Never have I met as fascinating a character as Odd Thomas. And, Koontz creates the perfect balance between the strange and the grounded, the comedic and the ugly, genuine love and pure evil.
Definately reading more!
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
Odd Thomas by Dean Koontz
I watched the movie first, and it was really, really close to the novel. As a result the tension and suspense were ruined for me. But... If I had read the book first, it would have been AWESOME!
Never have I met as fascinating a character as Odd Thomas. And, Koontz creates the perfect balance between the strange and the grounded, the comedic and the ugly, genuine love and pure evil.
Definately reading more!
Never have I met as fascinating a character as Odd Thomas. And, Koontz creates the perfect balance between the strange and the grounded, the comedic and the ugly, genuine love and pure evil.
Definately reading more!
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Finding Audrey by Sophie Kinsella
Audrey wears sunglasses all the time. Night-time. Rainy days. Inside while watching TV. Her sunglasses make her feel safe, and Audrey really needs to feel safe. A very "unpleasant incident" happened earlier in the year and as a result she now has an anxiety disorder. She and Dr. Sarah are making steady progress. Then, Linus comes along offering to "talk" by passing notes to each other through her four-year old brother. Soon, she's feeling safe enough to venture outside for the first time in months. Linus and Audrey's connection push her recovery forward. Is it enough? Or, maybe too much?
Sophie Kinsella's books just make me smile and even giggle. Her characters deal with the crazy world like real people with joy, caution, excitment, and humor. Okay, hiding behind sunglasses doesn't seem that "real," but it's actually ingenious. Audrey discovered a coping strategy that really helped her. Infused with humor, charged with tenderness and deepened by authentic relationships, Finding Audrey is the best young adult book I've read in a long, long time.
Sophie Kinsella's books just make me smile and even giggle. Her characters deal with the crazy world like real people with joy, caution, excitment, and humor. Okay, hiding behind sunglasses doesn't seem that "real," but it's actually ingenious. Audrey discovered a coping strategy that really helped her. Infused with humor, charged with tenderness and deepened by authentic relationships, Finding Audrey is the best young adult book I've read in a long, long time.
Thursday, October 1, 2015
All Fall Down, An Embassy Row Novel by Ally Carter
Grace knows she is not crazy; she knows that her mother was murdered before her very eyes, and she knows she is going to catch the killer, the Scarred Man.
Shipped off to live with her grandfather on Embassy Row in Adria and haunted be her mother's life in every room of the Embassy, Grace is certain that she is going to cause trouble because that is what she does. She doesn't mean to, but she does.
The very first night she dives off a cliff and sneaks into the empty and dilapidated embassy of Iran. When she starts to leave she hears voices, and they are talking about killing someone. In a brief passing of light she sees the face of one of those voices, the face of the Scarred Man. For Grace, the hunt has begun.
Grace is troubled and hard to relate to. Her friends have all the talent, wit, and courage. Grace has crazy. She spontaneously acts without regard to consequence, following her convictions. But, what if the things she is so sure of, the Scarred Man and her mother's murder, really aren't based in truth?
The story spins it's wheels for awhile, as Grace works out what to do, who to trust and how to catch a murderer without the aide of the professionals. Action is sporadic and lacks suspense. While the plot is a bit predictable, it has an excellent twist at the end that really caught me off guard.
I'm acutally anxious to read the second novel, and there is definately going to be a second, Grace has plenty of things to work out, and it will be interesting to see if she learns to let her friends in and if she can finally find out why her mother was killed.
Shipped off to live with her grandfather on Embassy Row in Adria and haunted be her mother's life in every room of the Embassy, Grace is certain that she is going to cause trouble because that is what she does. She doesn't mean to, but she does.
The very first night she dives off a cliff and sneaks into the empty and dilapidated embassy of Iran. When she starts to leave she hears voices, and they are talking about killing someone. In a brief passing of light she sees the face of one of those voices, the face of the Scarred Man. For Grace, the hunt has begun.
Grace is troubled and hard to relate to. Her friends have all the talent, wit, and courage. Grace has crazy. She spontaneously acts without regard to consequence, following her convictions. But, what if the things she is so sure of, the Scarred Man and her mother's murder, really aren't based in truth?
The story spins it's wheels for awhile, as Grace works out what to do, who to trust and how to catch a murderer without the aide of the professionals. Action is sporadic and lacks suspense. While the plot is a bit predictable, it has an excellent twist at the end that really caught me off guard.
I'm acutally anxious to read the second novel, and there is definately going to be a second, Grace has plenty of things to work out, and it will be interesting to see if she learns to let her friends in and if she can finally find out why her mother was killed.
Thursday, September 17, 2015
The Only Thing to Fear by Caroline Tung Richmond
Imagine a world where America has been carved up by the Nazis and the Japanese because they won World War II with the help of Hitler's genetically altered super soldiers. Sixteen-year-old Zara lives in that world, where the Germans are the master race controlling everything and if you're not German then you are nothing.
Zara is not German. She dreams of a world she has only been told about, where freedom and equality belong to all. She longs to join the Alliance, a rebel group dedicated to the destruction of the Fuhrer and his empire. The key to their success may just belong to Zara.
Richmond present an alternate world that is exceptionally believeable. The historian in me wanted more analysis, more details of the "how" and the "why", but The Only Thing to Fear is a novel and an excellent one.
Thought provoking in its setting and plot, I anxiously enjoyed the pace and suspense that Richmond created. The conclusion was satisfying even as she set up a follow up story. The characters felt a bit one dimensional, but the potential for greater complexity exists, and I definately was invested in their story.
For history freaks, like me, this is a tantalizing read that left me wondering where it might lead.
Zara is not German. She dreams of a world she has only been told about, where freedom and equality belong to all. She longs to join the Alliance, a rebel group dedicated to the destruction of the Fuhrer and his empire. The key to their success may just belong to Zara.
Richmond present an alternate world that is exceptionally believeable. The historian in me wanted more analysis, more details of the "how" and the "why", but The Only Thing to Fear is a novel and an excellent one.
Thought provoking in its setting and plot, I anxiously enjoyed the pace and suspense that Richmond created. The conclusion was satisfying even as she set up a follow up story. The characters felt a bit one dimensional, but the potential for greater complexity exists, and I definately was invested in their story.
For history freaks, like me, this is a tantalizing read that left me wondering where it might lead.
Thursday, September 10, 2015
The Crimes and Punishments of Miss Payne by Barry Jonsberg
Calma and Kiffo are convinced that Miss Payne is evil incarnate. You see, their English class has successfully driven off two teachers: one to early retirement and one, most likely, to an institution for the mentally unstable. But, Miss Payne is in control from the moment she takes Kiffo down in front of the class. Kiffo is convinced that Miss Payne is involved with something illegal, and while he and Calma are stalking her, they discover her exchanging some white powder with a suspicious looking man in the wee hours of the morning. Now, Miss Payne must be stopped.
Admittedly, I do not like books where the narrator longs to be a writer. I also do not like books that make heroes out of victims just because they have a tough life. In spite of that, I did like this book, in fact, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters were quirky, yet believable. I laughed out loud at many of the predicaments Calma and Kiffo put themselves in, and Calma's analysis of various situations were hilarious. Most importantly, I loved the ending. It startled me. It was unexpected, yet true to the novel's tone and voice.
The Crimes and Punishments of Miss Payne is a mix of the mystery and teen issues genres. There is some strong language and the audience is definitely older teens and adults. Also, it's set in Australia, and while I didn't struggle with the slang or unusual vocabulary, others might. Overall, I enjoyed this spunky, crazy story that in the end touches at the true meaning of friendship.
Admittedly, I do not like books where the narrator longs to be a writer. I also do not like books that make heroes out of victims just because they have a tough life. In spite of that, I did like this book, in fact, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters were quirky, yet believable. I laughed out loud at many of the predicaments Calma and Kiffo put themselves in, and Calma's analysis of various situations were hilarious. Most importantly, I loved the ending. It startled me. It was unexpected, yet true to the novel's tone and voice.
The Crimes and Punishments of Miss Payne is a mix of the mystery and teen issues genres. There is some strong language and the audience is definitely older teens and adults. Also, it's set in Australia, and while I didn't struggle with the slang or unusual vocabulary, others might. Overall, I enjoyed this spunky, crazy story that in the end touches at the true meaning of friendship.
A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray
Fleeing her mother who won't agree to send Gemma to London, sixteen-year-old Gemma becomes lost in Bombay. Trapped in an alley, terrified, she is suddenly struck by a vision of her mother facing Death. Her mother chooses to die by her own hand instead of being murdered by the being who seeks her. Shocked and isolated, Gemma finally receives her original wish two months later when she is sent to London. She will attend The Spencer School, a private boarding school where girls are trained to be silent, obedient wives to the Victorian men of the time. Gemma's visions continue and in spite of warnings from a young Indian man, Katrik, to stop them; Gemma learns to control the visions and with her new friends, enters the "Realms" where she finds her mother waiting to direct her instruction in magic. But, the evil that once sought her mother now pursues Gemma in both worlds.
Definitely a boarding school drama, A Great and Terrible Beauty, reaches far beyond the stereotypical story. Characters such as proud and powerful Felicity, beautiful and empty-headed Pippa and scholarship ugly Ann all mature beyond the flat types they could be as they face critical choices brought on not only by their foray into the world of magic, but also by the manipulative and restrictive Victorian world. Beyond the beautifully developed characters is a powerful plot that engages the reader, indeed compelling them, as if by magic, to put everything else aside and be drawn into Gemma's world.
A Gothic fantasy with splashes of romance and drama, Bray's first novel in the trilogy is beautifully written. The story moves rapidly, but the novel draws on deeper themes such as self-determination and the traumatic consequences of choice, destiny and responsibility. The most fascinating novel I've read for some time.
Definitely a boarding school drama, A Great and Terrible Beauty, reaches far beyond the stereotypical story. Characters such as proud and powerful Felicity, beautiful and empty-headed Pippa and scholarship ugly Ann all mature beyond the flat types they could be as they face critical choices brought on not only by their foray into the world of magic, but also by the manipulative and restrictive Victorian world. Beyond the beautifully developed characters is a powerful plot that engages the reader, indeed compelling them, as if by magic, to put everything else aside and be drawn into Gemma's world.
A Gothic fantasy with splashes of romance and drama, Bray's first novel in the trilogy is beautifully written. The story moves rapidly, but the novel draws on deeper themes such as self-determination and the traumatic consequences of choice, destiny and responsibility. The most fascinating novel I've read for some time.
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Lost Lake by Sarah Addison Allen
Georgia, a magical place where what is lost may just be found, and Kate, a recent widow, who has just awakened from a deep, mournful "sleep" is looking to find something there. She travels to her Aunt Eby's cabin resort, Lost Lake, with her eccentric and knowing eight-year-old daughter and rediscovers the most joyful summer of her life including Wes, her first love. But can she save the things she once lost from disappearing forever.
Allen's novels hold you captive with the first page. Her characters breath complexity and truth. The magic she weaves caresses the soul, edging you to belief. Kate's story touched the predictable, but Eby's pulled and teased and kept me guessing at the mysteries of her life.
Lovely, lovely read!
Allen's novels hold you captive with the first page. Her characters breath complexity and truth. The magic she weaves caresses the soul, edging you to belief. Kate's story touched the predictable, but Eby's pulled and teased and kept me guessing at the mysteries of her life.
Lovely, lovely read!
Monday, May 4, 2015
The Sugar Queen by Sarah Addison Allen
What is chubby? Josey Cirrini knows because she is hidding behind it and in her closet where she devours sweets and romance novels. Being chubby is only part of the reason she hides. Her daddy was the big man in town, responsible, single handedly for saving the town, and that brings too much attention and to many expectations. Her mother is just down right mean.
Then Della Lee Baker shows up in Josey's closet, refuses to leave and forces Josey out into the world. Out of hiding, she meets the mailman whom she loves somewhere other than at her front door, and begins to bond with Chole Finley, one of Della Lee's friends.
Now Josey must come out of hiding and face a world where books suddenly appear, a red cardigan is magical, and a passionate kiss can make water boil, literally.
The Sugar Queen has the warmth of a freshly baked cinnamon roll, the tenderness of angel food cake and the richness of a deep fudge brownie. Relax and enjoy the warm and wacky characters and the comfort of a simple plot. Then spend some time reflecting on the power of those who find and then choose to live their own life the way the want.
Then Della Lee Baker shows up in Josey's closet, refuses to leave and forces Josey out into the world. Out of hiding, she meets the mailman whom she loves somewhere other than at her front door, and begins to bond with Chole Finley, one of Della Lee's friends.
Now Josey must come out of hiding and face a world where books suddenly appear, a red cardigan is magical, and a passionate kiss can make water boil, literally.
The Sugar Queen has the warmth of a freshly baked cinnamon roll, the tenderness of angel food cake and the richness of a deep fudge brownie. Relax and enjoy the warm and wacky characters and the comfort of a simple plot. Then spend some time reflecting on the power of those who find and then choose to live their own life the way the want.
Friday, May 1, 2015
The Silent Governess by Julie Klassen
Olivia Keene has a secret. It has driven her from her home and her dearly loved mother. But, it is the secret she accidently overhears that traps her.
Lord Bradley's secret could ruin his life, the only life he has ever known or wanted, and Miss Keene knows it. So, he does what any self-respecting Lord would do, he forces her to accept a post at Brightwell Court, where he can keep an eye on her.
Secrets evolve into mysteries and as they unfold Olivia and Lord Bradley discover the power of love, forgiveness and family.
Having just discover Klassen, I must declare, "Oh, happy day!" Finally, an author who takes some time to not only develop her characters, but their relationships as well. The plot may be slow for some readers, but I would dare to suggest that slowing down and enjoying the story as it unfolds is very rewarding. Maybe then, you will even catch the clever twists before they are revealed.
Lord Bradley's secret could ruin his life, the only life he has ever known or wanted, and Miss Keene knows it. So, he does what any self-respecting Lord would do, he forces her to accept a post at Brightwell Court, where he can keep an eye on her.
Secrets evolve into mysteries and as they unfold Olivia and Lord Bradley discover the power of love, forgiveness and family.
Having just discover Klassen, I must declare, "Oh, happy day!" Finally, an author who takes some time to not only develop her characters, but their relationships as well. The plot may be slow for some readers, but I would dare to suggest that slowing down and enjoying the story as it unfolds is very rewarding. Maybe then, you will even catch the clever twists before they are revealed.
The Marching Season by Daniel Silva
Retired CIA agent, Michael Osbourn is drawn back into the game when his father-in-law is named the American Ambassador to Great Britain. Northern Ireland has been working on a peace agreement, but at least one group opposes it. They make their views known by a series of three brutal acts of terrorism. Osbourn goes to Ireland to work his contacts and stirs up more violence and some pretty good intel. Unfortunately, he draws the attention of the Director and once more must faceoff against an assassin.
The Marching Season is a solid spy novel, well written and nicely paced. Recommended reading for those who love a perfectly paced plot and plenty of action, violence included.
The Marching Season is a solid spy novel, well written and nicely paced. Recommended reading for those who love a perfectly paced plot and plenty of action, violence included.
Thursday, April 9, 2015
Red Notice by Bill Browder
Grandson of America's top Communist, Bill Bowder set out to be the exact opposite, a capitalist. He eventually landed in the Stanford Business School and from there launch himself into the competitative work of hedge fund investing at almost the exact time that the Soviet Union fell apart.
By the mid 1990s he had amassed a huge fortune by investing in Russia where he tangled with corrupt oligarchs. As long as his fight worked for Valdimir Putin, he was fine, but when it didn't, Putin expelled him from Russia in 2005.
Two years later, Browder's offices were raided as were those of his lawyer which led to the theft of $230 million of taxes that his fund’s companies had paid to the Russian government. Sergei Magnitsky, Bowder's attonery, uncoverd the theft and testified against the men who perpetrated it. He was arrested, totured, and eventually clubbed to death.
Red Notice is part of Browder's quest for justice, having emerged from his Russian experience a changed man.
Extremely well written, Red Notice, mesmerized me. The blatant corruption of government, the moral force of Magnitsky, the complex world of finance, all served to propel the story forward, but it was Browder's evolution as a man that solidified this book on my top 50 must read list.
By the mid 1990s he had amassed a huge fortune by investing in Russia where he tangled with corrupt oligarchs. As long as his fight worked for Valdimir Putin, he was fine, but when it didn't, Putin expelled him from Russia in 2005.
Two years later, Browder's offices were raided as were those of his lawyer which led to the theft of $230 million of taxes that his fund’s companies had paid to the Russian government. Sergei Magnitsky, Bowder's attonery, uncoverd the theft and testified against the men who perpetrated it. He was arrested, totured, and eventually clubbed to death.
Red Notice is part of Browder's quest for justice, having emerged from his Russian experience a changed man.
Extremely well written, Red Notice, mesmerized me. The blatant corruption of government, the moral force of Magnitsky, the complex world of finance, all served to propel the story forward, but it was Browder's evolution as a man that solidified this book on my top 50 must read list.
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
The Laws of Magic: Blaze of Glory by Michael Pryor
Aubrey Fitzwilliam's dad was the Prime Minister of Albion, and Aubrey is forever trying to live up to the title of Sir Darius's son. Unfortunately, he has a talent for finding trouble and a gift for getting out of it. Luckily, he has his best friend George along for this crazy magical ride. At a royal hunting party they save the prince from a magical assassin. Of course, Aubrey doesn't stop there, he has to track down who is behind the magical death threat.
Aubrey was an uneven character. He starts out almost tweenish, like twelve or thirteen, but he is doing things an older teen would be involved in and by the end he borders on adult, nineteenish. The inconsistency bothered me. The plot was intriguing, and I enjoyed the new slant on magic. Blaze of Glory works well for fans of Harry Potter but who long for something with a new twist. I'd read the second, just to see if Aubrey settles into himself as a character.
Aubrey was an uneven character. He starts out almost tweenish, like twelve or thirteen, but he is doing things an older teen would be involved in and by the end he borders on adult, nineteenish. The inconsistency bothered me. The plot was intriguing, and I enjoyed the new slant on magic. Blaze of Glory works well for fans of Harry Potter but who long for something with a new twist. I'd read the second, just to see if Aubrey settles into himself as a character.
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
The Making of a Marchioness by Frances Hadgson Burnett
I saw a BBC moive titled, The Making of a Lady, which was just awesome! Then I discovered that it was based on a book by Frances Hodgson Burnett the author of The Little Princess and The Secret Garden, two of my favorite childhood books. So, I immediately found it on Amazon, downloaded it in one click and started reading.
The story was different, of course, from the movie. Really the movie had the bones of the plot, but mixed it around a great deal. I liked both for different reasons. The novel was rich with characterization and the mood and feeling of the time. The movie was thrillingly romantic.
Emily Fox-Seaton is a penniless gentlewoman making her way in the world by doing odds and ends service jobs for the fine ladies of London. Emily is just too good and the Lady Maria, an employer, invites her to the country where she unknowing draws the attention of Lady Maria's cousin, the Marquis of Walderhurst. Soon, she finds herself married to him and growing to love him before he is whisked off to do his duty in India. Unfortunately, that leaves her exposed to the machinations of the man who would inherit the Marquis' wealth and name should he die without an heir.
I was annoyed, at times, with Emily. She was too good, all the time, but then like the other characters in the novel, I grew to love her, her kindness, her innocence, and her beauty. In the movie she never seemed to grow, to become the lady of the title, but in the novel her goodness enriches her love, which in turn enriches her.
If you love classics like Rebecca by Dauphne du Maurier and Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte, you will so enjoy Emily, the Marchioness of Walderhurst.
The story was different, of course, from the movie. Really the movie had the bones of the plot, but mixed it around a great deal. I liked both for different reasons. The novel was rich with characterization and the mood and feeling of the time. The movie was thrillingly romantic.
Emily Fox-Seaton is a penniless gentlewoman making her way in the world by doing odds and ends service jobs for the fine ladies of London. Emily is just too good and the Lady Maria, an employer, invites her to the country where she unknowing draws the attention of Lady Maria's cousin, the Marquis of Walderhurst. Soon, she finds herself married to him and growing to love him before he is whisked off to do his duty in India. Unfortunately, that leaves her exposed to the machinations of the man who would inherit the Marquis' wealth and name should he die without an heir.
I was annoyed, at times, with Emily. She was too good, all the time, but then like the other characters in the novel, I grew to love her, her kindness, her innocence, and her beauty. In the movie she never seemed to grow, to become the lady of the title, but in the novel her goodness enriches her love, which in turn enriches her.
If you love classics like Rebecca by Dauphne du Maurier and Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte, you will so enjoy Emily, the Marchioness of Walderhurst.
Death in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair that Changed America by Erik Larson
Dr. H.H. Holmes used the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago to lure women to their death in his fantastic "World's Fair Hote,l" later known as "Murder Castle." Larson melds the story of the fair's construction by chief architect, Daniel Burnham with that of the horrifying serial killer, Holmes.
This true story is masterfully woven and subtly captures the extremes of the Victorian age: the White City and the Black City, the etiquette and the lies, the very rich and the destitute. Holmes as the devil is shocking, terrifying, and charming, while Burnham magnifies the ambition of powerful men at the turn of the century. The women felt foreign, their vulnerability and naiveté disturbing when compared to the women I know today, yet some of those very qualities endanger women even now. Perhaps the topic for another Erik Larson book. Until then, The Devil in the White City is a most suspenseful read.
This true story is masterfully woven and subtly captures the extremes of the Victorian age: the White City and the Black City, the etiquette and the lies, the very rich and the destitute. Holmes as the devil is shocking, terrifying, and charming, while Burnham magnifies the ambition of powerful men at the turn of the century. The women felt foreign, their vulnerability and naiveté disturbing when compared to the women I know today, yet some of those very qualities endanger women even now. Perhaps the topic for another Erik Larson book. Until then, The Devil in the White City is a most suspenseful read.
Tamar by Mal Peet
Upon the death of her grandfather, Tamar receives a puzzle, a box of clues that slowly reveal the secrets of his life in Nazi occupied Netherlands as part of the Dutch resistance. The story that unfurls centers upon Tamar's grandfather, and a central betrayal that will change her forever.
A truly awesome novel, the marketing should have been more up front about the central story that is set in 1945 and not focused so much on Tamar's frame story in 1995. Peet did an excellent job creating the tension, suspicion, hunger and fear that existed in Holland during WWII. I love that the author didn't insert judgment and unfolded the story without telling me what to think. A critical read for any bibliophile.
A truly awesome novel, the marketing should have been more up front about the central story that is set in 1945 and not focused so much on Tamar's frame story in 1995. Peet did an excellent job creating the tension, suspicion, hunger and fear that existed in Holland during WWII. I love that the author didn't insert judgment and unfolded the story without telling me what to think. A critical read for any bibliophile.
Tuesday, March 10, 2015
I'm Not Cinderella by Tarrah Montgomery
Brinlee is seventeen and spending summer with her Grandmother in small town Idaho, but the door in Grandma's attic takes her to another world, Cinderella's world. When Brinlee nearly botches the whole fairytale, she really only wants to go "home" but maybe home isn't what she thinks it is.
The perfect twist on my favorite fairytale! I had at least 4 versions of Cinderella as a child, and my mom read them to me over and over again. With a modern twist and a truly lovable main character, Montgomery provides what every girl dreams of.....a happily ever after in a book you simply can't put down.
The perfect twist on my favorite fairytale! I had at least 4 versions of Cinderella as a child, and my mom read them to me over and over again. With a modern twist and a truly lovable main character, Montgomery provides what every girl dreams of.....a happily ever after in a book you simply can't put down.
Enchanted by Althea Konits
The seventh daughter of a seventh daughter, Sunday has magic that she can't even begin to imagine. What she does know is that if she writes it, then it happens, only it's usually a bit off. So, she writes about what has already happend, and those are the stories that her friend Grumble, the frog, loves. Each afternoon as she leaves her friend by the magic well, she kisses him. Both hope that it will work and turn him back into the man he once was. It doesn't work, until it does. But, Sunday doesn't see it. Now the man, the prince, must convince her to "see" him, to love him, inspite of the fact that he is her family's truest enemy.
The kind of story you want to read aloud to little girls, Enchanted charms the reader with tale after tale of magic and love, sorrow and joy, laughter and tears. An immensely enteraining story, I loved the adventure.
The kind of story you want to read aloud to little girls, Enchanted charms the reader with tale after tale of magic and love, sorrow and joy, laughter and tears. An immensely enteraining story, I loved the adventure.
The House of Silk by Anthony Horowitz
Having never read an original Sherlock Holmes, I quite liked House of Silk. More about Watson than Holmes and slow to start, I had to make myself slow down and enjoy the pacing and the style. The ending was solid, the crime was truly ugly and in the end Holmes proves to be as capable as ever. I left the novel feeling a lot like Watson, "Why did I miss all the things Holmes caught?"
The Monuments Men by Robert M. Edsel
World War II brims with the stories of unsung heroes, like those who saved the elephants in the zoos of Tokyo, or the country folk who took in the children of bombed out London, and definitely those who saved Jews throughout Europe. The Monuments Men is the story of the American and British museum curators, art historians and art restorers who worked to save the cultural history of Europe. They protected hundreds of buildings and thousands of historical and artistic treasures, but they also rescued such objects from the clutches of the Nazis.
Each man worked against great odds and military bureaucracy to accomplish his task. Driven by a passion for art and culture, most drove themselves past illness and military fronts to face danger in their pursuits. Some died. Some found the treasures they sought to save. Some worked miracles. Each story is rife with courage, determination and honor.
I was caught in the spell of their passion, and I loved every minute I spent with them crossing war torn Europe.
Each man worked against great odds and military bureaucracy to accomplish his task. Driven by a passion for art and culture, most drove themselves past illness and military fronts to face danger in their pursuits. Some died. Some found the treasures they sought to save. Some worked miracles. Each story is rife with courage, determination and honor.
I was caught in the spell of their passion, and I loved every minute I spent with them crossing war torn Europe.
I Hunt Killers by Barry Lyga
Jazz's father is the most notorious serial killer to date, and he spent his life training Jazz to be his successor. It's a job that Jazz doesn't want, but he isn't sure he can refuse.. His father's voice is constantly in his head, even after he has been in jail for four years. Now, a new problem has popped up for Jazz, a local murderer that Jazz is convinced is a serial killer. Determined not to become what his Dear-Old-Dad trained him to be he begins to hunt the killer instead.
Gruesome. The entire premise of the book should clue the reader in from the beginning, this is NOT a comfortable read. The murders are ugly, and the "teachings" forced on Jazz from the time he was little are disturbing. But, Jazz is genuine, real. His struggles and his talents are believable.
As a murder-mystery fan, I enjoyed I Hunt Killers. As a teacher-librarian, I can see that many young adults will identify with Jazz's hatred of his father and his fight to not be like him. Lyga lost me at the resolution, I thought it was hokey. The first of a trilogy, Lyga's novel definitely disturbs.
Originally Published 12/17/2014
Gruesome. The entire premise of the book should clue the reader in from the beginning, this is NOT a comfortable read. The murders are ugly, and the "teachings" forced on Jazz from the time he was little are disturbing. But, Jazz is genuine, real. His struggles and his talents are believable.
As a murder-mystery fan, I enjoyed I Hunt Killers. As a teacher-librarian, I can see that many young adults will identify with Jazz's hatred of his father and his fight to not be like him. Lyga lost me at the resolution, I thought it was hokey. The first of a trilogy, Lyga's novel definitely disturbs.
Originally Published 12/17/2014
Girl Parts by John M. Cusick
David and Charlie live in a technology driven community. They are complete opposites, except for the fact that neither seem able to connect with other people. Enter girlbot, Rose, as David's companion.
Girl Parts was bothersome on many levels. I get the irony of trying to teach boys to be more connected to other humans by using life-like robots. Unfortunately, the contradictions in this book left me really annoyed.
Rose, the robot, becomes more human than the humans because the author plays to the stereotypes of jerk, jock David; awkward, smart, loner, Charlie and even the only other girl, Rebecca, as the screwed up, overly emotional, theatre girl. I don't think the characters progressed. They had experiences that made them feel and think, but in the end they are the same; they don't change significantly.
Finally, for a book that was supposed to be about human connection in a highly technological world, it treated sex in a very juvenile manner. Sex solved the lack of connection each character had, and the fact that the robot feels complete and whole with her girl parts seemed lame, as if the author was pandering to what he thinks all boys "want," yet another pitiful stereotype.
Originally Published 12/11/2014
Girl Parts was bothersome on many levels. I get the irony of trying to teach boys to be more connected to other humans by using life-like robots. Unfortunately, the contradictions in this book left me really annoyed.
Rose, the robot, becomes more human than the humans because the author plays to the stereotypes of jerk, jock David; awkward, smart, loner, Charlie and even the only other girl, Rebecca, as the screwed up, overly emotional, theatre girl. I don't think the characters progressed. They had experiences that made them feel and think, but in the end they are the same; they don't change significantly.
Finally, for a book that was supposed to be about human connection in a highly technological world, it treated sex in a very juvenile manner. Sex solved the lack of connection each character had, and the fact that the robot feels complete and whole with her girl parts seemed lame, as if the author was pandering to what he thinks all boys "want," yet another pitiful stereotype.
Originally Published 12/11/2014
True Story: Murder, Memoir, Mea Culpa by Michael Finkel
Christian Longo was the father of three. He had a beautiful, devoted wife. He appeared successful. Then, his family was murdered, discovered one by one in a river. Longo sets off for Mexico where he assumes the name of a New York Times journalist, Michael Finkel. What he doesn't know is that while he is in Mexico, Finkel is facing the wrath of the press for an unethical story he wrote and submitted for publication. Finkel goes into hiding, only emerging when a police officer contacts him about his identity being stolen by a murderer.
Disturbing, True Crime left me questioning our ability to tell and to recognize the truth. Longo and Finkel are both adept liars. One faces the truth about himself, and the other continues to lie. Finkel was likeable even if he was not admirable, and to Finkel, Longo was charming, an evil that was necessary to his pursuit of the truth about Longo and himself.
Difficult to put down, True Crime made me keep reading. The style is clear and crisp. It felt something like driving by a horrible wreck and seeing bodies being removed, wishing you didn't look, but knowing you had to. Propelled through the book, in the end I am still wondering what to believe about these men.
Originally Published 12/9/2014
Disturbing, True Crime left me questioning our ability to tell and to recognize the truth. Longo and Finkel are both adept liars. One faces the truth about himself, and the other continues to lie. Finkel was likeable even if he was not admirable, and to Finkel, Longo was charming, an evil that was necessary to his pursuit of the truth about Longo and himself.
Difficult to put down, True Crime made me keep reading. The style is clear and crisp. It felt something like driving by a horrible wreck and seeing bodies being removed, wishing you didn't look, but knowing you had to. Propelled through the book, in the end I am still wondering what to believe about these men.
Originally Published 12/9/2014
Rapunzel Untangled by Cindy d. Bennett
Most girls are fascinated by fairy tales, well the Disney version, where everything turns out beautifully. If you really think about it though, most fairy tales are dark, full of evil and wicked people. Murder is common, as is death, in general, and that says nothing about all of the nasty "mothers" that inhabit most of the stories.
So it is with Bennett's modern retelling of the Rapunzel story. Rapunzel is locked in a tower for her own safety. She has an immune deficiency that has kept her in her apartment like room for seventeen years. Thankfully, her mother who is technologically illiterate herself, gets Rapunzel a computer. One Facebook post later, Fane has entered her life awakening her curiosity about the world beyond her room.
While the concept should be a stretch, unfortunately, it is not in a real world where children are kidnapped and held against their will for decades. Bennett successfully captures the horror of the situation while infusing the story with hope. Rapunzel has been naïve and continues to be innocent throughout the novel, but she grows. She faces her fears and discovers a better world.
I seriously liked this retelling. Do NOT skip the author's note, it will help with the suspension of disbelief that the story requires.
Originally Published 12/9/2014
So it is with Bennett's modern retelling of the Rapunzel story. Rapunzel is locked in a tower for her own safety. She has an immune deficiency that has kept her in her apartment like room for seventeen years. Thankfully, her mother who is technologically illiterate herself, gets Rapunzel a computer. One Facebook post later, Fane has entered her life awakening her curiosity about the world beyond her room.
While the concept should be a stretch, unfortunately, it is not in a real world where children are kidnapped and held against their will for decades. Bennett successfully captures the horror of the situation while infusing the story with hope. Rapunzel has been naïve and continues to be innocent throughout the novel, but she grows. She faces her fears and discovers a better world.
I seriously liked this retelling. Do NOT skip the author's note, it will help with the suspension of disbelief that the story requires.
Originally Published 12/9/2014
The Kill Artist by Daniel Silva
Gabriel Allon, top notch art restorer and part time Israeli Intelligence operative, has been drawn into the hunt for a Palestinian terrorist. But, the real question is who will cause more damage to Allon: the terrorist, the beautiful agent he must work with or the Israeli Intelligence community itself?
As a character study, The Kill Artist, is fascinating. Allon is intriguing, as a spy should be, and his cool, calculating exterior hides a more intricate man. On the other hand, the plot lacked suspense and action, especially for a spy novel, but the overall effect was stimulating, and Gabriel Allon is a character worth further study.
Definitely an adult book with adult language and situations, Silva's first novel in the Allon series was a New York Times Bestseller.
Originally Published 11/21/2014
As a character study, The Kill Artist, is fascinating. Allon is intriguing, as a spy should be, and his cool, calculating exterior hides a more intricate man. On the other hand, the plot lacked suspense and action, especially for a spy novel, but the overall effect was stimulating, and Gabriel Allon is a character worth further study.
Definitely an adult book with adult language and situations, Silva's first novel in the Allon series was a New York Times Bestseller.
Originally Published 11/21/2014
Confessions: The Paris Mysteries by James patterson & Maxine Paetro
Relocated to Paris, Tandy is now facing threats from Royal Rampling immediately upon her reunion with his son, James, her first love, but the real threat is coming from somewhere else and has something to do with her sister Katherine's sudden death six years ago.
I was seriously disappointed in this novel that read like a bridge to something much more exciting to come. I really liked Tandy in the first two mysteries. She was complex and quirky and interesting. the cases she solved were twisted and thrilling. this time around she was a whiny teenager, and I knew how it was all going to work out almost from the very start. Occasionally, there was a bit of true suspense, but for the most part, the story was predictable. I doubt that I will give up on the series just yet; I am actually interested to see if the first Tandy returns.
Originally Published 11/13/2014
I was seriously disappointed in this novel that read like a bridge to something much more exciting to come. I really liked Tandy in the first two mysteries. She was complex and quirky and interesting. the cases she solved were twisted and thrilling. this time around she was a whiny teenager, and I knew how it was all going to work out almost from the very start. Occasionally, there was a bit of true suspense, but for the most part, the story was predictable. I doubt that I will give up on the series just yet; I am actually interested to see if the first Tandy returns.
Originally Published 11/13/2014
The Four Doors by Richard Paul Evans
I've come to truly appreciate Richard Paul Evans succinct, crisp writing. That's it. The concepts behind the four doors aren't new, but the presentation makes them not only accessible but also tangible. I felt like I had something concrete to work on, a specific way to improve my thinking and my actions. So, essentially, he accomplished his purpose, and that is worth five stars!
Origianlly Published 11/10/2014
Origianlly Published 11/10/2014
Goners, The final hours of the Notable and Notorious
Goners should reside in the bathroom, not because it covers Elvis's death which occurred in a bathroom, but because it's one of those books you can pick up and read a section of and then put it down. Oddly enough, I couldn't put it down. Maybe I have an unhealthy interest in death that I never realized or maybe my brain just needed a break. It's more likely that it's because Kerr writes in clean prose with tantalizing tidbits that pull you from story to story. A fun read for the morbidly curious.
Originally Published 11/3/2014
Originally Published 11/3/2014
The Map Thief by Michael Blanding
Frequently, I find non-fiction written by journalist to be well written, efficiently paced and detailed enough to be intriguing. Such is the case with The Map Thief. Blanding investigates the story of E. Forbes Smiley III, an apparently successful rare map dealer who was caught stealing maps from Yale University and later confessed to having stolen nearly 100 maps from other public institutions such as the New York Public Library and the Boston Library.
Blanding traces Smiley's rise in the world of rare map dealing, examines Smiley's motivations and personality, and introduces the reader not only to the world of rare maps, but the history of these unique historical artifacts.
It's a fascinating world, full of meticulous scholars, grandious dealers, and determined collectors. Smiley had a gift, a talent for envisioning the way a collectionof maps could tell a story and an increasing need for money. In the end, though, it is difficult to tell what possesed Smiley to steal from the institutions that trusted and helped him as well as the dealers who supported him.
Anexcellent read for the history buff who loves intrigue and peaking into the minds of those who create it.
Originally Published 11/3/2014
Blanding traces Smiley's rise in the world of rare map dealing, examines Smiley's motivations and personality, and introduces the reader not only to the world of rare maps, but the history of these unique historical artifacts.
It's a fascinating world, full of meticulous scholars, grandious dealers, and determined collectors. Smiley had a gift, a talent for envisioning the way a collectionof maps could tell a story and an increasing need for money. In the end, though, it is difficult to tell what possesed Smiley to steal from the institutions that trusted and helped him as well as the dealers who supported him.
Anexcellent read for the history buff who loves intrigue and peaking into the minds of those who create it.
Originally Published 11/3/2014
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
Don Tilamn is not your average professor, well maybe he is your average genetics professor, I don't know many of them. He has decided that it's time to find a wife. Of course, that means he originated the Wife Project which includes a 16 page survey for women to take. This will save him time, and eliminate awkward dating situations. Then Rosie walks in his office door and changes everything. Totally unsuitable, Rosie and her Father Project have Don doing things he would NEVER do.
I couldn't put The Rosie Project down. A fast fun read, I was surprised by Professor Tilman's narrative, the fact that he was at once weird and appealing was fascinating to me. I really spent most of the book rooting for him to figure it all out. A second book was hinted at, and I would definitely pick it up.
Because it is an adult novel, The Rosie Project has some blunt presentation of adult themes and situations; usually in Don's frank and scientific thinking, but some may find the subject matters too liberal for young adult readers.
Originally Published 11/3/2014
I couldn't put The Rosie Project down. A fast fun read, I was surprised by Professor Tilman's narrative, the fact that he was at once weird and appealing was fascinating to me. I really spent most of the book rooting for him to figure it all out. A second book was hinted at, and I would definitely pick it up.
Because it is an adult novel, The Rosie Project has some blunt presentation of adult themes and situations; usually in Don's frank and scientific thinking, but some may find the subject matters too liberal for young adult readers.
Originally Published 11/3/2014
Send by patty Blount
At thirteen, Kenny clicked "send" and changed lives. Liam, the target of his bullying, committed suicide. Kenny went to juvenile detention. Kenny's family and Liam's were damaged almost beyond repair. The boy Kenny becomes after jail and after moving and hiding with his family for five years is named Dan. Dan is different from Kenny, but Kenny lives on in Dan's mind, plaguing him, pouting, threatening and childlike. Dan just wants to finish high school at what he hopes will be his last school. Then he sees Brandon being bullied by Jeff. Julie sees it too, but it's Dan who acts. Now he is visible, now he is the hero, but Dan just wants to forget it and figure out what Julie knows.
I had a seriously tough time believing that two damaged kid, Dan and Julie, could fall so deeply in love. Blount did not provide enough substance for the depth of their feelings, largely because Dan was dealing with so much "crap" (in his words). The best support came from the unconditional love of his parents, and in the end that is what made me suspend my disbelief and embrace the story. The ending was AMAZING, and sustained the truth of the story. I am so glad that I read this novel. It shows the damage that we are perpetrating on each other through the anonymity of social media, and the warning is powerful. I will definitely be suggesting it to all of my students.
Originally Published 10/8/2014
I had a seriously tough time believing that two damaged kid, Dan and Julie, could fall so deeply in love. Blount did not provide enough substance for the depth of their feelings, largely because Dan was dealing with so much "crap" (in his words). The best support came from the unconditional love of his parents, and in the end that is what made me suspend my disbelief and embrace the story. The ending was AMAZING, and sustained the truth of the story. I am so glad that I read this novel. It shows the damage that we are perpetrating on each other through the anonymity of social media, and the warning is powerful. I will definitely be suggesting it to all of my students.
Originally Published 10/8/2014
Geek Girl by Cindy C. Bennett
Jen's life hasn't been all fun and games. In fact, the tough exterior she shows the world is all she has left to protect herself. But, being a rebel is getting a little old, and she has gotten bored. Hence, the bet. Jen bets her girlfriends that she can turn geek, Trevor Hoffman, into a bad boy. She captures his attention immediately, but somehow she ends up doing charity work at an old folks home and watching sci-fi movies on Saturday nights instead of Trevor partying with her and her friends. Hanging out with Trevor isn't so bad, but when he finds out about the bet, nothing is fun anymore.
I liked Jen. She was tough, even mean, but her evolution was believable because she didn't really fit the protective shell she had created. Trevor was a little too good, but his own background, family and values rang true, and his kindness or as Jen would say "Trevor the Polite" was genuine. Overall, I simply enjoyed the ride.
Originally Published 10/8/2014
I liked Jen. She was tough, even mean, but her evolution was believable because she didn't really fit the protective shell she had created. Trevor was a little too good, but his own background, family and values rang true, and his kindness or as Jen would say "Trevor the Polite" was genuine. Overall, I simply enjoyed the ride.
Originally Published 10/8/2014
Confessions of a Murder Suspect by James Patterson
Confessions of a Murder Suspect by James Patterson is another one of his splashes into the whirlpool of teen literature, and for the most part it's a success.
Tandy Angel and her siblings have always been special. Each are gifted or brilliant in their own given universe: music, football, academics. Their parents made their wealth through pharmaceuticals, as a result, the kids have all the advantages of wealth, including a private school education and the elite address of the Dakota building in New York City. But, life for the Angel children unravels when their parents are discovered murdered in their bed and the kids become prime suspects. It's up to 16 year old Tandy to solve the case, even if it means that she did it.
Patterson's characters are difficult to relate to. Tandy is the extreme of "outsider" in a family of odd characters. Her life is extreme, including weirdly controlling parents, but I liked her. I had to be willing to struggle with her convoluted memories, sudden emotions, and desire to go back to her "old self," the one who was perfect and perfectly controlled. Perhaps by creating a character caught in the extremes, Patterson created a character for teens to relate to.
Of course, it was the plot, and it's twisted, suspenseful revelations that kept me reading and sent me on to read the second in the series, Confessions: The Private School Murders. I would give both novels a 3.5 or 4 star review.
Originally Published 10/8/2014
Tandy Angel and her siblings have always been special. Each are gifted or brilliant in their own given universe: music, football, academics. Their parents made their wealth through pharmaceuticals, as a result, the kids have all the advantages of wealth, including a private school education and the elite address of the Dakota building in New York City. But, life for the Angel children unravels when their parents are discovered murdered in their bed and the kids become prime suspects. It's up to 16 year old Tandy to solve the case, even if it means that she did it.
Patterson's characters are difficult to relate to. Tandy is the extreme of "outsider" in a family of odd characters. Her life is extreme, including weirdly controlling parents, but I liked her. I had to be willing to struggle with her convoluted memories, sudden emotions, and desire to go back to her "old self," the one who was perfect and perfectly controlled. Perhaps by creating a character caught in the extremes, Patterson created a character for teens to relate to.
Of course, it was the plot, and it's twisted, suspenseful revelations that kept me reading and sent me on to read the second in the series, Confessions: The Private School Murders. I would give both novels a 3.5 or 4 star review.
Originally Published 10/8/2014
Smoke by Ellen Hopkins
Pattyn and Jackie are obviously survivors. What I appreciated most about Smoke, by Ellen Hopkins was the fact that the girls didn't just magically heal overnight, in fact, they are still healing at the end of the book.
As usual, for me, it is the character development that secured my interest, and my admiration for the book which is why I would give it four stars, but I have some serious issues with many aspects of the book.
First, smack in the middle of the story, Jackie is suddenly dealing with symptoms of depression and addictive behaviors, a totally plausible situation considering what she has been through. However, Hopkins never really addresses these problems again. In fact, the story implies that Gavin's love and the fact that Jackie finally discovers and deals with the truth were the solutions to these complicate and difficult issues.
Next, Hopkins implies that Diedre is psychotic, but the resolution in the end is that she confesses to her crimes. Really?
Finally, I do appreciate the fact that Hopkins is trying to address and reveal the fact that religious people can be hypocrites that hide behind religion, but I have serious issue with her portrayal of the LDS church as cult like, suppressing women into the role of baby spouting, subservient second class citizens. One bothersome passage states, "The idea that a woman -even a chosen by God vessel-- might have such power [like that of the Virgin Mary in Catholicism] would never be entertained. A woman's worth is contained within her uterus."
Truly, I understand that Hopkins is painting a picture of one family and the views of two girls whose experiences are limited, but too frequently, I felt like Hopkins was on a personal soapbox spewing misconceptions and misrepresentation of what anti-LDS critics foster as truth. Such is the case when Jackie goes off about birth control being "frowned upon by LDS doctrine." Seriously, for the forty years that I have been associated with the LDS church, this topic has never been anything but a private matter between spouses.
Admittedly, the characters in this book were not likely to have balanced perspectives. In fact, as an adult, I know to question the validity of the things they say and believe, such is not the case with Hopkin's target audience of young adults who tend to believe what they read. I truly think that in some instances Hopkins could have accomplished her objective without "targeting" one religion so specifically.
I did read and loved the story of Pattyn in Burned, but I felt similarly about it. In the end, I see these novels as stories to be discussed in mixed groups of adults and teens where questions about objectivity, perspective, character, voice and societal issues can be addressed.
Originally Published 10/8/2014
As usual, for me, it is the character development that secured my interest, and my admiration for the book which is why I would give it four stars, but I have some serious issues with many aspects of the book.
First, smack in the middle of the story, Jackie is suddenly dealing with symptoms of depression and addictive behaviors, a totally plausible situation considering what she has been through. However, Hopkins never really addresses these problems again. In fact, the story implies that Gavin's love and the fact that Jackie finally discovers and deals with the truth were the solutions to these complicate and difficult issues.
Next, Hopkins implies that Diedre is psychotic, but the resolution in the end is that she confesses to her crimes. Really?
Finally, I do appreciate the fact that Hopkins is trying to address and reveal the fact that religious people can be hypocrites that hide behind religion, but I have serious issue with her portrayal of the LDS church as cult like, suppressing women into the role of baby spouting, subservient second class citizens. One bothersome passage states, "The idea that a woman -even a chosen by God vessel-- might have such power [like that of the Virgin Mary in Catholicism] would never be entertained. A woman's worth is contained within her uterus."
Truly, I understand that Hopkins is painting a picture of one family and the views of two girls whose experiences are limited, but too frequently, I felt like Hopkins was on a personal soapbox spewing misconceptions and misrepresentation of what anti-LDS critics foster as truth. Such is the case when Jackie goes off about birth control being "frowned upon by LDS doctrine." Seriously, for the forty years that I have been associated with the LDS church, this topic has never been anything but a private matter between spouses.
Admittedly, the characters in this book were not likely to have balanced perspectives. In fact, as an adult, I know to question the validity of the things they say and believe, such is not the case with Hopkin's target audience of young adults who tend to believe what they read. I truly think that in some instances Hopkins could have accomplished her objective without "targeting" one religion so specifically.
I did read and loved the story of Pattyn in Burned, but I felt similarly about it. In the end, I see these novels as stories to be discussed in mixed groups of adults and teens where questions about objectivity, perspective, character, voice and societal issues can be addressed.
Originally Published 10/8/2014
Monday, March 9, 2015
Blackmoore by Julianne Donaldson
Kate decided long ago that she would never marry. Her mother has other ideas. After ruining several proposals, Kate convinces her mother to let her go to India, but only after Kate secures and then rejects three proposals. Kate agrees and travels to Blackmoore in northern England, where she ends up confused about who she is and what she really wants.
A classic regency romance plot from the author of Edenbrooke, Julianne Donaldson, Blackmoore succeeded in meeting all of my expectations of a romance and then went a little beyond and secured for Kate a future that is uniquely her own. A must read for any romantic.
Originally published 10/8/2014
A classic regency romance plot from the author of Edenbrooke, Julianne Donaldson, Blackmoore succeeded in meeting all of my expectations of a romance and then went a little beyond and secured for Kate a future that is uniquely her own. A must read for any romantic.
Originally published 10/8/2014
Lone Survivor by Marcus Lutrell
Marcus Luttrell tells the true and amzaing story of his lone survival after an ambush in Afghanistan in Lone Survivor: The Eyewitness Account of Operation Redwing and the Lost Heroes of SEAL Team 10. The story begins with Luttrell's detailed account of SEAL training. For me, it got a little tedious at times, but the story required that this part of his life, his training, be presented; so the reader could believe all that would happen in Afghanistan.
I absolutely loved this book. Written so you feel and see what is happening, the pace of Lone Survivor is breathtaking, and Luttrell is the voice of so many soldiers struggling not only to survive physically, but to also survive the bureaucracy of the government and trial by the media. His story had to be told.
Originally published 10/8/2014
I absolutely loved this book. Written so you feel and see what is happening, the pace of Lone Survivor is breathtaking, and Luttrell is the voice of so many soldiers struggling not only to survive physically, but to also survive the bureaucracy of the government and trial by the media. His story had to be told.
Originally published 10/8/2014
A Breathe of Eyre by Eve Marie Mont
Emma Townsend doesn't fit. She doesn't fit at the exclusive, private prep school she attends and her loneliness drives her to deeply identify with Jane of Bronte's Jane Eyre. One night during a terrible storm, she is sent back to Thornfield Park and into the body of Jane, where she finds comfort in finally belonging somewhere and an attraction to Rochester that is powerful. As she moves back and forth between these two worlds she struggles to discover who she really is and where she really belongs.
Eve Marie Mont's A Breath of Eyre is an interesting look at a young girl's coming of age. Reading it while longing for the greatness of the Gothic romance classic that Jane Eyre is may be like reading James Patterson expecting Agatha Christie. I did not really like Emma's interpretation of Jane, but as a method of propelling a young woman to become her own person, it worked.
Originally published 10/14/2014
Eve Marie Mont's A Breath of Eyre is an interesting look at a young girl's coming of age. Reading it while longing for the greatness of the Gothic romance classic that Jane Eyre is may be like reading James Patterson expecting Agatha Christie. I did not really like Emma's interpretation of Jane, but as a method of propelling a young woman to become her own person, it worked.
Originally published 10/14/2014
Jane by April Linder
Following her parents' death, Jane must drop out of the respected East coast college she had been attending because she is broke. Nearly homeless, Jane makes a desperate attempt at becoming a nanny through a rather reputable agency. Surprisingly, Jane is just what the agency has been looking for. Rock-star phenomenon Nico Rathburn needs a nanny for his six-year-old daughter while he launches his huge come back album and tour. Practical and calm, Jane fits into her employer's life smoothly. Drawn to the ominous force of Rathburn's character, she reluctantly discovers a depth of love she never dreamed possible wrapped in a forbidden romance. Secrets are woven into the fabric of life at Thronfield Park, dark secrets that may destroy any happiness Jane has found.
Openly based on the Gothic romance Jane Eyre, Linder's Jane sets the main character from Bronte's masterpiece smack in the middle of modern day America: cell phones, Internet, American idol and all. The premise is interesting, and Linder executes the transition beautifully. Fully engaged, I moved through the story rapidly. Jane was endearing and Rathburn magnetic. One of the problems was the lack of suspense or thrill that Bronte created in the original, perhaps because I was so well versed in the story or maybe because Linder explained things a little too thoroughly.
Some may love Heathcliffe, I love Rochester because of his faults and Rathburn is equally intriguing. The romance of the forbidden, the love of someone so imperfect is captured fully in Jane. An excellent entry novel for the more complex original, this novel is recommended for anyone interest in the classic tales of love, loss, and redemption.
Originally Published 11/15/2011
Openly based on the Gothic romance Jane Eyre, Linder's Jane sets the main character from Bronte's masterpiece smack in the middle of modern day America: cell phones, Internet, American idol and all. The premise is interesting, and Linder executes the transition beautifully. Fully engaged, I moved through the story rapidly. Jane was endearing and Rathburn magnetic. One of the problems was the lack of suspense or thrill that Bronte created in the original, perhaps because I was so well versed in the story or maybe because Linder explained things a little too thoroughly.
Some may love Heathcliffe, I love Rochester because of his faults and Rathburn is equally intriguing. The romance of the forbidden, the love of someone so imperfect is captured fully in Jane. An excellent entry novel for the more complex original, this novel is recommended for anyone interest in the classic tales of love, loss, and redemption.
Originally Published 11/15/2011
Bess Crawford Series by Charles Todd
The Todds, a mother-son duo, have created another fabulous protagonist, Bess Crawford, a WWI nurse whose upbringing is not that of a typical British upper class daughter. Colonel Crawford was stationed in India for Bess's childhood, and as result Bess is determined, honorable, and carries a strong sense of duty. In the first of the series, A Duty to the Dead, Bess is injured on the Britannica when it is struck and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea. Her brush with death spurs her to fulfill a commitment she made to a dying patient, Arthur Graham. She must deliver a cryptic message to one of his brothers, Jonanthan, in Kent. Once the message is delivered, Bess feels no sense of relief. The Graham's treat the message with apparent indifference. As she persists in her duty to Arthur, Bess finds herself embroiled in their family secrets that involve an insane, murderous, older brother. And for the first time, Bess's sense of duty places her in life threatening danger.
Bess's honor draws her into yet another dangerous situation in An Impartial Witness, the second novel in the Bess Crawford series. Returning to the front after delivering a seriously burned pilot, Lieutenant Evanson, to England for further treatment, Bess notices an obviously upset woman pleading with an indifferent soldier at the train station. His coolness is striking, but most shocking of all is the fact that the woman is Evanson's wife, Majorie. Bess is stunned when weeks later she sees a rough sketch of Marjorie in a newspaper. Majorie, disappeared the very day Bess saw her, and the police need information. Bess can't help herself, especially after the lieutenant slits his own throat, she begins her own search for the man at the train station, a man who may be the murder.
In A Bitter Truth, trouble literally lands on the doorstep of Bess's London home. Huddled against the freezing rain, a woman, Lydia Ellis, is bruised and terrified when Bess finds her. Tea, a night's rest, and Bess's comforting presence finally convince Lydia to reveal the story of the argument she had with her husband whose response was violence. Once the story is out, Lydia is ready to return home, and begs Bess to join her. In Sussex, at Vixen Hall, death is prominent for they are mourning Lydia's brother-in-law, Arthur, a recent victim of the war. The darkness of death soon takes the form of murder, David Hughes, a family friend is discovered dead the morning after he accidentally revealed a secret while drunk during dinner at Vixen Hall. A suspect in the case, Bess cannot leave until the true murderer is caught. So, she really can't help herself. Stuck, she launches her own inquiries that once again lead her into the sites of a killer.
Like their Ian Rutledge series, the Todd's have created a fascinating central character true to the time frame. Bess is not a modern woman dropped into the past, she is truly a determined woman from World War I. Her character, her intelligence and her upbringing gift her with the talents and strength to unravel the marvellous puzzles created by the Todds. The Bess Crawfrd series like the Rutledge series presents an in-depth and intriguing look at life in England during World War I.
Originally published 10/18/2011
Bess's honor draws her into yet another dangerous situation in An Impartial Witness, the second novel in the Bess Crawford series. Returning to the front after delivering a seriously burned pilot, Lieutenant Evanson, to England for further treatment, Bess notices an obviously upset woman pleading with an indifferent soldier at the train station. His coolness is striking, but most shocking of all is the fact that the woman is Evanson's wife, Majorie. Bess is stunned when weeks later she sees a rough sketch of Marjorie in a newspaper. Majorie, disappeared the very day Bess saw her, and the police need information. Bess can't help herself, especially after the lieutenant slits his own throat, she begins her own search for the man at the train station, a man who may be the murder.
In A Bitter Truth, trouble literally lands on the doorstep of Bess's London home. Huddled against the freezing rain, a woman, Lydia Ellis, is bruised and terrified when Bess finds her. Tea, a night's rest, and Bess's comforting presence finally convince Lydia to reveal the story of the argument she had with her husband whose response was violence. Once the story is out, Lydia is ready to return home, and begs Bess to join her. In Sussex, at Vixen Hall, death is prominent for they are mourning Lydia's brother-in-law, Arthur, a recent victim of the war. The darkness of death soon takes the form of murder, David Hughes, a family friend is discovered dead the morning after he accidentally revealed a secret while drunk during dinner at Vixen Hall. A suspect in the case, Bess cannot leave until the true murderer is caught. So, she really can't help herself. Stuck, she launches her own inquiries that once again lead her into the sites of a killer.
Like their Ian Rutledge series, the Todd's have created a fascinating central character true to the time frame. Bess is not a modern woman dropped into the past, she is truly a determined woman from World War I. Her character, her intelligence and her upbringing gift her with the talents and strength to unravel the marvellous puzzles created by the Todds. The Bess Crawfrd series like the Rutledge series presents an in-depth and intriguing look at life in England during World War I.
Originally published 10/18/2011
And Only to Deceive by Tasha Alexander
The one duty required of Emily as a Victorian woman is to marry and marry well. She wants nothing to do with marriage. Then, she meets Phillip, the Viscount Ashton, a single-minded hunter, who proposes marriage and Emily sees that she can escape her nagging, controlling mother. Right after their wedding and honeymoon, Phillip leaves for Africa where he dies of a fever. Now, Emily is an independent woman, and as a widow can do things she never could as a single young woman. When she discovers Philip's journals nearly two years later, she discovers a very different man than whom she thought Philip was --a scholar, a collector of antiquities and a man who loved his wife passionately. As Emily delves deeper into the mystery of her husband, she uncovers danger wherever she goes and juggling the attentions of two powerful suitors, one of whom my be the source of great trouble just complicates everything.
Always fascinated with history, I love reading historical mysteries, what I usually hate about them is that the heroine is always a modern 20th century woman dropped into an historical setting. Alexander's protagonist, Emily, is a real turn of the century character. She matures in emotion, academics, individualism and strength, from a woman whose life has been dictated by her mother, societal norms, and briefly her husband. She emerges a stronger, albeit flawed, Victorian woman very capable of handling herself and the mysteries that surround her.
Originally published 10/14/2011
Always fascinated with history, I love reading historical mysteries, what I usually hate about them is that the heroine is always a modern 20th century woman dropped into an historical setting. Alexander's protagonist, Emily, is a real turn of the century character. She matures in emotion, academics, individualism and strength, from a woman whose life has been dictated by her mother, societal norms, and briefly her husband. She emerges a stronger, albeit flawed, Victorian woman very capable of handling herself and the mysteries that surround her.
Originally published 10/14/2011
Girl in the Arena by Lise Haines
Lyn has grown up in the limelight, mostly because of her mother and fathers. Yes, plural. Seven Gladiators have been father and stepfather to Lyn, but now they are all gone. The last, like the others was killed in the ring. It was unbelievable! Everything she has wanted to escape, the gladiator life, her mother, and marriage come crashing down on her at once. Suddenly, she is now required to marry her father's killer. Everything in her cries out, but there is another option: she can enter the ring herself and fight her father's killer.
I'm not that fond of books that I can't place in a definite time period. Girl in the Arena, seems to be set in a parallel or alternate world. It's in the future in some ways, but also feels very contemporary. This bothered me, but eventually I adapted, mostly because Lyn is a fascinating character, as are her circumstances. She faces life bravely, with a huge, caring heart and the mind of a teenager forced to be the grown-up. At the same time, she is a genuine teenager with a stubbornness and determination that ties her to her principles and pulls her through as she faces an unjust and cruel system.
Obviously, violence is an integral part of the story, but it is certainly not venerated. While the novel has something of a Dystopian feel that teens will be drawn to, it's strongest appeal lies in the coming of age story that Lyn transitions through.
Origianlly published 10/14/2011
I'm not that fond of books that I can't place in a definite time period. Girl in the Arena, seems to be set in a parallel or alternate world. It's in the future in some ways, but also feels very contemporary. This bothered me, but eventually I adapted, mostly because Lyn is a fascinating character, as are her circumstances. She faces life bravely, with a huge, caring heart and the mind of a teenager forced to be the grown-up. At the same time, she is a genuine teenager with a stubbornness and determination that ties her to her principles and pulls her through as she faces an unjust and cruel system.
Obviously, violence is an integral part of the story, but it is certainly not venerated. While the novel has something of a Dystopian feel that teens will be drawn to, it's strongest appeal lies in the coming of age story that Lyn transitions through.
Origianlly published 10/14/2011
Uncommon Criminals by Ally Carter
Just like I fell in love with classic films about cunning cat burglar's like To Catch a Thief and Entrapment, I fell in love with Kat and her crew in Heist Society, the first novel in Ally Carter's novels about con-man and thief family, the Bishops. I attacked Uncommon Criminals, anxious for more clever ruses, slick plans, and danger at every turn.
Definitely NOT disappointed. This time Kat, who began working on her own, leaving her crew behind to right the wrongs created by the Nazi thieves, faces the forbidden. She has been asked to steal the Cleopatra Emerald. Uncle Eddie has dictated that no one inthe family EVER go after the Cleopatra, and no one has until Kat and her crew set off to get it from an unscrupulous are dealer to return it to it's rightful owner. kat's plan works flawlessly and that is when the real trouble begins.
Carter's characters are flawed, young, talented and very, very real in spite of their unique circumstances. I love them and I can't wait to meet them again in the the next book.
Originally published 10/10/2011
Definitely NOT disappointed. This time Kat, who began working on her own, leaving her crew behind to right the wrongs created by the Nazi thieves, faces the forbidden. She has been asked to steal the Cleopatra Emerald. Uncle Eddie has dictated that no one inthe family EVER go after the Cleopatra, and no one has until Kat and her crew set off to get it from an unscrupulous are dealer to return it to it's rightful owner. kat's plan works flawlessly and that is when the real trouble begins.
Carter's characters are flawed, young, talented and very, very real in spite of their unique circumstances. I love them and I can't wait to meet them again in the the next book.
Originally published 10/10/2011
Brutal by Michael Harmon
Poe Holly's mother is off on another humanitarian rescue thing, that according to Poe makes her mother feel better and look better because the rest of the time she is such a jerk. Poe isn't going to miss her, she isn't around anyway. The problem is that Poe's mother is insisting that Poe leave her home, her band and everything that does mean something to her to go live in small town California with the father she has never known.
I thought, here we go again, poor misunderstood big city kid has to move to narrow minded small town and show them how they should really behave. Poe was thinking the same thing, nothing surprising there, but as Poe tackles the evil high school system that protects the privileged students who torment and bully the not-so-fortunate students, she discovers the bully within herself.
What really struck me was the way Poe powerfully articulates the way that the teachers and students collude to allow a bullying system to thrive in this high school. She just ZINGS her logic at the adults around her and I thought, "You go girl!"
Origianlly published 10/10/2011
I thought, here we go again, poor misunderstood big city kid has to move to narrow minded small town and show them how they should really behave. Poe was thinking the same thing, nothing surprising there, but as Poe tackles the evil high school system that protects the privileged students who torment and bully the not-so-fortunate students, she discovers the bully within herself.
What really struck me was the way Poe powerfully articulates the way that the teachers and students collude to allow a bullying system to thrive in this high school. She just ZINGS her logic at the adults around her and I thought, "You go girl!"
Origianlly published 10/10/2011
The Venetian Betrayal by Steve Berry
Cotton Malone, a supposedly retired U.S. Justice Department agent, deals in rare books, until he nearly dies in a particularly nasty fire in a local museum. Now, he and his friend, Cassiopia Vitt, are chasing villains across Europe trying to connect the dots among Irina Zovastina, president of the Central Asia Federation, President Daniels of the United States, and Enrico Vencenti of the Venetian League. The treasure appears to be Alexander the Great's tomb. Really, the truth involves biological weapons, billions in pharmaceuticals, and a medallion with the microscopic inscription for "life" in ancient Greek.
Like most spy thrillers, Venetian Betrayal throws characters at the reader at an intense pace, and then bounces from location to location and action scene to action scene. Initially, I was annoyed that the plot just didn't move forward efficiently in a more connected style. But, as the pace increases and the enemy encounters intensified to reach the ultimate conflict, I found myself envisioning the action on the big scree, and it was amazing.
Malone is a bit of a sap when it comes to Cassiopia, but he is also one brilliant and capable spy when it comes to solving the intricate puzzle Berry has created. Worth every word read, I enjoyed chasing Malone and Vitt across Europe and Central Asia. Of course, the historic connection to ancient Greece caught my historian's interest. The action, while plentiful and violent, really intensified a sense of reality that the story needed. Overall a solid addition to the spy thriller with overtones of ancient treasure hunting genre.
Originally published 4/14/2011
Like most spy thrillers, Venetian Betrayal throws characters at the reader at an intense pace, and then bounces from location to location and action scene to action scene. Initially, I was annoyed that the plot just didn't move forward efficiently in a more connected style. But, as the pace increases and the enemy encounters intensified to reach the ultimate conflict, I found myself envisioning the action on the big scree, and it was amazing.
Malone is a bit of a sap when it comes to Cassiopia, but he is also one brilliant and capable spy when it comes to solving the intricate puzzle Berry has created. Worth every word read, I enjoyed chasing Malone and Vitt across Europe and Central Asia. Of course, the historic connection to ancient Greece caught my historian's interest. The action, while plentiful and violent, really intensified a sense of reality that the story needed. Overall a solid addition to the spy thriller with overtones of ancient treasure hunting genre.
Originally published 4/14/2011
Royal Target by Traci Hunter Abramson
A CIA operative, Janessa Roger specializes in linguistics, and sometimes lands herself into bit of excitment. While at a Bazillian state reception, she is suddenly requested to act as additional security detail for the royal family of Meridia, namely, prince Garrett Fortier. He finds it quite humorous that a tiny woman like Janessa is his "body guard". But, Janessa and Garrett make a connection that neither expects, and when Janessa is sent home because of her religious beliefs, she is suddenly available to act as Gerrett's fiance and lead the CIA security detail to protect the royal family from what appears to be terrorist attacks associated with the possibility of the U.S. building a naval base in Meridia.
Cute describes this fairly predictable book.. The characters have just enough spice and chemistry to make them likable. Abramson throws believable ditractions and complications (within the context of a spy novel) into the romance to keep the readers in suspense about who is targeting the royals and whether Janessa and Garrett will truly make a love match.
An LDS suspense romance with a palpable religious conflict, Royal Target, is an escape piece that was just fun to relax and read. Nothing deep or thought provoking, but the book doesn't pretend to be those things, it is just a wonderfully, complicated and cute love story. Yeah!
Origianlly published 4/11/2011
Cute describes this fairly predictable book.. The characters have just enough spice and chemistry to make them likable. Abramson throws believable ditractions and complications (within the context of a spy novel) into the romance to keep the readers in suspense about who is targeting the royals and whether Janessa and Garrett will truly make a love match.
An LDS suspense romance with a palpable religious conflict, Royal Target, is an escape piece that was just fun to relax and read. Nothing deep or thought provoking, but the book doesn't pretend to be those things, it is just a wonderfully, complicated and cute love story. Yeah!
Origianlly published 4/11/2011
Her Good Name by Jodi Kilpack
At thirty-five Chrissy is still unwed ( a veritable unknown in the world of Mormons in Idaho), moreover, most men she dates are a little put off by her Mexican -American heritage. Still, her best friend, Amanda, keeps trying and eventually sets her up on one more blind date. Chrissy agrees but is fully prepared for disappointment. Micah turns out to be attractive and funny and interested. But, with one phone call everything changes because she has to ditch him to rescue her niece. Not a good ending. It's over before it has a chance to begin. Unfortunately, it is at that disastrous end that an even more disastrous event occurs. Chrissy's identity is stolen. Suddenly, she has a pile of debt amounting to $90,000, a criminal record and no job.
The premise of this story sounded intriguing, but I didn't hold out much hope for the book to really hold my attention because the premise also sounded a bit thin. I wondered how the author was going to drag it out for more than 300 pages. Pleasantly surprised if not shocked, I actually loved the story. Chrissy is a strong, smart, highly, self-reliant individual, but still real. She isn't superwoman. She struggles and looses faith. I cried when her heart got broken on top of all the rest of what she was experiencing because of other's choices. It seemed like all her agency was take by others, but she persevered and did something to make it better.
Micah was also a very real man with shortcomings and strengths, and Chrissy saw them both. This isn't a Cinderella story. It is a real life love and crime story. I also liked the way the author introduced the "enemy" early on instead of springing her on us at the end. While I didn't like her, or her intense, crazy devotion to her father's cause, reading about her made me realize the depth of evil involved in identity theft as well as gaining a greater understanding of why she made the choices she did. The action was believable and exciting, even though it drug a bit during the middle third of the story.
Faith in a god who loves and cares for his people is at the center of Chrissy's beliefs and strengths. She is comfortable in her own skin and faithful to her religion, and while, romance and crime are at the center of the plot, it is God who is at the center of Chrissy's strength. Some may be put off by that, but for me it made her real, not just some super human character who always triumphs. I would recommend this novel and this author to any one, and indeed, I have.
Origianlly published 3/24/2011
The premise of this story sounded intriguing, but I didn't hold out much hope for the book to really hold my attention because the premise also sounded a bit thin. I wondered how the author was going to drag it out for more than 300 pages. Pleasantly surprised if not shocked, I actually loved the story. Chrissy is a strong, smart, highly, self-reliant individual, but still real. She isn't superwoman. She struggles and looses faith. I cried when her heart got broken on top of all the rest of what she was experiencing because of other's choices. It seemed like all her agency was take by others, but she persevered and did something to make it better.
Micah was also a very real man with shortcomings and strengths, and Chrissy saw them both. This isn't a Cinderella story. It is a real life love and crime story. I also liked the way the author introduced the "enemy" early on instead of springing her on us at the end. While I didn't like her, or her intense, crazy devotion to her father's cause, reading about her made me realize the depth of evil involved in identity theft as well as gaining a greater understanding of why she made the choices she did. The action was believable and exciting, even though it drug a bit during the middle third of the story.
Faith in a god who loves and cares for his people is at the center of Chrissy's beliefs and strengths. She is comfortable in her own skin and faithful to her religion, and while, romance and crime are at the center of the plot, it is God who is at the center of Chrissy's strength. Some may be put off by that, but for me it made her real, not just some super human character who always triumphs. I would recommend this novel and this author to any one, and indeed, I have.
Origianlly published 3/24/2011
Thursday, March 5, 2015
Lord of the Far island by Victoria Holt
Orphaned at five, Ellen Kallaway remembers little of her mother and nothing of her father. She is left to be raised by her Aunt Augusta who reminds her daily of her position as a recipient of the great family kindness. Upon reaching adulthood she is to become a governess, but at the last minute, Paul Carrington, of the Carringtons, proposes marriage to his long time friend. Ellen is rescued, but she continues to be tortured by the bad dream she has had since childhood. Who is the mysterious stranger who suddenly shows up everywhere, and what will she do when she realises that she really doesn't love Paul?
Holt's heroine is spunky, fun and interesting. Ellen is, in fact, sassy. I liked that she didn't just simply lay down and take her Great Aunt's abuse, and the fact that she is really curious, to the point of noisy, gives the story credibility. Although, much of the plot is predictable, I was caught off guard several times and truly shocked by the turn of events that Holt introduced into the story line. The other characters are fairly stock and even the hero seems less than sincere. In fact, I had a hard time
understanding what drew Ellen to him.
A classical romance by the "Queen of Romantic Suspense", The Lord of the Far Island is well written if a bit slow for our fast paced world. I enjoyed the author's writing style as well as the conclusion of the story which truly did surprise me. Holt is a must for any romance enthusiast.
Originally published 3/21/2011
Holt's heroine is spunky, fun and interesting. Ellen is, in fact, sassy. I liked that she didn't just simply lay down and take her Great Aunt's abuse, and the fact that she is really curious, to the point of noisy, gives the story credibility. Although, much of the plot is predictable, I was caught off guard several times and truly shocked by the turn of events that Holt introduced into the story line. The other characters are fairly stock and even the hero seems less than sincere. In fact, I had a hard time
understanding what drew Ellen to him.
A classical romance by the "Queen of Romantic Suspense", The Lord of the Far Island is well written if a bit slow for our fast paced world. I enjoyed the author's writing style as well as the conclusion of the story which truly did surprise me. Holt is a must for any romance enthusiast.
Originally published 3/21/2011
The Highwayman of Tanglewood by Marcia Lynn McClure
Faris Shayhan knows fear. As a chambermaid in the Tremeshton home, she is constantly under the threat of Kade Tremeshton's unwanted attentions. She has avoided being used, but Kade the Heinous will not be put off much longer. When Lady Maranda Rockrimmon visits the Temenshton home for dinner one evening, she guesses at the cause of the young chambermaid's fearful eyes and offers her a placement in her own home. Faris wants to leave! That night she slips out and makes her way to the Rockrimmon home. But, in the Tanglewood meadow she is come upon by the famous Highwayman of Tanglewood, a Robin Hood rogue, who rescues those in the clutches of evil wealthy men and punishes those same men with humiliation. The Highwayman intends to steal from Faris, and as he steals a kiss, he, of course, steals her heart.
A lovely little clean romance, The Highwayman of Tanglewood, is not deep reading. It is designed for escape on a variety of levels. It is a fairy tale and a good one, at that. Yet, Faris is believable and her fears are real. As she struggles with love at first sight (ironic that he is masked at the time), she discovers a wealth of goodness in the Rockrimmon home: comfort, kindness, and honor. Yet, her love for the Highwayman becomes entangled in her confusion about who he really is as she doubts herself and her own honor. I liked the accents, the playful banter, the almost kisses, and genuine pursuit of goodness.
Classic in every sense of the old fashioned romances that were once written, I enjoyed my escape into Faris's life. I laughed. I worried. I couldn't believe how naive she could be, but in the end the author almost fooled me and that made the novel really worth reading.
Originally published 3/3/2011
A lovely little clean romance, The Highwayman of Tanglewood, is not deep reading. It is designed for escape on a variety of levels. It is a fairy tale and a good one, at that. Yet, Faris is believable and her fears are real. As she struggles with love at first sight (ironic that he is masked at the time), she discovers a wealth of goodness in the Rockrimmon home: comfort, kindness, and honor. Yet, her love for the Highwayman becomes entangled in her confusion about who he really is as she doubts herself and her own honor. I liked the accents, the playful banter, the almost kisses, and genuine pursuit of goodness.
Classic in every sense of the old fashioned romances that were once written, I enjoyed my escape into Faris's life. I laughed. I worried. I couldn't believe how naive she could be, but in the end the author almost fooled me and that made the novel really worth reading.
Originally published 3/3/2011
Monday Mourning by Kathy Reichs
Tempe Brennan, forensic anthropologist, is on her way to put a man in jail for for murder with her testimony when she is diverted by a pizza parlor. Not, for pizza, but to watch Sergeant Claudel shoot at rats in the basement. The plumber, working on a remodel located three skeletal remains and quickly turned them all over to the police. Nothing is left but the bones, and Tempe is the expert on bones. The building has been around for centuries, who knows when the bodies were placed there, and Claudel is certain they are too old to be recent, especially when buttons turn up that were from the 19th century. Tempe's gut says otherwise and when carbon dating places the deaths firmly in the 20th century, she puts everyone to task to discover if the cruel killer is still alive.
I've read Reich's work before and really liked her style, but this time she spent so much time describing Montreal, it's streets, restaurants and monuments, that I was ready to shoot something myself. Finely, things started to move and when they did, watch out. Reich threw just enough foreshadowing in to keep me interested. And, I'm a sucker for a mystery that I can't solve. Of course, this time there didn't seem to be that many suspects, but I really liked how she pulled all the bits and pieces together. I also liked the twist at the end.
Reichs inspired the hit series Bones and is on the New York Times Bestseller list frequently with her forensic thrillers based around the character Temperance Brennan. She is definitely an author for mature audiences who can stomach ugliness, evil and grief. Monday Mourning had some pretty strong material and if you're not a fan of Bones, Criminal Minds, etc, because of the evil that is explored, you'd better avoid this novel. Me? I ended up fascinated with the science and Tempe's ability to make sense of it all.
Originally published 3/3/2011
I've read Reich's work before and really liked her style, but this time she spent so much time describing Montreal, it's streets, restaurants and monuments, that I was ready to shoot something myself. Finely, things started to move and when they did, watch out. Reich threw just enough foreshadowing in to keep me interested. And, I'm a sucker for a mystery that I can't solve. Of course, this time there didn't seem to be that many suspects, but I really liked how she pulled all the bits and pieces together. I also liked the twist at the end.
Reichs inspired the hit series Bones and is on the New York Times Bestseller list frequently with her forensic thrillers based around the character Temperance Brennan. She is definitely an author for mature audiences who can stomach ugliness, evil and grief. Monday Mourning had some pretty strong material and if you're not a fan of Bones, Criminal Minds, etc, because of the evil that is explored, you'd better avoid this novel. Me? I ended up fascinated with the science and Tempe's ability to make sense of it all.
Originally published 3/3/2011
Mr. Darcy Broke My Heart
Every woman wants her very own Mr. Darcy, of course, every woman but Claire, who simply doesn't understand his appeal. He's arrogant, proud, even rude. Yet, when Claire, finds herself filling in for her sister at a seminar in Oxford, England reading a paper about Pride and Prejudice, she engages in some very serious flirtations with a tall, dark, and slightly arrogant modern day version of Darcy.
To complicate matters, a daft old woman shows Claire an original manuscript of the book, and Claire discovers that Miss Elizabeth Bennet wasn't always destined for Mr. Darcy. Suddenly, her usually negligent boyfriend, Neil, shows up and the "heat" of her emotions as well as her indecision force her to face who she really is.
I'm not sure why little English words like "delightful" always come to mind when I read stories set in England, but delightful fits this book perfectly. The plot is fairly predictable, but the characters are genuine, with deep and true conflicts over self identity and a touch of romance and mystery make for a lovely, quick read.
Originally published 10/4/2010
To complicate matters, a daft old woman shows Claire an original manuscript of the book, and Claire discovers that Miss Elizabeth Bennet wasn't always destined for Mr. Darcy. Suddenly, her usually negligent boyfriend, Neil, shows up and the "heat" of her emotions as well as her indecision force her to face who she really is.
I'm not sure why little English words like "delightful" always come to mind when I read stories set in England, but delightful fits this book perfectly. The plot is fairly predictable, but the characters are genuine, with deep and true conflicts over self identity and a touch of romance and mystery make for a lovely, quick read.
Originally published 10/4/2010
Simplify: A Guide to Caring for the Soul
Simplify is a self help book in the classic "lean on God" genre, providing readers with 8 key lessons based on each letter of the word SIMPLIFY. The method is overused, but effective, perhaps that is why it is overused.
As with most self-help books, I started this one and got through about 3 chapters before I gave up. I always mean to try their suggestions, but ironically I never find the time. The author, Carolyn J. Rasmus actually encourages the reader to take a chapter at a time and work on it for awhile. Definitely not my strategy, hence the overwhelming feeling the book produced.
I finally returned to the book after I suggested it to a book club that I'm hosting tomorrow night, and I had to sit down to read it this time. Not really wanting to like this gimmicky book, the author had a hard sell. She succeeded. The section of each chapter called "Getting Started" saved the book. Because specific steps were presented, the book goes beyond the "Sunday School" answers.
An LDS read, this book is great for those people feeling overwhelmed by the pace of 21st Century life. The power lies in the focus on priorities, but most importantly, on feeding the soul so you can stay focused on the important things in life.
Originally published 9/27/2010
As with most self-help books, I started this one and got through about 3 chapters before I gave up. I always mean to try their suggestions, but ironically I never find the time. The author, Carolyn J. Rasmus actually encourages the reader to take a chapter at a time and work on it for awhile. Definitely not my strategy, hence the overwhelming feeling the book produced.
I finally returned to the book after I suggested it to a book club that I'm hosting tomorrow night, and I had to sit down to read it this time. Not really wanting to like this gimmicky book, the author had a hard sell. She succeeded. The section of each chapter called "Getting Started" saved the book. Because specific steps were presented, the book goes beyond the "Sunday School" answers.
An LDS read, this book is great for those people feeling overwhelmed by the pace of 21st Century life. The power lies in the focus on priorities, but most importantly, on feeding the soul so you can stay focused on the important things in life.
Originally published 9/27/2010
Suite Scarlet
The Martins own a small historic hotel, The Hopewell, in New York City. Wealthy, the Martins are not, in fact, they've let all of the help go and are relying on their teenage children to keep it all going. Spence, nineteen, is a classic clown-comedic actor who is out of work. Lola, eighteen, is the beautiful perfect older sister, always pleasing others instead of herself. Scarlett is the central figure of the story. She inherits the Empire Suite of the hotel and the care of it's permanent guest, Mrs. Amberson, on her fifteenth birthday. Suddenly, Scarlett's life becomes a whirlwind of activity.
Author Maureen Johnson is so hit and miss for me. This novel is odd. The characters are endearing if not quite believable. It takes most of the book to escape their stereotypes, but thankfully they do. I did like Scarlett, she seems to be the most real, but the parents were so out of it that I really had a hard time buying into them. Fun and fantastical, the setting perhaps is genuine for those who have wandered the streets of New York, but felt odd. There's that word again. I can't decide if I like this book or not, but it intrugued me enough that I'll read the sequel.
Orignally published 9/7/2010
Author Maureen Johnson is so hit and miss for me. This novel is odd. The characters are endearing if not quite believable. It takes most of the book to escape their stereotypes, but thankfully they do. I did like Scarlett, she seems to be the most real, but the parents were so out of it that I really had a hard time buying into them. Fun and fantastical, the setting perhaps is genuine for those who have wandered the streets of New York, but felt odd. There's that word again. I can't decide if I like this book or not, but it intrugued me enough that I'll read the sequel.
Orignally published 9/7/2010
Tuesday, March 3, 2015
I Am Nujood, Age 10 and Divorced
Nujood remembers a time when her rural Yemen village was idyllic. Early childhood was blessed as she played with her sisters. Food was plentiful, and her parents were loving. Of course, she was a proper girl and always did what her father and brothers told her.
Life changed suddenly, when for reasons no one explained, the family packed up and moved to a large city to live in the slums. Her father became addicted to the euphoria produced by chewing khat and the whole family suffered. As life grew more desperate, Nujood's older siblings disappeared. Nearly alone, Nujood discovers that her father is planning to marry her off at the age of 10 to a man three time her age. Terrified, she appeals to her mother, her uncles, her brothers to no avail. She is married.
Hauled back to that "idyllic" village, that is now a living hell, she is beaten by her mother-in-law by day and raped by her husband every night, despite his promise to her father to leave her alone until she comes of age. After moths of torture, Nujood escapes and declares that she will no longer obey the men in her life.
Nujood had nothing in her life or childhood that would have taught her to stand up for herself, and yet she does. She is unsure and scared, as and child would be, but she is also determined.
Written relatively quickly following her release, the novel sounds childlike which seems odd and perfect for this horrible story of child abuse. Nujood is so very genuine. It is the adults who are drawn in the extremes of a child's black and white world, evil is dark while good is unbelievably divine. Still, the adults are not stereotyped, just portrayed through a child's eyes as she searches for understanding.
To say that I enjoyed this story seems wrong, but it touched my soul, and I sorrowed for those girls around the world who are used by men and society. I am grateful that, for now, I can still protect my little ones.
Originally published 8/10/10
Life changed suddenly, when for reasons no one explained, the family packed up and moved to a large city to live in the slums. Her father became addicted to the euphoria produced by chewing khat and the whole family suffered. As life grew more desperate, Nujood's older siblings disappeared. Nearly alone, Nujood discovers that her father is planning to marry her off at the age of 10 to a man three time her age. Terrified, she appeals to her mother, her uncles, her brothers to no avail. She is married.
Hauled back to that "idyllic" village, that is now a living hell, she is beaten by her mother-in-law by day and raped by her husband every night, despite his promise to her father to leave her alone until she comes of age. After moths of torture, Nujood escapes and declares that she will no longer obey the men in her life.
Nujood had nothing in her life or childhood that would have taught her to stand up for herself, and yet she does. She is unsure and scared, as and child would be, but she is also determined.
Written relatively quickly following her release, the novel sounds childlike which seems odd and perfect for this horrible story of child abuse. Nujood is so very genuine. It is the adults who are drawn in the extremes of a child's black and white world, evil is dark while good is unbelievably divine. Still, the adults are not stereotyped, just portrayed through a child's eyes as she searches for understanding.
To say that I enjoyed this story seems wrong, but it touched my soul, and I sorrowed for those girls around the world who are used by men and society. I am grateful that, for now, I can still protect my little ones.
Originally published 8/10/10
The Girl Who Played with Fire
Lisbeth Salander is the focus of Stieg Larsson's second book, The Girl Who Played with Fire. For two years, Salander has travelled the world on Weinerstrom's billions, and Mikael Blomkvist has wondered why she cut him off cold, then she returns.
Blomkvist and his partners at Millenium have taken on a freelance journalist who is investigating the sex trafficking that is largely ignored in Sweden. Just before the expose is to be published, the freelance journalist and his girlfriend are found murdered and the prints on the murder weapon belong to Salander. Lisbeth goes underground immediately, leaving hints for Blomkvist as he struggles to prove her innocence.
With three busy children and a job that starts at 7:00 a.m., I rarely read until 2:00 a.m. anymore, but Larsson caught me. I couldn't put this novel down.
Salander is so supremely clever with her own innate sense of morality and justice that she has become, for me, the ultimate outsider hero. Her sense of alienation in a bureaucratic world full of injustice, but more importantly, the pain and suffering of the innocent at the hands of the powerful, the cruel and the perverted, oddly enough, makes her an empathetic character. She would hate that.
Blomkvist, on the other hand, is all that we imagine ourselves to be, the crusader against injustice, the journalist with integrity and morality, fighting the bad guys. The characters are fascinating and the plot suspenseful, and I didn't figure is all out until the last minute. Unfortunately, I'm now waiting to see what happens to Lisbeth in the third installment. Tomorrow can't come soon enough.
A VERY adult book with strong sexual content, Played with Fire, is a fascinating crime-social commentary novel that crime fiction addicts will enjoy.
Origianlly published 5/24/10
Blomkvist and his partners at Millenium have taken on a freelance journalist who is investigating the sex trafficking that is largely ignored in Sweden. Just before the expose is to be published, the freelance journalist and his girlfriend are found murdered and the prints on the murder weapon belong to Salander. Lisbeth goes underground immediately, leaving hints for Blomkvist as he struggles to prove her innocence.
With three busy children and a job that starts at 7:00 a.m., I rarely read until 2:00 a.m. anymore, but Larsson caught me. I couldn't put this novel down.
Salander is so supremely clever with her own innate sense of morality and justice that she has become, for me, the ultimate outsider hero. Her sense of alienation in a bureaucratic world full of injustice, but more importantly, the pain and suffering of the innocent at the hands of the powerful, the cruel and the perverted, oddly enough, makes her an empathetic character. She would hate that.
Blomkvist, on the other hand, is all that we imagine ourselves to be, the crusader against injustice, the journalist with integrity and morality, fighting the bad guys. The characters are fascinating and the plot suspenseful, and I didn't figure is all out until the last minute. Unfortunately, I'm now waiting to see what happens to Lisbeth in the third installment. Tomorrow can't come soon enough.
A VERY adult book with strong sexual content, Played with Fire, is a fascinating crime-social commentary novel that crime fiction addicts will enjoy.
Origianlly published 5/24/10
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
Mikael Blomkvist, a financial journalist, has hit bottom. Recently sued for libel, he retreats to northern Sweden where he is offered a job researching the Vanger family, more specifically the disappearance of Harriet Vanger, forty years ago.
Lisbeth Salander, a talented, tattooed computer hacker, not only profiles Blomkvist for Harriet Vanger's very old uncle, she also ends up making a connection with him, and soon the odd team discovers a truth so ugly, so heinous that Blomkvist questions its publication and then his own journalistic integrity.
One very cool book. Stieg Larsson created a fast, intriguing novel with dramatic but real characters and a stunning look at society with the first of his trilogy, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Even though Larsson's characters are so vastly different from me, I like watching and listening to their thoughts, discovering their moral compasses, which are completely different from each other. I admired their strengths even as their flaws revealed themselves to each other and to me.
Definitely an adult mystery, crime, saga, this novel is not for anyone seriously bothered by sexual references and abuse which, sadly, is all too common.
Originally published 5/19/10
Lisbeth Salander, a talented, tattooed computer hacker, not only profiles Blomkvist for Harriet Vanger's very old uncle, she also ends up making a connection with him, and soon the odd team discovers a truth so ugly, so heinous that Blomkvist questions its publication and then his own journalistic integrity.
One very cool book. Stieg Larsson created a fast, intriguing novel with dramatic but real characters and a stunning look at society with the first of his trilogy, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Even though Larsson's characters are so vastly different from me, I like watching and listening to their thoughts, discovering their moral compasses, which are completely different from each other. I admired their strengths even as their flaws revealed themselves to each other and to me.
Definitely an adult mystery, crime, saga, this novel is not for anyone seriously bothered by sexual references and abuse which, sadly, is all too common.
Originally published 5/19/10
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