logan locks eyes with Sarah, and an instant spark passes between them. However, Sarah is sure that Logan’s interest will cool off immediately once he learns she is a single mom. But, after only a moment of hesitation to digest that bit of news, he never slows down his pursuit.
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Sarah is finally making peace with the way her life turned out. Her big city plans fell through, and after two failed relationships, she returned to her hometown, to raise her daughter- alone. She’s sworn off men and dating, probably for good, thank you very much. But the edges of her hard -earned stability are beginning to fray.
Her quiet and stoic parents are acting like hormonal teenagers, and Logan, who has a history of short-term relationships, is determined to worm his way into her heart, breaking down all her defenses. To further complicate matters, Max, who should be over the moon about Logan’s attraction to Sarah, is trying to interfere in the budding romance, but not in a good way. Can Logan convince Sarah to take a chance on love or will her fears overrule her heart?
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This is the first book is a six -part arc in the Montana Mavericks series. I love the ‘six brides for six brothers’ theme, too! This first installment has set the stage for what promises to be a fabulous mini-series.
The main theme in this story is one of trust and overcoming one’s fears. If Logan wasn’t already a super sexy cowboy, his interactions with Sarah’s daughter make him doubly so. His character growth is almost organic. His heart and mind sync up at the same time. He knew Sarah was ‘the one’ because the prospect of spending his life with her makes him feel happy, not scared, like it would have earlier in his life.
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Our Sarah, on the other hand, needs to do a little work on herself, first. Although, Logan wasn’t afraid, Sarah had enough fear in her heart for the both of them. Sarah’s ‘ A lonely heart is better than a broken heart’ attitude may cause her to miss out on the great love of her life. But she will have to find the inner strength to fight her fears so she can finally have her much deserved HEA!! Can she do it? Will she do it?
Rounding out the emotional depth in the story is the relationship between Sarah and her parents. The situation explains a lot about why Sarah is the way she is. It’s a sad story, but one with a happy ending.
However…
What is Max’s problem anyway?
If you love contemporary romance featuring complex relationships, cute kitties, adorable kids, and hot cowboys, you will want to get in on the ground floor of this serial subset. If this first installment is any indication, it’s going to be a good one!!
The Great Pretenders by Laura Kalpakian is a 2019 Berkley publication.
As the heir to Empire Pictures, Roxanne only need play by the rules and her lifThe Great Pretenders by Laura Kalpakian is a 2019 Berkley publication.
As the heir to Empire Pictures, Roxanne only need play by the rules and her life of privilege and glamour would go on as usual. But, when her grandfather demands she accept the young Hollywood starlet he’s married, she refuses. Now, for the first time, she’s on her own, determined to make it as an agent for screenwriters. However, in 1950s Hollywood this is a job few women hold, and Roxanne isn’t taken very seriously.
To complicate matters, many talented screenwriters have been blacklisted due to the ‘red scare’. Although, Roxanne carves out a niche by finding a way to help these writers, it’s a bold and dicey deception.
But when she meets African- American journalist Terrence Dexter, she takes an even bigger risk, by falling in love with him.
Everything thing Roxanne is involved in, every decision she makes could put her in terrible jeopardy.
But this spoiled little rich girl rises to the occasion, refusing to sacrifice her convictions.
She fights for her unconventional career with one fist and for the love of her life with the other.
However, society may never accept her in either role…
Roxanne is my kind of gal! I loved her right from the beginning and took great pleasure in watching her blossom into a strong, ground- breaking heroine. The old Hollywood setting is always a draw for me, but this time the glamour is not the focus of the story. The dark side of 1950s Hollywood is on display, as is the racism and fear in the decade we often look back on with fond nostalgia. This novel reminds us of the tension and segregation of the era, which was fraught with many uncertainties and taboos.
We need more spirited, strong willed women like Roxanne. She’s passionate and full of life, occasionally naïve, but also fierce in her determination. Many people talk a big game, but when met with the consequences of their decisions, they lack the courage of their convictions. But, not Roxanne. She talked the talk and walked the walked.
Roxanne may no longer be the darling princess of Hollywood, but what she gains is worth more than fame, glory or anything that money could buy.
Overall, this is a fast -paced piece of historical fiction, full of intrigue and well-drawn characterizations, with many nice historical details added in, giving it another layer of authenticity.
Naturally, I enjoyed the love story best of all, but I also loved the way Roxanne carved out a niche for herself in a climate unaccustomed to career driven women. Roxanne was a true trailblazer, well ahead of her time.
This story also carries a strong cautionary message for the present day, as we continue to battle the same demons now, more than ever, as we did back in the fifties.
Roxanne is a true inspiration, and her story is one we can all learn something from.
Monster, She Wrote: The Women Who Pioneered Horror and Speculative Fiction by Lisa Kroger is a 2019 Quirk Books publication.
Just in time for HalloweeMonster, She Wrote: The Women Who Pioneered Horror and Speculative Fiction by Lisa Kroger is a 2019 Quirk Books publication.
Just in time for Halloween, Monster, She Wrote, will give you a host of books to add to your Fall/Winter reading list!
This book is also a tribute of sorts and is a reminder of the major contributions that women have made to the horror, Gothic, and science fiction categories. These pioneers of horror fiction were trailblazers, creating some of the most thought-provoking and spine-tingling literature ever written, and influencing many authors in the future.
Personally, as a big fan of Gothic literature, I was familiar with many of the names listed in the book- at least half of them, but some background information and biographical details were new to me. The author also provided a recommended reading list along with each author profiled, which gave me plenty of new authors and books to try. Some of these authors are lesser known, but have an impressive body of work to explore.
Elizabeth Gaskell
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I’m grateful to Lisa Kroger for giving these writers the long overdue credit they deserve, and for reminding me of authors and books I had forgotten about.
There is plenty of history introduced in this book, as well as many interesting stories about the featured writers, and of course, this is also a ‘book about books’ and who can pass that up?
Amelia Edwards (Precursor to Barbara Michaels/ Elizabeth Peters)
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The book is well organized, well researched, with a terrific presentation that made it easy to follow, and held my interest, while avoiding pointless minutiae. I fully intend to hunt down the books on the recommended reading list- especially the Gothics! - And I will use this book as a reference in the future.
Vernon Lee
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There is a little something in this book for everyone- no matter what horror sub-genre you prefer. Not only that, it is informative, entertaining, and even inspirational, serving as a reminder that we owe these great writers a debt of gratitude. They have helped pave the way for female writers today who must bravely compete in a mostly male dominated genre and, with a few notable exceptions, still struggle for the same respect.
Anne Rice
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So, now that I’m inspired to tap into more horror novels written by women- tell me who some of your favorite female horror writers or your favorite horror novel written by a woman.
Sense & Sensibility – Manga Classics- by Jane Austen and Stacy King- is a 2016 UDON entertainment publication.
Sense & Sensibility is Jane Austen’s fiSense & Sensibility – Manga Classics- by Jane Austen and Stacy King- is a 2016 UDON entertainment publication.
Sense & Sensibility is Jane Austen’s first novel, written anonymously. The tale primarily evolves around two sisters, Marianne and Elinor Dagwood, one of which is dreamy eyed, insisting on holding out for a man with charisma, while Elinor takes a more sensible approach.
Although the sisters meet and fall in love with men matching their personas, both will experience disappointment and heartbreak. Will they ever find true love?
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When I first began familiarizing myself with Manga, I discovered many classic novels have been converted into the Manga format. At first, I was a bit skeptical, however, once I tried a couple of these Manga Classics, I realized what a great idea this was. The authors and artists are highly respectful to the original, while breathing new life into these timeless classics.
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For those who are fans of the classics, this is a great way to revisit them. The artwork is always fantastic, and it is fun to see these characters visualized in such a way. If you have never read these classic stories, the Manga version is a gentle, and entertaining way to introduce oneself with the beloved stories that have endured for so long.
The story itself is a classic romance, full of high drama, twists and angst. Good sense wins out in the end, as does true love.
This delightful story is condensed down a bit in this format, but the author did a terrific job with what couldn’t have been an easy task. Overall, this is a great way to touch base with your favorite classics in less time, while enjoying the amazing visuals that accompany the story.
Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows by Balli Kaur Jaswal is a 2017 William Morrow publication.
A bold, unforgettable story!
No, the title is not misleaErotic Stories for Punjabi Widows by Balli Kaur Jaswal is a 2017 William Morrow publication.
A bold, unforgettable story!
No, the title is not misleading. This book does contain erotic stories. But, trust me, this story has much more depth and importance than the title might suggest.
Nikki lives in London, is a modern girl, rebelling against her traditional Punjabi upbringing, which brings sorrow to her family who had such high hopes for her. However, until she finds her true calling, she is living above a pub and tending bar.
On the other hand, Nikki’s sister, Mindi, has decided to take a more traditional path, looking for a marriage arrangement instead of waiting to fall in love. Nikki vehemently dislikes her sister’s choice but agrees to pin Mindi’s profile up on the Temple’s board.
Here she notices a want ad searching for a writing teacher. Nikki applies and is hired to teach a creative writing course. However, she quickly discovers her class is full of widows who are mostly illiterate. Before they can write stories, they must learn to spell and write the alphabet, starting from scratch. Nikki is irritated because she felt misled. But, before she can make headway with her pupils, the widows take over the class by verbally telling erotic stories, as opposed to writing them.
However, the nature of the class must be kept a closely guarded secret. If Kulwinder Kaur, the dour community director, or worse, ‘The Brothers’, a group of bullies enforcing morality, finds out, they will all suffer dire consequences.
As time passes, and Nikki forges a warm bond with her students, she also begins dating someone. However, her new love interest seems to have a few conflicts of interest he isn’t keen on sharing with Nikki. Meanwhile, Nikki has discovered Kulwinder Kaur lost her daughter, Maya, piquing her curiosity. But, by dredging up the details of Maya’s death, Nikki could meet the same fate…
I loved this story!! It is mysterious, with a sinister undertone, but primarily it is charming, funny, and romantic, plus it blends cultures, diversity and generations with a nice feminist slant.
There is a large cast of characters, along with several threads to follow. However, on this one rare occasion, I had absolutely no problem keeping up with who was who. The threads are super easy to follow and so unique, there was no way to get them confused.
The story blazes through conventions with rousing and inspirational aplomb and had me standing at the finishing line cheering on all the characters as they crossed over into the land of happy endings.
I wish I had been able to fit this book into my reading schedule long before now.
It would be easy to presume this book would mostly appeal to the ladies, but I recommend this book to everyone - well, everyone over the age of eighteen, that is.
The Whisper Man by Alex North is a 2019 Celadon Books publication.
Unsettling, spine-tingling, and emotionally charged thriller!
After the untimely deThe Whisper Man by Alex North is a 2019 Celadon Books publication.
Unsettling, spine-tingling, and emotionally charged thriller!
After the untimely death of his wife, Tom Kennedy feels like a fresh start in a new location, might help him and his young son, Jake, move forward from their grief and begin the healing process. But almost immediately after moving to Featherbank, a new set of problems presents themselves. Jake has trouble adjusting to his new school, just as another boy Jake’s age goes missing. The child’s disappearance prompts concerns that another serial killer is on the loose in Featherbank- one with the same MO as the dreaded ‘Whisper Man’ who murdered five people twenty years ago. The case becomes personal for Tom and Jake when Jake begins having nightmares, claiming he can hear someone whispering to him at his window….
Meanwhile, detectives Amanda Beck and Pete Willis are working overtime to find this missing boy before another child disappears…
I’ve been avoiding hyped up thrillers, books that everyone is reading, and mostly gushing over, because my experience with these situations has taught me a few hard lessons- mainly, don’t buy into the hype, because I’m only setting myself up for a big disappointment. But, earlier this year, another book by this same publisher became a huge sleeper hit, and although I was highly skeptical, I caved and checked the book out the library. Well, much to my surprise, the book was very good. So, when ‘The Whisper Man’ started to generate a little buzz, I decided to jump on board the already crowded train, just see if lightning might strike twice… And lo and behold, it did!!
But, to be honest, when one gets right down to the nitty and the gritty, this book is basically another thriller with a serial killer trope. However, what sets it apart from so many other cookie-cutter novels in this category, is the characterizations, and the author’s ability to explore the real psychology behind the character’s actions, without compromising the intensity of the real terror one feels while reading this book. The story is packed with strange, creepy, atmospheric vibes, promising Tom and Jake are being threatened by true evil.
While the mystery is compelling, and the atmosphere is thick and heavy, the author takes a story of horror and dread, and adds in a deeper, more complex angle- a topic that isn’t explored often enough in general fiction, much less in a thriller- the dynamics of the father-son relationship.
The story is very masculine, with the few female characters being suspect, bland, or not very nice-like Jake’s teacher, for example. I never bristled though, because the male leads are portrayed as flawed, burdened, troubled, and vulnerable, and the book never once veered off into an alpha male, testosterone driven story.
From start to finish this is a well written, intense, highly suspenseful thriller- but it is also smart and profound, ending not only with extreme, exhilarating relief, as I released a breath I didn't realize I was holding- ...more
The Vanished Bride by Bella Ellis is a 2019 Berkley publication.
The Bronte sisters as amateur sleuths? Yes, please!
I have read a few mystery novels The Vanished Bride by Bella Ellis is a 2019 Berkley publication.
The Bronte sisters as amateur sleuths? Yes, please!
I have read a few mystery novels featuring real life persons as detectives, but with mixed results.
This is the first one I’ve encountered in which the three Bronte sisters work together to solve a mystery, and I must admit I was immediately intrigued by the all the possibilities- although, I was also cautiously optimistic.
However, the author did a stellar job of breathing life into these legendary authors, creating their distinct personalities, and giving readers a few clues as to why they were inspired to write the types of stories they eventually became famous for.
In this first installment of what promises to be a solid cozy mystery series, the ladies are pulled into a most puzzling case in which a young wife vanishes, leaving behind a bloody, gruesome scene, and two small children without a mother. Charlotte, Emily and Anne are horrified, but also titillated, deciding they should get to the bottom of the mystery themselves.
However, they soon learn that many feel female detectors are unladylike and that the women should not be out roaming the countryside alone, scouring for clues. However, that may be the least of their concerns, as their probing into the missing persons case could put them in grave danger.
I am quite impressed with this debut novel! The author has obviously studied the real- life counterparts of her main characters. Readers get a delightful and realistic depiction of their personalities before they became famous authors. The banter between the sisters is crisp and sharp, while the mystery is very well constructed and executed.
The story is atmospheric, occasionally creepy, and is an absorbing whodunit that kept me interested and guessing from start to finish. I loved it!! My kind of story all the way!!
I am very much looking forward to the second book in this series!...more
Brody’s Ghost by Vol.1 By Mark Crilley is a 2010 Dark Horse Originals publication.
This is another gem in the comic/graphic novel realm I stumbled acrBrody’s Ghost by Vol.1 By Mark Crilley is a 2010 Dark Horse Originals publication.
This is another gem in the comic/graphic novel realm I stumbled across, thanks to the Houston public library. (You can enjoy the novel on your Kindle or right from your computer browser without Adobe digital Editions!)
This first volume introduces us to Brody, a heartbroken guy pining over the loss of his girlfriend several months back. He’s pretty much let himself go. He’s out of shape, grew his hair long, and works odd jobs, and plays his guitar for tips.
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But his life takes a very weird turn when he is approached by the teenage ghost, named Talia. Talia has searched for someone who can help her solve a major crime so she can finally get into heaven. Because Brody can see her, she thinks she’s finally found her guy. But- Brody lacks some key psychic abilities prompting Talia to put him in training.
This graphic novel, illustrated in black and white, is going to be a great series, I can tell. The artwork fits the gritty city and the mood of the characters. The characters are drawn with fantastic expressions capturing their emotions perfectly.
I understand why this graphic novel has such high ratings and glowing reviews. I will be continuing on with this series, for sure.
For more Manga, Comics, and Graphic Novel reviews, check out my weekly ‘Manga Monday’ feature at The Book Review- https://www.the-bookreview.com...more
Confessions of an Innocent Man by David R. Dow is a 2019 Dutton publication.
A thought provoking, atypical and emotional crime story!
Rafael Zhettah iConfessions of an Innocent Man by David R. Dow is a 2019 Dutton publication.
A thought provoking, atypical and emotional crime story!
Rafael Zhettah is a private aircraft pilot, and the head chef at a Houston restaurant, happily married, content with his life, and looking forward to what the future may bring. But, in the blink of an eye, everything changes. His beloved wife is murdered and despite having an alibi, he is convicted and sent to death row.
However, a stunning turn of events garners Rafael his freedom, just in the nick of time. However, his outrage towards the system that robbed him of years he will never get back, and very nearly cost him his life, has left him entertaining ideas about how to get even. Perhaps the Old Testament method of ‘an eye for an eye’ would be the most fitting form of revenge…
Well, I must admit, If I had been in Rafael’s shoes, I would probably entertain a few revenge fantasies and it would be hard not to feel bitter. So, from this angle, Rafael’s feelings are quite understandable. But as righteous as his feelings may be, when he begins to plot his revenge, and then follow through with it, he begins to see things are not as black and white as he thought.
Issues arise that he didn’t anticipate, causing more than one crisis of conscience. But the suspense builds to an unbearable pitch as small mistakes could land him right back into some very hot water, and forces beyond his control may unravel all his carefully constructed plans.
I hate using those old cliches like 'compulsively readable' but the phrase fits this book perfectly.
Once I started reading it, I could not put it down!!
In the first segment of the story, the author begins by building an emotional relationship between the reader and Rafael. He is honest, almost to a fault, admitting his foibles up front, which goes a long way towards establishing trust.
We know for a fact that he did not kill his wife. But he’s sent to die anyway, a problem that is becoming an epidemic in real life.
In the second segment of the book, the author examines Raphael's time in prison, the relationships he builds, the attorneys who champion his cause and work tirelessly to overturn his conviction.
This segment is harrowing, heartbreaking and made me squirm in my seat, as Raphael nearly meets his end. This is also the part of the story where the reader truly invests themselves in Raphael’s outrage. The court system, the judges, and the entire flawed process, very nearly executed an innocent man.
The third segment is also a tough one. This is where the reader must decide if Raphael is doing the right thing. One might be tempted to urge him on, but we also watch him struggle with his conscience.
However, the ability to empathize with those who nearly committed murder waxes and wanes, not only for Raphael, but for me, as well. Watching all this play out is very engrossing, but it is also quite thought provoking.
However, the conclusion packs the hardest punch of all. I was nearly a hot mess by the end of this book. It is emotional, and tears at the heart in a variety of ways.
The story has some flaws, but despite how well thought out and easily executed Raphael’s plans went, it may require a bit too much suspension of belief for some readers.
I was more than willing to play along though, because the core of the story is outstanding, and the unmistakable moral carries a powerful and important message.
David R. Dow writes what he knows, bringing along an insider’s perspective on the judicial system and the perils of capital punishment.
Girls Like Us by Cristina Alger is a G.P. Putnam's Sons publication.
Another winner for Christina Alger!!
FBI agent, Nell Flynn is having a hard go oGirls Like Us by Cristina Alger is a G.P. Putnam's Sons publication.
Another winner for Christina Alger!!
FBI agent, Nell Flynn is having a hard go of it, lately. Her career is teetering on the edge because she is avoiding the necessary therapy required to return to work after killing a man and taking a bullet in the line of duty. Then her father, from whom she is estranged, dies in a motorcycle accident, forcing her to return home to plan his funeral and get his estate in order.
But, when an old friend, who happens to be a homicide detective, asks Nell to quietly advise him with the investigation of two murdered women, she agrees to help. However, the case takes a twisted, horrifying turn when the evidence points to her own father as the prime suspect.
Wow. This book is a real mind-bender. The atmosphere is thick enough to slice with a knife, creating a palpable sense of dread. The murder investigation delves into topics that feel like an eerie premonition of current headlines. The author did an amazing job bringing key issues to the forefront in a realistic, eye-opening manner. Nell’s character is extremely well-drawn and her first -person narrative is haunting and quite effective.
I was sucked into the story immediately and sat on pins and needles from beginning to end. Although one can see where the story is probably headed, there are some truly shocking twists and big reveals that took me completely by surprise. The suspense builds to a near fever pitch, then hits you with a gut-wrenching sucker punch to the emotions. I love it when a book holds me firmly in its grip the way this one did.
Overall, this is a solid page-turning thriller!!...more
Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young: The Wild, Definitive Saga of Rock’s Greatest Supergroup by David Browne is a 2019 Da Capo Press publication.
One of thCrosby, Stills, Nash and Young: The Wild, Definitive Saga of Rock’s Greatest Supergroup by David Browne is a 2019 Da Capo Press publication.
One of the first rock supergroups, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, have been around, on and off, for over fifty years. Again, that makes this group one of those that I have known nearly my whole life.
Their music has played in the background of my life and I while I am more than a casual fan, I can’t say I am a super fan, knowing everything about them, frontward and backwards. I did know enough to recognize, that despite the talent and their popularity, their best trick seems to be self-sabotage.
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Despite the enormous ego clashes, the copious amounts of drugs, the health issues, and the constant second guessing about Neil Young’s ‘will he, or won’t he", the group always managed to sustain itself. Sometimes the effort was puny and sometimes it was simply brilliant, but the band has come together time and time again much to the delight of their loyal fans.
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Theirs is one of the most turbulent and maladjusted groupings of musicians in rock history and their story is one that boggles the mind.
So much time to make up everywhere you turn Time we have wasted on the way…
This a very, very comprehensive biography, and is well organized and obviously well researched. Browne has put a great deal of effort into the book, something I wish I found in other music biographies, many of which are hastily thrown together, using materials one can easily find on the internet. From that standpoint, I think the author deserves kudos for doing the grunt work and giving the book a solid presentation.
However, his subjects are the ones who let him down in the end. As with the Graham Nash memoir, I found the first part of the book of great interest. However, by the time we reached, the late eighties, I was beginning to feel exhausted by all the drama.
The last several decades are just more of the same old, same old. They get together for a concert or collaboration and beg Neil to join. He mostly plays hard to get, claiming he doesn’t want to cope with all the psychodrama- but contributing to it as well. Sometimes he would relent and then bail on them. They get along for a while, then start fighting, then they would scatter to the winds again, working on solo projects or their other bands, until they needed another influx of cash.
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Therefore, the book fizzled out and got boring. I skim read the last two segments, if that tells you anything. Perhaps a summary of the 2000s would have been a better approach, although I do think the author meant well.
As for my personal feelings about the group- None of these guys are particularly likable. Some are more of a turn off than others. Unfortunately, their epic meltdowns and drug issues are also a part of their legacy.
However, I love their harmonies, their boldness in which they challenged the ‘establishment’ and their talent, separately and as a unit. I still listen to their music, rarely thinking about all the behind the scenes drama surrounding the group.
I do, however, think of all the group contributed to our musical experience. They’ve been a staple, and part of such an exciting time when so much creativity was emerging during the heyday of rock music, and what a big role they played in it.
They deserve a place in music history and their music, as nostalgic as it may seem now, meant something to people in a time when music mattered, when it made a statement, and was a voice for generations of people.
My favorite songs: Carry On Woodstock Southern Cross Ohio Suite: Judy Blue Eyes
Overall, if you are a fan of this group, you have probably heard a lot of ground covered in this book before, but I still think there are plenty of details even the most knowledgeable fan might find interesting. If you are not familiar with the band’s back story, this book will tell you all ever wanted to know and then some.
Because it is obvious the author put in a lot of effort and work, I’m going to give this book a nudge up with the rating. The last few segments are redundant, but the author deserves an A for effort.
Bad Axe County by John Galligan is a 2019 Atria Books publication.
A gritty, atmospheric crime story-
This is an ambitious mystery thriller which profiBad Axe County by John Galligan is a 2019 Atria Books publication.
A gritty, atmospheric crime story-
This is an ambitious mystery thriller which profiles the rural Wisconsin terrain as much as it does the characters, becoming an intricate part of the plot.
Heidi Kick was a small -town beauty queen when her life took a tragic turn. Her parents allegedly died as a result of a murder-suicide pact. Despite their financial downturn, which was believed to be the motive, Heidi never bought into that theory.
Now, after the local sheriff’s sudden demise, Heidi becomes interim sheriff. This doesn’t set well with the local good ole boys in the community at all. But Heidi is not totally without a support system, with one or two allies in the department helping her make logical decisions.
She does have to balance a marriage, and small children, along with her demanding, pressure -filled job. She’s holding her own, until an unexpected storm in the area triggers a series of events, revealing the dark, lurid underbelly of Bad Axe County.
Suddenly, the inexperienced, but determined sheriff is neck deep in corruption, human trafficking, sleazy private parties hosting underage girls, and a strange burglary. The deeper she scratches beneath the surface, troubling implications hit a little too close to home. Dark forces are working against Heidi, thwarting her at every turn. While working around the clock to locate a missing girl, Heidi fervently hopes to finally discover the truth about her parents.
I won’t lie- what initially caused me to give this book a closer look was the atmospheric cover art. The premise sounded intriguing enough, with the promise of a strong female lead, so I decided to take a chance on it.
However, I also must admit, in all honesty, the story wasn't quite what I was expecting. Although Heidi refuses to accept the official cause of death in her parent’s case, her obsession with uncovering the truth runs more in the background. More in the forefront, is Heidi’s ‘race against the clock’ mission to locate a missing girl without making any critical missteps.
The story starts off on an odd, unexpected note, emphasizing the character's quirks, as they pertain to the rural setting. The banter is light and good-natured, but the atmosphere suddenly shifts turning super dark, edgy, and suspenseful, with a no holds barred tendency towards violence. I immediately sensed it was time to fasten my seatbelt and hold on for dear life.
Unfortunately, there are several threads running at once, along with a large cast of characters, which, as I’ve stated countless times, rarely works out for me. Sure enough, I struggled to keep everything straight. I had to slow my reading down to a crawl and do a little re-reading on a few occasions, to be sure I was keeping everything and everyone straight. I can’t say I was a big fan of the execution, or the uneven flow, but at the end of the day, despite its messiness, all the threads eventually come together, and the book ends on a high note. So, as they say, a win is still a win, even if it’s an ugly one.
The conclusion is gratifying, especially since Heidi Kick lives to fight another day. I liked Heidi’s character, as well as her sidekick, Denise. Those two made a great team. I wouldn’t mind stopping by Bad Axe County again someday. I think this rural, deceptively bucolic area of Wisconsin still has many secrets, and the feisty Heidi Kick knows just how to unravel them.
City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert is a 2019 Riverhead publication.
This work of historical fiction spans several decades and follows the life of Vivi City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert is a 2019 Riverhead publication.
This work of historical fiction spans several decades and follows the life of Vivian Morris. During the 1940’s Vivian threw away a golden opportunity at Vassar College, which prompted her parents to send her to New York to live with her eccentric Aunt Peg.
Aunt Peg owns a midtown theater and soon Vivian becomes enthralled with the thrill of live performances. She quickly strikes up a close friendship with a couple of the showgirls and from there, she embarks on a life of partying, scoring men, and falling prey to horrific scandal.
Years later, Vivian receives a letter from a woman whose father was once close to Vivian, asking what the nature of their relationship had been. In her reply letter, Vivian regales the reader with her colorful life story and through her memories, she gains more understanding of her life and herself.
I suppose that technically, this book could be categorized as an epistolary novel- although it is just the one letter, I suppose, and not a back and forth correspondence. Either way, Vivian, now well on in years, takes the reader on a long trip back down memory lane, which will eventually reveal the answer to the simple, yet complicated, question posed to her.
This is my first book by Elizabeth Gilbert. That's right- I never read ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ which was a hot topic book at one time, or anything else written by this author. But, about this book-
I had high hopes for this novel. I’ve been on a long dry spell when it comes to historical fiction and hoped this one might be a nice change of pace from the current trends in this category. I did finish the book, but it was a struggle at times.
Vivian’s character, as funny as she could be sometimes, was too over the top with her casual promiscuity. I quickly grew tired of hearing about all her one -night conquests- which were too many to count.
In fact, the entire first half of the book could have been paired down without lessening the overall impact of the story. There are emotional and poignant moments, but the story experienced some turbulence in execution, making it a bit of a bumpy ride.
The landing, however, was flat and anticlimactic for me. It wasn’t as stirring, or delightful, or profound as I had hoped it might eventually become. I would love to expound on why I feel this ambivalence towards the story, but in doing so I’d reveal too much. It wasn’t all bad, and it was enjoyable enough to make it worth my time and effort, but mostly I found it underwhelming.
Texas Flood: The Inside Story of Stevie Ray Vaughn by Alan Paul is a 2019 St. Martin’s Press publication.
This book made me feel like I’d been invited Texas Flood: The Inside Story of Stevie Ray Vaughn by Alan Paul is a 2019 St. Martin’s Press publication.
This book made me feel like I’d been invited to a memorial service for Stevie, with everyone who knew and loved him, either personally or professionally gathered around sharing intimate memories of Stevie’s life from their own unique perspective.
I remember when Stevie died, perhaps more vividly than I might have because of a death in my own family just days before. Despite my personal grief, I was still in utter shock and disbelief. Yet, it would be years down the road before I was able to truly absorb the magnitude of his loss and the incredible void he left in the world of music.
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This book is not written in the traditional biographical format. The presentation is unique, a compilation of interviews, reflections, and recollections.
I loved it!! Memories are so subjective. Sometimes people remembered events differently or had differences of opinion.
That gave the book a realistic quality and made me feel as though nothing was being glossed over or sugarcoated or left out, because at the end of the day we all experience events in different ways. Anything too pat, might be circumspect. This material came straight from the mouths of the participants. Their words were pure, unedited with no way to put a spin on it.
I think it is the unique layout of the book that gives it such a personal and emotional atmosphere. I admired the way the author assembled the information, letting those who were there, tell the story chronologically. Using this unconventional approach took some extreme organizational skills, and the author pulled it off quite nicely.
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Over the years, the little details of Stevie’s life have slipped from my consciousness. This book brought back a few memories for me, not just musically, but geographically, since Stevie was a home- grown talent. There are so many talented blues artists, so many guitar heroes out there, but no one could touch Stevie Ray Vaughn. The guy was electrifying. It wasn’t just his skill- There was an aura around him, a presence, that spilled over his live performances casting a spell over his awed audience.
I miss Stevie a lot. I often wonder just how far he would have traveled musically and personally, as well. His life was clicking into place, coming together on all fronts. He was blazing hot with nowhere else to go but up. His death was a tragedy of epic proportions, only made worse by the knowledge that it was preventable. Hearing the various artists reflect on that fateful decision reiterates the senselessness of it, only compounding the loss even more.
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In some ways, though, this book was cathartic for me. I never really got to grieve this loss has I have other artists who left an indelible mark on me. I enjoyed hearing these heartfelt, humorous, honest, harrowing, poignant, and inspirational stories about Stevie, learning a few details about his career I didn’t know, or had forgotten about over time. But mostly this book was a reminder of what a great talent Stevie was and how grateful I am for the influence he had on me and my great love affair with pure blues.
Chase Darkness with Me by Billy Jensen is a 2019 Sourcebooks publication.
Gripping and personal journey into true crime reporting and crime solving-
ThChase Darkness with Me by Billy Jensen is a 2019 Sourcebooks publication.
Gripping and personal journey into true crime reporting and crime solving-
The sheer number of cases that remain unsolved are mind numbing. We often focus on the crimes that make the big headlines, but for every one of those, there are numerous others that never make a blip on the public’s consciousness. Some cases go viral, such as the one where an innocent man is knocked unconscious, then hit by a car, then robbed while he lay in the street. Although the crime was recorded, finding the man who assaulted the victim took a long time, with many dead-end leads, and required much tenacity, patience, and a very sharp eye.
For Billy Jensen helping to solve the lesser known cold cases has become his life’s work. He is still a writer and journalist, but what he writes about is unsolved crimes. He became friends with fellow cold case/true crime advocate, Michelle McNamara, and he helped to complete her book after her untimely death.
In this book, Jensen explains how he became a crime reporter, his personal background, and even exposes his single-minded fixation on solving crimes, helping law enforcement, and bringing some closure to the victim's families, who at this point, just want to know the truth.
His heady exhilaration at having helped law enforcement close the books on a case is what keeps him from losing faith when so many cases hit a brick wall.
One thing that we can all agree on is that despite all the perils of social media, without it, and the advances in DNA and forensics, murderers and rapists like the Golden State Killer, might never have been caught. Jensen outlines the way he uses social media and the internet, in general, to help solve crimes.
It’s a fascinating story, and you have to hand it to the guy. He’s like a dog with a bone when he gets started on a story or case and he doesn’t turn loose of it, even when it looks as if he’s just chasing his own tale. This dedication might also be described as an obsession, though.
One issue I had with the book, and it is the same issue I had with McNamara’, is the layout and organization of the book. The flow is uneven, as Jensen seems unsure of when to insert something poignant or personal, which came off as feeling a little too forced and awkward. The timing is a bit off in that area, but I did enjoy some of the nostalgia from the seventies he spoke of. Adding personal antidotes was something that worked for McNamara, but not so much here, I think.
The other issue I have with the book is with the last portion, which is a DIY tutorial on amateur sleuthing and crime solving.
Because it goes without saying that law enforcement agencies nationwide are overwhelmed, it may have gotten to the point where it now takes a village to help solve crimes. It never hurts to be informed, prepared, aware, and alert. I do not have a problem with people logging onto to social media to study crime, cold cases, or missing persons profiles. Sometimes a citizen’s hyper-awareness could help save a life.
In many ways, I greatly admire Jensen and what he does. Without him, some crimes, and murders would mostly likely have remained unsolved.
That said-
While I read a great deal of true crime, and do follow certain specific cases, I keep my concerns and interest in the proper perspective.
Too many people interfering in official police investigations could backfire spectacularly. While Jensen found the internet and social media to be a huge asset, we all know by now that it is also packed with erroneous and harmful information, which could hinder, instead of help, solve a crime. It could also be very dangerous, opening oneself up to scams or cons or even physical harm. It could lead to false accusations as well, and we know that even a hint of such a thing can ruin a life in an instant.
So, I’m thinking this is a bit of a slippery slope and I’m not entirely comfortable with Jensen encouraging the general public to follow his chosen path. Putting oneself out there, interviewing victim’s families and the heart wrenching, day to day, drudge of following a lead that turned out to be nothing, is an emotional drain that can be mentally draining, and quite damaging… just take a look at the toll it took on Michelle McNamara.
I’m not saying Jensen glorified his work or sugarcoated anything, as the cases he examines are truly horrifying and one gets a glimpse at the cost the author pays, and the sacrifices his family must endure for him to be successful at what he does.
In my humble opinion, climbing into that dark, murky world, and becoming- shall we say- devoted- to the exclusion of all else in life can’t be all that healthy.
Still, I did find this book to be very interesting, and absorbing, overall, sans the DYI bits. Although I don’t necessarily recommend we all jump into the boat along with him, I’m glad Jensen has had success as a reporter, author, and amateur sleuth and hope that as he continues his work, he will at long last solve some of the cases that continue to haunt him.
The Open Portal by Michael Scott Clifton is a 2019 Book Lift Off publication.
An intriguing start for this new fantasy series-
Mona is an orphaned teeThe Open Portal by Michael Scott Clifton is a 2019 Book Lift Off publication.
An intriguing start for this new fantasy series-
Mona is an orphaned teenager with a special needs brother. She is bullied incessantly by the ‘mean girls’ at school and has a very negative self -image. When she is nearly at the breaking point, her guardian angel, Thaddeus Finkle, offers her an alternative.
Believing she will be given the opportunity to make a real difference in her life, she agrees to switch places with another person, leaving Texas in the rearview mirror to live on ‘Meredith’, becoming Alexandria, the daughter of a Duke.
However, she will soon realize she is trapped behind an impenetrable barrier, put in place by an evil sorceress.
Meanwhile, Tal, who is the heir to the Meredith Empire, has been sent to a secluded garrison to cool his heels, in hopes of taming his impulsiveness. However, he stumbles across a group of raiders, whose leader may know of a way to pass through the veil.
Alexandria and Tal will eventually cross paths, setting the stage for an ongoing epic fantasy saga-
One thing is for sure- Michael Scott Clifton has a HUGE imagination! I truly enjoyed the first book I read by this author, so it didn’t take much to convince me to give this new series a try. However, to be completely honest, high fantasy is not my usual fare. Therefore, I may not be the best judge, as I am not as familiar with the genre.
For me, this first book in the series, probably by necessity, spends a lot of time on world building. All the main characters are introduced, and the reader gets a fair idea of their temperament and if we feel empathy for them or not. The scenery and landscapes are vividly described and there are even a few illustrations sprinkled throughout the book.
The story is an ambitious one, however, with three different scenarios and three different sets of cast members to keep up with. I must be totally honest here and admit that at times I felt the foundation was a little shaky. It takes a long while to see any progress on the convergence of these threads, and of course, by the time I’m finally beginning to get everything straight in my mind, the book comes to a ‘to be continued’ conclusion. ARRGGH!
However, I realize this is standard operating procedure within the fantasy realm, and I knew going in this first chapter in the series would set the stage for the real epic dramas to come.
It also crossed my mind a few times, while reading this book, that this one just might appeal to readers who enjoy YA Fantasy. I’m no expert on what passes for YA these days, but I’m told that if the main character is a teenager or young adult, then that qualifies, even if the book is more geared towards an adult reading audience. So, I’m just going to toss that out there.
There are a few poignant moral lessons involved in the story, too, giving it a touch of emotional depth amid the intrigue and adventure.
Overall, this first installment has piqued my curiosity. I am very interested in seeing how all of this is going to play out, and of course, I’m already attached to Mona/Alexandria and will have to see if the ‘guardian angel’ has her best interest at heart.
I wholeheartedly recommend this one to fans of high fantasy. I think you will want to get in on the ground floor of this new series, which shows a great deal of potential.
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