The Shell House Detectives by Emylia Hall is a 2023 Thomas & Mercer publication.
An outstanding British Mystery!
First, we have the location- the CornThe Shell House Detectives by Emylia Hall is a 2023 Thomas & Mercer publication.
An outstanding British Mystery!
First, we have the location- the Cornish coast- an automatic creation of atmosphere. Then we have some well-drawn characters- Ally, a widow, whose husband was in law-enforcement, and ex cop, Jayden, a newcomer with a pregnant wife at home- pair up to solve a mystery that involves a young man named Lewis, who has recently been released from incarceration, and a missing woman named Helena. These two unlikely sleuths forge not only a partnership in crime solving, but a close friendship as well.
The mystery is very compelling with a few surprising revelations I didn’t see coming at all. If you are thinking this is a light, fluffy mystery simply because it is basically ‘clean’, and categorized as a 'cozy', think again. There is some good storytelling here and all readers of crime fiction will appreciate it, I think. It’s a whodunit that keeps you guessing, but it was also a portrait of a community, of people caring about others, and helping people.
“I think that’s the best thing someone can do, isn’t it? Want to help?”
Overall, an absorbing, atmospheric, and inspirational whodunit! I am very much looking forward to the next chapter in this series!...more
Gentle on my Mind by Kim Campbell is a 2020 Thomas Nelson publication.
I was never a huge fan of country music and sometimes I marvel at why Glen CampGentle on my Mind by Kim Campbell is a 2020 Thomas Nelson publication.
I was never a huge fan of country music and sometimes I marvel at why Glen Campbell was labeled in this category- but nevertheless, I really liked most of his music. I did not rush out to get a copy of this book when it was published four years ago, and it wasn’t until I saw a random article a few weeks ago about Kim and this book that I decided to check it out.
I went into this without the slightest bit of a preconceived notion. I didn’t know a thing about Kim and didn’t notice that the publisher was Thomas Nelson- a faith-based imprint. Kim is a Christian and speaks openly and often about her faith. For me, I was back and forth about her spiritual health as some things she talks about do not mesh with what the Bible says and a passage about a religious game she played with other celebrities in Arizona raised my eyebrows- so by the time we got to the eighty percent mark, when she finally dropped the names of a few uber-wealthy television ministries associated with a prosperity gospel- I knew she was still more childlike in her spiritual maturity. But, at least- as far as I know- she’s never abandoned her faith- which is good.
Kim does a good job with the writing, organization, and presentation of the book. I don’t know if I really got an essence of who she is deep down as everything here is tied to Glen and her marriage. Occasionally she comes off as a long-suffering saint refusing to give up no matter what the personal cost… which was emotional and psychological abuse whenever Glen went through one of his relapses.
The tone she sets is one where she seems desperate to prove that she wasn’t in it for the fame and fortune. Once she finally realized this was no fairytale and Glen was no prince charming- instead of waving the white flag she dug in and did the work to make the marriage work. It wasn’t all bad- there were long periods of normalcy, peace, and sobriety, too.
But Kim’s dedication and faith was truly tested when Glen was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. I admire her willingness to care for him on her own, without care facilities – for a long while. I understand she wanted to educate people on the realities of the disease, but I wish she had stopped Glen’s journey as he walked off the stage for the last time- after a poignant, triumphant and inspirational farewell tour.
Instead, she detailed the multiple losses of his faculties, both mental and physical, stripping him of his dignity to some degree, I thought. I’m just glad I’m not rich or famous because I wouldn’t want my family members to tell the entire world how often I wet the bed or didn’t make it to the bathroom.
That said, I’m convinced that while the marriage was rocky- it was legit. There was love- and devotion despite the darkness that often overshadowed the good times. I hated to hear of the legal woes and infighting in the family over Glen’s estate. I think caring for Glen during his illness was a drain on their finances and the estate suffered as a result- so I’m not sure if there was all that much to quarrel over in the end and some people got involved in matters that simply were none of their business.
Overall, while I suspect Kim's faith was only surface deep, and it seemed she was in her head a lot due to the bubble of fame she lived in for over thirty years, I did admire her attitude, her fortitude, and hope now that her legal and money troubles are ironed out and that she can now bask in the good memories she shared with Glen and help promote his musical legacy that has meant so much to so many people.
Under the Banner of Heaven by Jon Krakauer is a 2004 Anchor publication.
I just finished the Hulu limited series based on this book. That show is defUnder the Banner of Heaven by Jon Krakauer is a 2004 Anchor publication.
I just finished the Hulu limited series based on this book. That show is definitely a fictional dramatization- so, once I finished the series, I wanted to read this book to get the full, non-fictional account of the murder of Brenda Lafferty and her fifteen-month-old daughter, by her own brothers-in-law.
Unfortunately, though, while the title suggests this is a 'true crime' book, what one actually gets is a long, long, detailed history of Mormonism.
Now, there is nothing inherently wrong with that if that is what you were looking for. I did find it fascinating on occasion, but I grew weary of it because that was not why I picked this book up. What I was wanting was a sharper focus on the Lafferty crime, but that mostly ran in the background.
I have no doubt the book is well-researched, but I’d also take the time to read a few books on the subject, like those the author used as resources and references, if you are looking to read about the history of Mormanism.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a book specifically about the Lafferty case, you might look to see if anyone else has written a book about that crime, in particular. I do think to understand the situation, some history or insights into Mormonism must be a part of the book, but it doesn’t need to overpower the particulars of this sect.
Overall, this book was not exactly what I was expecting. Once it became obvious that the book was more history than true crime I skipped over whole chapters, feeling I had gotten the point and didn’t need to absorb more historical facts- so I only read the sections that pertained to Brenda’s murder and the subsequent trial of the Lafferty brothers.
While the book is very comprehensive, well-researched, and well-written, it simply did not deliver what I had ordered- or thought I had ordered, I guess I should say. Should I lower my rating because of that? That’s a hard choice to make- so let me be clear that there wasn’t anything wrong with the writing, organization, etc., so from a critical thinking standpoint its an easy 4+ stars- but from a personal perspective, it’s only a three-star experience. So, I’m going to give it 3.5 stars. Round up or down? UGH. I’m on the fence, but I really do have to round up simply because of the obvious effort the author put into the book- which was years in the making. The author does have great writing skills and I have a couple of his book on my Kindle I will get around to reading someday.
What’s Left Unsaid by Emily Bleeker is a 2021 Lake Union publication.
This is an absorbing novel that proves that the truth will find you out- one wayWhat’s Left Unsaid by Emily Bleeker is a 2021 Lake Union publication.
This is an absorbing novel that proves that the truth will find you out- one way or another...
Hannah, after a series of setbacks, moves back in with her elderly grandmother who is recovering from a few health problems. Working for a newspaper she overqualified for, is demoralizing, but when Hannah is given the even more demeaning task of cleaning out archives stored in the basement, she discovers a series of articles written decades ago by a teenager named Evelyn. Evelyn is wheelchair bound after having been shot and her articles layout the background leading up to the shooting. The articles were never published- but why??
Soon Hannah is as obsessed with finding out what happened to Evelyn as she is with spying on her ex- fiancé on social media. Yet, for some reason, Hannah’s boss and a powerful local family of politicians seems determined to thwart her investigation…
This story is interesting and could be quite absorbing at times. I liked the mystery, and the tasteful romance, as well as the personal growth Hannah experienced. I love family dramas and old buried secrets, so I was quite satisfied with those elements- but I’m so weary of books stuffed with an over abundance of social issues. This book was a bit heavy-handed at times, with mental illness, drug addiction, racial commentary, and crimes against women all crammed together in one place.
That said, I did like the way the story came together. One could feel Evelyn’s presence as old, buried crimes and scandals were revealed. The outcome was pleasant considering the seriousness and solemnity of the situation. Hannah’s courage to take charge of her life is also inspirational and it was good see her finally put her past, and her obsessions, behind her and look forward to a future where she’ll have true love and make a difference in the lives of many people through her work.
Overall, a solid enough story. I had a few niggles and did think the book was a bit too long, but all in all an enjoyable enough read.
I’m glad my mother died by Jennette McCurdy is a 2022 Simon & Schuster publication.
I have never seen an episode of iCarly, though I had heard of the sI’m glad my mother died by Jennette McCurdy is a 2022 Simon & Schuster publication.
I have never seen an episode of iCarly, though I had heard of the show. I wasn’t familiar with any of the cast members, even Jennette McCurdy. I just didn’t move in the circles of folks who had kids at the right age to watch the show and it certainly wasn’t a program my own kids would have watched. In fact, Nickelodeon was a channel we had to pay for, back before cord cutting, that we never watched. So why was I interested in reading this book? I’ve always followed the psychological issues that child stars developed and what, if any role the parents played in that- or if it was the Hollywood machine or a combination of both things.
With a title like this one, it was obvious that the author had some serious family issues, so I really wanted to see what McCurdy’s story was.
Sometimes it is very hard to articulate one’s feelings about another person’s memoir, and that’s the case here. I think that not knowing the author in any way might have helped me to have a more balanced opinion, but it might also have been a hindrance, as I didn’t really understand the type of role she was expected to portray. Finally, I gave in and went to YouTube to look at a few clips of the show. All I’m going to say is I can understand why she might grow weary of it… in a hurry. *No offense to anyone who enjoyed the show.
That said, the show was obviously popular with a certain audience and the original series ran for about five years. During that time, Jeannette McCurdy was living a life full of emotional abuse. Her mother, who had battled cancer when McCurdy was a baby, became obsessed with her daughter’s career, introducing her to anorexia to keep her body at a child’s weight, she still bathed her well into her teenage years, was religious when it suited her, and could turn vicious at the drop of a hat. If that weren’t enough, the pressures of being a child professional, and the passive aggressive atmosphere of the adults in her work environment, led to a world of mental, emotional, and physical illnesses for Jeannette, that she battled well into her twenties, which included eating disorders, co-dependent relationships, and alcohol.
When her mother’s cancer returned, her abuse didn’t end, and maybe even ramped up a bit. It was harrowing to read about some of the ugly things this woman said to her daughter and the mess she left Jeanette in after she died.
Reading about this level of abuse and watching a young woman begin to circle the drain is difficult to read about, and it was even worse than I was prepared for, but I am glad it wasn’t glossed over. By the same token, I do wish McCurdy would have glossed over some of the intimate details of her romantic life. It was very off-putting, and TMI, in my opinion. Honestly, there is no way, I’d go into those details in a book that so many people will read or listen to, and I’d have to take into consideration that other people were involved and would be named, but people today don’t seen to get the concept of discretion, so I suppose I shouldn’t have been surprised… but really, do you all really want to read about her oral sex skills? UGH!
Overall, though, this book confirms my thoughts on child actors and their parents. I hope this young lady continues to seek counseling, perhaps sound spiritual guidance, as well. I am glad she feels free from being forced to do something she didn’t really enjoy. I hope finds her niche, has balance in life, takes care of her health, both physical and mental, and will have a sound, solid productive adult life. ...more
The Extraordinary Life of an Ordinary Man by Paul Newman is a 2022 Knopf publication.
This a great way to present a memoir. I thoroughly enjoyed the vThe Extraordinary Life of an Ordinary Man by Paul Newman is a 2022 Knopf publication.
This a great way to present a memoir. I thoroughly enjoyed the various excerpts from people who knew Paul Newman personally, and those who knew him mainly from a professional standpoint, while Paul fills in all the rest. This creates more of a well-rounded view of him as a person, and it was interesting to see it all come together so fluidly.
Paul Newman was very easy on the eyes- and yes, he knew this- but his looks seemed to make him more insecure about being taken seriously as an actor.
Now that I’ve learned a bit more about him, I see that he was very different from many actors. I think. His musings show a man who thinks deeply, but didn't take himself too seriously. He was also a person who was surprisingly filled with a lot of self- doubt. He seemed almost bemused by his success as an actor, but also acknowledged that it came at a cost.
Though I didn’t agree with his spiritual philosophy, an area of his thinking I was disappointed in, to say the least- but I do find that no matter how ‘normal’ an actor - or any other entertainer, for that matter- can seem, they usually fail to realize they don’t live in the same reality as the rest of us.
Still, despite that one big difference of opinion- I thought this was a solid effort by everyone who took part in it. The latter years of Paul’s life are not part of this memoir-for reasons that will be explained if you read the book- which was too bad, as he accomplished a great deal in his final years.
Still, I found the memoir interesting, and it gave me insight into Newman’s inner thoughts, his private life, his regrets, and various internal conflicts. I also enjoyed hearing about his professional relationships, and the anecdotes he shared about his movie making adventures with his fellow co-stars and friends.
Overall, this is a different approach for a memoir, but it was well-executed and quite effectively.
And the Sea Will Tell by Vincent Bugliosi is a 2006 W.W. Norton Company publication.
Last year I read a novel that might have been partly inspired by And the Sea Will Tell by Vincent Bugliosi is a 2006 W.W. Norton Company publication.
Last year I read a novel that might have been partly inspired by this true crime case. The author mentioned this book in her notes at the end of her novel, which triggered a memory of both this book and the made for television mini-series based on it. Although the novel jogged my memory- reminding me of the bare basics of this case, I had long forgotten the specifics. So, I thought I’d try to locate a copy of this book and re-read it sometime.
Though this edition was published in 2006- the book was originally published in early 1990s. The case in question began way back in the mid-1970s, when an affluent couple- Mac and Muff Graham took off on a long voyage aboard their sailboat- ‘The Sea Wind’- (this boat is actually called at ketch).
Apparently, Muff had a strong feeling of foreboding before embarking on this journey- and sadly, her intuitions proved correct.
Expecting the island of Palmyra to be uninhabited, the Graham’s were a bit irritated by the presence of Buck and Jennifer- a scrappy looking couple who were obviously ill prepared-the seaworthiness of their vessel is highly debatable- they are very low on provisions and are hanging around waiting for someone to bring them more supplies.
Meanwhile, the two couples would have to resign themselves to sharing the island. But, when the Graham’s go silent, not answering any attempts at communication, it raises serious questions. When Buck and Jennifer subsequently arrive in Hawaii aboard the Sea Wind attempting to pass the boat off as their own, they don’t fool anyone- and are eventually arrested for theft.
Years pass-
Then the skeletal remains of Muff Graham are discovered. Buck and Jennifer are arrested for murder- But they are tried separately.
This is where Bugliosi comes in. The attorney became a household name when he prosecuted Charles Manson. But at this time, he is trying to transition from prosecution to criminal defense -and this case would a good one to bulk up his reputation- which is how he came to be Jennifer Jenkin’s attorney.
In this book, Bugliosi takes the reader through the entire case from start to finish. Although Bugliosi was a very good attorney- no matter what side of the debate- he is not exactly humble, and this comes through in the tone of this book. He is also verbose to the extreme. The book really should have been trimmed down by half- I’m not joking- because the author tended to go on long diatribes that made for dry reading at times.
Eventually, he gets down to brass tacks, leading to the ultimate courtroom showdown.
The argument was that Buck was guilty of murder- but Jennifer was totally clueless about it. Bugliosi was convinced of her innocence. But, even after reading this book twice now- I still don’t feel like we know the whole truth of what happened on that island.
To this day the body of Mac Graham has never surfaced…
Overall, despite being overly long this is a compelling murder mystery and a riveting courtroom drama.
Rest You Merry by Charlotte Macleod is a 2012 Mysterious Press/Open Road publication. (Originally published in 1978)
I’ve been curious about this serieRest You Merry by Charlotte Macleod is a 2012 Mysterious Press/Open Road publication. (Originally published in 1978)
I’ve been curious about this series for ages, and I love reading through old cozy mystery series. The downside to that is trying to locate all the installments, since many of these older books are out of print or are priced outside my budget. Thankfully, I found a healthy number of Macleod’s Peter Shandy series in digital format on Hoopla while looking for holiday mysteries. As it turns out, this is both a Christmas themed book and the first book in the series, so it seemed the perfect time to dive in and test the waters.
For a book originally published in 1978 it held up well. There are a few remarks made that we might frown on, and some phrases popped up that were pretty funny. “When can we split for lunch?” Split? LOL! But the best one was referencing law enforcement as the ‘Fuzz’. That one made me laugh out loud. But, overall, the book is not all that dated. The mystery is solid, and I rather liked Peter Shandy. There were a few characters to keep up with, which was a little trying at times, and for a cozy mystery I was a little surprised at some of the language- no F-bombs or anything, but occasionally some words went beyond ‘mild language’, which is not typical for books in this category.
Other than that, this book got the series off to a good start. I have no idea if reading in order is required- I rather doubt it, to be honest- I’ll have to go with what books are available, though, either way. But I will most definitely read more books in the series whenever possible.
Finding Me by Viola Davis is a 2022 Harper One Publication.
What an amazing memoir! Viola is one of my favorite actresses- but I knew very little abouFinding Me by Viola Davis is a 2022 Harper One Publication.
What an amazing memoir! Viola is one of my favorite actresses- but I knew very little about her private life. This book was a huge surprise to me. I was absolutely riveted to both the e-book and the audiobook. I honestly have no words- One simply must experience this memoir for themselves to truly appreciate it.
This must be one of the most straightforward and brutally honest memoirs I have had the pleasure of reading. Viola’s childhood was tough- and it wasn’t just that her family was poor- but that she lived in a home where substance abuse and violence prevailed.
The descriptions of the living conditions of her home are hard to wrap one’s head around, but despite her parents having their hands full with their own demons, Viola managed to get some support from siblings and programs offered to her which helped to build her self-esteem, incentivized her to change the course of her life, propelling her toward achieving her dreams.
The journey wasn’t an easy one- but my goodness was a ride it has been. Viola- I am so happy that you are full of self- love now- that you know how beautiful and talented you are, and I hope you know what an inspiration you are, as well.
Overall, Viola is such a strong woman, but she also shares her struggles and vulnerabilities, and how she made it to this point of stability, peace and understanding.
I love the way she handles her success. She’s humble, practical, and handles criticism stoically and with pragmatism, and that is not something many people are able to pull off in general, much less publicly. I have loved this actress for a long time based solely on her skills as an actress, but now I am doubly impressed. Now when I see Viola on the big or small screen, I will see her in a different light- one that shines brighter and stronger, with an everlasting glow…
This one gets my rare ‘highly recommended’ stamp of approval! ...more
Mo, her sister, Chloe, and their roommate Hazel find their lives turned upside down when Hazel disappears. It quickly comes to light that Hazel was drMo, her sister, Chloe, and their roommate Hazel find their lives turned upside down when Hazel disappears. It quickly comes to light that Hazel was drugged and assaulted by a man Mo introduced her to. While Hazel is off-grid, her attacker is drugged and beaten, making her a top suspect. Deeply worried, Mo and Chloe are determined to find Hazel and see justice done…
This novel of suspense explores the use of date rape drugs, which often prevents victims from being able to recall details of the attack on them.
The author did a good deal of research on the use of GHB- and presents the difficulty in catching and prosecuting the offenders who use it on unsuspecting women.
Unfortunately, the story is all over the place. I had a hard time keeping up with it and at one point I started skim reading. The explanation of what really happened to Hazel's attacker was just too over the top for me. I also felt the conclusion was too abrupt and unsatisfying.
I did not read the previous book that featured Mo and Chloe-but I managed to get the gist of the situation-so I don't think reading it first would have affected my opinion of this book.
Overall, the subjects addressed here may have been well-meaning, but the execution was sorely lacking.
Bone Deep: Untangling the Betsy Faria Murder Case by Charles Bosworth Jr., and Joel J. Schwartz is a 2022 Citadel Press publication.
True crime fans wBone Deep: Untangling the Betsy Faria Murder Case by Charles Bosworth Jr., and Joel J. Schwartz is a 2022 Citadel Press publication.
True crime fans will have heard of this case, especially if you watch ‘Dateline’- or listen to their podcasts. This book takes a deeper dive into the murder of Betsy Faria, in an effective, thorough, organized, and straightforward approach.
The author outlines the case, gives background information on the victim and her family, explains the police investigation, the trial of Russ Faria, and how eventually law enforcement woke up, thanks in part to a reporter who knew the jury didn't hear important information, and realized they had convicted the wrong person, and the real murderer had been right under their noses all along. (I’m going to spare you any diatribes about this investigation-but I’m sure you can guess what my opinion of that is.)
Background:
Betsy Faria, after receiving treatment for terminal breast cancer, was offered a ride home from her friend, Pam Hupp, and she accepted.
Meanwhile, her husband, Russ, was attending a weekly ‘game night’ with a group of friends. They all watched movies instead of participating in their usual role-playing game, as they were a person short.
When Russ arrived home, he found Betsy dead, initially thinking she had committed suicide. If that weren’t bad enough, he would spend the night under intense interrogation by the police who were confident he murdered Betsy, despite a plethora of evidence that said otherwise.
Unbelievably, despite hearing all the evidence that pointed away from Russ and towards Pam Hupp, who had become the new recipient of Betsy’s life insurance policy, a jury found him guilty of murdering his wife.
If all of this isn’t crazy enough for you- it gets even more bizarre from there.
Joel J. Schwartz, Russ’s attorney, knew it was Pam- but couldn’t get anyone to listen-least of all law enforcement. Thus, began a near decade long journey for the attorney to exonerate an innocent man and see justice done…
This is one the cases I’ve followed on and off over the years, via ‘Dateline’ episodes. There is a super popular podcast too, I’m told, but I haven’t listened to it. If you haven’t seen the shows or listened to the podcast, this book covers everything all in one place, and of course add many more details.
The author did a great job in telling this incredible, ‘truth is stranger than fiction’ story. It’s riveting, even if you are familiar with the material, you’ll still find this story… and Pam Hupp… shocking- and I’m not usually surprised by much in the true crime realm anymore.
If you are a fast reader, you can get yourself acquainted, or reacquainted, with the story before the much-anticipated miniseries starts on NBC- starring an unrecognizable Rene Zellweger as Pam Hupp. (March 8, 2022)
Overall, this one of the most frustrating, strange, and incredible true crime sagas I’ve followed. You’ll have to read this one to believe it!!
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is a 2017 Balzer + Bray publication.
Powerful! Heartbreaking and Gut-punching!
The story is narrated by sixteen-year- The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is a 2017 Balzer + Bray publication.
Powerful! Heartbreaking and Gut-punching!
The story is narrated by sixteen-year- old Starr Carter. She has likened her to situation to ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel Air’, because she lives in a poor neighborhood, but her mother has enrolled her in a suburban high school.
Starr mostly compartmentalizes her two worlds, packing her school persona away while at home, and vise versa, while at school.
When Starr witnesses the shooting of one of her best friends by law enforcement, her two worlds spiral towards a cataclysmic collision, prompting Starr to examine her life from all angles, while she gathers her inner strength to make a stand, no matter the cost- an act of courage that despite the risks, will propel Starr onto the world’s stage where her heroism becomes both sobering and inspirational.
This book will fall into the ‘everyone has read it, but me’ category. Back in 2017 if a book came with a YA tag, no matter how well received, I wouldn't touch it. I've softened by resolve on that point, realizing I was missing out on some pretty good books- which is why when I saw this book on my Overdrive library page-with no wait time- I decided to check out the audio version, on a whim and have chided myself ever since for not reading it years ago.
There isn’t much I can add to what has already been said about this book, except to say I loved it- although it is hard to read at times. It took my emotions on a roller coaster ride, full of hairpin turns, peaks and valleys. I laughed, I cried, and because I was listening to the book- I stomped around while working around the house, literally fuming with anger, and had to tap the pause button a time or two to gather my thoughts.
Starr is a character I will not forget anytime soon. The story is so authentic and real I had to remind myself this wasn’t a memoir.
I realize this book has over five hundred thousand ratings, but if you have not read this book- please give it serious consideration.
* The language is a rough and frequent- albeit realistic- but because the book carries a YA tag- parental guidance is suggested for younger readers. 5 stars...more
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