Live to Tell is a suspense/mystery novel by Wendi Corsi Staub. I believe that it is part of a series, but that each book can also stand on it's own. There are three stories that run concurrently in this book, each one dealing with families that are dealing with turmoil and secrets.
The first story deals with a family that is struggling through divorce. Lauren Walsh's husband left her for another woman. She is trying to pick up the pieces and assemble some sort of normal life for her three children. But when Lauren's ex-husband makes a simple, albeit careless, mistake, little do they know that they have all been thrown into a conspiracy that could cost the entire Walsh family their lives. And the youngest Walsh is keeping a secret, that could save or destroy the family.
The second story relates to a husband and wife who lost their seven year old son fifteen years ago. Elsa still struggles to find closure. Brett is trying to keep his wife sane and support her, but also move on from the tragedy. Elsa is still trying to figure out what happened to her son, and still has a PI digging into the past. The secrets that he might unravel could alter Else and Brett's lives.
Finally, the Garvey Quinn is running for Governor and has the White House in his sights. His picture perfect family isn't so perfect though. He has a dangerous secret that he needs to keep quiet or his future will be ruined. He is a man that is willing to do whatever it takes, and then wash his hands and move on. He has had one goal for most of his life and will let nothing get in his way.
The reader is pushed through the book wondering how exactly these stories connect. Little by little, the author weaves the web, and lets the reader try to piece it all together. The result is a novel that is fast paced, but sometimes a little confusing. It was a good suspenseful novel though, and while the author moves the story along a little too quickly sometimes, the reader still gets the full story and a satisfying race to the finish.
Happy Reading!
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Safe Harbor
Judith Arnold's novel, Safe Harbor, is a touching, romantic story about two people who have lost so much and end up helping each other heal. This novel was a free book for my nook and I thought it was just going to be another silly romance. But this book had heart.
Kip and Shelley spent their summers together as children. Both of their families owned summer houses on Block Island. They are the best of friends, exploring the island, leaning on one another and above all, always being honest with one another. But one summer, when both are becoming teenagers, something happens to Shelley's family and they disappear, ending their friendship. Kip never sees her on Block Island again. Until he returns there to heal after tragedy strikes his life. Shelley doesn't trust anyone, Kip thinks he can't love again. But when they see each other again, even after so many years, their friendship is just as strong. They lean on each other again, Shelley helps Kip understand and deal with his grief. When Kip leaves the island to return to the real world though, there is a twist that will keep Shelley a part of his life forever. Now they just need to figure out if they are friends or if the love they share is something more.
This novel is pretty equally split between the relationship between Kip and Shelley as children and as adults. It is the kind of romantic tension that reels you in and does not let go. I could not wait to see what was going to happen, I was frustrated when the two characters went astray and cheered when they found their way back to each other. This was a feel good novel and very satisfying.
Happy Reading!
Kip and Shelley spent their summers together as children. Both of their families owned summer houses on Block Island. They are the best of friends, exploring the island, leaning on one another and above all, always being honest with one another. But one summer, when both are becoming teenagers, something happens to Shelley's family and they disappear, ending their friendship. Kip never sees her on Block Island again. Until he returns there to heal after tragedy strikes his life. Shelley doesn't trust anyone, Kip thinks he can't love again. But when they see each other again, even after so many years, their friendship is just as strong. They lean on each other again, Shelley helps Kip understand and deal with his grief. When Kip leaves the island to return to the real world though, there is a twist that will keep Shelley a part of his life forever. Now they just need to figure out if they are friends or if the love they share is something more.
This novel is pretty equally split between the relationship between Kip and Shelley as children and as adults. It is the kind of romantic tension that reels you in and does not let go. I could not wait to see what was going to happen, I was frustrated when the two characters went astray and cheered when they found their way back to each other. This was a feel good novel and very satisfying.
Happy Reading!
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
The Last Juror
The Last Juror by John Grisham is a novel that takes place in a small town in Mississippi in 1970. True to Grisham's typical themes, this is a novel that focuses on a courtroom drama. However, the narrator is not a lawyer or even one of the members of the trial, and while the trial is the main theme in the book, it does not take over the novel.
Willie Traynor is a guy just out of college, with family money to burn and not much ambition. But when the paper he works for goes bankrupt and the opportunity to buy the paper presents itself, he can't turn down the challenge. 1970 Mississippi is still a place that has lines drawn as far as the color of a person's skin goes. But Willie, being from up north, doesn't believe in those lines. He decides to do a series of interviews for a human interest story about a black woman who's children have all become PhD's (except for her youngest). At the same time, a rape/murder takes place in this small town and a man from a famous outlaw family is arrested for the crime. The paper exploits the crime and the trial to build it's distribution. Willie is able to turn the paper around and begin raking in the dough. But suddenly, he has real interest in this story, the corruption that taints the town and the people affected by the ignorance that is so blatant.
The jury (which has the first black woman to ever sit on a jury in this town - who also happens to be the focus of Willie's human interest series) finds the man guilty, but falls short of giving him the death penalty. Only a few years later, after lining the pockets of some officials, the man is out of prison and the jurors start showing up dead. The race is on to find the man responsible for the killings before too many more jurors die.
There are a few plot twists in this book that keep the reader guessing. The characters are likeable and the reader roots for them. There are times when I was on the edge of my seat with worry for the characters, and I did shed a few tears. However, this was not as much of a thrilling page turner as Grisham's books usually are. It has a slower pace, but that allowed for more character development which makes for a good read nonetheless.
Happy Reading!
Willie Traynor is a guy just out of college, with family money to burn and not much ambition. But when the paper he works for goes bankrupt and the opportunity to buy the paper presents itself, he can't turn down the challenge. 1970 Mississippi is still a place that has lines drawn as far as the color of a person's skin goes. But Willie, being from up north, doesn't believe in those lines. He decides to do a series of interviews for a human interest story about a black woman who's children have all become PhD's (except for her youngest). At the same time, a rape/murder takes place in this small town and a man from a famous outlaw family is arrested for the crime. The paper exploits the crime and the trial to build it's distribution. Willie is able to turn the paper around and begin raking in the dough. But suddenly, he has real interest in this story, the corruption that taints the town and the people affected by the ignorance that is so blatant.
The jury (which has the first black woman to ever sit on a jury in this town - who also happens to be the focus of Willie's human interest series) finds the man guilty, but falls short of giving him the death penalty. Only a few years later, after lining the pockets of some officials, the man is out of prison and the jurors start showing up dead. The race is on to find the man responsible for the killings before too many more jurors die.
There are a few plot twists in this book that keep the reader guessing. The characters are likeable and the reader roots for them. There are times when I was on the edge of my seat with worry for the characters, and I did shed a few tears. However, this was not as much of a thrilling page turner as Grisham's books usually are. It has a slower pace, but that allowed for more character development which makes for a good read nonetheless.
Happy Reading!
Fatal Judgement
Irene Hannon's Fatal Judgement is the first book in the Guardians of Justice series. It is a romantic suspense novel. While not being a religious or Christian novel in it's entirety, the characters are Christians who do not swear and who go to church and pray throughout the novel. It was refreshing to read a book with characters like that, since that isn't typical of the novels that I read.
The main characters are a US Marshall and a judge. The US Marshall, Jake, is just back from a tour in Iraq and he is assigned to protect Liz, a federal judge who's sister has been murdered. Liz just happens to be the widow of Jake's best friend, and there is no love lost between the two. Jake believes that Liz is partially responsible for his friend's death. Liz doesn't know much about Jake, other than what her husband had shared with her.
As Jake and Liz get to know each other, they realize that their initial feelings may have been wrong and an attraction grows. When it is discovered that Liz's sister wasn't the target, that she was, the suspense kicks in as they race to find the killer before he finds Liz.
This book moved very quickly, and I enjoyed it. The mystery/suspense kept me interested and the romance wasn't too over the top. Sometimes the characters are a little inconsistent, but it wasn't enough to alienate me from the storyline. A Free Friday selection that gets a thumbs up, but I don't know that I will seek out the others in the series.
Happy Reading.
The main characters are a US Marshall and a judge. The US Marshall, Jake, is just back from a tour in Iraq and he is assigned to protect Liz, a federal judge who's sister has been murdered. Liz just happens to be the widow of Jake's best friend, and there is no love lost between the two. Jake believes that Liz is partially responsible for his friend's death. Liz doesn't know much about Jake, other than what her husband had shared with her.
As Jake and Liz get to know each other, they realize that their initial feelings may have been wrong and an attraction grows. When it is discovered that Liz's sister wasn't the target, that she was, the suspense kicks in as they race to find the killer before he finds Liz.
This book moved very quickly, and I enjoyed it. The mystery/suspense kept me interested and the romance wasn't too over the top. Sometimes the characters are a little inconsistent, but it wasn't enough to alienate me from the storyline. A Free Friday selection that gets a thumbs up, but I don't know that I will seek out the others in the series.
Happy Reading.
Man Law
Man Law is a romantic suspense novel by Adrienne Giordano. It is one of the "Private Protectors" series. It had some suspense in it, and some romance, but the story was barely held together by these aspects. The author moves the story along quickly and takes liberties with reality in order to fit all the pieces of the story together. It doesn't feel like it has been well researched - although, I guess this kind of book usually isn't. I did find the Man Laws at the beginning of each chapter a little entertaining, even if I did roll my eyes at them.
The main character is a guy that runs a private security firm with his best friend, and the best friend's sister, who also works for the firm. There has been some history between these two, but nothing more than physical. This guy is ex-special ops and still goes on non government sanctioned assignments to rid the world of terrorists, and has no interest in a relationship. The girl is a widow, and is not interested in getting involved with anyone who leads a dangerous lifestyle (her husband was a fire fighter and died in the line of duty). But they can't deny the attraction, and they truly care for one another because they are great friends.
The suspense comes in when the brother of one of the terrorists that this guy went after comes after the girl and her kids. Now, they need 24 hour protection and the security firm needs to work fast to find this terrorist before he gets to the girl and her kids. This is the part of the story that is a little convoluted and unrealistic.
I read this book quickly, didn't really enjoy it and won't bother reading any more in the series. I am glad it was a free book.
Happy Reading!
The main character is a guy that runs a private security firm with his best friend, and the best friend's sister, who also works for the firm. There has been some history between these two, but nothing more than physical. This guy is ex-special ops and still goes on non government sanctioned assignments to rid the world of terrorists, and has no interest in a relationship. The girl is a widow, and is not interested in getting involved with anyone who leads a dangerous lifestyle (her husband was a fire fighter and died in the line of duty). But they can't deny the attraction, and they truly care for one another because they are great friends.
The suspense comes in when the brother of one of the terrorists that this guy went after comes after the girl and her kids. Now, they need 24 hour protection and the security firm needs to work fast to find this terrorist before he gets to the girl and her kids. This is the part of the story that is a little convoluted and unrealistic.
I read this book quickly, didn't really enjoy it and won't bother reading any more in the series. I am glad it was a free book.
Happy Reading!
Friday, December 23, 2011
The Help
Kathryn Stockett's book, The Help, is a wonderful, funny, insightful, entertaining read. This book is an amazing accomplishment. It is an important work, one that everyone should read.
The book is written from the perspective of three different women in Mississippi in 1962. Aibileen, a black maid who has lost her own family, but has spent her years raising white ones. She follows the orders that she is given, but inside, it is starting to leave her bitter and broken. Minny, Aibileen's friend and another of the maids, has never been able to hold back her thoughts and has gone from job to job because of it. And Skeeter, a white woman who has returned from college with a degree in journalism and a desire for a very important story to be told. These three women unite on a journey that they hope will change the landscape of the south in the 60s.
There are other notable characters too - the white socialites these maids work for, and Skeeter is supposed to be a part of, but doesn't really fit in with anymore. These women who think that they are above everyone else, who can have the black maids raise their children and clean their homes, but not use the same bathroom. And one white woman who is from the other side of the tracks but married into the socialite circle, who can't seem to get it right and has a secret to protect.
This book was wonderful from the start. Sometimes it was hard to read, because of the nature of the story being told. I loved some of the characters and hated others. I cheered for them and held my breath waiting to see what would happen. I laughed out loud, seethed at the injustices and cried. This novel will end up a classic. For sure, it will be on my favorites list this year.
Happy Reading!
The book is written from the perspective of three different women in Mississippi in 1962. Aibileen, a black maid who has lost her own family, but has spent her years raising white ones. She follows the orders that she is given, but inside, it is starting to leave her bitter and broken. Minny, Aibileen's friend and another of the maids, has never been able to hold back her thoughts and has gone from job to job because of it. And Skeeter, a white woman who has returned from college with a degree in journalism and a desire for a very important story to be told. These three women unite on a journey that they hope will change the landscape of the south in the 60s.
There are other notable characters too - the white socialites these maids work for, and Skeeter is supposed to be a part of, but doesn't really fit in with anymore. These women who think that they are above everyone else, who can have the black maids raise their children and clean their homes, but not use the same bathroom. And one white woman who is from the other side of the tracks but married into the socialite circle, who can't seem to get it right and has a secret to protect.
This book was wonderful from the start. Sometimes it was hard to read, because of the nature of the story being told. I loved some of the characters and hated others. I cheered for them and held my breath waiting to see what would happen. I laughed out loud, seethed at the injustices and cried. This novel will end up a classic. For sure, it will be on my favorites list this year.
Happy Reading!
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Bright Young Things
Bright Young Things is a novel by Anna Godbersen about the roaring twenties and how three girls take different paths as the come of age. The book is the first in a new series and was a Free Friday download from Barnes & Noble.
Two of the girls escape a small Midwestern town for what they think will be the glamorous life in New York. They both fashion themselves as entertainers and think that when they hit the streets of New York, it will be smooth sailing. They quickly discover that New York is full of girls like them and also full of people who will take advantage of their naivete. One of them is also looking for her father, whom she has never met. One of these girls is thrown into the dark world of showgirls and the other enters a glamorous world she finds thrilling and meets a girl that has it all - money, looks and love.
The three of them navigate this glamorous and not so glamorous life and keep the reader fully engaged. This book was full of mystery and suspense, and even though each of these girls is flawed and one of them isn't very likable on the surface, the reader still ends up rooting for each one of them. A Free Friday selection that introduced me to a book I probably wouldn't have picked up otherwise. Thanks B&N!
Happy Reading!
Two of the girls escape a small Midwestern town for what they think will be the glamorous life in New York. They both fashion themselves as entertainers and think that when they hit the streets of New York, it will be smooth sailing. They quickly discover that New York is full of girls like them and also full of people who will take advantage of their naivete. One of them is also looking for her father, whom she has never met. One of these girls is thrown into the dark world of showgirls and the other enters a glamorous world she finds thrilling and meets a girl that has it all - money, looks and love.
The three of them navigate this glamorous and not so glamorous life and keep the reader fully engaged. This book was full of mystery and suspense, and even though each of these girls is flawed and one of them isn't very likable on the surface, the reader still ends up rooting for each one of them. A Free Friday selection that introduced me to a book I probably wouldn't have picked up otherwise. Thanks B&N!
Happy Reading!
Friday, December 2, 2011
Cry Sanctuary
Cry Sanctuary is a paranormal romance by Moira Rogers. It was a free Friday selection from Barnes & Noble. I probably would not have picked this book up from a store shelf if it had not been free, and I am glad that I didn't waste any money on it.
This book is about two feuding werewolf packs. Red Rock is a place where peaceful werewolves can find sanctuary under an alpha that rules with kindness and peace. When Abigail, a very strong female, runs away from the other pack - one that is ruled with fear and violence, she is found and given shelter in Red Rock. She is a new werewolf, and therefore needs a guide. Keith is a strong werewolf, who has been a guide in the past. He is ready to settle down a bit and stop fighting. Keith and Abigail begin this weird guide/student relationship. Of course, the other alpha decides he wants Abigail back and uses her sister to get to her. A battle ensues between the two packs, to bring Abigail and her sister back to safety.
The author has this contrived world of werewolves all made up in her mind, but she never fully explains the rules of the pack or the "guide" relationship. Ms. Rogers just jumps into a story without giving enough background information. This is the first book in a series, so the reader hasn't missed any prior books, but that is what it feels like.
Just re-reading this synopsis, the whole thing sounds awfully silly. Maybe because I am not all that into paranormal romance, but there is a huge market out there for this kind of story. This storyline had potential if it had been done well. Unfortunately, it wasn't.
Happy Reading!
This book is about two feuding werewolf packs. Red Rock is a place where peaceful werewolves can find sanctuary under an alpha that rules with kindness and peace. When Abigail, a very strong female, runs away from the other pack - one that is ruled with fear and violence, she is found and given shelter in Red Rock. She is a new werewolf, and therefore needs a guide. Keith is a strong werewolf, who has been a guide in the past. He is ready to settle down a bit and stop fighting. Keith and Abigail begin this weird guide/student relationship. Of course, the other alpha decides he wants Abigail back and uses her sister to get to her. A battle ensues between the two packs, to bring Abigail and her sister back to safety.
The author has this contrived world of werewolves all made up in her mind, but she never fully explains the rules of the pack or the "guide" relationship. Ms. Rogers just jumps into a story without giving enough background information. This is the first book in a series, so the reader hasn't missed any prior books, but that is what it feels like.
Just re-reading this synopsis, the whole thing sounds awfully silly. Maybe because I am not all that into paranormal romance, but there is a huge market out there for this kind of story. This storyline had potential if it had been done well. Unfortunately, it wasn't.
Happy Reading!
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Voyager
Voyager is the third book in the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon. Each one of these books is an epic adventure. Combine them and you have an amazingly detailed, historical fiction story that captivates.
I don't want to give anything away, so this review will be short. More characters are introduced, adventure and suspense abound. Time changes between the 1960s and the 1700s. Suffice it to say that all of your questions from the last book are answered in this one, and yet Ms. Gabaldon leaves us hanging with even more questions. What will happen next? Where will she take us on this unfolding adventure?
I highly recommend this series. Be prepared for a long read (each book is in the neighborhood of 1,000 pages), but don't be put off by it's size. It is well worth the time and you will find yourself totally immersed in Jamie and Claire's world, finishing the book much more quickly that you thought you would.
Happy Reading!
I don't want to give anything away, so this review will be short. More characters are introduced, adventure and suspense abound. Time changes between the 1960s and the 1700s. Suffice it to say that all of your questions from the last book are answered in this one, and yet Ms. Gabaldon leaves us hanging with even more questions. What will happen next? Where will she take us on this unfolding adventure?
I highly recommend this series. Be prepared for a long read (each book is in the neighborhood of 1,000 pages), but don't be put off by it's size. It is well worth the time and you will find yourself totally immersed in Jamie and Claire's world, finishing the book much more quickly that you thought you would.
Happy Reading!
Sunday, November 20, 2011
The Kitchen House
The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom is a gripping historical fiction novel about a young white girl raised on a plantation. This story is deeply touching, suspenseful, sweet and heartbreaking.
Lavinia arrives in America from Ireland an orphan. Her parents died during the journey and since she has no one to claim her, she and her brother are separated and she is sold to a plantation owner. She is a white girl who is now to live with the slaves on a tobacco plantation as an indentured servant. She lives and works in the kitchen house with the owner's illegitimate daughter as her caretaker. She bonds with her new family and lives life as they live it, but eventually gets accepted into the "big house" to help care for the master's wife who is hiding her own depression and psychological issues with an opium addiction.
As a white girl, who was raised as a slave, she is placed into a difficult position. She loves and misses her "family" from the kitchen house, but also understands the advantages that living in the big house afford her. She is forced to make decisions and choices that put everyone in danger.
This is a riveting book full of characters that the reader cheers for and those that the reader loathes, and some that the reader hopes until the end will somehow redeem themselves. Written from the perspective of Lavinia and Belle (the master's illegitimate daughter) provide the reader with a more full picture of the story. This was a fantastic read that became one of my favorite books. Highly recommend.
Happy Reading!
Lavinia arrives in America from Ireland an orphan. Her parents died during the journey and since she has no one to claim her, she and her brother are separated and she is sold to a plantation owner. She is a white girl who is now to live with the slaves on a tobacco plantation as an indentured servant. She lives and works in the kitchen house with the owner's illegitimate daughter as her caretaker. She bonds with her new family and lives life as they live it, but eventually gets accepted into the "big house" to help care for the master's wife who is hiding her own depression and psychological issues with an opium addiction.
As a white girl, who was raised as a slave, she is placed into a difficult position. She loves and misses her "family" from the kitchen house, but also understands the advantages that living in the big house afford her. She is forced to make decisions and choices that put everyone in danger.
This is a riveting book full of characters that the reader cheers for and those that the reader loathes, and some that the reader hopes until the end will somehow redeem themselves. Written from the perspective of Lavinia and Belle (the master's illegitimate daughter) provide the reader with a more full picture of the story. This was a fantastic read that became one of my favorite books. Highly recommend.
Happy Reading!
Monday, November 7, 2011
White Hot
Sandra Brown has an ability to weave a story web that keeps the reader guessing. She does it again in White Hot. Her books are easy to read and always quick, but boy are they entertaining!
In White Hot, Sayre Lynch returns to the small town where she grew up, the town she swore she would never return to, for her brother's funeral. Her father runs the large iron mill in the town, the only thing in there, so he controls the whole town. Her father and her brother are just as controlling and devious as ever and Sayre thinks that maybe there is more to her brother's death than the suicide that it was ruled.
Sandra Brown's books are very often full of unrealistic characters, but that is what escapism fiction is about. I am always surprised by how much I enjoy her twisting plot lines. I guess by now I should really give her credit where credit is due. If you want an escape from reality, a mystery with page turning suspense and romance thrown in, a book you can read in a day or two, then she is your author.
Happy Reading!
In White Hot, Sayre Lynch returns to the small town where she grew up, the town she swore she would never return to, for her brother's funeral. Her father runs the large iron mill in the town, the only thing in there, so he controls the whole town. Her father and her brother are just as controlling and devious as ever and Sayre thinks that maybe there is more to her brother's death than the suicide that it was ruled.
Sandra Brown's books are very often full of unrealistic characters, but that is what escapism fiction is about. I am always surprised by how much I enjoy her twisting plot lines. I guess by now I should really give her credit where credit is due. If you want an escape from reality, a mystery with page turning suspense and romance thrown in, a book you can read in a day or two, then she is your author.
Happy Reading!
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Heart of a Witch
Heart of a Witch is a paranormal romance by Alicia Dean. It is about a member of a witch coven, that wants to remain a secret, who witnesses a murder. There is a male witch who wants to become all powerful and in order to do that he needs the female lead to be his partner. An ex-cop private investigator, who has a troubled past, gets involved to solve the mystery and romance ensues.
This was a typical paranormal romance. Girl is in trouble, girl meets boy, girl hates boy, boy likes girl, girl has secret, boy and girl eventually get together and boy gets girl out of trouble. I downloaded it for my nook on a Free Friday. It was okay. Not anything that I would recommend, but I didn't hate it either. Guess the fact that I can't remember any of the characters names says something. An easy, quick read and then easily forgotten.
Happy Reading!
This was a typical paranormal romance. Girl is in trouble, girl meets boy, girl hates boy, boy likes girl, girl has secret, boy and girl eventually get together and boy gets girl out of trouble. I downloaded it for my nook on a Free Friday. It was okay. Not anything that I would recommend, but I didn't hate it either. Guess the fact that I can't remember any of the characters names says something. An easy, quick read and then easily forgotten.
Happy Reading!
Friday, October 28, 2011
My Best Friend's Girl
Kamryn and Adele were best friends from the day they met in college. But when Adele slept with Kamryn's fiance, Kamryn walked away from both of them. After years of silence Adele is trying to get back in touch with Kamryn. She is dying and wants her old best friend to adopt her five year old daughter. Dorothy Koomson's novel, My Best Friend's Girl is a thought provoking novel about how far we would go for those who have hurt us, and the extraodinary bond between Kamryn and this amazing five year old girl.
Kamyrn's life focused around work and Kamryn. She is not prepared to take on the responsibilities and sacrifices that motherhood entails. She loves this little girl with her whole heart and is trying her best to make good decisions for her. But being thrown into motherhood with such little notice is destroying her life. She is forced to make sacrifices and gut wrenching decisions that are best for the child who is now in her care and looking to her for guidance and shelter. That part of the novel was touching and believable.
Unfortunately, I feel that the auther fell flat when dealing with the romance she tries to create for the main character. Kamryn is forced to reunite with her ex-fiance and it stirs up old feelings for both of them. In addition, there is a romance with someone from Kamryn's office. The office romance is completely unbelievable and lacks chemistry and tension.
Not sure if I would recommend this one. I think that the author should have stuck to the issues of mothering an orphan, and balancing career and family. That part of the book was sweet and touching. The romance part of the story did not strike a chord with me and so I believe the novel lost some of its charm.
Happy Reading!
Kamyrn's life focused around work and Kamryn. She is not prepared to take on the responsibilities and sacrifices that motherhood entails. She loves this little girl with her whole heart and is trying her best to make good decisions for her. But being thrown into motherhood with such little notice is destroying her life. She is forced to make sacrifices and gut wrenching decisions that are best for the child who is now in her care and looking to her for guidance and shelter. That part of the novel was touching and believable.
Unfortunately, I feel that the auther fell flat when dealing with the romance she tries to create for the main character. Kamryn is forced to reunite with her ex-fiance and it stirs up old feelings for both of them. In addition, there is a romance with someone from Kamryn's office. The office romance is completely unbelievable and lacks chemistry and tension.
Not sure if I would recommend this one. I think that the author should have stuck to the issues of mothering an orphan, and balancing career and family. That part of the book was sweet and touching. The romance part of the story did not strike a chord with me and so I believe the novel lost some of its charm.
Happy Reading!
Friday, October 21, 2011
Life Expectancy
Dean Koontz delivers a thrilling, yet fun, novel in Life Expectancy. This is a story about the extraordinary events that occur on very specific dates in one man's life, as predicted by his grandfather. Jimmy Tock enters the world at the very same time his grandfather leaves it. Before his death, Jimmy's grandfather predicts five dark days that will occur in his life. The story weaves the reader through these dark days, and as anyone who reads Dean Koontz knows, the story is a page turner.
The best thing about this novel is how loveable the characters are. Jimmy Tock is a great guy. He is funny, smart, loving, loyal...and his family is just as loveable. His grandmother and his parents become very real to the reader. His parents are loving and kind, and his grandmother is a hoot. The family dynamic is wonderful.
I can't say too much about the dark days, because it may give too much away. However, I can say that each event shapes Jimmy's life, and even though they are difficult, scary, dangerous events, somehow Jimmy is better off for having gone through them.
Sometimes Dean Koontz is too wordy and too descriptive and turns off the reader. This book did not do that and I highly recommend it. Light and fun, dark and scary all at the same time, with characters you wish you could meet in person. How did Koontz pull that off? You have to read this book to find out.
Happy Reading!
The best thing about this novel is how loveable the characters are. Jimmy Tock is a great guy. He is funny, smart, loving, loyal...and his family is just as loveable. His grandmother and his parents become very real to the reader. His parents are loving and kind, and his grandmother is a hoot. The family dynamic is wonderful.
I can't say too much about the dark days, because it may give too much away. However, I can say that each event shapes Jimmy's life, and even though they are difficult, scary, dangerous events, somehow Jimmy is better off for having gone through them.
Sometimes Dean Koontz is too wordy and too descriptive and turns off the reader. This book did not do that and I highly recommend it. Light and fun, dark and scary all at the same time, with characters you wish you could meet in person. How did Koontz pull that off? You have to read this book to find out.
Happy Reading!
Sunday, October 2, 2011
The Art of Racing in the Rain
This novel by Garth Stein is a heartfelt, touching, sweet and funny story as told from the perspective of the family dog, Enzo. The story is tragic, beautiful, at times humorous, but always real. It is full of hope, love and family and was an enjoyable read from start to finish.
Enzo's human best friend, Denny, is a race car driver. He lives, breathes, eats and sleeps racing and tells Enzo all about it. As a result, Enzo is quite schooled in the art of racing. Enzo is Denny's best companion, but as Denny matures, gets married and eventually has a child, Enzo learns the true meaning of family. He senses things before they happen, but without the proper makings of the human mouth he has no way to tell his family of the upcoming changes they will all face, or to tell his Denny of the people who are working against him. Enzo knows that in his next life, he will become human, for he is so close to being human already.
This book was incredible. Anyone who has ever loved a dog or, for that matter, known anyone else who has ever loved a dog, will love this book. The bond between Enzo and his family is the truest form of love. Enzo is the type of character that will imprint on the reader's soul. Denny's character never gives up, even in the face of despair. This book is rich with humanity and is one that will have the reader thinking of it long after turning the last page. I highly recommend it.
Happy Reading!
Enzo's human best friend, Denny, is a race car driver. He lives, breathes, eats and sleeps racing and tells Enzo all about it. As a result, Enzo is quite schooled in the art of racing. Enzo is Denny's best companion, but as Denny matures, gets married and eventually has a child, Enzo learns the true meaning of family. He senses things before they happen, but without the proper makings of the human mouth he has no way to tell his family of the upcoming changes they will all face, or to tell his Denny of the people who are working against him. Enzo knows that in his next life, he will become human, for he is so close to being human already.
This book was incredible. Anyone who has ever loved a dog or, for that matter, known anyone else who has ever loved a dog, will love this book. The bond between Enzo and his family is the truest form of love. Enzo is the type of character that will imprint on the reader's soul. Denny's character never gives up, even in the face of despair. This book is rich with humanity and is one that will have the reader thinking of it long after turning the last page. I highly recommend it.
Happy Reading!
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Weddings Can Be Murder
Weddings Can Be Murder by Christie Craig is a simple, cheesy romance that is disguised as a mystery. It was a "Free Fridays" selection for my nook, which is why I read it. I am glad that it was free.
The main character in this book is planning her wedding. When her wedding planner is murdered, while she is there, she and a PI are thrown together to try to solve the mystery of who killed the wedding planner. The characters are one dimensional, the plot is weak, the situations used to throw these two characters together are unbelievable, and the research into the background of any of it is non-existent. I guess that is what one should expect out of a simple romance novel. It was supposed to be funny, but I didn't find it so.
Every once in a while, I am in the mood for a romance, total escapism literature (if it can be called that); a book that does not require my brain to work while reading. This fit that bill, but was unsatisfying none the less.
Happy Reading!
The main character in this book is planning her wedding. When her wedding planner is murdered, while she is there, she and a PI are thrown together to try to solve the mystery of who killed the wedding planner. The characters are one dimensional, the plot is weak, the situations used to throw these two characters together are unbelievable, and the research into the background of any of it is non-existent. I guess that is what one should expect out of a simple romance novel. It was supposed to be funny, but I didn't find it so.
Every once in a while, I am in the mood for a romance, total escapism literature (if it can be called that); a book that does not require my brain to work while reading. This fit that bill, but was unsatisfying none the less.
Happy Reading!
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Missing Pieces
Missing Pieces by Joy Fielding is a psychological suspense novel about how far a mother will go to protect her family. This book was a page turner, full of suspense and I could identify with the main character. It was a fast paced, quick and enjoyable read.
Kate Sinclair is a family therapist. But what does a family therapist do when her own family starts to fall apart? Kate has a teenage daughter who is turning into a monster, a husband who instead of helping with the kids when tensions rise, removes himself further into his golf game, a sister who makes one bad choice after another and a mother who is in failing health. She has to handle it all on top of her career. When her sister decides that she is going to marry a convicted serial killer, Kate's family is in real peril.
I immediately identified with Kate, and found it refreshing to read about a middle aged woman facing the issues of raising her family and helping her ailing mother. This book was suspenseful, but at the same time it carried a message about the resiliency of family and specifically the strength that one mother/wife/sister/daughter found within herself to overcome the difficulties and dangers she faced. The reader watches her struggle to make the best decisions, to not walk down the easier path, and to do everything in her power to pull her family back together. The characters were well developed and it truly was a page turner that keeps the reader guessing and on the edge of her seat.
I would recommend this book to those who like thrillers, but also to those who don't because I don't think you have to enjoy that genre to enjoy this book. I think anyone who thinks thrillers are not her cup of tea would be surprised by this book. An satisfying read all the way around.
Happy Reading!
Kate Sinclair is a family therapist. But what does a family therapist do when her own family starts to fall apart? Kate has a teenage daughter who is turning into a monster, a husband who instead of helping with the kids when tensions rise, removes himself further into his golf game, a sister who makes one bad choice after another and a mother who is in failing health. She has to handle it all on top of her career. When her sister decides that she is going to marry a convicted serial killer, Kate's family is in real peril.
I immediately identified with Kate, and found it refreshing to read about a middle aged woman facing the issues of raising her family and helping her ailing mother. This book was suspenseful, but at the same time it carried a message about the resiliency of family and specifically the strength that one mother/wife/sister/daughter found within herself to overcome the difficulties and dangers she faced. The reader watches her struggle to make the best decisions, to not walk down the easier path, and to do everything in her power to pull her family back together. The characters were well developed and it truly was a page turner that keeps the reader guessing and on the edge of her seat.
I would recommend this book to those who like thrillers, but also to those who don't because I don't think you have to enjoy that genre to enjoy this book. I think anyone who thinks thrillers are not her cup of tea would be surprised by this book. An satisfying read all the way around.
Happy Reading!
Millie's Fling
Millie's Fling was a silly romance by Jill Mansell. I had not read any other Jill Mansell books. After reading The Book Thief, I needed something light, escapist and silly. Millie's Fling was a "free Fridays" selection for my nook, and I thought it would fit the bill.
Unfortunately, this book fell flat for me. It was simple, silly, fluffy, etc. But it didn't satisfy whatever it was that I was craving after the heavy tone of The Book Thief, but then again because I loved The Book Thief so much, maybe this book was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. The book is about two girls who live together. One is in a long distance relationship, and misunderstandings ensue almost breaking the couple up. The other, Millie, has recently been dumped and swears off men. But then she finds a wallet, prank calls the owner and ends up meeting him and liking the guy. Of course, his wife died recently so he isn't interested in a romance. They hang out as friends and it turns into more. Misunderstandings ensue...You get the idea.
The characters were barely likable (the main characters lie on a regular basis), the plot was barely there, the dialogue was forced. The romance was okay, but this storyline has been done so many times before that if you are going to use it, you better make it new. And Mansell just didn't.
It was quick, it was easy. It was sold as being funny but really wasn't. If you like simple romances set in England, maybe this would be for you. I have not sworn off Jill Mansell, but don't know that I will ever seek out her books either.
Happy Reading!
Unfortunately, this book fell flat for me. It was simple, silly, fluffy, etc. But it didn't satisfy whatever it was that I was craving after the heavy tone of The Book Thief, but then again because I loved The Book Thief so much, maybe this book was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. The book is about two girls who live together. One is in a long distance relationship, and misunderstandings ensue almost breaking the couple up. The other, Millie, has recently been dumped and swears off men. But then she finds a wallet, prank calls the owner and ends up meeting him and liking the guy. Of course, his wife died recently so he isn't interested in a romance. They hang out as friends and it turns into more. Misunderstandings ensue...You get the idea.
The characters were barely likable (the main characters lie on a regular basis), the plot was barely there, the dialogue was forced. The romance was okay, but this storyline has been done so many times before that if you are going to use it, you better make it new. And Mansell just didn't.
It was quick, it was easy. It was sold as being funny but really wasn't. If you like simple romances set in England, maybe this would be for you. I have not sworn off Jill Mansell, but don't know that I will ever seek out her books either.
Happy Reading!
Monday, August 22, 2011
The Book Thief
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak is one of the best books I have ever read. This novel gripped me from the start and has yet to let me go. The characters are unforgettable, and the story is at once heart breaking, humbling, humorous and even life changing.
The book is set in Germany during Hitler's reign. The main character is a little girl named Liesel who has lost her family. On her journey to her new home where she will be cared for by a foster family, she steals her first book. Even though she cannot yet read, she realizes the power of words. The story is told by one of the most interesting narrators I have ever come across, Death. As Death goes about his work, and he is very busy during those years in Germany, he tells Liesel's tale and a bit of his own. Liesel adapts to her new life, learns how to read, continues to steal books and uses those words during times of crisis.
The cast of characters in this book have imprinted on my soul. Rudy, Liesel's best friend, Hans and Rosa, Liesel's foster parents, Max, the Jewish man Liesel's family hides in their basement, and Death himself. They each teach the reader about humanity. There are real heroes in these pages, characters who faced such peril and rose above, characters who put their lives on the line to help another human being. Even Death, who took such care with the souls that were his charge.
The author uses words very powerfully in this book, so fitting for a book about the power of words. It is itself a work of art. The subject matter is so heavy, but there is humor thrown in at just the right moment to lighten that heavy load. Zusak is an artist with the English language. This is a book that everyone should read. I will never forget these characters and this story will remain with me always.
Happy Reading!
The book is set in Germany during Hitler's reign. The main character is a little girl named Liesel who has lost her family. On her journey to her new home where she will be cared for by a foster family, she steals her first book. Even though she cannot yet read, she realizes the power of words. The story is told by one of the most interesting narrators I have ever come across, Death. As Death goes about his work, and he is very busy during those years in Germany, he tells Liesel's tale and a bit of his own. Liesel adapts to her new life, learns how to read, continues to steal books and uses those words during times of crisis.
The cast of characters in this book have imprinted on my soul. Rudy, Liesel's best friend, Hans and Rosa, Liesel's foster parents, Max, the Jewish man Liesel's family hides in their basement, and Death himself. They each teach the reader about humanity. There are real heroes in these pages, characters who faced such peril and rose above, characters who put their lives on the line to help another human being. Even Death, who took such care with the souls that were his charge.
The author uses words very powerfully in this book, so fitting for a book about the power of words. It is itself a work of art. The subject matter is so heavy, but there is humor thrown in at just the right moment to lighten that heavy load. Zusak is an artist with the English language. This is a book that everyone should read. I will never forget these characters and this story will remain with me always.
Happy Reading!
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Sizzling Sixteen/Smokin' Seventeen
I placed these two together because I read Sizzling Sixteen last year, but wanted to read it again before diving into Smokin' Seventeen, the latest Stephanie Plum novel from Janet Evanovich. Of course, I loved Sizzling Sixteen, and Smokin' Seventeen did not disappoint! I love love love this series. SPOILER ALERT!! Don't read further if you don't want to know some general things that happen in this book!
For readers of the Stephanie Plum novels, Smokin' Seventeen is definitely smokin'. Stephanie's place of employment is undergoing construction, since in the previous novel it burned to the ground. So the bail bonds office is being run out of an RV owned my Mooner. Lula & Stephanie are off on numerous hilarious adventures to capture skips and try to bring home the bacon. Grandma Mazur is up to her usual coffin lid lifting tricks, and Vinnie is his weasely self. All the while, Stephanie is trying to sort things out in her love life. She and her long time on again off again boyfriend Joe Morrelli are in a strange arrangement that Stephanie gets more and more comfortable with, as she delves into her attraction to Ranger. For fans of the tension between Morrelli & Stephanie and Ranger & Stephanie, this book does not disappoint. However, I think the "Babes" out there will enjoy this one a little more than the "Cupcakes"!
This book did make me a little uncomfortable with where Janet Evanovich took Stephanie's character. It was sort of a little icky how easily Stephanie when from one man to the other, and something that Stephanie was never able to do before. This time she does it with seemingly little guilt. That was not quite true to character for Stephanie. But as a "Babe" myself, I have to admit that I thoroughly enjoyed Stephanie's guilt free escapades. And although Janet Evanovich claims that she has no intention of wrapping up this series ( at the thought!!), this felt like it was a prelude to an ending. It felt like this was a novel that would set the stage for the beginning of the end. Combine that with the fact that the eighteenth novel in the series comes out this fall, rather than the typical late June release date, and this reader is shaking in her purple pumps that the series might end soon.
For fans of Janet Evanovich and Stephanie Plum this is a MUST read. Not the funniest, but one that furthers Stephanie's relationships a bit and certainly has plenty of action in it.
Happy Reading!
For readers of the Stephanie Plum novels, Smokin' Seventeen is definitely smokin'. Stephanie's place of employment is undergoing construction, since in the previous novel it burned to the ground. So the bail bonds office is being run out of an RV owned my Mooner. Lula & Stephanie are off on numerous hilarious adventures to capture skips and try to bring home the bacon. Grandma Mazur is up to her usual coffin lid lifting tricks, and Vinnie is his weasely self. All the while, Stephanie is trying to sort things out in her love life. She and her long time on again off again boyfriend Joe Morrelli are in a strange arrangement that Stephanie gets more and more comfortable with, as she delves into her attraction to Ranger. For fans of the tension between Morrelli & Stephanie and Ranger & Stephanie, this book does not disappoint. However, I think the "Babes" out there will enjoy this one a little more than the "Cupcakes"!
This book did make me a little uncomfortable with where Janet Evanovich took Stephanie's character. It was sort of a little icky how easily Stephanie when from one man to the other, and something that Stephanie was never able to do before. This time she does it with seemingly little guilt. That was not quite true to character for Stephanie. But as a "Babe" myself, I have to admit that I thoroughly enjoyed Stephanie's guilt free escapades. And although Janet Evanovich claims that she has no intention of wrapping up this series (
For fans of Janet Evanovich and Stephanie Plum this is a MUST read. Not the funniest, but one that furthers Stephanie's relationships a bit and certainly has plenty of action in it.
Happy Reading!
Monday, July 18, 2011
Cold Service
Cold Service is one of Robert B. Parker's Spenser novels. This is the first book that I have read of Robert B. Parker's so I was not up on the series. The novel worked okay as a stand alone, but I probably would have enjoyed it more if I had read the previous novels in the series.
Spenser is a private detective, who owns his own business. In this novel, his best friend, Hawk, is exacting revenge on some bad people who almost killed him, and did kill someone who was under his protection. Spenser always has his best friend's back, so they go about their investigation and revenge plot together. There is plenty of action, but the revenge plot is not well explained. It is a complicated plot, and rather than tell the reader about it, the details of the plan are glossed over and the novel is wrapped up quite quickly and succinctly. I kept thinking that maybe I had missed something, but I went back through the book and I hadn't missed anything. The author just chose not to include those details. Personally, I felt those details would have further the story a little more smoothly.
For action and suspense, the novel works. I just wish the author had given me a little more detail. The relationships between the characters work as well, although there is a language between Spenser and Hawk that is so personal, I felt left out. That being said, Parker is able to deliver a magnitude of feeling with just a few words and the reader is quite aware of the bond between these two men. Maybe long time readers of the series would understand their language better than I did. I would only recommend this one if you are a fan of Robert B. Parker, and have read the other novels in this series.
Happy Reading!
Spenser is a private detective, who owns his own business. In this novel, his best friend, Hawk, is exacting revenge on some bad people who almost killed him, and did kill someone who was under his protection. Spenser always has his best friend's back, so they go about their investigation and revenge plot together. There is plenty of action, but the revenge plot is not well explained. It is a complicated plot, and rather than tell the reader about it, the details of the plan are glossed over and the novel is wrapped up quite quickly and succinctly. I kept thinking that maybe I had missed something, but I went back through the book and I hadn't missed anything. The author just chose not to include those details. Personally, I felt those details would have further the story a little more smoothly.
For action and suspense, the novel works. I just wish the author had given me a little more detail. The relationships between the characters work as well, although there is a language between Spenser and Hawk that is so personal, I felt left out. That being said, Parker is able to deliver a magnitude of feeling with just a few words and the reader is quite aware of the bond between these two men. Maybe long time readers of the series would understand their language better than I did. I would only recommend this one if you are a fan of Robert B. Parker, and have read the other novels in this series.
Happy Reading!
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Dragonfly in Amber
Dragonfly in Amber is the second installment of Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series. What an epic adventure full of mystery, intrigue, romance, and violence, and rich in history! I am at a loss for a way to write about such an all encompassing tale.
I don't want to spoil anything with this series, so there is very little I can say. Many questions that the reader was left with after the first book are answered here. Once again the story is told from two different times. Jamie and Claire know what lies in the future. In this book, they have very difficult decisions to make about whether they can do anything to alter the course of history. They suffer personal setbacks and heartbreak, make amazing friends, and find courage where there is none to be found. And in the end, make the most difficult decision they have faced yet. But then the reader is left with even more questions. "What will happen next?" being the foremost question in our minds. But more than that, we are left with such detailed questions that another reader of the series assures me will all be answered with the next installment.
These books are each an incredible undertaking and each could easily be separated into three individual books. Because they are epic in scale, as desperately as I want to dive into the next, I must take a break and read some lighter material. I highly recommend this series. It has everything the reader could want and I eagerly await the moment when starting the next one feels right.
Happy Reading!
I don't want to spoil anything with this series, so there is very little I can say. Many questions that the reader was left with after the first book are answered here. Once again the story is told from two different times. Jamie and Claire know what lies in the future. In this book, they have very difficult decisions to make about whether they can do anything to alter the course of history. They suffer personal setbacks and heartbreak, make amazing friends, and find courage where there is none to be found. And in the end, make the most difficult decision they have faced yet. But then the reader is left with even more questions. "What will happen next?" being the foremost question in our minds. But more than that, we are left with such detailed questions that another reader of the series assures me will all be answered with the next installment.
These books are each an incredible undertaking and each could easily be separated into three individual books. Because they are epic in scale, as desperately as I want to dive into the next, I must take a break and read some lighter material. I highly recommend this series. It has everything the reader could want and I eagerly await the moment when starting the next one feels right.
Happy Reading!
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Rage of Angels
Rage of Angels is a Sydney Sheldon classic. I read it over 20 years ago and enjoyed reading it recently just as much. Sydney Sheldon is truly the master of the game when it comes to suspense, mystery, plot twists and edge of your seat entertainment.
In Rage of Angels, a new lawyer tries to make her way in the competitive and often dangerous world of the District Attorney's office. She makes a horrible mistake that would seemingly end her career before it has even begun. But she is a fighter and she struggles back to make a name for herself. She falls in love with a powerful man, and enters into a relationship that can never be real. This book follows her life over several decades as she makes choices that affect so many other lives, as she is lied to and played, and as she plays right back. It has the stuff of an epic novel without being overly lengthy. In fact, I finished it in only a couple days.
The law, courtrooms, the mafia, exotic locations, love, murder, danger, tough choices - this book was full of all of the makings of a great story. Funny to read it now, where technology would have helped the main character, and remember that in the time of this novel there were no cell phones, GPS systems, etc. This is a good read for any Sydney Sheldon fan.
Happy Reading!
In Rage of Angels, a new lawyer tries to make her way in the competitive and often dangerous world of the District Attorney's office. She makes a horrible mistake that would seemingly end her career before it has even begun. But she is a fighter and she struggles back to make a name for herself. She falls in love with a powerful man, and enters into a relationship that can never be real. This book follows her life over several decades as she makes choices that affect so many other lives, as she is lied to and played, and as she plays right back. It has the stuff of an epic novel without being overly lengthy. In fact, I finished it in only a couple days.
The law, courtrooms, the mafia, exotic locations, love, murder, danger, tough choices - this book was full of all of the makings of a great story. Funny to read it now, where technology would have helped the main character, and remember that in the time of this novel there were no cell phones, GPS systems, etc. This is a good read for any Sydney Sheldon fan.
Happy Reading!
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Dead Reckoning
Dead Reckoning is the next installment in the Sookie Stackhouse series by Charlaine Harris. In this next adventure, the telepathic barmaid once again faces danger, mystical intrigue, vampire politics and secrets. Someone is out to get her, someone is out to get her lover, Eric, and her fae cousins are keeping something from her.
This novel moves the story line along for Sookie, but it lacked some of the adventure and suspense that the previous novels have held. For anyone looking for lots of Sookie/Eric action, it just isn't in here, although their relationship is changed dramatically. There is more insight into the fae world and quite a bit of family history covered, but I didn't feel that all of the family history stayed true to the characters as they were originally written.
If you are going to stay with the series, you need to read this book but I did not enjoy it as much as previous novels in this series. It felt like this was a time filler until the next adventure. I hate to say this, but Charlaine Harris needs to step it up again and soon. The last two books have been a bit disappointing and she is going to lose readers if the next one falls short.
Happy Reading!
This novel moves the story line along for Sookie, but it lacked some of the adventure and suspense that the previous novels have held. For anyone looking for lots of Sookie/Eric action, it just isn't in here, although their relationship is changed dramatically. There is more insight into the fae world and quite a bit of family history covered, but I didn't feel that all of the family history stayed true to the characters as they were originally written.
If you are going to stay with the series, you need to read this book but I did not enjoy it as much as previous novels in this series. It felt like this was a time filler until the next adventure. I hate to say this, but Charlaine Harris needs to step it up again and soon. The last two books have been a bit disappointing and she is going to lose readers if the next one falls short.
Happy Reading!
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Just Revenge
Just Revenge is a suspenseful legal thriller by Alan Dershowitz. The novel takes an emotional look at the feelings survivors of the Holocaust have related to the perpetrators of that horror, and asks a very difficult question: Are survivors of the Holocaust entitled to revenge on the people who killed their families so long ago?
This is the second novel of Mr. Dershowitz's with Abe Ringel as the main character. However, you don't need to have read the first to read this one. In this novel, Max Menuchen, a friend and fellow scholar of Abe's discovers that the man responsible for killing his entire family is still alive and is living very close by. This man has had a full life, with children and now grandchildren. An opportunity Max's family never got. This enrages Max. At first he tries to enact some semblance of revenge on this man legally, but when the legal channels fail him, Max has to decide if he needs to take things into his own hands. Abe is left with defending Max's actions in the court of law.
Not really being an "eye for an eye" kind of gal, it was hard for me to get behind Max on his crusade for justice. However, this novel really made the reader think. It asked hard questions, and delivered difficult answers. It was a fast, page turner, that was written well. While not a fan of Mr. Dershowitz particularly, I have to give credit to his abilities as a writer. This novel was a thriller that had me on the edge of my seat and at the same time, made me philosophical. Quite an interesting pair. Not wanting to give anything away, I will say that there will be those unsatisfied with the ending. I believe that the ending did serve up the only justice possible, and left the reader with maybe a little hope. I would highly recommend this one.
Happy Reading!
This is the second novel of Mr. Dershowitz's with Abe Ringel as the main character. However, you don't need to have read the first to read this one. In this novel, Max Menuchen, a friend and fellow scholar of Abe's discovers that the man responsible for killing his entire family is still alive and is living very close by. This man has had a full life, with children and now grandchildren. An opportunity Max's family never got. This enrages Max. At first he tries to enact some semblance of revenge on this man legally, but when the legal channels fail him, Max has to decide if he needs to take things into his own hands. Abe is left with defending Max's actions in the court of law.
Not really being an "eye for an eye" kind of gal, it was hard for me to get behind Max on his crusade for justice. However, this novel really made the reader think. It asked hard questions, and delivered difficult answers. It was a fast, page turner, that was written well. While not a fan of Mr. Dershowitz particularly, I have to give credit to his abilities as a writer. This novel was a thriller that had me on the edge of my seat and at the same time, made me philosophical. Quite an interesting pair. Not wanting to give anything away, I will say that there will be those unsatisfied with the ending. I believe that the ending did serve up the only justice possible, and left the reader with maybe a little hope. I would highly recommend this one.
Happy Reading!
Monday, May 9, 2011
Artichoke's Heart
Suzanne Supplee writes a sweet, delectable, touching novel in Artichoke's Heart. The novel is centered around a young girl who is battling a weight issue. But so much more than that, she is trying to learn to love herself and see that others love her, too.
Rosemary is fat. She is also sweet, smart, loving, and strong. But she doesn't know that. She just sees herself as fat, maybe because her mother and her aunt are always reminding her of that and trying to help her lose weight. She is 15 and has no real friends other than some of the people that work in the beauty shop that her mother owns. When Rosemary finally has enough of being fat, she decides to make a change. The novel follows Rosemary on her courageous journey to shed the pounds and learn to love herself. Through a difficult illness that befalls her mother, through the taunts of the popular girls at school, through all the cravings, she finds a real friend and love, too. But most importantly, she figures out that she is special and that she has a lot of people around her who have loved her all along in spite of her size.
The reader is rooting for Rosemary all the way through this novel. You feel her highs and lows, believe in her even when she doesn't believe in herself and hope beyond hope that the people in her life are really trustworthy. I loved Rosemary and I loved this book. It will most likely make my favorites list this year. I believe it is meant as a juvenile fiction book, but I highly recommend it to any reader.
Happy Reading!
Rosemary is fat. She is also sweet, smart, loving, and strong. But she doesn't know that. She just sees herself as fat, maybe because her mother and her aunt are always reminding her of that and trying to help her lose weight. She is 15 and has no real friends other than some of the people that work in the beauty shop that her mother owns. When Rosemary finally has enough of being fat, she decides to make a change. The novel follows Rosemary on her courageous journey to shed the pounds and learn to love herself. Through a difficult illness that befalls her mother, through the taunts of the popular girls at school, through all the cravings, she finds a real friend and love, too. But most importantly, she figures out that she is special and that she has a lot of people around her who have loved her all along in spite of her size.
The reader is rooting for Rosemary all the way through this novel. You feel her highs and lows, believe in her even when she doesn't believe in herself and hope beyond hope that the people in her life are really trustworthy. I loved Rosemary and I loved this book. It will most likely make my favorites list this year. I believe it is meant as a juvenile fiction book, but I highly recommend it to any reader.
Happy Reading!
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
The Age of Innocence
The Age of Innocence is a classic novel by Edith Wharton. Set in the late 1800s, in New York, the characters are all of the higher society. Those from money, whether inherited or earned, who mainly socialize. It is a romantic novel, but the love shared between the two main characters is thwarted at every turn.
Newland Archer is ready to settle down and has found the perfect specimen to be his wife. She is athletic, not to smart (so he can feel that he is teaching her and giving her culture), pretty, comes from a respectable family and trainable. And he likes her. In 1870s American society, I guess that was enough. She is also willing to enter into the marriage, because he is handsome, wealthy, and from a good family. The arrangement will look good and further both of their families socially. (Can you imagine living like this?) But when her cousin come back into town after being away for a long time, Newland realizes that maybe there should be more. Maybe he could marry for love. Unfortunately, events lead him right up to his impending nuptials. After getting married, but never forgetting about his true love, Newland has settled down to his life but is not happy. Seeing his love on the sly, discussing whether or not they have a future, finally it seems that he is willing to make the incredible social blunder of asking for a divorce, when his wife announces her pregnancy. Certainly now he cannot leave her. (I believe that all along his wife knew of his dealings with her cousin and planned her announcement precisely.) The lovers (although technically they have only ever kissed) are thwarted again and life goes on. Newland makes the best of his years with his wife and raises his children. Years later, Newland's wife has died, his children are all grown. His son comes across Newland's old love during his travels. It looks like finally, at the very end of this story they will be able to be together. Both of them in their 50s, it isn't too late to share their love. But alas, Newland walks away, never to face his old love.
This novel is critically said to be one of satire regarding New York society and class during the 1870s. Written 50 years later, the author has the advantage of knowing what is about to befall these characters, both financially and from a technology standpoint. She uses her knowledge to take a sometimes comedic look and gives her characters some foresight into the future. As for the novels, political and social statements, I cannot speak to that, not knowing anything about New York society in the 1870s.
As for entertainment value, this novel offered me very little. It was difficult to read, and I was frustrated at the obstacles that kept coming between the characters. I didn't like the main characters for what they were doing to Newland's wife. Although, I suppose in their defense, one of the reasons they never did get together was because her cousin couldn't stand the thought of hurting her. Anyway, I read this one to be able to say that I did. I don't know that I would recommend reading this classic to those whose time is limited. I am sure there are others out there that would be more worthy of that time.
Happy Reading!
Newland Archer is ready to settle down and has found the perfect specimen to be his wife. She is athletic, not to smart (so he can feel that he is teaching her and giving her culture), pretty, comes from a respectable family and trainable. And he likes her. In 1870s American society, I guess that was enough. She is also willing to enter into the marriage, because he is handsome, wealthy, and from a good family. The arrangement will look good and further both of their families socially. (Can you imagine living like this?) But when her cousin come back into town after being away for a long time, Newland realizes that maybe there should be more. Maybe he could marry for love. Unfortunately, events lead him right up to his impending nuptials. After getting married, but never forgetting about his true love, Newland has settled down to his life but is not happy. Seeing his love on the sly, discussing whether or not they have a future, finally it seems that he is willing to make the incredible social blunder of asking for a divorce, when his wife announces her pregnancy. Certainly now he cannot leave her. (I believe that all along his wife knew of his dealings with her cousin and planned her announcement precisely.) The lovers (although technically they have only ever kissed) are thwarted again and life goes on. Newland makes the best of his years with his wife and raises his children. Years later, Newland's wife has died, his children are all grown. His son comes across Newland's old love during his travels. It looks like finally, at the very end of this story they will be able to be together. Both of them in their 50s, it isn't too late to share their love. But alas, Newland walks away, never to face his old love.
This novel is critically said to be one of satire regarding New York society and class during the 1870s. Written 50 years later, the author has the advantage of knowing what is about to befall these characters, both financially and from a technology standpoint. She uses her knowledge to take a sometimes comedic look and gives her characters some foresight into the future. As for the novels, political and social statements, I cannot speak to that, not knowing anything about New York society in the 1870s.
As for entertainment value, this novel offered me very little. It was difficult to read, and I was frustrated at the obstacles that kept coming between the characters. I didn't like the main characters for what they were doing to Newland's wife. Although, I suppose in their defense, one of the reasons they never did get together was because her cousin couldn't stand the thought of hurting her. Anyway, I read this one to be able to say that I did. I don't know that I would recommend reading this classic to those whose time is limited. I am sure there are others out there that would be more worthy of that time.
Happy Reading!
Monday, April 25, 2011
Last Voyage of the Valentina
Santa Montefiore's Last Voyage of the Valentina is a voyage for the reader to a different time and place. It is an emotional journey, with ups and downs, but yet a very light and easy read. There is intrigue and romance, murder and adventure, all wrapped up in a coming of age story for a young woman who has some serious growing up to do.
Alba Arbuckle does not know her mother. That is because she died soon after Alba was born. Her father, doing what he thought was right, took her away from her mother's world back to England with him, and protected her from the past by not telling her about who her mother was. It was in the 40s, after the war, and a man did not raise a child alone. So he remarried and built a life for himself and his daughter. But, Alba grows up feeling like she doesn't belong in her father's new family. She thinks her stepmother is awful, is apathetic to her step siblings, and is angry with her father for keeping her mother from her. As a result, she lives a licentious life, spending her father's money, entertaining many boyfriends, trying to rebel against the proper life her father and stepmother have built.
Then things change. She finds a portrait of her mother that her father drew. She produces it for her father and demands answers that he is still unwilling to share. Buoyed by a new friend and lover, she decides to find the answers for herself. The reader is then transported back and forth between 1940s Italy when Alba's parents meet and fall in love, and Alba's journey discovering her extended family and herself during the present day (1971). As the reader takes this journey with Alba, we are left hopeful that when she finally learns the truth about her mother, she will see the truth of her father, as well, and that the discoveries she makes will heal old wounds for both of them.
Through all of the intrigue surrounding Alba's parents, there are two lovable characters from her life helping her along the way: Fitzroy and Viv. These two characters bring humor and romance into the novel. The reader is rooting for Fitz and Alba to make something of their romance, for Alba to grow up a little, and for a happy ending.
The descriptions of the places and of the time are exceptional. I could smell the lemon groves, salt air and figs and see the beautiful Amalfi coast. Santa Montefiori weaves a story that is really two tales in one and is able to incorporate the intrigue right along with the romance. While the reader may not get the ending they are expecting, the ending is a fitting one for the story. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and would recommend it highly.
Happy Reading!
Alba Arbuckle does not know her mother. That is because she died soon after Alba was born. Her father, doing what he thought was right, took her away from her mother's world back to England with him, and protected her from the past by not telling her about who her mother was. It was in the 40s, after the war, and a man did not raise a child alone. So he remarried and built a life for himself and his daughter. But, Alba grows up feeling like she doesn't belong in her father's new family. She thinks her stepmother is awful, is apathetic to her step siblings, and is angry with her father for keeping her mother from her. As a result, she lives a licentious life, spending her father's money, entertaining many boyfriends, trying to rebel against the proper life her father and stepmother have built.
Then things change. She finds a portrait of her mother that her father drew. She produces it for her father and demands answers that he is still unwilling to share. Buoyed by a new friend and lover, she decides to find the answers for herself. The reader is then transported back and forth between 1940s Italy when Alba's parents meet and fall in love, and Alba's journey discovering her extended family and herself during the present day (1971). As the reader takes this journey with Alba, we are left hopeful that when she finally learns the truth about her mother, she will see the truth of her father, as well, and that the discoveries she makes will heal old wounds for both of them.
Through all of the intrigue surrounding Alba's parents, there are two lovable characters from her life helping her along the way: Fitzroy and Viv. These two characters bring humor and romance into the novel. The reader is rooting for Fitz and Alba to make something of their romance, for Alba to grow up a little, and for a happy ending.
The descriptions of the places and of the time are exceptional. I could smell the lemon groves, salt air and figs and see the beautiful Amalfi coast. Santa Montefiori weaves a story that is really two tales in one and is able to incorporate the intrigue right along with the romance. While the reader may not get the ending they are expecting, the ending is a fitting one for the story. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and would recommend it highly.
Happy Reading!
Monday, April 4, 2011
The Weight of Water
The Weight of Water is a haunting novel by Anita Shreve. Alternately telling the story of Jean, a photographer, and her family who are on an assignment in the Isles of Shoals off of the coast of Maine, and of the Christensen family from Norway, who eventually emigrated to the United States in the late 1800s. This novel is like two books in one, both stories grabbing hold of the reader until their emotional conclusions. Both stories asking the question, "If you take a woman and push her to the edge, how will she behave?"
The Christensen family (and the Hontvedt family) story ends in a brutal double murder. Jean's assignment is to photograph the island where this murder took place for a magazine article. She and her husband Thomas and their daughter, along with Thomas' brother and his girlfriend set sail together for the island of Smuttynose. As Jean immerses herself in the double murder, she herself begins to tread water emotionally and begins to believe that her husband is having an affair. She examines her marriage and finds that maybe it isn't on solid ground, maybe it never was. Her jealousy begins to cloud her judgement, and that leads to her ultimate downfall, pushing her to her limits, much like her counterparts in the case of the Smuttynose murders.
The author seamlessly weaves these two stories together. Literally from paragraph to paragraph the reader is shifted between these two very different centuries. The harsh reality of life on Smuttynose in the 1860s and 70s to the reality of Jean's current familial struggles. It is not an uplifting book, it is one in which you know all along that there is going to be a horrible conclusion. It is a powerful work, one that begs the question, how far would you go? And how would you ever recover from starting off a series of events that you then have no control over? All of the characters are not necessarily likable, the setting is harsh, but this is a thought provoking book and a tale that will stay with the reader.
Happy Reading!
The Christensen family (and the Hontvedt family) story ends in a brutal double murder. Jean's assignment is to photograph the island where this murder took place for a magazine article. She and her husband Thomas and their daughter, along with Thomas' brother and his girlfriend set sail together for the island of Smuttynose. As Jean immerses herself in the double murder, she herself begins to tread water emotionally and begins to believe that her husband is having an affair. She examines her marriage and finds that maybe it isn't on solid ground, maybe it never was. Her jealousy begins to cloud her judgement, and that leads to her ultimate downfall, pushing her to her limits, much like her counterparts in the case of the Smuttynose murders.
The author seamlessly weaves these two stories together. Literally from paragraph to paragraph the reader is shifted between these two very different centuries. The harsh reality of life on Smuttynose in the 1860s and 70s to the reality of Jean's current familial struggles. It is not an uplifting book, it is one in which you know all along that there is going to be a horrible conclusion. It is a powerful work, one that begs the question, how far would you go? And how would you ever recover from starting off a series of events that you then have no control over? All of the characters are not necessarily likable, the setting is harsh, but this is a thought provoking book and a tale that will stay with the reader.
Happy Reading!
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Garden Spells
Sarah Addison Allen spins a tale with such elegance that you get lost in her charming world and feel as if you have been in a dream when you finally emerge from the pages of her books. Garden Spells was such an enchanting, entertaining, utterly delightful read.
The Waverly's have something special about them. Well really, so does nearly everyone in the town of Bascom, North Carolina. There are family legacies that are passed down from generation to generation; special gifts that certain family names are known for. For the Waverly's it is all in the garden, from the special flowers and herbs that are grown there to the apple tree that asserts itself by tossing apples at inopportune times (or opportune depending on the circumstances). But these special gifts have made the Waverly's outsiders in their home town. Claire Waverly has made the best of her abilities and created a catering business around the special plants that grow in her garden. She likes her life to have structure and stability. Her world is rocked a bit when her free-spirited sister, who fled Bascom as soon as she was old enough, shows up one day looking for some of that safety and stability. Claire has to learn to accept change, and that some changes are for the better. Both sisters have secrets to share, and only when they do will they be able to get past their history and make a family for the future.
This novel was enjoyable from start to finish. The characters are quirky and lovable, from the aunt with a knack for giving strange gifts just before the receiver needs them, to the gay shop owner, to the next door neighbor and the family that owns the dairy farm. The story weaves so smoothly and sweetly, yet deals with some heavy issues like abuse, neglect, and fear of abandonment. Only Sarah Addison Allen could weave a story so profound while you are floating along on her mystical cloud. Loved loved loved Garden Spells and highly recommend it.
Happy Reading!
The Waverly's have something special about them. Well really, so does nearly everyone in the town of Bascom, North Carolina. There are family legacies that are passed down from generation to generation; special gifts that certain family names are known for. For the Waverly's it is all in the garden, from the special flowers and herbs that are grown there to the apple tree that asserts itself by tossing apples at inopportune times (or opportune depending on the circumstances). But these special gifts have made the Waverly's outsiders in their home town. Claire Waverly has made the best of her abilities and created a catering business around the special plants that grow in her garden. She likes her life to have structure and stability. Her world is rocked a bit when her free-spirited sister, who fled Bascom as soon as she was old enough, shows up one day looking for some of that safety and stability. Claire has to learn to accept change, and that some changes are for the better. Both sisters have secrets to share, and only when they do will they be able to get past their history and make a family for the future.
This novel was enjoyable from start to finish. The characters are quirky and lovable, from the aunt with a knack for giving strange gifts just before the receiver needs them, to the gay shop owner, to the next door neighbor and the family that owns the dairy farm. The story weaves so smoothly and sweetly, yet deals with some heavy issues like abuse, neglect, and fear of abandonment. Only Sarah Addison Allen could weave a story so profound while you are floating along on her mystical cloud. Loved loved loved Garden Spells and highly recommend it.
Happy Reading!
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Listen
Listen is a suspenseful mystery by Rene Gutteridge. The small town of Marlo was voted one of the top ten places to raise your child. The last violent crime took place 20 years ago. That is until the residents start to mistrust each other and turn to violence after someone posts their private conversations on a web site. As the police deal with the increased violence, the newspaper tries to find out who is behind the web site, the town begins to fall apart and one family desperately tries to stay together.
This book had me hooked from the beginning and was a page turner. The premise was so fascinating. Someone eavesdropping on private conversations and then posting them for the whole world to read, or even worse, for the people you are talking about to read. The power of our words often escapes us. This book makes you think about it. The plot, while centered around this mystery, does twist off the path of it a few times, keeping the book interesting beyond just the main plot line. There are a few plot twists that wrench the heart, and had tears in my eyes. It was an emotional book for me, as a parent, from start to finish that tackled difficult issues like suicide, bullying, gossip, infidelity and even death.
I would have liked to see a few of the characters developed more. The characters that are well developed are likable. The author also has a tendency to jump very quickly from one thing to another, particularly during dialogue. This was a little confusing and I had to reread a few times to make sure I knew who or what was being referenced. I don't know if this is because the author is not an experienced writer (I know nothing about Gutteridge), or if this is just her style. It was a little annoying, but the story was good enough that I could look past it. Overall, this was a good read and I would recommend it.
Happy Reading!
This book had me hooked from the beginning and was a page turner. The premise was so fascinating. Someone eavesdropping on private conversations and then posting them for the whole world to read, or even worse, for the people you are talking about to read. The power of our words often escapes us. This book makes you think about it. The plot, while centered around this mystery, does twist off the path of it a few times, keeping the book interesting beyond just the main plot line. There are a few plot twists that wrench the heart, and had tears in my eyes. It was an emotional book for me, as a parent, from start to finish that tackled difficult issues like suicide, bullying, gossip, infidelity and even death.
I would have liked to see a few of the characters developed more. The characters that are well developed are likable. The author also has a tendency to jump very quickly from one thing to another, particularly during dialogue. This was a little confusing and I had to reread a few times to make sure I knew who or what was being referenced. I don't know if this is because the author is not an experienced writer (I know nothing about Gutteridge), or if this is just her style. It was a little annoying, but the story was good enough that I could look past it. Overall, this was a good read and I would recommend it.
Happy Reading!
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Outlander
Outlander is the first book in the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon. This novel was full of adventure, romance, history, and suspense. Meet Claire Randall. She is a combat nurse, back from the war (it is 1945). She and her husband are on a second honeymoon after being reunited. Meet Jamie. Jamie is a Scots clansmen, warrior, nephew to a pair of clan leaders, and living in the Scottish Highlands in the year 1743. When Claire, walks through a stone in an ancient stone circle, she is hurled into the Scottish Highlands and right into Jamie's life.
.
Forced to leave the area of the stones for her own safety, Claire is accepted at the Castle Leoch, where Jamie's uncles rule. No one knows where this strange woman came from, and many are very suspicious of her. She is thrown into a world full of danger, adventure, political unrest and intrigue. When she falls for Jamie, she finds herself torn between two worlds. The husband she left behind and the man she never could have imagined she would become involved with. Through life threatening battles and adventures, Claire learns that she has a lot to give. And eventually has to make a choice: Do I go back to 1945, or do I stay in the 1700s?
This book was highly entertaining. It was a page turner from start to finish. The setting is so well described (without being overly so) that you can smell the forests and hear the hooves of horses bearing down on you. When you read this book, you become so entrenched in the lives of these characters that you forget your own world, begin to think in their dialect, and can't wait to get back to the pages of the story. There were so many different adventures in this novel, that it could have been two or even three separate books. I would highly recommend this novel. I will be seeking out the second book in the series, Dragonfly in Amber.
Happy Reading!
.
Forced to leave the area of the stones for her own safety, Claire is accepted at the Castle Leoch, where Jamie's uncles rule. No one knows where this strange woman came from, and many are very suspicious of her. She is thrown into a world full of danger, adventure, political unrest and intrigue. When she falls for Jamie, she finds herself torn between two worlds. The husband she left behind and the man she never could have imagined she would become involved with. Through life threatening battles and adventures, Claire learns that she has a lot to give. And eventually has to make a choice: Do I go back to 1945, or do I stay in the 1700s?
This book was highly entertaining. It was a page turner from start to finish. The setting is so well described (without being overly so) that you can smell the forests and hear the hooves of horses bearing down on you. When you read this book, you become so entrenched in the lives of these characters that you forget your own world, begin to think in their dialect, and can't wait to get back to the pages of the story. There were so many different adventures in this novel, that it could have been two or even three separate books. I would highly recommend this novel. I will be seeking out the second book in the series, Dragonfly in Amber.
Happy Reading!
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Wicked Appetite
Oh, how delicious this book was! I love Janet Evanovich! In Wicked Appetite she has given Diesel, one of the characters from the Stephanie Plum between the numbers books, his own platform. And boy does he stand on his own.
Diesel is an Unmentionable. He has special abilities and works for an organization that tries to ensure that Unmentionables behave themselves. Elizabeth Tucker is a baker. A very good baker, especially when it comes to cupcakes. Turns out that Lizzy might also be an Unmentionable. She has an ability that Diesel needs to make sure that one of these evil Unmentionables doesn't get his hands on a powerful stone that could give him even more power.
There are seven stones of power, one for each one of the deadly sins, that have been guarded for centuries. They have also been sought by treasure hunters for centuries. Lizzy has the power to sense if an object has a special energy. Gerwulf Grimoire needs her power to find the first stone - gluttony. Diesel needs to make sure that Gerwulf doesn't get his greedy hands on the stone and he needs to protect Lizzy.
Sounds like a good supernatural/sci-fi mystery type book. But when it is written by Janet Evanovich, you can count on laughing out loud as you read. Crazy hijinks ensue with a supporting cast that will not disappoint, including a ninja cat and Carl the Monkey. I loved every page of this book! I was devastated when it was over. It seems like Ms. Evanovich may be setting us up for another series. I sure hope so! I would LOVE to see what Diesel and Lizzy get themselves into next! This one will be on my favorites list for the year. I highly recommend it to anyone, but especially if you are an Evanovich fan!
Happy Reading!
Diesel is an Unmentionable. He has special abilities and works for an organization that tries to ensure that Unmentionables behave themselves. Elizabeth Tucker is a baker. A very good baker, especially when it comes to cupcakes. Turns out that Lizzy might also be an Unmentionable. She has an ability that Diesel needs to make sure that one of these evil Unmentionables doesn't get his hands on a powerful stone that could give him even more power.
There are seven stones of power, one for each one of the deadly sins, that have been guarded for centuries. They have also been sought by treasure hunters for centuries. Lizzy has the power to sense if an object has a special energy. Gerwulf Grimoire needs her power to find the first stone - gluttony. Diesel needs to make sure that Gerwulf doesn't get his greedy hands on the stone and he needs to protect Lizzy.
Sounds like a good supernatural/sci-fi mystery type book. But when it is written by Janet Evanovich, you can count on laughing out loud as you read. Crazy hijinks ensue with a supporting cast that will not disappoint, including a ninja cat and Carl the Monkey. I loved every page of this book! I was devastated when it was over. It seems like Ms. Evanovich may be setting us up for another series. I sure hope so! I would LOVE to see what Diesel and Lizzy get themselves into next! This one will be on my favorites list for the year. I highly recommend it to anyone, but especially if you are an Evanovich fan!
Happy Reading!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Used-To-Be Lovers
Ah, the satisfaction that escapism fiction can offer. After reading The Rose Labyrinth I was in desperate need of some pure fluff, happy ending, feel good reading. So, off to that box of books my mother-in-law gave me I went. Used-To-Be Lovers by Linda Lael Miller (originally published in 1988) was just the ticket. Finished in two days, with no brain cells required to read, it was just what the librarian ordered!
Sharon and Tony are recently divorced. Unable to get along, busy both being business owners (of separate businesses) and parents, they could not maintain their marriage. They share an unusual living arrangement because of their children, though. They share a house so that the children have one place to live and alternate turns staying there. Loving one another was not the issue in their divorce, so these living arrangements make it difficult for either of them to move on. Through the pages of this novel, they struggle to get along, resolve their feelings for one another, figure out where they went wrong and see if their relationship can be saved.
Of course, as in any romance, misunderstandings ensue. They each play games with the other's feelings, and there is plenty of sexual tension. Also, as with most simple romance novels, there a few places where the background of the story is a little thin and where the author conveniently rearranges the characters feelings to suit the storyline moving forward either toward one of those misunderstandings or toward the happy ending. Books like this one are perfect for made-for-TV Lifetime movies. All of that being said, this romance was still enjoyable. I liked the characters, enjoyed the story and wanted that happy ending. Sometimes a girl is in the mood for one of those sappy, happy endings.
Happy Reading!
Sharon and Tony are recently divorced. Unable to get along, busy both being business owners (of separate businesses) and parents, they could not maintain their marriage. They share an unusual living arrangement because of their children, though. They share a house so that the children have one place to live and alternate turns staying there. Loving one another was not the issue in their divorce, so these living arrangements make it difficult for either of them to move on. Through the pages of this novel, they struggle to get along, resolve their feelings for one another, figure out where they went wrong and see if their relationship can be saved.
Of course, as in any romance, misunderstandings ensue. They each play games with the other's feelings, and there is plenty of sexual tension. Also, as with most simple romance novels, there a few places where the background of the story is a little thin and where the author conveniently rearranges the characters feelings to suit the storyline moving forward either toward one of those misunderstandings or toward the happy ending. Books like this one are perfect for made-for-TV Lifetime movies. All of that being said, this romance was still enjoyable. I liked the characters, enjoyed the story and wanted that happy ending. Sometimes a girl is in the mood for one of those sappy, happy endings.
Happy Reading!
Thursday, March 10, 2011
The Rose Labyrinth
The Rose Labyrinth by Titania Hardie is billed as "a riddle to unravel, a legacy to unearth, a heart to mend." It appears on the bookshelf as a beautiful novel with a mystery to it that is very much like The DaVinci Code.
The plot of the book, if I could try to summarize it, is about a family that has the sole responsibility to protect a secret. As the secret is revealed to them, they try to unravel the riddle to discover why some dangerous people want to get their hands on the documents that have been handed down through generations.
Take my plot summation with a grain of salt, though. Because I don't think I understood this book, and I slept through part of it. At first I thought maybe it was just that the obscure alchemy, mythology, literature, and religious references were beyond me. But after finishing the book (which has no real resolution) and reading the reviews of other readers, I have found that it was not just me.
The story is very disjointed. So much so that I lost the thread more than once. The mystery is poorly constructed. If there was a climax to the story, I failed to realize it. The first few chapters grabbed my interest and the book had real promise. After that, it fell flat and it never redeemed itself. At the end of the book, the reader is at least hoping for the mystery to be solved. I don't believe that it was, or if what was revealed is the mystery I don't understand why it had to be kept secret under threat of life and limb for generations.
I finished the book for two reasons. The first being that it was a book club pick, so I had a duty to finish the book for book club discussions. The second being that I don't like to quit on books. It was very difficult to get through. I couldn't stay awake for more than a few sentences in the last third of the book. I really feel that this was a waste of my precious reading time, and I am anxious to pick up something light and fun after completing this boring, disappointing read.
Happy Reading (just not this novel)!
The plot of the book, if I could try to summarize it, is about a family that has the sole responsibility to protect a secret. As the secret is revealed to them, they try to unravel the riddle to discover why some dangerous people want to get their hands on the documents that have been handed down through generations.
Take my plot summation with a grain of salt, though. Because I don't think I understood this book, and I slept through part of it. At first I thought maybe it was just that the obscure alchemy, mythology, literature, and religious references were beyond me. But after finishing the book (which has no real resolution) and reading the reviews of other readers, I have found that it was not just me.
The story is very disjointed. So much so that I lost the thread more than once. The mystery is poorly constructed. If there was a climax to the story, I failed to realize it. The first few chapters grabbed my interest and the book had real promise. After that, it fell flat and it never redeemed itself. At the end of the book, the reader is at least hoping for the mystery to be solved. I don't believe that it was, or if what was revealed is the mystery I don't understand why it had to be kept secret under threat of life and limb for generations.
I finished the book for two reasons. The first being that it was a book club pick, so I had a duty to finish the book for book club discussions. The second being that I don't like to quit on books. It was very difficult to get through. I couldn't stay awake for more than a few sentences in the last third of the book. I really feel that this was a waste of my precious reading time, and I am anxious to pick up something light and fun after completing this boring, disappointing read.
Happy Reading (just not this novel)!
Saturday, February 19, 2011
The Cat Who Said Cheese
The Cat Who Said Cheese is a novel by Lillian Jackson Braun. It is one of her popular "The Cat Who" series. In this novel, Qwill and his Siamese duo are trying to solve the mystery of an unknown woman who comes to the small town in which they live. This woman's hotel room is bombed and she disappears. In addition to the mysterious woman, Qwill makes friends with an odd, sweet character who ends up in the middle of a murder mystery himself.
This entire novel was less than 200 pages. It was a quick read. It is the first of "The Cat Who" series that I have read. The characters were quirky, the cats entertaining, the mystery interesting. I don't know if I liked it enough to read any others in the series. But it didn't turn me off to the series either. If you are looking for a fast read with odd but likable characters this one would fit the bill.
Happy Reading!
This entire novel was less than 200 pages. It was a quick read. It is the first of "The Cat Who" series that I have read. The characters were quirky, the cats entertaining, the mystery interesting. I don't know if I liked it enough to read any others in the series. But it didn't turn me off to the series either. If you are looking for a fast read with odd but likable characters this one would fit the bill.
Happy Reading!
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Mockingjay
Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins is the final book in the Hunger Games trilogy. Like the others in the series it is very suspenseful and heartbreaking, but at the same time thought provoking and satisfying.
In Mockingjay, Katniss finds herself, her mother & sister and her best friend, Dale, in District 13. A safe place for the moment, while the rest of the districts rise in a rebellion against the Capital. She is the public figure at the forefront of the revolution. The face of the uprising. The spokesperson helping to increase the fire against those in charge in the Capitol. Once again she rises above injury, heartbreak, and difficult decisions to lead her people (whether she wants to or not). She has to figure out who to trust and how to best represent the rebellion. All the while, trying to figure out her relationships with Dale and Peeta, her partner in the Hunger Games, who for much of this book is missing, being held captive by the Capitol.
Underneath this storyline is a very real political message about keeping those in power in check, and about how power corrupts. It serves as sort of a warning for all of us about what could happen in the future if we don't keep our government from becoming too all powerful. But on top of all of that, this is a gripping story of hardship and triumph, and of love.
This book was emotionally draining to read. I read it in one day and loved every minute of it, even the heart wrenching ones. This entire series has been a wonderful ride. I highly recommend this series, although it is a little hard for me to see it as a young adult and I caution parents to read it first to judge the acceptability for their particular child. While I believe my son will love the series, at 11, he is not yet ready for the heavy subject matter. This book will be among my favorites of the year, and I look forward to sharing it with my oldest in a couple years.
Happy Reading!
In Mockingjay, Katniss finds herself, her mother & sister and her best friend, Dale, in District 13. A safe place for the moment, while the rest of the districts rise in a rebellion against the Capital. She is the public figure at the forefront of the revolution. The face of the uprising. The spokesperson helping to increase the fire against those in charge in the Capitol. Once again she rises above injury, heartbreak, and difficult decisions to lead her people (whether she wants to or not). She has to figure out who to trust and how to best represent the rebellion. All the while, trying to figure out her relationships with Dale and Peeta, her partner in the Hunger Games, who for much of this book is missing, being held captive by the Capitol.
Underneath this storyline is a very real political message about keeping those in power in check, and about how power corrupts. It serves as sort of a warning for all of us about what could happen in the future if we don't keep our government from becoming too all powerful. But on top of all of that, this is a gripping story of hardship and triumph, and of love.
This book was emotionally draining to read. I read it in one day and loved every minute of it, even the heart wrenching ones. This entire series has been a wonderful ride. I highly recommend this series, although it is a little hard for me to see it as a young adult and I caution parents to read it first to judge the acceptability for their particular child. While I believe my son will love the series, at 11, he is not yet ready for the heavy subject matter. This book will be among my favorites of the year, and I look forward to sharing it with my oldest in a couple years.
Happy Reading!
The Witching Hour
The Witching Hour by Anne Rice is an epic novel. At over 1,000 pages it is quite an undertaking, but worth the effort. It is the first in the Mayfair Witches trilogy. And while I am not sure if I will continue the series, The Witching Hour was an engaging read.
This book follows the history of the Mayfair family. This family is rich in history and run by powerful women, who all happen to have supernatural powers. In each generation there is one woman who continues the legacy. That legacy includes riches beyond your wildest imagination, and a demon who either thrills that particular witch or drives her crazy. The story switches from centuries ago into the present day rather fluidly and follows the history of this family from the 1600s into present day.
The current holder of the legacy doesn't even know it exists. Having been taken from her mother as an infant, in an attempt to break the cycle with the demon that alternatively haunts and helps this family, she has lived on the other side of the country and knows nothing of her families history. The reader learns a lot about the family through an organization that follows those with supernatural powers in an effort to learn more about the supernatural and help those with powers hone their particular skills and use them for good. The story takes a while to unfold into present day and the current Mayfair witch, described as the most powerful yet.
As I read this book, while it was entertaining, it was also disturbing. The Mayfair family is rife with incest (in an effort to create even more powerful witches). I found the family tree hard to follow. However the book is full of suspense, and the storyline is richly colorful. I was a little disappointed with the end of the book, which I felt did not resolve the story. But I guess in a trilogy, you have to keep your reader hooked for the next installment. I am very curious to see how the storyline played out. But as this book took me six weeks to read, it may be a while before I pick up the next volume.
Happy Reading!
This book follows the history of the Mayfair family. This family is rich in history and run by powerful women, who all happen to have supernatural powers. In each generation there is one woman who continues the legacy. That legacy includes riches beyond your wildest imagination, and a demon who either thrills that particular witch or drives her crazy. The story switches from centuries ago into the present day rather fluidly and follows the history of this family from the 1600s into present day.
The current holder of the legacy doesn't even know it exists. Having been taken from her mother as an infant, in an attempt to break the cycle with the demon that alternatively haunts and helps this family, she has lived on the other side of the country and knows nothing of her families history. The reader learns a lot about the family through an organization that follows those with supernatural powers in an effort to learn more about the supernatural and help those with powers hone their particular skills and use them for good. The story takes a while to unfold into present day and the current Mayfair witch, described as the most powerful yet.
As I read this book, while it was entertaining, it was also disturbing. The Mayfair family is rife with incest (in an effort to create even more powerful witches). I found the family tree hard to follow. However the book is full of suspense, and the storyline is richly colorful. I was a little disappointed with the end of the book, which I felt did not resolve the story. But I guess in a trilogy, you have to keep your reader hooked for the next installment. I am very curious to see how the storyline played out. But as this book took me six weeks to read, it may be a while before I pick up the next volume.
Happy Reading!
Saturday, January 1, 2011
2010...Year in Review
In 2009, I read 37 books and posted that I hoped to break that record this year. Well, I fell short; this year I read 35. I am not disappointed, though, because in reviewing the books that I have read, several of them were quite long and a few of them took me quite a long time to read (including the book I am currently reading, The Witching Hour, which is over 1,000 pages long and I have been reading for three weeks). I spent an entire month on The Corrections, close to that on Eat Pray Love, and Paint it Black took a long time because of the subject matter. While, The Corrections isn't in my favorites list, it was an excellent book and quite a personal accomplishment.
My favorites of the year would include the 16th book in Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series, Sizzling Sixteen (as always). I just love her books and she has yet to write one in that series that I would not count as a favorite book. In addition, the Sookie Stackhouse short stories, A Touch of Dead by Charlaine Harris would be a favorite. The Hunger Games series (The Hunger Games & Catching Fire) were incredible books that I cannot wait to share with my oldest child. The third and final book in that trilogy was released late this year and I plan on reading it very soon. The Summons by John Grishom and Executive Privilege by Phillip Margolin were my favorite mystery books this year. Sundays at Tiffanys by James Patterson and Jewels of the Sun by Nora Roberts were also favorites. And two of our book club books make my favorites list of the year, as well: The Sugar Queen and Cold Sassy Tree. The Sugar Queen by Sarah Addison Allen was so familiar and touching to me. I don't often re-read books, but I loved that one so much that I will definitely revisit it.
There were a lot of good ones this year. Who knows, maybe in 2011 I will make it to 40 books. I have such a passion for reading and am always "currently reading" something. So, as long as there are as many good ones in the group, I guess it doesn't matter how many books I have read.
Happy New Year & Happy Reading!
2010 Book List
Eat Pray Love (book club)
Home Again
Happily Ever After
Dirty Blonde
Heart of the Sea
Tears of the Moon
Jewels of the Sun
The Corrections
The Man from Montana
The Sugar Queen (book club)
Just Kate
Temptation
Executive Privilege
Sizzling Sixteen
The Taking
Sundays at Tiffanys
3 Willows
The Summons
Savor the Moment
Bed of Roses
Vision in White
Vinegar Hill
Dead in the Family
At First Sight
Cold Sassy Tree (book club)
Monkeewrench
Paint It Black
Murder in the Chateau
True Colors
Catching Fire
Above & Beyond
The Hunger Games
The Lost Symbol (book club)
A Touch of Dead
The Wednesday Letters
My favorites of the year would include the 16th book in Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series, Sizzling Sixteen (as always). I just love her books and she has yet to write one in that series that I would not count as a favorite book. In addition, the Sookie Stackhouse short stories, A Touch of Dead by Charlaine Harris would be a favorite. The Hunger Games series (The Hunger Games & Catching Fire) were incredible books that I cannot wait to share with my oldest child. The third and final book in that trilogy was released late this year and I plan on reading it very soon. The Summons by John Grishom and Executive Privilege by Phillip Margolin were my favorite mystery books this year. Sundays at Tiffanys by James Patterson and Jewels of the Sun by Nora Roberts were also favorites. And two of our book club books make my favorites list of the year, as well: The Sugar Queen and Cold Sassy Tree. The Sugar Queen by Sarah Addison Allen was so familiar and touching to me. I don't often re-read books, but I loved that one so much that I will definitely revisit it.
There were a lot of good ones this year. Who knows, maybe in 2011 I will make it to 40 books. I have such a passion for reading and am always "currently reading" something. So, as long as there are as many good ones in the group, I guess it doesn't matter how many books I have read.
Happy New Year & Happy Reading!
2010 Book List
Eat Pray Love (book club)
Home Again
Happily Ever After
Dirty Blonde
Heart of the Sea
Tears of the Moon
Jewels of the Sun
The Corrections
The Man from Montana
The Sugar Queen (book club)
Just Kate
Temptation
Executive Privilege
Sizzling Sixteen
The Taking
Sundays at Tiffanys
3 Willows
The Summons
Savor the Moment
Bed of Roses
Vision in White
Vinegar Hill
Dead in the Family
At First Sight
Cold Sassy Tree (book club)
Monkeewrench
Paint It Black
Murder in the Chateau
True Colors
Catching Fire
Above & Beyond
The Hunger Games
The Lost Symbol (book club)
A Touch of Dead
The Wednesday Letters
Catch Up
It has been two months since I have posted. Life got too busy, and I have not had time to journal what I have been reading. I did not keep a record of those books either, so I will try to recount to the best of my knowledge what I have read. I can only come up with three books, in addition to the one I am currently reading, though, and I believe I am forgetting something.
I read Happily Ever After, by Nora Roberts, which completed the Bride Quartet series. It was a fun, quick read, like the others in the series. Nothing of significance to note.
I read Home Again, by Kristin Hannah. This was a book that was offered at a deep discount for the nook. Having read and thoroughly enjoyed Hannah before, I purchased it. It was not as good as the other novel of hers that I have read. But, it was enjoyable. Family drama and romance are at the heart of this novel, and I finished it quickly.
Eat Pray Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert, was a book club pick. Based on the hype of this book from numerous sources, I thought (as did the rest of my BC girls) that this one would be a true winner, a favorite pick of the year. The book was a real disappointment. I expected some sort of "a-ha" moment while reading it. Sadly, I didn't have any, and I think my review of it would be better if there had not been so much hype surrounding the book.
Eat Pray Love is a non-fiction work, based on Elizabeth Gilbert's quest to find balance in her life, between the pleasurable and the spiritual. She deals with a difficult divorce, travels to Italy for pleasure (Eat), to India for spiritual (Pray) and to Indonesia to find balance and happiness (Love).
I am sure there were themes and messages in this book that eluded me. There must have been for it to be so critically acclaimed. I didn't get it. I enjoyed the first third of the book that took place in Italy. I liked her character, and her writing style which was very casual and much like she was just talking to you as her best friend. But there were things that occurred during her spiritual quest in India that I could not get past. She studied meditation and yoga there. She struggled immensely with the meditation. But then went from struggling terribly one day to having the ultimate Godly experience, achieving the ultimate goal of meditation, the next. I didn't buy into it, and I think the author never truly got me back after that. The last third of the book took place in Bali. The setting was portrayed beautifully, and I guess I enjoyed this part of the book almost as much as the Italy portion. In Bali, she finds friendship, romance and ultimately happiness.
My overall opinion of this one was that it was a disappointment. I expected more. I am glad that I read it, however, because now at least I know what everyone else is referring to, even if I do not share the viewpoint of those who are paid to know about such things. I will say that the overall opinion of our book club matched my own. We were all unsure of why there was such critical acclaim surrounding this book.
Happy Reading!
I read Happily Ever After, by Nora Roberts, which completed the Bride Quartet series. It was a fun, quick read, like the others in the series. Nothing of significance to note.
I read Home Again, by Kristin Hannah. This was a book that was offered at a deep discount for the nook. Having read and thoroughly enjoyed Hannah before, I purchased it. It was not as good as the other novel of hers that I have read. But, it was enjoyable. Family drama and romance are at the heart of this novel, and I finished it quickly.
Eat Pray Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert, was a book club pick. Based on the hype of this book from numerous sources, I thought (as did the rest of my BC girls) that this one would be a true winner, a favorite pick of the year. The book was a real disappointment. I expected some sort of "a-ha" moment while reading it. Sadly, I didn't have any, and I think my review of it would be better if there had not been so much hype surrounding the book.
Eat Pray Love is a non-fiction work, based on Elizabeth Gilbert's quest to find balance in her life, between the pleasurable and the spiritual. She deals with a difficult divorce, travels to Italy for pleasure (Eat), to India for spiritual (Pray) and to Indonesia to find balance and happiness (Love).
I am sure there were themes and messages in this book that eluded me. There must have been for it to be so critically acclaimed. I didn't get it. I enjoyed the first third of the book that took place in Italy. I liked her character, and her writing style which was very casual and much like she was just talking to you as her best friend. But there were things that occurred during her spiritual quest in India that I could not get past. She studied meditation and yoga there. She struggled immensely with the meditation. But then went from struggling terribly one day to having the ultimate Godly experience, achieving the ultimate goal of meditation, the next. I didn't buy into it, and I think the author never truly got me back after that. The last third of the book took place in Bali. The setting was portrayed beautifully, and I guess I enjoyed this part of the book almost as much as the Italy portion. In Bali, she finds friendship, romance and ultimately happiness.
My overall opinion of this one was that it was a disappointment. I expected more. I am glad that I read it, however, because now at least I know what everyone else is referring to, even if I do not share the viewpoint of those who are paid to know about such things. I will say that the overall opinion of our book club matched my own. We were all unsure of why there was such critical acclaim surrounding this book.
Happy Reading!
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