Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney is a 2021 Flatiron publication.
Mr. and Mrs. Wright- Amelia and Adam- and their dog, Bob, are having a weekend awaRock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney is a 2021 Flatiron publication.
Mr. and Mrs. Wright- Amelia and Adam- and their dog, Bob, are having a weekend away, knowing this is a last-ditch effort to salvage their marriage. Adam is a workaholic screenwriter who has lived with face blindness his entire life. Amelia works at a dog shelter, which is where she wins this getaway trip in a raffle drawing.
Once they arrive at their destination, which is a remote Chapel of all places, things go awry from the get-go. The tension between the couple, brought on by mistrust, lies and secrets, only intensifies when a series of odd occurrences soon becomes an edgy cat and mouse game. Someone lured them to this exact location, and now they want them to stay…
Indefinitely…
Ha! This is my third book by this author and so far, we are three for three. Very clever, well executed, and it held my undivided attention from start to finish.
Overall, a solid, twisty- (and twisted)- psychological thriller with a chilling conclusion!
Daisy Darker by Alice Feeney is a 2022 Flatiron publication.
It's Nana’s eightieth birthday- and her entire family has gathered to help her celebrate. Daisy Darker by Alice Feeney is a 2022 Flatiron publication.
It's Nana’s eightieth birthday- and her entire family has gathered to help her celebrate. This would include her son, ex-daughter-in-law, her granddaughters, and her great granddaughter, as well as Connor, a man she practically helped raise, and who all her granddaughters had a crush on at some point.
Nana was a successful children’s author- writing books named after her granddaughter, Daisy Darker. Her son is famous musician who never wanted a wife or children and spent most of his time abroad. His former wife picked favorites amongst her children, and Daisy definitely wasn’t the chosen one.
Daisy- bless her heart- was born broken. She has a congenital heart defect and wasn’t expected to live beyond her childhood years. She was never allowed to go anywhere or have the fun her sisters did…
But she was Nana’s favorite!
Then there is the fifteen-year-old Trixie- Nana’s only grandchild- who is the only one to treat Daisy with any kindness.
Now they are all under one roof and all the resentments, pettiness, competitions and back biting come boiling up to the surface after Nana decides to read them the contents of her will….
Then a deadly prediction comes true when Nana is found dead...
But that’s just the beginning!
Obviously, this story has a very familiar set up- reminiscent of Agatha Christie. But while the format is a comfortable as a pair of old jeans, Feeney puts a fresh spin on the old locked-room mystery format with an extraordinary surprise twist that will knock your socks off!
Overall, as a fan of Christie, locked-room mysteries and Alice Feeney this one was a win for me. This one is a bit ‘darker’ that the usual locked-room format, but it was a nice fit for this story.
The atmosphere is spooky and tense, but the guessing game is fun, and the entire experience was very entertaining. A great book to curl up with a dark and stormy night….
Tell Me Everything: The Story of a Private Investigation by Erika Krouse is a 2022 Flatiron publication.
Erika Krouse was an investigator working for Tell Me Everything: The Story of a Private Investigation by Erika Krouse is a 2022 Flatiron publication.
Erika Krouse was an investigator working for a lawyer named ‘Grayson’, when she is given a huge assignment, investigating a rape allegation at the University of Colorado, which occurred on football recruitment weekend.
The information she eventually shakes loose will have a major impact on the case- a case that was, in and of itself, a landmark, as Grayson planned to apply Title IX in the lawsuit.
Erika has been told countless times that she has a face that prompts people to confide in her, dropping information they would never have shared with anyone else- even people she’s only just met.
But, in this case, that will not be enough- people are wary, afraid and defensive. Erika is then forced to develop some tricks of the detective trade- and as time passes, she becomes a very capable detective.
The case, though, brings up some painful memories for Erika. She was a victim of sexual abuse as a child, and this investigation brings painful emotions to the surface, threatening her mental health. But Erika stays the course, exposing a toxic environment in collegiate sports that eventually came to the attention of the national media.
This book had real potential, but for me, this combination of two genres- that of true crime and personal memoir, doesn’t work for me. This is the third book this year that has attempted to merge these two genres and all three times I’ve found the format lacking.
In this instance, it was a bit more frustrating for me because the author didn’t include the background information necessary for context- just basic True Crime 101 information.
Instead, I had to do a Google search about the case, which is work I shouldn’t have had to do. First, this case is an old one- so memories may have faded some- and not all folks who read this book will be familiar with college football-like me, for example, which is why I felt the backstory was important.
Secondly, the memoir aspects, though somewhat connected in theme to the case being investigated, isn’t directly connected to these crimes.
I felt both these stories deserved more time than was devoted to them, and one part severely distracted from the other. In other words, the two stories- the criminal case and Erika’s personal journey- needed to be separate. Both stories should be told- just not in the same book.
Other than that, the case is one that was especially shocking when it first came to light. It exposed the university and its greed, it’s lack of protection for female students who would most assuredly be harassed in such an environment, and were put at a huge risk of being sexually assaulted.
Since that time, other similar cases have been exposed at the college level- equally disturbing with lots of excuses made to protect the schools, the coaches, and the players.
As a person who lives in a state where football is worshiped, and since I’m on the outside of that culture, I see it more clearly, perhaps, and I can tell you, not much has changed, though we are assured it has.
The initial denials and cover-ups had a high cost though- just not necessarily to the university- which made sure they didn’t bear the brunt of it.
In the end, one is left feeling unsettled by it all. One bright spot, though, is that Erika seems to have found a way to cope with her past, and her family, to find peace and contentment in her life.
Overall, despite some presentation issues, the book does expose a dangerous culture that puts women at risk, then and now, and from that angle the book has merit- but one will want to read up on the subject a little before reading the book. I think that will help give Erika's investigations more gravity. I just hope this true crime memoir format doesn't become a new trend.
The Lost Man by Jane Harper is a 2019 Flatiron publication.
Riveting!
Jane Harper’s descriptive depictions of the Queensland scenery, places the readeThe Lost Man by Jane Harper is a 2019 Flatiron publication.
Riveting!
Jane Harper’s descriptive depictions of the Queensland scenery, places the reader smack dab into its harsh atmosphere, helping to create a dark and moody mystery, crackling with unbearable suspense.
The Stockman grave, a landmark with a storied legend behind it is the scene of the shocking death of Cameron, the middle son of the Bright family. The rumor is that Cameron, who had been behaving strangely, as of late, may have deliberately caused his own death.
Cameron's family, which includes his two brothers, Nathan and Bub, his widow, and their two young daughters, must decide what the future holds for each of them, now that Cameron is gone.
Nathan is grappling with a terrible deed from his past, which resulted in his becoming an outcast in the community, exiling him to a lonely existence, except for the occasional visit from his teenage son, Xander.
Bub is the youngest brother, struggling to find his own niche, and resentful of his brothers, wishing he could break free and live his own life away from the family business.
But, as the story deepens, questions continue to linger regarding Cameron’s death. What had been troubling him lately? Why had he been so on edge? Did he really commit suicide?
As the secrets slowly reveal themselves, a portrait of a family steeped in regrets, longing and misunderstanding, begins to emerge- one that is packed with horrible, stunning, and heartbreaking revelations.
While this is a very deep mystery, it is also a complex family drama so compelling and achingly painful, the book is almost impossible to put down!!
Harper outdid herself with this one! Highly recommend!
Nine Perfect Strangers by Liane Moriarty is a 2018 Flatiron publication.
Frances- former bestselling romance author- ironically the victim of a romancNine Perfect Strangers by Liane Moriarty is a 2018 Flatiron publication.
Frances- former bestselling romance author- ironically the victim of a romance con/scam Lars- divorce attorney representing women only Tony- former professional sports star Napoleon, Heather, and Zoe- family coming apart at the seams Caramel- Husband dumped her for a younger woman- wants to lose weight – gain positive self -image Ben and Jessica – marriage on the rocks after winning the lottery Masha- Head guru- health spa owner
Nine people, all from very different walks of life, arrive at Tranquillum House, a highly recommended health resort. Each of them is coping with various life issues, from simple domestic uncertainties, or huge family problems, to marital woes, and weight loss goals.
After the prologue, the first character the reader is introduced to is Frances. This was a great opener for the avid reader who will ‘get’ the subtle and not so subtle digs at the publishing industry and the trends they run right into the ground until they become a parody of themselves, forcing authors to either hop on board the train or wait for their chosen genre to become popular again. So, right away, I knew I was going have to see how Frances fared, and was all in. I couldn’t wait to see what other sardonic observations the author had up her sleeve.
But, I must warn you. This book is not like Moriarty’s previous novels, which usually centered around the family unit, providing a taut element of suspense, blended with humor and sarcasm. This novel has the humor, sarcasm and the suspense, but the setting is not at all domestic, as you will see.
I usually dislike novels with a large cast of characters. I get confused easily trying to keep up with so many backstories and the plot is usually way too busy. However, this book is an exception. I had no trouble keeping up the characters and the plot is straightforward, so despite the number of characters, the story has a nice, even flow. The only drawback might be that it loses some of the intimacy of Moriarty’s previous works.
I loved all the characters. They are a zany group of people, flawed of course, some dealing with deeper issues than others, but all of them are so human and real. I rooted for and cared for them all, but Frances remained a favorite character for me from start to finish. Heather, Zoe, and Napoleon have the meatiest story in the book and evoke some serious emotions.
Overall, this one is a bit of a departure for Liane Moriarty, but her signature style is etched all through the novel. While the plot is just this side of deranged, the story is a compulsive read, perhaps a little overlong, but otherwise compelling and highly engrossing!!
(view spoiler)[(Oh, and Frances- you could write a psychological thriller if you wanted- but I’m glad you chose my favorite genre instead!) (hide spoiler)]...more
If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio is a 2017 Flatiron Books publication.
This is a psychological thriller for deep thinkers. There is crime and there is If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio is a 2017 Flatiron Books publication.
This is a psychological thriller for deep thinkers. There is crime and there is punishment. There is mystery, suspense. There are intense characters, shallow ones too, those who are fatalistic and those who are tragic… just like a Shakespearean play.
Ten years ago, Oliver Marks was one of seven Shakespearean actors at the prestigious Dellecher Classical Conservatory. Today he is about to walk out of a prison cell for the first time in a decade. How did he end up behind bars?
That’s something Detective Colbourne would also like to know. He may have put Oliver in prison, but he knows there is more to the story than he's been told.
He can’t rest until he coaxes the entire story out of Oliver once and for all. With Colbourne retired, and with nothing else to lose, Oliver grants Colbourne his wish.
‘But that I am forbid/ To tell the secrets of my prison -house,/ I could a tale unfold whose lightest word/ Would horrow up thy soul.’
The story then flashes back ten years as Oliver walks us through the events that left him holding the bag for crimes he may or may not have been solely responsible for.
When one of the seven elite actors’ dies, the remaining six thespians are the very picture of innocence. It was an accident after all… wasn’t it? But, Detective Colbourne’s senses they know more than they are telling. Are they as innocent as they appear or are they harboring a dark secret- one that is eating away at them more and more with each passing day?
I tend to gravitate towards these types of stories, which are too few and far between, but I suppose that only makes me appreciate them even more when I stumble across one.
The Shakespearean allegory is well done, as the stage is set for the ultimate tragedy. Our little acting coalition is as thick as thieves, too close, too driven, too immersed within their own little thespian world to cope with reality as most of us know it, which leads to grave consequences, when they begin to become the roles they often play on stage. Jealousy, competition, unrequited love, anger and resentment stir the bubbling pot until ‘exuent omnes’.
I was so engrossed in Oliver’s tale, so mortified, so mesmerized and tantalized, and despite knowing most of the details of the crime in question, and that Oliver has obviously paid his debt, the suspense is still nearly unbearable, because I still didn't know WHY- or HOW things turned out this way. I was filled with such dread, I almost felt like I was back in Vermont at Hamden College listening to Richard Papen unfold a similarly horrifying tale of obsession.
But, as morally questionable as those standing center stage may be, as superficial and self-absorbed, or in some cases, as honorable, or heroic- the classic “Villains VS Heroes”, if you will, the story is haunting and left a painful ache in my heart.
“But that is how a tragedy like ours or King Lear breaks your heart- by making you believe that the ending might still be happy, until the very last minute.”
The author did an amazing job with presentation and ‘staging’, as such, and created a vivid atmosphere, perfect for settling in for a modern Shakespearean tragedy. If you are a fan of the Bard, you will really appreciate the way the dialogue mirrors the events as they unfold and of course the bittersweet irony.
This is not just a psychological thriller, it’s a literary novel filled with obsessions and angst, with beauty and horror, and a near pitch perfect delivery!
This is a debut novel, incredibly, and I for one am pretty much blown away!
People we Hate at the Wedding by Grant Ginder is a 2017 Flatiron publication.
This book enjoyed some heavy promotion and exposure a few months back. IPeople we Hate at the Wedding by Grant Ginder is a 2017 Flatiron publication.
This book enjoyed some heavy promotion and exposure a few months back. I think I might have discovered it via the book section of the NYT, but then I noticed it was popping up on various library lists etc. So I decided to try it.
This book is supposed to be funny, exposing family dysfunction, but also proving that some bonds, no matter how much we may wish to distance ourselves from them, simply cannot be broken.
I do believe the author did an admirable enough job getting that point across, however, it was just a wee bit too outlandish for me.
Eloise, the privileged daughter of Donna and Henrique, is getting married. She invites her half-siblings, Alice and Paul, the product of Donna’s second marriage, to an ordinary, average guy, who has since passed away.
Alice and Paul are resentful of Eloise, and Paul and his mother are not speaking, so the wedding, which is to take place in London, is just the right setting for a madcap convergence of pent-up emotions, bursting at the seams, to finally burst open.
Sadly, none of the characters, nor the dialogue, was all that funny. In fact, it was often so overboard, it just seemed sad. The balloon holding in all that tension was popped in a big rush at the end, making the conclusion a little too pat, and not all that satisfying.
I give the author an A for effort, but it just didn’t quite make the grade anywhere else.
The Resurrection of Joan Ashby by Cherise Wolas is a 2017 Flatiron publication.
Excellent prose, but lethargic and monotonous-
Joan Ashby became a liteThe Resurrection of Joan Ashby by Cherise Wolas is a 2017 Flatiron publication.
Excellent prose, but lethargic and monotonous-
Joan Ashby became a literary darling in her early twenties, winning awards and spending long stints on the important bestseller lists. She is very focused, refusing to allow herself to succumb to any temptations that might steer her away from her destiny.
But, alas, the thing she swore she would avoid at all costs- the powerful elixir of love- was too strong to overcome.
Joan falls in love with Martin, agrees to marriage, but makes it clear that parenthood is not an option- until she falls pregnant. Her husband’s excitement and joy, convinces her to commit to motherhood, but as she fears, it takes a bitter toll on her creativity, a development which led to years of pent up resentments and frustrations.
To press upon the reader the extent of Joan’s writing talent, her short stories are featured in between her day to day narrative of married life, responsibilities, and child rearing, which highlights the two parts of Joan’s life, her personality, genius, conflicting emotions, and musings on how her life veered so far off course.
But, a gut punching betrayal will shake Joan out of her insular existence, forcing her to take a long, hard look at her life, and to find the courage shake things up, for better or worse.
Life is messy, we all make compromises, see shifts in our priorities, put dreams on hold, and have pieces of our individuality robbed from us in one way or another. Most of us adjust, but Joan never found contentment in her ‘unintended life’, and buried the part of her that struggled for control, the thing that she really loved most- but eventually, she finds a way to resurrect her true self.
Joan’s resentment towards motherhood, her feelings of entrapment are palpable, but this theme is repetitiously beaten into the ground, to the point where the insertion of Joan’s stories was a welcome change of direction. But, at other times these examples of Joan’s work, became a distraction, and only served to drag the story on for much longer than need be.
I am still unsure of my feelings about this book. I think I understand what the author was getting at, the point she was trying to make. On one hand, Joan’s journey is fascinating, but the story was just too bogged down with minutiae, is too wordy, and on occasion, is mind numbingly dull.
The author is obviously blessed with a wonderful literary mind, and the story has all the right elements, but I think we could have arrived at our destination in half the time it took for us to get there.
Overall, this is an ambitious novel, is thought provoking and has some merit, but the journey was simply too arduous.
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