Dance Hall of the Dead by Tony Hillerman is a 1973 publication.
This is the second installment in the Leaphorn & Chee series, which centers around theDance Hall of the Dead by Tony Hillerman is a 1973 publication.
This is the second installment in the Leaphorn & Chee series, which centers around the disappearance of two boys.
This novel is incredibly interesting as it delves into the Zuni people and the unique laws and beliefs which complicate the investigation. The story held my attention all the way through, and though it is yet another ‘time-capsule’ story which contains some dated storylines- primarily that of ‘hippies and commune living’- nothing else about the story showed its age. The imagery was incredible and Hillerman has a real knack for drawing you into the landscape, making you feel like you are right there with him.
Overall, this is a compelling story, written with vivid details and atmosphere. Looking forward to the next installment!
Such Big Dreams by Reema Patel is a 2022 Ballantine Books publication.
Rakhi is a young woman living in a slum, but who also holds a job working as anSuch Big Dreams by Reema Patel is a 2022 Ballantine Books publication.
Rakhi is a young woman living in a slum, but who also holds a job working as an assistant for Justic for All- a human rights law organization. She’s getting by, barely, despite being haunted by an event in her past that caused her to lose track of her best friend, though she is always searching for him…
Enter Alex, an intern from Canada who takes an interest, not only in the culture, but in Rakhi- treating her not as a lowly assistant, but as a friend.
But Rakhi’s life goes off track when a once famous actress- hoping to grab the public's attention, suddenly takes an interest in human rights- which causes Rakhi's boss to shift her priorities, with the lure of big money and media attention- shaking up the idealism of Justice for All and what it is supposed to stand for.
For me, this book got off to a slow start, but a few mysteries from Rakhi’s past kept me engaged in the story, hoping to piece together what brought her to this point in her life. But the further along I got into the story, the more the present -day dramas began to take shape, bringing with it a strong sense of foreboding.
There are some cultural insights in this book, a look at a side of India that might surprise you- and I hate to admit it, but I was not aware that this story had a basis in fact.
But what stands out are the life lessons in the story. There is a lot to think about, and much to recommend about this book- the characterizations- their foibles, the consequences of their actions, their discernment or lack thereof, as well as the close look at nonprofits, and the individual responsibility to step up and contribute in one way or another.
Overall, despite the slow start, this book lived up to its well-deserved reputation!
Age of Vice by Deepti Kapoor is a 2023 Riverhead Books publication.
It’s been ages since I read a good crime drama/family saga. Age of Vice certainly Age of Vice by Deepti Kapoor is a 2023 Riverhead Books publication.
It’s been ages since I read a good crime drama/family saga. Age of Vice certainly fits that bill. The psychology behind powerful family run criminal enterprises, the glitter of vast wealth, the innocent people that get drawn in or trapped in that web is always compelling.
Set in India in the early 2000s, the story follows Sunny Wadia, the son of a corrupt businessman, Anjay, a boy who witnessed horrible violence and was then sold into servitude, eventually coming to work for Sunny- constantly at his beck and call, and Neda, a journalist working on a story who becomes dazzled by Sunny’s wealth and exciting lifestyle. But when a horrific car crash occurs, it changes the course of their lives in unexpected ways…
This one is a bit hefty, but it is such an absorbing page turner it goes by super-fast. This is, by far, one of the best modern organized crime dramas, I’ve read in ages. This book is definitely worthy of all the buzz and excitement! Can’t wait to read more books by this author!!...more
Thief of Souls by Brian Klingborg is a 2021 Minotaur Books publication.
A young woman is brutally murdered just weeks after her mother died. A suspectThief of Souls by Brian Klingborg is a 2021 Minotaur Books publication.
A young woman is brutally murdered just weeks after her mother died. A suspect is quickly brought in, but Lu Fei isn’t convinced he is the guilty party. As he digs deeper, he comes under scrutiny by the CID who has been called in to help with the investigation. Lu Fei doesn’t play by the same rules and is the only one truly interested in seeking justice for the murder victim.
But as he dodges political interests, he slowly comes to a horrifying realization, one that could put those he cares about in grave danger…
A modern-day murder mystery set in China- I think that would be a first for me. This story forced me to pay closer attention to details, to absorb a different political landscape and the corruption that lay within.
Because of the unique cultural setting, the story feels fresh, and a change of scenery can certainly do wonders-
But at the end of the day, this is still basically your standard police procedural. Once this became apparent, I couldn’t allow the uniqueness of the location to distract me from the quality of the mystery itself.
After some thought, I’ve decided the story was very solid. The author follows the usual formula for this genre and doesn’t veer too far of course in that regard. Still, despite having made a few 'whodunit' guesses, I found I was way off track.
As a first book in a series, the author gives the reader a good foundation to build on. Lu Fei has great potential, and I am looking forward to seeing how this series will progress from here. I hope that once the cultural novelty wears off, what remains will be a go-to series with developing characters and thought-provoking mysteries.
Honor by Thrity Umrigar is a 2022 Algonquin Books publication.
Smita, an Indian American journalist, has been summoned back to India at the behest of Honor by Thrity Umrigar is a 2022 Algonquin Books publication.
Smita, an Indian American journalist, has been summoned back to India at the behest of a friend, who is facing a medical crisis. Upon arrival, she discovers her friend doesn’t so much want her presence by her side as she wishes for Smita to take on an assignment in her stead.
The case in question is centered on Meena, a Hindu woman who married a Muslim. Members of her own family murdered her husband, while Meena was severely burned trying to save his life. Now Meena’s brothers are on trial, while she and her young daughter reside with her bitter mother-in-law.
Smita agrees to cover the case for her friend, albeit reluctantly. Accompanying her, is Mohan, who serves as a host/ guide/assistant, and occasional devil’s advocate, helping her navigate a country Smita has a hard time reconciling, but is still helplessly drawn to at the same time.
This is a powerful, gut-wrenching story, highlighting two very different, but very brave women, who sacrifice all they know for love and for the true, rightful meaning of ‘Honor’…
Overall, the book absolutely deserves all the praise bestowed on it. This book will linger in your mind and heart for a long time after you turn the final page.
A Single Rose by Muriel Barbery, Alison Anderson (Translation) is a 2021 Europa Editions publication.
This lushly written novella length story profileA Single Rose by Muriel Barbery, Alison Anderson (Translation) is a 2021 Europa Editions publication.
This lushly written novella length story profiles the reexamination of Rose’s distant and estranged relationship with her father, who has recently passed away. Rose travels to Japan, planning to stay only long enough to discover the contents of her father’s will.
Her host for the duration of her visit is Paul, her father’s assistant. As Paul leads Rose through Japan, her resentfulness towards her father begins to soften, as she examines her own life and tendencies, reflecting on her upbringing and her father’s legacy.
This is a poignant story, mingled with whimsy, and a wry sense of humor. The writing style might not appeal to all readers, as it is ‘flowery’ – quite Literally.
That said, I loved the allusions and allegories, and the writing was fitting complemented the themes of the story.
Overall, this a lovely story, a wondrous journey, and reawakening for Rose, with a hint of a more contented and fulfilled future.
The Missing American by Kwei Quartey is a 2020 Soho Crime publication.
A promising start to a new series!
Emma Djan wanted to follow in her father’s The Missing American by Kwei Quartey is a 2020 Soho Crime publication.
A promising start to a new series!
Emma Djan wanted to follow in her father’s footsteps by becoming a homicide detective. She finally makes it into the police force, but her dreams of working homicide go horribly awry when she is kicked off the force. Thankfully, she lands on her feet getting hired on as a private detective, working for Yemo Sowah, also a former cop.
The first case Emma is assigned is that of a missing American man, Gordon Tilson, who had flown to Ghana to meet a woman he met online.
Upon arrival, Gordon realizes he has been duped, that the woman he was to meet, never existed. Gordon, feeling quite embarrassed, plans his return to the US immediately. But, an old friend of his curiously pressures him to stay in the country and enjoy himself for a few days, then suggests the scammers should not go unpunished, thus convincing Gordon to do some investigating. But, before he makes much headway, he disappears. Now Gordon’s son, Derek, has come to Ghana in search of his father, hiring Emma’s detective firm to investigate.
I enjoyed this mystery partly because it is set in Ghana, an interesting locale, and because of the different dialects and procedures. I also liked the characters, especially Emma, who is easy to cheer for. Internet scams are nothing new, of course, but the plot is fresh, multi-layered and quite interesting.
I will admit the pacing is slow, and the book does require a sharper focus and a little patience at times. But, I felt the slower pace enabled me to fully absorb this well-crafted, detail driven story. Everything is somehow connected, and as the pieces drop into place, in their own good time, it becomes clear how brilliantly plotted the novel is.
Overall, I loved the atmosphere, the lush, rich, and complicated location, the different dialects and the culture which helped create a tense, riveting crime drama. I already have the second book in the series queued up and ready to go!!
My Only Wife by Peace Adzo Medie is a 2020 Algonquin Books publication.
The novel is set in Ghana and follows Afi, a young woman who aspires to be a fMy Only Wife by Peace Adzo Medie is a 2020 Algonquin Books publication.
The novel is set in Ghana and follows Afi, a young woman who aspires to be a fashion designer, but is coerced into an arranged marriage with Elikem, a wealthy businessman who already has a mistress and a child. Afi is confined to an apartment while the mistress occupies the main house, and she soon realizes that Elikem will never commit to her unless she challenges the expectations of her mother and her in-laws. Afi decides to stand up for herself, pursue her career goals, and demand respect from Elikem, even if it means breaking her own heart.
The book starts off slowly but gains momentum as Afi’s character develops and changes. I was drawn into Afi’s story and enjoyed witnessing her transformation from a passive and obedient wife to a confident and independent woman.
The only issue I had was that many editorial review mentions humor in their 'blurbs', but more often than not, I found myself feeling righteous indignation for Afi and even sadness at the way she was being used. I didn't find anything here all that funny or light-hearted.
That said, I admired Afi's courage and determination to confront the people who manipulated and exploited her, and to refuse to settle for less than she deserved. Afi’s journey not only empowers herself, but may also free others in her life who are affected by her choices.
Overall, a bittersweet tale- but one of hope and resilience.
The Survivors by Jane Harper is a 2020 Flatiron publication.
So far, I’ve enjoyed all the books I’ve read by this author, but for some reason when thiThe Survivors by Jane Harper is a 2020 Flatiron publication.
So far, I’ve enjoyed all the books I’ve read by this author, but for some reason when this book came out, I never got around to reading it. It’s been lingering on my TBR list for about three years- plus there’s a new Aaron Falk installment, I haven’t read yet either- so it’s time to do a little catching up.
It took a bit for the story to begin taking shape, but once a crime had been committed, and the backstory that linked an old case with this new one, became apparent, I found myself completely engrossed. I liked the way the plot played out, without the usual procedural/detective elements of investigation taking the primary spotlight.
The story is centered around Keiran Elliott, a man who has returned home to help his mother who is about to move her husband, who has dementia, into a care facility. Being back has already dredged up a host of emotions for Keiran, the reminders of his deceased brother, Finn, haunting him at every turn, his ghost standing between him and his mother.
But when a body is found on the beach- a different case- that of a teenage girl that went missing on the same day that Finn died- is once more being looked at as the two deaths have eerie similarities. The connection between the two tragedies come crashing together in yet another perfect storm that will bring Kieran to a shocking pinnacle that will either solidify his guilt or set him free…
This is just as much a story about family, guilt, grief, and redemption as it is a mystery. I admit I guessed who the culprit was very early on in the novel, but of course I could never have guessed all the whys and wherefores. Though confident in my knowledge, the suspense was still palpable when the moment of truth transpires.
While I can’t say this is my favorite book by this author, I am glad I stuck with it. It does have its faults- the pacing, the large cast of characters being the main complaints. But… I love cold cases and this book has that element. I also liked the way the characters finally get some answers- not just to the crimes committed, but in other aspects of their lives as well- which will bring much needed peace. The mysteries are compelling, too, don’t get me wrong- even knowing who the murderer was didn’t dampen the impact of the revelation when it came. The atmosphere was heavy with emotion and tension and suspense, and once the story finally got moving it was difficult to put it down.
So, overall, not as strong as some of Harper’s other stories, but still a very solid effort.
Black Diamond Queens: African American Women and Rock and Roll by Maureen Mahon is a 2020 Duke University Press publication.
I enjoyed this tribute toBlack Diamond Queens: African American Women and Rock and Roll by Maureen Mahon is a 2020 Duke University Press publication.
I enjoyed this tribute to the black women who helped to shape rock music. Often times, these women, whose music was often mislabeled as soul or R&B, never got the respect or recognition they deserved- and doubly so for those who made contributions to male dominated rock groups. These women were influential outside of their work in the studio, as well.
Big Mama Thornton – who recorded ‘Hound Dog’ before Elvis, and ‘Ball and Chain’ before Janis Joplin- never got her due, though she worked well into her old age. (Janis gave public credit to Thornton- while Elvis refused.)
Girl groups such as ‘The Shirelles’ have been forgotten over the years. I admit I love the girl groups from this era of time- so I really enjoyed this section- and agree the influence of these groups was huge- but is rarely acknowledged in the world of rock music.
The author takes us through the years- with an interesting piece on Betty Davis- not to be confused with the actress- an artist I honestly have no memory of. Some YouTube clips were – shall we say- eye popping! She was ahead of her time and her influence can still be seen today.
It is only fitting that Tina Turner is the headliner here, as her success as a rock artist has been simply phenomenal.
These profiles are interesting and informative- but there weren’t enough of them. The author seemed to have jumped down a rabbit hole when she began to dissect the Rolling Stones song called ‘Brown Sugar’.
(Clarification from original review) To be clear- Brown Sugar is about race- but when I was growing up- many adults trashed the song- because they thought it was about drugs. I understand why they thought that- based on the title alone- but if you listened to the lyrics at all - it's obvious what the song is about- although I didn't fully understand all the connotations until I was older and really gave the words some thought.
Although the author makes very valid points, and she does go on to highlight artists such as Merry Clayton, whose incredible vocals on the Stones’ song ‘Gimme Shelter’ is what made that song good, she veered way off course- and seem to lose track of the book’s primary focus, there for a while.
There were also a few behind the scenes influencers- ‘groupies’ and such, that were part of the culture, people long forgotten by now, which was a nice bit of trivia- but I’m not sure their contributions were strong enough to have made it into the pages of this book. Again, something that seemed a bit off-topic to me.
That said, this will give readers a different perspective on black women and their role in rock music. The highlighted artists were influential black women for many- but never got widespread, mainstream credit under the 'rock and roll' category- with the exception of Tina Turner- who insisted on performing rock music-and being labeled and promoted as a rock artist.
Rock music categories and lines are blurred, more now than ever, and the genre has fallen far from the royalty and power it once boasted of, but, the women featured in this book are still influencing current day artist in ways I never thought of before.
Overall, the book starts off strong, but the midsection goes off track, and loses momentum, but- it finishes strong, and will give readers a some societal, cultural, and musical history.
Ties that Tether by Jane Igharo is a 2020 Berkley publication.
A Pleasant Romantic debut!
Azere promised her father, she would marry a Nigerian man, anTies that Tether by Jane Igharo is a 2020 Berkley publication.
A Pleasant Romantic debut!
Azere promised her father, she would marry a Nigerian man, and continue observing her native culture, even after emigrating to Canada. After her father’s death, Azere stays in line, obeying her overbearing mother and fully intends to keep her promise.
Unfortunately, all the men her mother introduces her to are controlling, misogynist jerks. After yet another failed connection, Azere meets Raphael in a bar. For Azere, their night together was a one and done deal- but fate has other plans…
Raphael and Azere discover they are colleagues and are assigned to work together. Raphael is interested in seeing where the relationship might take them, but he is white, meaning if Azere and Raphael were to make it long term, she would be breaking the promise she made to her father.
If that weren’t awkward enough, a stunning development further complicates matters, forcing Azere to make one of the toughest decisions of her life. Will she cave to her mother’s wishes or choose true love?
I love multi-cultural romance! This contemporary novel explores the pressures and obligations of family, and how difficult it can be to avoid those demands, even when your true heart isn’t in it. The challenges of blending cultures, the fears of one being swallowed up by the other are very valid and realistic.
The book has a few issues- most of which I think can be attributed to this being a debut. I think once this author gains a bit of experience, her stories will flow easier, and there will be less inner monologue and more dialogue, allowing the characters to develop more fully.
Despite the obvious nerves, the story is absorbing, and I was invested enough to want to see how things turned out. The angst and occasional overly dramatic passages are balanced with some very tender and emotional moments that warms the heart.
The glimpse into the future is also a nice touch, and although I absolutely loathe trends, I wouldn’t mind seeing more romance novels include a glimpse into the future to prove what HEA means realistically.
Overall, this was an enjoyable romance. I see some promise with this author and look forward to reading her next book....more
A Knock at Midnight by Brittany K. Barnett is a 2020 Crown publishing group publication.
A Compulsory and eye-opening memoir!
Brittany K. Barnett writA Knock at Midnight by Brittany K. Barnett is a 2020 Crown publishing group publication.
A Compulsory and eye-opening memoir!
Brittany K. Barnett writes a compelling memoir chronicling her journey to combat injustice. She had her own personal hurdles to jump over, but her experiences prepared her to accept her true calling.
Brittany Barnett’s personal experiences aided her when she began digging around in the criminal legal process. Her own mother had a serious drug addiction and spent two years in prison. But, when Brittany begins to look closely at the case of Sharanda Jones, it becomes obvious the punishment far exceeded the crime.
From there, Brittany, in her determination to help Jones, is met with a massive brick wall, disappointments and setbacks. Eventually, with her options running out, she turns to the Obama Administration’s clemency initiative for help.
Sharanda’s case is not the only case Brittany worked on. In fact, she is so dedicated to the cause, and the need so great, for someone like her to champion for people serving life sentences for lesser, non-violent drug offenses, she eventually left the corporate world to dedicate herself to fighting injustice.
While the draconian sentences, the criminal legal process, and mass incarceration could easily break one’s spirit, Brittany’s Pro-Bono work is focused on the victories, on the promise of hope. While she certainly gives readers an up close and personal view at the system’s failures, outlining its flaws passionately, she doesn't veer off into preachy pulpit pounding, and shows respect for those forced to work within the system as it is.
The balance between sharing her personal life and professional life is perhaps too intertwined for one to get a better read on Brittany as a private citizen, which is too bad, as she strikes me as a person one might want to get to know better.
Other than this one small regret, I highly recommend this book. It is educational, heartbreaking, inspirational and hopeful!...more
How did two women fall from a university tower only moments apart from each other?
This is the question Captain Jim Agnihotri is asking after having rHow did two women fall from a university tower only moments apart from each other?
This is the question Captain Jim Agnihotri is asking after having read about the case while convalescing in a military hospital. The captain had been enjoying reading Sherlock Holmes mysteries, until he learns the women’s deaths were written up as suicides- and is moved by the stirring letter, Adi, the brother and widower of the two women, writes to the press begging respect for his wife and sister, insisting the women did not commit suicide!
Inspired by Sherlock Holmes, the unsatisfying investigation, and Adi’s letter to the press, Jim offers to privately inquire into the matter for Adi, who readily accepts the invitation. Along the way, Jim is introduced to Adi’s sister, Lady Diana Framji, who is determined to help with his investigation.
The two make a good detective team, but their feelings for one another grow much deeper as time passes…
I thoroughly enjoyed this historical mystery, the premise, the backdrop and atmosphere, the romance, and the way everything came together in the end.
The author vividly captures the divisions of the day, the customs, and hierarchy. The story is educational, suspenseful, and emotional, but also, clean and entertaining. It was interesting that the book was based on a true story- which makes it even more fascinating!
Deacon King Kong by James McBride is a 2020 Random House publication.
Bold, Brilliant and Captivating!
Set in 1969 Brooklyn, the story starts off witDeacon King Kong by James McBride is a 2020 Random House publication.
Bold, Brilliant and Captivating!
Set in 1969 Brooklyn, the story starts off with a literal bang when an elderly church deacon, known as ‘Sportcoat’, shoots Deems Clemens, a drug dealer, in front of the Cause houses housing project, with no shortage of witnesses.
Sportcoat, may have been the deacon of The Five Ends Baptist Church for years, but he is also a long-time alcoholic, whose beverage of choice is a homemade hooch called King Kong. While his health has suffered, more so now that his wife, Hettie, has died, no one seems to know why Sportcoat shot Deems. However, the fallout connects a group of people from vastly different walks of life, from police officers, to members of the Italian mob, in a very surprising way.
I must say, I was very impressed with this novel!! It’s unique and packed with humor. There’s a zany satirical quality to the story and it’s just enormous! There is a huge cast of characters, which is normally a deal breaker for me. But, in this case, I miraculously had no problem keeping up with the characters. There is a lot going on, however, and while not always as cohesive as I needed it to be, it all somehow comes together beautifully.
There is a treasure hunt, a mystery, and a surprising romance, all rolled into an atmospheric and timely crime drama, as different drug factions war it out, all wanting a piece of the pie, while Sportcoat, who has no memory of shooting Deems, has a price on his head.
McBride masterfully weaves the threads together, connecting the characters in one way or another. While the humor stands out, so does the poignant portrait of loneliness and sorrow. Yet, at the end of the day the strong emphasis on faith, church, and the importance of community, gives this novel a stylishly warm glow.
Overall, this is a unique piece of historical fiction,which covers a lot of ground with a magnificent deliverance. There is some anger here, but its presentation is mild, and the crime elements are far from graphic. While it is a little bittersweet, with a few moments of melancholy, it is mostly an affable, gentle story that left me with an enormous respect for McBride’s talent as a writer....more
The Aosawa Murders by by Riku Onda, Alison Watts (Translator) is a 2020 Bitter Lemon Press publication.
This Japanese mystery is certainly perplexing,The Aosawa Murders by by Riku Onda, Alison Watts (Translator) is a 2020 Bitter Lemon Press publication.
This Japanese mystery is certainly perplexing, with an interesting and unique presentation of the facts. Unfortunately, I had a very hard time with this novel. We've all struggled with the ability to focus lately, which made this a bad time to tackle this book, perhaps.
So, I put the novel down for a while, then picked it back up only to feel more lost than ever. I started over from the beginning, reading slowly, and concentrating as best I could. But, no matter what, I remained confused, and the ending, after all that trouble, turned out to be one of those open to interpretation, ambiguous conclusions that only compounded my frustrations with the book. I was a little miffed, to be honest.
Normally I would love a crafty, original story like this one because of its extraordinary approach and the clever way the story unfolds. But, it never grabbed me.
I think it could be one those 'it’s not you, it’s me’ situations- 'a cliché, I know, but I think maybe that’s the case for me with this book, since it appears to have been well- received, overall.
Mystery lovers who enjoy, dark, cultural and historical crime fiction will probably love this one. It is a challenge and will be a nice change of pace for those who are looking for something a little different, that doesn't follow the usual crime formulas. It just didn’t work for me at this time.
The Star -Crossed Sisters of Tuscany by Lori Nelson Spielman is a 2020 Berkley publication.
Family secrets, curses, lost and found love, romance and gThe Star -Crossed Sisters of Tuscany by Lori Nelson Spielman is a 2020 Berkley publication.
Family secrets, curses, lost and found love, romance and good food!!
The second daughters of the Fontana family are believed to be cursed- doomed to live a life without love. Emilia and her cousin Lucy, both second daughters, are invited to visit Italy by their Aunt Poppy, who has been disassociated with family for years.
Going against her grandmother’s wishes, Emilia, a straight-laced girl who lives a quiet, unadventurous life, decides to accept the invitation, hoping her aunt's promise of breaking the family curse will come true.
Once in Italy, the girls discover their aunt’s health is fragile and that she is intent on meeting up with her one true love after decades of separation. As Poppy regales the girls with stories from her past, Emilia and Lucy explore the Italian culture and discover the truth themselves, their own past, and how to live life with gusto!
I found myself caught up in Poppy’s historical story, and less engaged with Emilia’s contemporary one, which is usually the case with me. Lucy’s role was underdeveloped and seemed tacked on as an afterthought. That aside, I really enjoyed this gentle story about breaking away from the limitations and expectations that bog down the full experience of life and love.
The Italian backdrop adds a beautiful air of culture, history and romance that took the story to a higher level. It was almost like taking a virtual trip, whisking me away on a lovely romantic adventure!
Cashelmara by Susan Howatch is a 2012 Open Road Media publication. (Originally published in 1974)
What an epic family saga!
This is a ‘doorstop’ tome Cashelmara by Susan Howatch is a 2012 Open Road Media publication. (Originally published in 1974)
What an epic family saga!
This is a ‘doorstop’ tome written way back in 1974, but is now been formatted into digital form by Open Road Media. Susan Howatch, at one time, was the queen of the family saga. I didn’t get around to reading her books until decades after they were published, but I loved this style of family drama, which covers several generations of related characters, and is packed with life’s trials, triumphs and tragedies, and often includes scandals, mysteries, murders, and a touch of Gothic melodrama.
Well before the current love affair with various first person POV’s, this novel allows each of the key characters a chance to tell the reader a part of the story. I am not always a fan of this format, but it works beautifully here.
The story begins with Edward de Salis, a widower, with a young son still living at home, one he has trouble understanding and keeping in line. When Edward travels to America, he meets his wife’s cousin Marguerite- a young girl still in her teens. She’s plain compared to her sister, but Edward is immediately smitten with her, and he quickly proposes marriage.
Once they are finally married, Edward brings his new bride home to Ireland, to his grand estate-Cashelmara.
From there the story follows three generations as they face hardships, difficult marriages, and relationships, while struggling with secrets, forbidden passions, and jealousies, which will eventually set in motion a tragic and shocking chain of events.
The book is allegedly based on Edward 1, 2, and 3 of England, but is set in 19th century Ireland. While it might appear as though there is not much happening, but there is a lot going on- if that makes any sense.
It’s an incredibly absorbing story, and for its time, it was pretty spicy. It wasn’t all that sexually explicit, but it dealt with subject matter that had yet to make it into mainstream literature. It also included adulterous behavior and co- habitation between unmarried partners… who were both married to other people. That would have been quite the scandal in the 19th century- and in most areas it still was in 1974.
The mystery doesn’t develop until later in the saga, but when it does become obvious something is amiss, the suspense leads the way to a stunning conclusion.
It goes without saying that I loved this book. I have a weakness for family dramas, and I’ve often lamented the demise of the big, thick generations sagas. I think it’s good to lose oneself in a good, expansive tome from to time.
The only downside is that once I’ve immersed myself within the shelter of a long, dialogue friendly, dramatic, nuanced and atmospheric historical novel, it is sometimes jarring to return to the brash, loud and fast-paced contemporary world of today.
The Satapur Moonstone by Sujata Massey is a 2019 Soho Crime publication.
This second installment in the Perveen Mistry series has Perveen traveling to The Satapur Moonstone by Sujata Massey is a 2019 Soho Crime publication.
This second installment in the Perveen Mistry series has Perveen traveling to Satapur in the remote Sahyadri mountains to act as a mediator between a widowed mother and her mother-in-law on behalf of a young crown prince.
The two ladies are locked in a dispute over the prince’s educational options and Perveen must decide what is best for the child.
When she arrives, after an uncomfortable journey, she finds things are not nearly as straightforward as she’s been led to believe. As it turns out, there are more serious concerns than the education of the crown prince.
Palace intrigue places Perveen in an untenable situation and her focus shifts to finding a way to protect the royal children, who appear to be in grave danger…
This is a well thought out, carefully plotted mystery. I love Perveen! She’s smart, very brave, but also very human and likable. She’s very ahead of her time, but must work within the confines of Indian law in the 1920s.
She doesn’t always get it right, and makes some amateur sleuthing mistakes at times, but I thought that made her character more realistic.
The author also does a fantastic job with time, place, and with the recreation of the political atmosphere of the time, describing the landscape and scenery, food, and dress so vividly it was like I was there.
I love palace intrigue, so the mystery was right up my alley, too. The suspense builds slowly at times, but the plot kept my mind working constantly. I was still completely blindsided by a stunning revelation that ratcheted up the tension considerably!
Overall, I think this series is only going to get better. Perveen is an outstanding character to build on- with a fantastic premise and time-frame that has plenty of potential and possibilities. Very much looking forward to book three!!...more
The Saturday Night Ghost Club by Craig Davidson is a 2019 Penguin Books publication.
A stirring and bittersweet coming of age story!
Jake is a bit difThe Saturday Night Ghost Club by Craig Davidson is a 2019 Penguin Books publication.
A stirring and bittersweet coming of age story!
Jake is a bit different from other kids his age. But, he’s nowhere near as eccentric as his lovable Uncle Calvin. Calvin owns an occult shop and has a hotline for UFO sightings or other paranormal occurrences. Naturally, he knows all about the local ghostly legends. So, when Jake makes a couple of new friends, Calvin invites them to join his ‘Saturday Night Ghost Club”.
Jake feels like he’s a part of a special group and enjoys spending time with Calvin. However, there is an underlying sense of unease as one begins to suspect there is more to Calvin’s ghost stories than a few good thrills and chills.
Jake narrates this story, as an adult, reciting his adventures through the eye lens of his twelve- year old self. Jakes occupation often urges him to ponder the many mysteries of the mind, especially where our memories are concerned.
When it comes to horror or the paranormal, ghost stories, which I hope are making a comeback, are always a favorite of mine. I also love the local legends each town seems to have, and here in my neck of the woods we have one famous enough to make it into a few ghost -story books.
So, I thought this part of the story was fun, because I may have gone on a few paranormal investigations myself in the early eighties- although I was little older than Jake. We usually ended up scaring ourselves to death more than anything else. So, this story does stir up one’s feelings of nostalgia.
Niagara Falls, though I've never been there, seems like an awesome setting for this short story, creating just the right tone and atmosphere for a good ghost story, while exposing a darker, secret part of the location we don’t typically consider.
I think many people can recall that time in our youth when a part of us desperately wanted to hold onto the innocence of our childhood, while simultaneously longing to prove our maturity, to understand the unspoken and still hidden mysteries of adulthood. It’s a wistful feeling, saying goodbye to one’s childhood as we step over the threshold and take our first tentative steps towards adulthood.
Jake, who has already taken a few lumps in life, learns a bit sooner, and in a more personal way, just how dark the world can be. The summer of his twelfth year understandably stands out in Jake's memory- so much so it most assuredly propelled him towards his ultimate career choice, as he devotes his life to learning and correcting the vast mystery and complexities of the human brain.
His recollections are vivid, and his tone is as introspective as it is retrospective. Although sadness and helplessness lie just underneath the surface, Jake's fond sentimentality often creeps into his voice as his recollections surge to life.
Because I was unfamiliar with this author, I had to do a little research to see what else he may have written. I was very surprised to learn the author also writes under the name “Nick Cutter’. Looking at those books, it is obvious this story certainly is not his usual style. Just goes to show how versatile he can be and how far he could take his talent, if he chooses to.
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