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.

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.

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.