Murder for Christmas by Francis Duncan is a 2015 Vintage Digital publication. (Originally published in 1949)
A ‘Dickensian’ Christmas tradition gone hMurder for Christmas by Francis Duncan is a 2015 Vintage Digital publication. (Originally published in 1949)
A ‘Dickensian’ Christmas tradition gone horribly awry.
This story is billed as a classic Christmas mystery, but in all honesty, I’d never heard of Francis Duncan or this book until about a month ago. I was intrigued, especially since I have no problem finding holiday romances, but struggle to find a Christmas mystery that isn’t a part of a very long running series. As it turns out, this is an excellent holiday mystery and is exactly the type of book I'd been looking for!
Mordecai Tremaine has been invited to spend Christmas with at Benedict Grame’s country retreat. He accepts the invitation with no small amount of eagerness, due to an almost prophetic assurance within his own mind that he might get a chance to use his newly acquired and highly praised detecting skills.
Sure enough, by Christmas morning a murder has taken place and Tremaine is commissioned by local law enforcement to help them solve the crime.
With a house full of guests, all having exhibited odd behavior, or have clear and obvious motives, Tremaine has his work cut out for him.
It’s Christmas, and love is in the air, starting with Tremaine's honest admission that he enjoys romantic fiction. However, he gets more than his share of lover’s conflicts while staying at the country estate, including secret affairs, forbidden love and love triangles, all pointing to possible motives for murder.
This story is a classic representation of a proper British mystery. I’m glad I stumbled across this little gem and hope to find the other books in this series, as well.
Although the plot moves slowly at times, and the excitement level is rather low key, with the characterization taking center stage, I was always engaged in the story and found the all the characters and their pasts to be very interesting.
There were several possible motives, and hidden agendas among the gathered guests, which kept me in the dark until the last chapter. With many of these older mysteries, it is easier to spot the killer early on, but it is still fun to watch the way the author fits all the pieces together. But, this one was very clever and sly, and I honestly couldn't be sure who the murderer was.
I ended up enjoying this novel more than I would have imagined. This is a perfect mystery to curl up with on a cold winter night!!
Although this is a classic novel, you won’t have any trouble finding it, since it is now available in digital format. (If your library offers ‘Hoopla’ you can check it out now, with no hold time!)
The Sign of the Beast by Joyce Carol Oates is a 2017 publication.
Wow, JCO has written a Kindle Single, published under Amazon’s new ‘original storiesThe Sign of the Beast by Joyce Carol Oates is a 2017 publication.
Wow, JCO has written a Kindle Single, published under Amazon’s new ‘original stories’ imprint- and it is available via the KU program if you subscribe.
Although she is mostly lauded as a literary heavyweight, Oates is quite adept at creating a sinister and creepy atmosphere, which is quite effective, and as is often the case with Oates’ work, this story works its way under your skin.
A young man with a prominent facial birthmark finds himself the object of ridicule- not from his classmates, but his Sunday School teacher!
His reaction and response to these unusual circumstances is at the heart of this wicked little tale. The brevity of the story, however, leaves some key confirmations out of the equation, due to time restraints, but it is still a testament to Oates’ talent, that within just forty digital pages she could still strike a chord, and had me feeling uncomfortable and squirming in my seat.
While some things must be left up to the reader to decipher, you have an imagination and it’s good for you to exercise it a little from time to time.
These single stories are great for a quick read before bed or a lunch break distraction. I’m happy to see authors of this magnitude participating in the new short story line and look forward to testing out more of these ‘flash fiction’ style tales.
If the Creek Don’t Rise by Leah Weiss is a 2017 Sourcebooks Landmark publication.
Outstanding novel of feminine strength, southern grit, and escape-
I If the Creek Don’t Rise by Leah Weiss is a 2017 Sourcebooks Landmark publication.
Outstanding novel of feminine strength, southern grit, and escape-
I knew this book might be difficult, that some passages would be painful, but, I also couldn’t escape the feeling this book was important, powerful, and not to be missed.
What I never expected from this novel, though, was the atmosphere. I was taken completely off guard by the author’s writing and the presentation, which gives the story a Faulkner-like Southern Gothic undertone, something that always appeals to me.
The novel is set high up in the Appalachian Mountains, in the 1970’s, and is centered around a young pregnant woman named Sadie Blue, who after only two weeks of marriage has discovered her husband, Roy, is the devil incarnate.
As Sadie struggles to fight her way out of her dire circumstances, the novel goes on to feature the voices of other residents in this extremely small, impoverished community.
Potent characters such as Sadie’s grandmother, Gladys, and the new teacher, Kate, tell their own story, all of them interconnecting to the current situation with Sadie, and the disappearance of a stripper named Darlene who may have been involved with Sadie’s husband.
Each voice heard is a short story or vignette, of its own, which rounds out and deepens the impressions of the time frame, and the mindset of the folks in this harsh, isolated land. Each personality that emerged gave me a fresh look at how limited these people and their recourses were.
There is a mystery to solve, conflicts to overcome, but overall, this is a story that highlights the inner strength these characters, especially the women, manifested under extreme duress, as well as the juxtapositions of the character’s personalities- such as Marris/ Prudence. Morris is a shining light, as opposed to Prudence’s bitterness and to some extent, Gladys’s saltiness.
Kate is smart, and makes an immediate impact, is very bold and helpful, but her lack of Appalachian savvy could come back to haunt her if she isn’t given some prudent advice, perhaps from Birdie’s book of truths.
Some storylines float around with no real follow-up, but serve to give us insight into the community, the dialect and vernacular, various conflicted emotions and circumstances, as well as highlighting the obvious poverty, and lack of basic education, which can keep people trapped in a vicious cycle or force them to take drastic measures, in the name of self – preservation, or escape.
There is much to ponder within the pages of this novel, due to all those vivid characterizations and descriptions which created a powerful, intense drama, steeped in country traditions and lovely, but heartbreaking poignancy.
The conclusion was slightly abrupt, but packs a hefty punch, which left me slack jawed and stunned, at first, but ultimately, I must confess, I loved it.
Overall, the novel is a nice piece of rich southern literature. Its Loretta Lynn soundtrack provides a nice, and appropriate backdrop to the harsh, lush darkness of the tale, with its lacing of black humor sprinkled in here and there, which pays homage to the land, to the people, and to a genre of fiction that is all too rare these days.
This is quite an impressive debut, which honored and respected the time and place, and vividly created unforgettable characters who will remain in my mind and heart for a long time to come.
Books have always been a safe haven and this year I have needed that solace more than ever. Gone, are the days of blissful complacency and I think my Books have always been a safe haven and this year I have needed that solace more than ever. Gone, are the days of blissful complacency and I think my reading choices reflected my introspective mood and internal struggles.
The year of 2017 shows a marked change, compared to years past, as the bulk of my reading was dark, serious, angry, and somber. However, it has not all been gloom and doom. Along the way, I have discovered some amazing authors, learned so many new things, made so many wonderful friends and have found the inspiration to keep fighting the good fight.
Please note that not all books listed here were PUBLISHED in 2017, but I READ them during this past year. So, without further ado-
MYSTERY/SUSPENSE/THRILLER STANDOUTS
Book: My Sister's Bones by Nuala Ellwood Book: Bluebird, Bluebird by Attica Locke Book: Good Me, Bad Me by Ali Land Book: Home by Harlen Coben Book: Magpie Murders by Anthony Horowitz
ROMANCE STANDOUTS
Book: Someone to Wed by Mary Balogh Book: The Duke by Katharine Ashe Book: Lost and Found Sisters by Jill Shalvis
OVERALL FAVORITES OF 2017
Book: The Dry by Jane Harper Book: Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly Book: We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Book: The Marsh King's Daughter by Karen Dionne Book: The Radium Girls: The Dark Story of America's Shining Women by Kate Moore Book: Beach House for Rent by Mary Alice Monroe Book: The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia by Karen White Book: I Liked My Life by Abby Fabiaschi Book: Beartown by Fredrik Backman Book: The House at the Edge of Night by Catherine Banner Book: The Last Days of Night by Graham Moore Book: She Rides Shotgun by Jordan Harper Book: Ginny Moon by Benjamin Ludwig Book: On Tyranny by Timothy Synder If the Creek Don't Rise by Leah Weiss
TOP FIVE BOOKS OF 2017 Midnight at the Bright Ideas Bookstore by Matthew J. Sullivan The Road to Jonestown by Jeff Guinn My Absolute Darling by Gabriel Tallent Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Reid Jenkins...more
Petty: The Biography by Warren Zanes is a 2015 Henry Holt and Co. Publication.
Think of me what you will, I’ve got a little space to fill…
I’ve shared Petty: The Biography by Warren Zanes is a 2015 Henry Holt and Co. Publication.
Think of me what you will, I’ve got a little space to fill…
I’ve shared with you my love/hate relationship with rock bios. I decided early on not to read this one because Tom Petty was so special to me. I did NOT want to read a botched biography of TP.
I had forgotten about it until recently, when I checked out the new biography of Stevie Nicks. This book was on one of those 'also recommended for you' listings, so decided to check out the ratings and read a few reviews of the book. I also did a little research on the author, and decided this one might really be on the up and up.
Yet, I still hesitated. I’ve been a fan of many rock groups over the years, gone through trends like most other people, but one constant, since high school, was Tom Petty. The older I got, the more we connected and the more I appreciated his style. Often his anger, his angst, and his humor matched my own.
Tom and I had some long conversations lasting deep into the night sometimes. His music resonated with me in a way no other band has ever been able to. As my kids grew older, they too became big fans, if that tells you anything, and I am so pleased we were able to take them to see Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers back in 2005.
But, as I was reeling from the horrifying mass shooting in Vegas, Tom went into cardiac arrest and never regained consciousness. In a year when I’ve suffered from one of the deepest, darkest depressions I’ve ever experienced, losing my best rock and roll buddy, left me feeling utterly bereft. I really took it hard. I couldn't even listen to his music there for a while.
So, I wasn’t sure if I was ready for this intimate look at his life. The loss is still too raw. But, on second thought, I felt that maybe it would be cathartic.
I think reading this book now, as opposed to reading it while he was still alive, made it a more poignant journey, but ultimately, I’m glad I tucked away my misgivings. This might be the most honest, in depth, and realistic look at a rock artist that I’ve read. Warren was a friend of Tom’s and Tom was involved in the writing of this book to some degree, so I’m comfortable with the authenticity of the shared information.
While this book follows the logical chronological format, beginning with the family tree, Tom’s upbringing, musical beginnings, and so on until he became a full-fledged rock star, working with the likes of Bob Dylan and George Harrison.
But, it’s also a very in depth and personal look at the man behind the rock star persona. It’s raw, pulls no punches, exposes insecurities, flaws, and demons. His private life and professional life was separate, but not equal. He was often under intense pressures, no one, not even those who were close to him, could have guessed at, and it took its toll.
Sometimes he fell into the stereotypical traps of stardom, sometimes he rebelled hard against the system. But, in the end, he was his own man, foibles and all.
I think he found a balance in the latter years of his life, in his second marriage, which seemed to stabilize him after years of internal hardships.
His music was always solid rock and roll, whether it was with the Heartbreakers or The Wilburys, or in his solo material. He had moments of deep reflections, of acidic criticisms, and angsty heartbreak, but he often showed a light, humorous side, too. His songwriting skills were incredible, his insights invaluable.
Most rock bios, the authorized or not, have a really hard time capturing that all too elusive glimpse into the kind person the subject really is. They can relate the various ups and downs, achievements and disappointments, and spell out the nature of all the relationships they’ve had, professional and personal, but rarely do I feel as though I could see through all the smoke and mirrors, behind the barrier and security measures. In this case, I think I did see into Tom’s soul to some extent. He was much more complicated and complex than I would have thought, and struggled with issues I wouldn’t have associated with him, but he also worked to deal with his problems, and I respected his ability to admit his shortcomings.
‘People come, people go Some grow young, some grow cold
Tom was a rock star in every sense of the word, and he took full advantage of that privilege, he occasionally exhibited a great deal of moodiness, triteness, arrogance, and entitled outbursts, but, he had principles, and a depth to him, you rarely see from someone in that business, especially after all those years, when he could have become a hardened, jaded, jerk. In fact, I think he was moving towards a good place, where he beginning to win the battle over the demons that plagued him. I do want to believe that, and I hope that was the case.
There have been some casual fans or those who just didn’t listen to Tom Petty’s music, but I’ve never heard anyone say they didn’t like him. He was the coolest rock star ever. I still can’t believe he’s gone. He was only 66, with so much left to give. But, his talent and music will always have a very special place in my heart-
And Tom if you are watching- I promise-
I'll stand my ground Won't be turned around And I'll keep this world from draggin' me down Gonna stand my ground AND I WON’T BACK DOWN...more
Prairie Fires: The American Dreams of Laura Ingalls Wilder by Caroline Fraser is a 2017 Metropolitan Books publication.
‘All that I have told is true, Prairie Fires: The American Dreams of Laura Ingalls Wilder by Caroline Fraser is a 2017 Metropolitan Books publication.
‘All that I have told is true, but it is not the whole truth’
This is an incredible biography of the life of Laura Ingalls Wilder of ‘The Little House on Prairie’ fame.
To say this book on Wilder's life is comprehensive would be an understatement. Caroline Fraser paints a vivid portrait of the beloved author, but still preserves the respect for her novels that have entertained many of us for generations.
As a child, I read the ‘Little House’ books over and over again, and of course, I tuned in once a week to watch the television show. (Until it got too soapy and I started to outgrow it)
So, naturally, when I saw this book, I knew I had to have it. As it has been pointed out, the books Wilder wrote were a fictionalized accounting of her childhood. This leaves one to wonder about Wilder’s life, beyond her childhood and marriage, and what information she may have glossed over while writing her books, which were primarily a hit among children.
With over six hundred pages, this book was not only a very detailed, extensive look, at Laura Ingalls Wilder, but the historical evolutions that took place during her life.
I won’t go into the details provided in the book, as you will want to read those for yourselves, but I will say I was very taken aback by some of the historical details, by some of the antics Charles Ingalls, Laura's father, got up to, and some of Wilder’s attitudes towards those in a worse situation than her own, as well as how political she and her daughter, Rose, often were.
A great deal of time is spent on Rose Lane, Wilder’s only surviving child, and their complicated relationship. I had never heard any of this information and found myself riveted by the stark differences between the two women, and Rose's bold, selfish manipulations.
I simply can not fathom the amount of time and work the author must have put into this book. Not only does she dig deeply into Wilder’s life, giving us one of the most in -depth studies of her struggles and opinions, thus allowing the most realistic and insightful view of who this woman really was, and the impact her daughter has on the public persona we’ve embraced up until this moment, but she also researched the historical eras Wilder lived through, providing a striking look at the harsh life many were subjected to, barely able to survive, and the complicated land agreements that displaced many Native Americans.
The failures and disasters came around far more than the triumphs. It wasn’t until Wilder was in her fifties and sixties that her writing career took off.
Although this book is almost encyclopedic, and may look as though it would be dry reading, and does seem daunting, with its ‘door stop’ weightiness, I found it was very absorbing and the pages seem to zoom by. Even so, it did take a while to read through it. There are lots of notes and I tend to skim over all that, but it is nice to have the information available for future reference. There are several wonderful photos of the Ingalls/Wilder family, of Laura, and of Rose, who plays a large role in this book.
Overall, I must say this book was much more than I bargained for. It is very, very well researched, and as such, I learned a great deal from it, and despite the risk of disillusionment, I found Laura Ingalls Wilder to be quite an interesting person. She was a hard worker, often carrying the weight of her family on her shoulders, and like all of us to varying degrees, complex, difficult, and at times I didn’t care for her attitude, while at others I admired her temerity, and her ability to staunchly weather all the hardships life through onto her path. I didn’t always understand her point of view, didn’t always agree with her choices, and found Rose Lane to be a real pain, but at the end of the day, this biography is one of the best I’ve ever read.
Even if you are not a fan of the ‘Little House’ books, the historical aspects alone are worth giving the book a try. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading history, and of course for those who would like to know the real truth about Laura Ingalls Wilder.
The Butchering Art: Joseph Lister's Quest to Transform the Grisly World of Victorian Medicine by Lindsey Fitzharris is a 2017 Scientific American/FarrThe Butchering Art: Joseph Lister's Quest to Transform the Grisly World of Victorian Medicine by Lindsey Fitzharris is a 2017 Scientific American/Farrar Straus and Giroux publication.
Ghastly, but fascinating!
In 1846, as surgery became more frequent, deaths occurred more often as well, due to sepsis, and a myriad of other infections, promptingJosheph Lister to examine the prospect that germs, dirty surgical tools, and hospital cleanliness were to blame.
Lister’s antiseptic theories were groundbreaking, but not especially popular. This led to a great deal of medical politics and backlash towards Lister. This is fascinating because of the mindset in the Victorian days by medical professionals.
However, you should be aware that some of the situations described are not for the faint of heart. While not purposely or gratuitously graphic, your imagination can fill in the blanks. I can’t imagine such primitive practices, or the idea that hospitals were not sanitized, especially the surgical tools. It’s very disgusting to think of, and it’s a wonder anyone survived.
Thank goodness for Joseph Lister and his antiseptic theory!! His life is captivating, and his scientific vision paved the way for medical advancements and a massive reduction in loss of life. He didn’t always have the right answers, but he was an amazing trailblazer in medicine and science.
The book has a bleak atmosphere, and conjures up all manner of appalling images, some of which left me feeling a little green around the gills, but ultimately this is an inspiring story, and I for one came away feeling grateful for Lister and his forward thinking and his tenacity in sticking to his guns when he came under fire.
Lister’s personal life is connected to his professional life in many ways, and is examined moderately, but is not the primary focus of the book. Mainly, the book is about Lister’s work, and often reads like a history textbook in some ways, but nevertheless, it is quite absorbing.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys science, health and medicine, or history- and has a strong stomach!...more
Trouble Under the Mistletoe: A Familiar Legacy Short Story by Rebecca Barrett is a 2017 KaliOka Press publication.
Trouble and his renowned detecting Trouble Under the Mistletoe: A Familiar Legacy Short Story by Rebecca Barrett is a 2017 KaliOka Press publication.
Trouble and his renowned detecting skills help solve a holiday crime while in the care of Billie Dean Bailey of Turnout, MS.
Trouble sniffs out a hint of concern for Billie and her family whose car dealership is going through a rough patch.
While Billie Dean is concerned about her father and a recent new hire, she finds herself distracted by Teddy Adamson, who is back in town to visit his mother for the holidays.
But, when a murder takes place at the Bailey’s annual Christmas party, Teddy and Billie Dean, with Trouble’s assistance, will have to unravel a clever crime ring.
This is a super short cozy/romantic suspense story, which is a part of the ‘Familiar Legacy’ series. Once again, the vibrant southern locale creates a special holiday ambience and I especially enjoyed the second chance love story between Teddy and Billie Dean. As always, Trouble’s detecting skills are second to none and his inner monologue is priceless. I hope the humans make it to the Christmas pies before Trouble does!
Despite its brevity, this is a complete crime story with a dash of holiday romance and is purrfect for a lunch break escape.
Gold Dust Woman: The Biography of Stevie Nicks by Steven Davis is a 2017 St. Martin’s Press publication.
She rings like a bell through the night And woGold Dust Woman: The Biography of Stevie Nicks by Steven Davis is a 2017 St. Martin’s Press publication.
She rings like a bell through the night And wouldn't you love to love her? She rules her life like a bird in flight And who will be her lover? All your life you've never seen a woman taken by the wind Would you stay if she promised to you heaven? Will you ever win? Will you ever win?
In the past year or so, I’ve read several rock memoirs and biographies with very mixed results. I swore them off for a while because I found myself losing respect for the artist, or because the biographer did a very poor job and I felt the subject deserved better.
But, I’ve been a fan of Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks since junior high, but Stevie has always been somewhat of an enigma, so I when I saw this biography, I caved and took a chance on this book.
Some may view Fleetwood Mac with no small amount of disdain, feeling they represent the very picture of bloated, overproduced corporate rock. But, I don’t care. The first time I heard the Nicks/Buckingham incarnation of the group I fell hard.
Ironically, it was a Christine McVie’s voice that made the biggest impression on me, not Stevie’s, and I still maintain she is a vastly under appreciated vocalist. However, when I first heard ‘Dreams’ I found myself grudgingly admitting that Stevie’s haunting vocals were deserving of the same respect.
Over the years, and in between tours and reunions with Fleetwood Mac, I loved Stevie’s collaborations and duets with Tom Petty and Don Henley and instantly felt a vast appreciation for her solo material as well.
So, it goes without saying that I loved the music. But, like many others I was also curious about Stevie’s well- crafted mystical aura, was captivated by her fashions, and mesmerized by her stage performances.
Introducing ‘Rhiannon’ as a song about a Welsh witch, sparked speculation that Nicks was into the occult or was a witch herself. Her fashions and hairstyles were copied by scores of women attending concerts, who wanted to look ‘very Rhiannon.’
But, Stevie’s personal life? Well, it’s complicated.
Reviews of biographies and memoirs are hard for me to write. With a memoir I feel free to leave a personal opinion about the subject. The author has put themselves out there and can expect a bit of scrutiny, but with a biography, especially an unauthorized one, I feel it may be best to focus on how the biographer presented the material, if it was well researched and documented and if the author managed to capture the essence of his subject- or not.
In this case, I felt the author did an admirable job of organizing the material, going in chronological order, offering insights into Stevie’s upbringing, her musical roots, and her journey to stardom. He did not put words in her mouth or attempt to analyze her feelings, and for the most part remained neutral, not allowing his personal opinions of Stevie to surface in his writing. There was only one occasion where I felt the author attempted to gloss over or sugarcoat the facts by avoiding certain key words surrounding a very personal and delicate situation.
Watching it all unfold, it is easy to see the ways in which Stevie changed and developed over the years, going from Lindsey Buckingham’s protégé, to a headlining act, surrounding herself with top writers and musicians, taking center stage and owning it.
I can’t say I would want that kind of lifestyle for myself. It sounds rigorous and lonely, and not at all glamorous, fraught with terrible pitfalls that wrought ghastly consequences. While there were incredible professional triumphs, there were also many pitfalls, and embarrassing lows, most of which are common traps in the life of a rock star.
As with any unauthorized biography, you may find a few discrepancies, but, overall, I felt like the book was as true and honest as possible, and was very respectful to the artist. But, remember, Stevie's presence is notably absent, as is the case with many unauthorized bios.
I suppose, when you get right down to it, any of us can write one of these, if you have some skill as a writer, the resources, and the time and organizational skills, but here someone has done all the work for us! It would have been nice if Stevie had been a part of it, since it appears she has flatly refused to write a memoir.
Overall, I was pleased with how the biography turned out. Stevie Nick’s musical achievements are balanced with her interesting history and personal life. I don’t know if I got a real feeling of true happiness or contentment from Stevie, or if the book captured Stevie's spiritual essence, at all. It seemed as though she was always working, working, working, or going through a personal crisis. I think her thoughts these days tend to lean more towards resignation and acceptance, which does seem to give her a measure of peace.
Her journey has been a fascinating one, for sure, and she’s still out there surrounded by that trademark mythical aura, performing and working regularly, even as she approaches her seventh decade.
As a rock biography I've read better, but I've also read far worse. This one did have some little known facts and some information regarding early television appearances I don't remember after all these years, and reminded me of all the great FM songs I never stopped listening to, and passed down to my own kids, as well as the many solo hits Stevie had.
Alexa/Echo has been ordered to play a lot of Fleetwod Mac the past few days. 3.5 stars rounded up....more
Finding Grace by Warren Adler is a 2017 publication.
Do you believe strange religious cults are a thing of the past? Think again…
Grace, a beautiful, Finding Grace by Warren Adler is a 2017 publication.
Do you believe strange religious cults are a thing of the past? Think again…
Grace, a beautiful, young political intern, has joined an odd cult and is completely under their spell. The cult’s goal is to take over the world, starting with America. They are totally right-wing, fascist types, but spout all the usual cult rhetoric and use commonly known methods of brainwashing and persuasion to entice and hold their followers.
Henry and Paulie divorced when Grace was a child, both remarried, but Henry is separated from his wife, while Pauley is rather content in her second marriage, despite it lacking the passion she shared with Henry. Although the couple have been divorced for fifteen years, they swiftly discover the bond they once shared, the bond that still binds them through their daughter, is still quite strong.
As Henry and Paulie work to free their daughter, they rediscover the passion and love that brought them together in the first place and must face a plethora of complications as their lives turn on a dime.
This book is set back in the late eighties or early nineties, so you’ll want to keep that in mind. There are phone booths, and landlines and the mention of Pan Am, so it obviously takes place a few decades ago, and is NOT a current day scenario.
Still, by that time, cults were beginning to lose ground, disperse, and no longer showed up regularly in the news. But, as we know, they didn’t go away entirely.
Paulie and Henry were blindsided by the revelation their smart, seemingly well-adjusted daughter fell prey to such manipulations. Their work to free her becomes an obsession, as they both reflect on their past life together, how or if they had unwittingly let their daughter down, blaming themselves for their self- absorptions, and remembering the intense feelings they once shared.
It may seem like an odd time to publish a book with this particular theme, since we seldom think of cults like the one described here in modern times. But, the topic did make me wonder about that, so I did a quick internet search and was shocked to discover how many cults are still quite active, and boasts incredibly large numbers of followers. Spooky.
But, the story also offered a couple of chilling remarks that reminded me of what uncharacteristic, complete and total loyalty can mean. So, from that angle, it seems like a bit of a cautionary tale, a warning that it still might not be safe to go back into the water, so don’t let your guard down.
Yet, after having said all that, the story doesn’t appear to be about Grace, per se. We only get a very tiny glimpse of the type of person she was prior to her cult conversion. Once she was immersed in that setting, she became almost a parody of the typical, brainwashed cult member. Her role in the story seems to serve more as a catalyst from which Henry and Paulie are forced to pull the focus off of themselves and onto a common goal, leading to an in -depth examination of their relationship, both past and present, and what that might mean for their future. In a weird way, it’s almost like a very quirky love story- a second chance at love trope, told within a very strange context.
All in all, this is a very offbeat story, strangely absorbing, fast paced, and easily read in one sitting. It lingered around in my mind for a while, as I puzzled over and searched for some missed hidden message or allegory, but I never could come up with anything solid on that front.
It’s an interesting read, perhaps a little shallow in places, predictable in others, but sinister and thought provoking all the same.
I’m waffling with the rating- it falls between 3 and 4- which means the dreaded 3.5 rating- but I’m feeling generous enough today to round it up.
This novel is packed with emotions, thick racial tensions and famiBluebird, Bluebird by Attica Locke
Engrossing and laden with atmospheric foreboding-
This novel is packed with emotions, thick racial tensions and family dramas. I could almost imagine blues rifts playing in the background as the events in Lark, Texas unfolded. I could envision the town, the people, and feel the intense feeling of dread creeping up on me as the story unfolded.
When Michael Wright, a black lawyer from Chicago, stops in the small East Texas town, he never makes it back home. His body was pulled out the nearby bayou, and his fancy car disappeared somewhere along the way. A very short time later, the body of Missy Dale, a local white woman is also found dead. The possibility does exist, considering how small this town is, that the two deaths are connected.
Enter, Darren Matthews, a black Texas Ranger, currently on suspension, separated from his wife, in a full -on battle with a whiskey bottle. Darren is given permission to casually visit, sans his badge, Lark, Texas to get the lay of the land. There, he encounters a kindred spirit of sorts in Michael Wright’s widow, who is there to claim her husband’s body.
Before long, Darren has slapped his badge back on and finds himself in the midst of a full blown murder investigation.
The deaths seem to have a connection to Geneva Sweet, the owner of a local café. It would appear, that Michael Wright stopped by her place, asking some questions, right before he was murdered. Geneva’s past comes sharply into focus as Darren investigates Michael and Missy’s murders, amid rumors that the Aryan Brotherhood may have few contacts within Lark, meaning Missy's angry husband.
Bluebird, bluebird, please do this for me Ooh, bluebird, please do this for me If you see my baby, tell her I want her to come back home to me John Lee Hooker
I could not put this book down!! The mystery is compelling and very suspenseful, but it’s the lush writing, and deep characterizations that really made this novel stand out.
Darren cuts quite a figure as a Texas Ranger, with his Stetson hat and boots, but his deep -seated sense of loyalty and all his personal baggage causes him to entertain all manner of self-recriminations, regrets, and self-doubt. But, the history of Lark, the beautiful descriptions of the area, and the musical homage goes a long way toward creating that dense atmosphere where racial hostilities simmer, threatening to boil over. The past will catch up with the present as old buried secrets surface and long overdue justice will finally be served.
I really need Attica Locke to write a follow-up to this one, since Darren still has some serious issues to address. I’d love to see this turn into a series, or at the very least a trilogy.
Either way, this author has left quite an impression on me. I’m ready to dive into her other novels, ASAP!!
New People by Senna Danzy is a 2017 Riverhead Books publication.
Unconventional, a little disturbing, but thought provoking and exceptionally written-New People by Senna Danzy is a 2017 Riverhead Books publication.
Unconventional, a little disturbing, but thought provoking and exceptionally written-
Despite its brevity, this book packs a potent punch, written in a quirky, offbeat prose, that captured my attention and forced me to stay focused.
The novel is, without a doubt, about race. ‘New People’ meaning ‘biracial'. However, there is more to the story than meets the eye.
Maria and her fiancé Khalil are both biracial- Maria’s adoptive mother was black, but Maria is very fair skinned, as is Khalil, whose background is eclectic.
Maria is doing her dissertation on the ‘Jonestown Massacre’, while planning her wedding. But, her relationship with Khalil is tested when she develops a crush on a poet, who is not biracial. Suddenly, her stable life becomes very erratic as she searches for that elusive something that remains just out of reach.
The book is almost satirical at times, has a wry sense of humor, but is also very tense. Maria has a dark secret she’s kept from Khalil and she practically stalks her ‘crush’, as well as exhibiting a few other very odd behaviors that had me sitting on the edge of my seat.
Maria is the prominent character, the one whose narrative we follow as she sends herself down a path of self-discovery, a very risky journey that could upend her life as she knows it. She is a most unusual person, not necessarily a likeable young lady, or someone I felt I could bond with or feel empathy towards, but I found her choices almost hypnotic. At times I couldn’t bear to watch and at others I couldn’t bear to look away. I had to see what, if any, consequences or repercussions there would be for her actions.
The Jonestown topic runs in the background as it harkens back to the themes that brought the cult followers to such a point in their lives and is juxtaposed against the attitudes that came about in the nineties, especially in campus life. It’s an interesting force in Maria’s search for her own identity.
The ending is a bit abrupt. Khalil appears oblivious to Maria’s angst or past sins, so we are left to wonder if Maria’s thirst has been quenched or if her search will continue or evolve to include her fiancé.
I found Maria to be one of the most interesting characters I’ve been introduced to recently and this book did make me stop and think about many of the topics addressed here, even days after finishing the novel.
I enjoyed the style of writing, and the refreshing change of pace this book provided. This is my first book by this author, but I will definitely keep an eye out for her work in the future.
Married Till Christmas by Christine Rimmer is a 2017 Harlequin Special Release publication.
Nell has already given the seemingly incorrigible Declan MMarried Till Christmas by Christine Rimmer is a 2017 Harlequin Special Release publication.
Nell has already given the seemingly incorrigible Declan McGrath two chances- Could the third time be the charm?
Delcan- aka- Deck- knows Nell Bravo is the love of his life and despite two false starts, he’s ready to make a lifetime commitment. But, Nell has been burned one too many times and is having none of it.
But, after running into Deck in Vegas, he manages to manipulate Nell straight to the alter with a ‘quickie’ wedding. Once she comes to her senses, she immediately starts making plans for an annulment. But, Deck manages to convince her to wait until Christmas before doing anything rash. Nell reluctantly agrees to give the marriage a shot, but knows deep down, she can never trust him again.
Can a little holiday magic bring hope, healing and forgiveness to Nell and Deck along with the promise of a long overdue happily ever after?
Oh, Deck- I was not so sure he and I were going to get along so well. He’s cocky, over confidant, and manipulative. He ‘handles’ Nell and although the chemistry between them sizzles, I couldn’t blame Nell for her wariness.
But, as the story progresses, a different side of Deck begins to emerge and while I didn’t agree with the way he treated Nell in the past, I could understand his pride, his wish to find equal footing with Nell, and do a little growing up. As much as I hated to admit it, he was right about the timing, but he still has to convince Nell that this is their moment.
Deck has a troubled background, and although he’s come a long way, he still struggles with his father’s actions and isn’t sure how to handle the idea of Nell meeting him again.
Nell loves Deck, but she’s too afraid of getting hurt by him again, and can’t move past the way he broke her heart- not once- but twice. Trust is the hardest thing to regain once it has been lost, and I really was worried Nell might not be able to manage it.
The couple runs hot and cold, back and forth, up and down, but one thing that stays constant is the undeniable fact that they are in love with each other, always have been, and always will be.
This holiday themed romance has just the right blend of humor, drama, and holiday cheer and I really liked the way things ended.
Overall, this is another enjoyable holiday romance from one of my favorite Harlequin authors!
The Watcher by Christina Dodd is a 2017 publication.
This is a super short story, which is a part of the Virtue Falls series. I received a copy of thiThe Watcher by Christina Dodd is a 2017 publication.
This is a super short story, which is a part of the Virtue Falls series. I received a copy of this book from the very generous author who shared it with her newsletter subscribers.
I enjoyed the story of the Frog God, which is explained in greater detail for those wondering about Kateri’s power.
The story is told around a campfire, which is the perfect setting for such a tale. It’s an interesting short story, which will only take a few minutes to read, but it would make a nice lunch break diversion.
Fifty Years of 60 Minutes: The Inside Story of Television's Most Influential News Broadcast by Jeff Fager is a 2017 Simon & Schuster publication.
InfoFifty Years of 60 Minutes: The Inside Story of Television's Most Influential News Broadcast by Jeff Fager is a 2017 Simon & Schuster publication.
Informative, interesting and nostalgic.
60 Minutes first aired in 1968, and incredibly, is still broadcast today. So, what is the secret to its longevity?
The journalists have been top notch from the beginning to present day. The stories are controversial, hard hitting, have exposed scams and enormous scandals, but also made room for satire, humor, and fluff pieces as well as featuring interviews with the most popular celebrities of the day.
It was perhaps the first news magazine format on television and it inspired many other similar news programs and talk show formats over the years.
But, the show got a huge boost when it was moved to Sunday nights, which gave them a huge lead in audience from NFL football. The prime spot was a ratings boon for the show, and from there the influence upon viewers was unprecedented.
This book is separated by decades- beginning with 1988- 1998- the third decade-
But, then goes back to the beginning- 1968- 1978- highlighting the best stories, the ‘behind the scene’s environment at the time, and plenty of revealing conversations, accompanied by an abundance of photographs.
One of my favorite stories involved Steve Kroft’s piece on a Houston used car wholesaler, Bill Whitlow, known as the ‘mile buster’, because he rolled back odometers, also known as ‘busting miles’, before selling cars to dealers at higher cost.
Uncovering the scam, led to one of the best punchlines in the history of the show:
KROFT: I want to show you one thing.
WHITLOW: All right.
KROFT: You know what’s back there?
WHITLOW: No.
KROFT: It’s a TV camera back there.
WHITLOW: Oh, is it?
KROFT: Yeah. Yeah, we’ve been taping this whole thing.
WHITLOW: Well, all right.
KROFT: The good news is we’re not cops.
WHITLOW: Well, I didn’t think so.
KROFT: The bad news is we’re 60 minutes.
(Whitlow was sentenced to six years in prison and blamed Steve)
Naturally, many people have automatically felt 60 Minutes to be synonymous with the tobacco story, which was much harder to get on the air than any other story and took its toll on everyone, including CBS and the entire staff on 60 minutes. It’s a fascinating piece and is one of the most memorable stories in the show’s fifty - year history.
The show was also known for its celebrity interviews which included such big names a Clint Eastwood, Tina Turner, and Beyonce, but there were also interviews with presidents, as well as many other world leaders.
The show has seen many personnel changes, experienced tragedies, and untimely deaths over the years, and has struggled with ratings, especially after they lost the coveted football lead in, but has managed to stay on the air and remains relevant.
From a personal standpoint, I remember my parents watching this program, and while it may not seem like the type of show a young person might find interesting, I often found myself very absorbed in the stories. I was always very interested in the medical and scientific breakthrough segments and of course, I enjoyed the celebrity interviews, too.
I must confess, though, that I never was a loyal viewer as an adult. I tuned in on occasion, sometimes watching it regularly, but often going years without seeing a single episode. But, even if you didn’t watch the show consistently, the segments often made headlines, and now with the ability to stream the programs from the CBS website or to watch clips on YouTube, the program can be watched at any time, the show reaches a younger audience as well as a wider range of viewership, keeping the stories at the forefront of our minds.
This book is just a little over four hundred pages, so with fifty years of material to cover, you know the author, who is the executive producer of the show, really does touch on the major highlights, the influential journalists and the most intense and fond relationships and memories. I do think that’s maybe a good thing in an age where our attention spans are not as long, but it also skimmed over an enormous amount of terrific material.
As mentioned, the photos are plentiful, both black and white and color, and is a very nice touch, as it puts names with faces in many cases.
I really enjoyed looking back on the show’s history, reliving the politics in front of the camera, but often the politics behind the camera was just as interesting, if not more.
There are many memories, great stories, some embarrassing moments, and some surprising revelations in this book. I think fans of the show will want to check this book out and even if you are only a casual fan or viewer, this book will remind you of how and why it has managed to survive all these years in such a ruthless market and perhaps renew your interest in the show.
Overall, this book is well organized, fascinating and fun to read.
Obsession Falls by Christina Dodd is a 2015 St. Martin’s Press publication.
This second book in the Virtue Fall series got off to a terrific start, buObsession Falls by Christina Dodd is a 2015 St. Martin’s Press publication.
This second book in the Virtue Fall series got off to a terrific start, but instead of sticking to that gritty, tense and adventurous tract, it veered off course, and even the romantic elements fell seriously flat.
Taylor Summers stumbles across a crime in progress and with no other options available steps up to prevent a young child from being killed.
Her choice temporarily makes her a suspect, but the problem, of course, is that the killers are hot on her trail. Changing her name, to ‘Summer’, she settles in Virtue Falls, carving out a tenuous life, creating a niche and gets to know the other residents.
But, her peace is very short lived when the child’s uncle shows up and the killers are not far behind-
I think I may be in the minority on this one. But, I thought the second half of the book was outlandish in many respects and I didn’t like the love story at all. Once or twice I got a chuckle out of Summer's rants, but other than that, I just didn't feel a connection with the characters.
I am not deterred though. I have already committed myself this series, if only to see what will happen with Kateri.
The Maverick’s Snowbound Christmas by Karen Rose Smith is a 2017 Harlequin Special Edition publication.
This is a charming holiday themed contemporaryThe Maverick’s Snowbound Christmas by Karen Rose Smith is a 2017 Harlequin Special Edition publication.
This is a charming holiday themed contemporary romance set in Rust Creek Falls, and centered around rancher, Eli Dalton and veterinarian, Hadley Strickland.
Hadley is home visiting her folks for the holiday, enduring the usual admonishments about how busy her life is and how she needs to start thinking of marriage and family.
When she gets a call asking her to help Eli Dalton deliver a foal, she jumps at the chance, even though horses are outside her area of expertise and a snowstorm is headed their direction.
However, once she arrives on the scene, she and Eli finds themselves snowbound together. An awkward situation soon leads to a tentative friendship while they both grapple with a growing attraction to one another.
However, the relationship seems doomed from the start, due to Hadley’s wall of defenses and Eli’s refusal to consider any other kind of life for himself, than living in Rust Creek Falls and running his ranch.
Is there a chance holiday magic could help them find a way to overcome their differences?
I enjoyed this short, fast paced holiday romance from author Karen Rose Smith. Bringing two people together with different outlooks on life, different goals, and each harboring pain or resentment due to the failure of previous relationships, is always a challenge. But, I really enjoy seeing a couple do the work, each making sacrifices or compromises in order make a relationship solidify and grow.
I personally enjoy reading about more ‘mature’ characters, with family playing a role in the story, and of course any story which features pets or animals is a plus, in my opinion. Therefore, this book was a nice fit for me.
Lie to Me by J.T. Ellison is a 2017 Mira Books publication.
The world breaks everyone, and afterward, some are strong at the broken places-
Earnest HemLie to Me by J.T. Ellison is a 2017 Mira Books publication.
The world breaks everyone, and afterward, some are strong at the broken places-
Earnest Hemingway
Sutton and Ethan, both authors, marry after a whirlwind romance. But, the marriage hits the skids after a string of disappointments and tragedy.
However, the couple was slowly working things out, according to Ethan. But, one morning he wakes up and discovers that Sutton has simply vanished. She left a note, apologizing and asking that he not try to find her. But, she’s left behind all her belongings, her identification, and purse, which sets off massive alarm bells for Ethan.
Once the police get involved, they begin digging into Sutton and Ethan’s personal life, their finances and the state of their marriage, which reveals a myriad of juxtapositions, half-truths, outright lies, and many, many secrets.
Before long, Ethan has become the prime suspect in his wife’s disappearance.
Had Sutton simply walked away from her life to get away from Ethan? Or has something far more nefarious occurred?
‘Life is full of confusion. Confusion of love, passion, and romance. Confusion of family and friends. Confusion with life itself. What path we take, What turns we make. How we roll our dice.’ Matthew Underwood
As is typical with J.T Ellison, nothing is as it appears, and to let your guard down for a nanosecond is ill advised.
This is a very convoluted, mind bender which begins on one path, but veers off onto another, then another, then another. The characters are morally bankrupt, making it impossible to drum up any compassion for them, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing, as it makes them seem more suspect and not even a little bit trustworthy.
As a brief side note- I got a kick out of the sub-plot involving the book reviewer and the blogger, and ‘authors behaving badly’. I’ve really seen it happen on several occasions and everyone involved ends up looking bad. Not that I haven’t put in my two cents worth on FB when an author literally copies and pastes a critical review and then has their colleagues and fans dissect it or start flame wars, which is pretty much the point Ellison was getting at, I think. It was so true and darkly humorous. But, I digress…
I love a thriller with well-timed, mind blowing twists and turns. So, you could say I got my wish with this novel- but in this case it might be a case of ‘be careful what you wish for’.
Plot twists are fun, especially when you don’t know they are coming. I promise you won’t see them coming in advance, with this novel, even if you have figured out the plot, or know who the enemy is, because there are just too many of them.
The initial buildup takes a little time, but when the narrative switches gears, which was a bit jarring, at that point it is just one big surprise after another.
As everyone knows, I can be jaded, but tolerant, when it comes to thrillers. I can often pinpoint who the killer is early on, which I did in this case, right off the bat, and more seasoned readers of crime fiction will spot those tell- tale signs, too. I also figured out where the plot was headed, but I must admit, this roller coaster ride was a little fun, because I never could rest back on my laurels and ponder what might be coming next. The big reveals, once they got rolling, came at me at rapid fire pacing, so that I couldn’t digest one, before I had to deal with yet another wild and crazy dilemma.
While this can be a nice challenge on occasion, in some cases, it can backfire. I either end up feeling exhausted or the big twists lose their shock and awe effect quickly and I become desensitized to them.
It’s almost like eating an entire bag of candy all at once, instead of enjoying only one or two pieces at a time, which normally doesn’t end well. It was just a little too much of a good thing, and it spiraled out of control, in my opinion.
The nice build up completely unraveled in the second part of the book, disrupting the carefully constructed flow, leaving everything a bit uneven. But, I did appreciate the defiance of convention, and no one could ever accuse this book of being boring, that’s for sure.
This author definitely has a vivid imagination, and knows how to keep readers interested and engaged, if even when things go wonky, defies logic, or offends my ability to suspend belief. While I really do like J.T. Ellison, and I did enjoy some aspects of this novel and found it to be entertaining on many fronts, it was just too over the top for my taste. 3 stars...more
I almost Missed you by Jessica Strawer is a 2017 St. Martin’s Press publication.
Serendipity- Fate- Kismet-
This is the story of Violet and Finn, a couI almost Missed you by Jessica Strawer is a 2017 St. Martin’s Press publication.
Serendipity- Fate- Kismet-
This is the story of Violet and Finn, a couple who seemed destined to be together…
They met on a beach by chance, but that one encounter was enough to leave a lasting impression on them both.
But, for a long time they were like two ships that passed in the night, until yet another chance meeting finally cements them firmly together. But, for one of them the cement has begun to crack.
Out of the clear blue sky, Finn suddenly packs up his and Violet’s three year old son,'Bear', on what looks like a spur of the moment decision, and skips off to parts unknown, leaving everyone who knows the couple flummoxed and bewildered- including Violet and Finn’s best friend, Caitlin.
But, Caitlin soon finds herself in between the ultimate rock and a hard place when she must choose between Finn and Violet. Which one will she help? Which side will she take? Why did Finn leave his perfect marriage and why did he kidnap his son?
I had this book on hold at the library for a long time. I don’t know why there was only one digital copy of this book, but long story short, the wait time was very long. Truth be told, it had been so long since I had thought about this book, I’d forgotten the premise entirely.
As a result, I just dove into this book blindly, believing it to be a psychological thriller. Initially, the novel went right down that path. But, as time moved on, the story seemed to morph into something a bit more than that.
I was unprepared for the level of suspense that gripped me. It was so unbearable I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. Every character has a secret and every secret carries an enormous consequence if they are exposed. Some secrets are scandalous, some are more minor, and some are incredibly heart wrenching.
This book was not exactly what I was expecting it to be, since, in my opinion, it’s not a traditional psychological thriller, or novel of suspense, which caught me completely off guard- and this is yet another one of those books that is hard to categorize. Having said that, this story blew me away, with its intensity, emotion, characterizations and dialogue. The pacing is so perfectly timed, the mere thought of putting this book down was untenable.
At the end of the day, this is a story of loss and tragedy, of ill -advised choices resulting in deeply held cataclysmic secrets that come back to roost in a most spectacular fashion. It’s a story of sacrifice, love, guilt and hope, which put me through an emotional wringer that left me nearly breathless.
It’s intense, but also has a beauty to it, with an ending that made feel as though a giant weight was lifted and that all would be well, just given a little more time, and what’s more, left me believing wholeheartedly in destiny, fate, kismet, and all the rest. Some things are just meant to be.
Every holiday season, I sample at least one Christmas anthology. This one caught my eye, but as I was Christmas in Kilts is a 2017 Swerve publication.
Every holiday season, I sample at least one Christmas anthology. This one caught my eye, but as I was looking at the terrific authors featured, it occurred to me that it has been a very long time since I’ve read a Scottish/Highlander historical romance, and suddenly I felt a need to remedy that.
As usual, I choose one, maybe two, favorites in an anthology to feature in my review. But, to be clear, every book in the collection is very good, these were just the ones I enjoyed the most and wanted to spotlight.
A Highland Christmas Wager by Lecia Cornwall-
I loved this karma driven story featuring Meggie who, along with her grandmother, is forced to seek shelter from a snowstorm at Gleanngalla Castle, the last place on earth she wants to be.
However, with three Highlanders underfoot, things get a little prickly, when they agree to make a wager that could change the future for the two young ladies on the premises.
Despite Magnus MacVane’s confidence, things don’t exactly go as planned, when Charlie McKay and Hugh MacAulay put a wrinkle in his plans.
I really enjoyed the way this story turned out, and enjoyed seeing Meggie and Catriona get their much deserved HEA!
A Scot for Christmas by Bronwen Evans
Emma has loved Dougray since she was in her teens, but he married Francesca, who died tragically six years ago.
Dougray is still in love with Francesca, but realizes his duty to provide heirs. Therefore, he is beginning to think of remarriage and even has a prospect in mind. But, when Emma arrives with her brother, Dougray is stunned by her beauty and finds himself quite taken with her. But, when she approaches him with a scandalous proposition, his heart will face the ultimate test of courage.
This story pulls on the heartstrings, but has a wonderfully romantic and heartwarming ending. I was especially fond of Dougray- the brooding, tortured type I’m always a sucker for.
The remaining stories rounding out this star -studded anthology include:
The Highlander’s Hope by Teri Brisbin
Leftover Mistletoe by Lavinia Kent
Sweet Home Highland Christmas by May McGoldrick
Each novella is holiday themed and features super sexy Scottish Highlanders that will quicken your pulse and melt your heart! 4.5 stars
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