From what I have seen, reviews are mixed about this book. I started, from disk one, with an open mind. I wasn't looking for clues as to which author pFrom what I have seen, reviews are mixed about this book. I started, from disk one, with an open mind. I wasn't looking for clues as to which author penned what. I was interested in the clues that pointed to the identity of the antagonist. Oh, it was quite clear that Jonathan Lincoln Ducan was the President William Jefferson Clinton wished he had been. (Except for the being a widower part.) I dare say if President Clinton could go back to critical points in his life he would make different decisions. Especially with the knowledge, he would one day be President of the United States and people would be talking and writing about him and his legacy for . . .well, forever. But who wouldn't? I know if given the chance to "re-write" certain parts of my life, I most certainly would. To me, that's what they have done with this book. President Duncan is a veteran. A decorated hero. President Clinton never served. Duncan and Clinton both have one daughter. Each was elected Governor of a southern state. Duncan is a celibate, widower, still absolutely committed to the wife he lost to cancer. Clinton couldn't seem to avoid controversy when it came to the ladies. Both face impeachment.
Told from the first person perspective the story, while littered with often longwinded lecturers from the Commander and Chief, is well organized and easy to follow. The President sneaking away from his Secret Service detail, traveling underground through those "forgotten tunnels" is reminiscent of Wesley Snipes in Murder at 1600. Similarities end there. Because while Snipes is an obviously flawed hero, Duncan is portrayed as saintly. Even so, he is likable and down-to-earth. A patriot, who loves his country.
America is divided politically and socially in the book as badly as it is in real life. I don't believe that was a coincidence. Over and over again the message is sent forth "we have to come together." (And we do.) The President is Missing is a good book. I thought there was no way five different voices would make for good listening. . .But I was wrong. The audio edition is incredible. The characters are boldly drawn and expertly delivered. The transitioning is smooth and effortless. Each voice utilizes their own special tones, inflections, and depth to create a triangular connection between narrator, character, and listener. I listened to the audio, then read the hardcover. I enjoyed both. But the narration, by such accomplished voices, puts a real zing on the dialogue. Being party neutral was a smart move. It has garnered publicity from both sides of the aisle The CEO of Showtime, David Nevins confirmed the television rendition of The President is Missing is in the works.
In a nutshell, ~ The President is Missing is realistic (as much as a fiction novel can be expected to be), suspenseful, thrilling, and above all - entertaining. It could easily have been shortened by a hundred pages, but it still works. It has all the big-bang-action sequences Patterson readers love, the eloquent speeches of a polished politician, and plenty of media hype to peek your curiosity. Grab a copy - if nothing else, you'll be able to opine around the water cooler.
Happy Listening,
RJ
Merged review:
From what I have seen, reviews are mixed about this book. I started, from disk one, with an open mind. I wasn't looking for clues as to which author penned what. I was interested in the clues that pointed to the identity of the antagonist. Oh, it was quite clear that Jonathan Lincoln Ducan was the President William Jefferson Clinton wished he had been. (Except for the being a widower part.) I dare say if President Clinton could go back to critical points in his life he would make different decisions. Especially with the knowledge, he would one day be President of the United States and people would be talking and writing about him and his legacy for . . .well, forever. But who wouldn't? I know if given the chance to "re-write" certain parts of my life, I most certainly would. To me, that's what they have done with this book. President Duncan is a veteran. A decorated hero. President Clinton never served. Duncan and Clinton both have one daughter. Each was elected Governor of a southern state. Duncan is a celibate, widower, still absolutely committed to the wife he lost to cancer. Clinton couldn't seem to avoid controversy when it came to the ladies. Both face impeachment.
Told from the first person perspective the story, while littered with often longwinded lecturers from the Commander and Chief, is well organized and easy to follow. The President sneaking away from his Secret Service detail, traveling underground through those "forgotten tunnels" is reminiscent of Wesley Snipes in Murder at 1600. Similarities end there. Because while Snipes is an obviously flawed hero, Duncan is portrayed as saintly. Even so, he is likable and down-to-earth. A patriot, who loves his country.
America is divided politically and socially in the book as badly as it is in real life. I don't believe that was a coincidence. Over and over again the message is sent forth "we have to come together." (And we do.) The President is Missing is a good book. I thought there was no way five different voices would make for good listening. . .But I was wrong. The audio edition is incredible. The characters are boldly drawn and expertly delivered. The transitioning is smooth and effortless. Each voice utilizes their own special tones, inflections, and depth to create a triangular connection between narrator, character, and listener. I listened to the audio, then read the hardcover. I enjoyed both. But the narration, by such accomplished voices, puts a real zing on the dialogue. Being party neutral was a smart move. It has garnered publicity from both sides of the aisle The CEO of Showtime, David Nevins confirmed the television rendition of The President is Missing is in the works.
In a nutshell, ~ The President is Missing is realistic (as much as a fiction novel can be expected to be), suspenseful, thrilling, and above all - entertaining. It could easily have been shortened by a hundred pages, but it still works. It has all the big-bang-action sequences Patterson readers love, the eloquent speeches of a polished politician, and plenty of media hype to peek your curiosity. Grab a copy - if nothing else, you'll be able to opine around the water cooler.
Set in 1893 Michigan, Maggie Elizabeth Harrington is barely 13 years old and has already known more heartache than most twice her age. She lives with Set in 1893 Michigan, Maggie Elizabeth Harrington is barely 13 years old and has already known more heartache than most twice her age. She lives with her father and grandmother. Her mother died during childbirth. Maggie's father works long hours in the mines and does not hesitate to kill helpless kittens simply because he doesn't want to feed them.
This is a powerful story, told through the perspective of a thirteen-year-old girl. Seeing the world through her eyes invites the reader to remember a time in our own lives when we thought all problems could be solved. Nothing was too big and just because something had always been done, didn't mean it should be done. Maggie questions everything, then replays it over and over until she works it out within her own mind. She's fiercely independent, determined to make her life her own on her terms, her way. She even questions why grown-ups make Heaven so complicated.
This book is not a feel good, Maggie gets everything she's ever dreamed of kind-a-story. "Life isn't fair" plays out in full, turn of the century color as Maggie Harrington tries to save the orphaned wolf pups and love Tommie Stetter too. Maggie's connection to the wolf pups comes from deep within, more than an attempt to be politically correct. She can relate to them. She truly understands their loneliness, their fear, their need for love and guidance. It's no different than her own.
This story transcends time. Yes, it's set it 1893. But it could very well be 1993, 2023...the needs are the same no matter the era. Maggie Elizabeth Harrington is a short, fast read with a strong central character wise beyond her years. Grab a copy and a quiet corner
Merged review:
Set in 1893 Michigan, Maggie Elizabeth Harrington is barely 13 years old and has already known more heartache than most twice her age. She lives with her father and grandmother. Her mother died during childbirth. Maggie's father works long hours in the mines and does not hesitate to kill helpless kittens simply because he doesn't want to feed them.
This is a powerful story, told through the perspective of a thirteen-year-old girl. Seeing the world through her eyes invites the reader to remember a time in our own lives when we thought all problems could be solved. Nothing was too big and just because something had always been done, didn't mean it should be done. Maggie questions everything, then replays it over and over until she works it out within her own mind. She's fiercely independent, determined to make her life her own on her terms, her way. She even questions why grown-ups make Heaven so complicated.
This book is not a feel good, Maggie gets everything she's ever dreamed of kind-a-story. "Life isn't fair" plays out in full, turn of the century color as Maggie Harrington tries to save the orphaned wolf pups and love Tommie Stetter too. Maggie's connection to the wolf pups comes from deep within, more than an attempt to be politically correct. She can relate to them. She truly understands their loneliness, their fear, their need for love and guidance. It's no different than her own.
This story transcends time. Yes, it's set it 1893. But it could very well be 1993, 2023...the needs are the same no matter the era. Maggie Elizabeth Harrington is a short, fast read with a strong central character wise beyond her years. Grab a copy and a quiet corner...more
Built as an apartment complex in 1929, then the Great Depression hit, and the European styled monstrosity became a hide-a-way for Hollywood A lister'sBuilt as an apartment complex in 1929, then the Great Depression hit, and the European styled monstrosity became a hide-a-way for Hollywood A lister's. Every "room" is a complete living area, gorgeous and littered with antiques. Personality. That's the word that comes to mind to describe this hotel. Loaded with personality.
You're probably thinking "Uh, I don't know, I don't usually read books like this." That's exactly what I thought too. But the cover photo nudged me out of my comfort zone and into the unknown with a digital copy of The Castle on Sunset. Yeah, the full title is a bit wordy. That should have been a clue that the writing might be too. . .In places, Levy does get heavy handed with historical backstories, while in others a little more information would have been appreciated. There were a few times the narrative was gossipy and felt more like I was reading a grocery store magazine. Then suddenly Levy seemed to find his footing and we were back to the classy, fluid writing for which he is known. Although I understand the reasons for limiting photos, having more is always great. As for research...Wow! Shawn Levy takes readers all the way back to the onion fields that once populated the ground and journeys us through to the present day, revealing a lot of the "stuff" that makes Chateau Marmont...well...Chateau Marmont.
Teetering on a cliff, overlooking Sunset, Chateau Marmont is in a league of her own. There's no way to get a travel advisory app to compare this hotel to any other - because she is a one-of-a-kind. Just like each of her bungalows, no two are the same. Each is fully equipped with everything a guest needs to stay a night, a week. or whatever. Pop stars, rock stars, movie stars, has-beens, are being, and wannabes. The clientele at Chateau Marmont is as diverse as her atmosphere. There are many well-known stories included in the book and the guest registers read like a who's who of the mega-stars -- Katherine Hepburn, Anthony Perkins, and Duke Ellington just a few to pique your curiosity.
Evolving and changing ever so slightly -- just enough to stay relevant and "in vogue." Chateau Marmont has stood as a silent observer to history. Until now. Shawn Levy's "The Castle on Sunset" has given her a voice. With every paragraph, it is as if her walls are whispering the stories she has kept to herself for nearly a century. Levy's The Castle on Sunset is most definitely worth a read.
Happy Reading,
RJ
Merged review:
Built as an apartment complex in 1929, then the Great Depression hit, and the European styled monstrosity became a hide-a-way for Hollywood A lister's. Every "room" is a complete living area, gorgeous and littered with antiques. Personality. That's the word that comes to mind to describe this hotel. Loaded with personality.
You're probably thinking "Uh, I don't know, I don't usually read books like this." That's exactly what I thought too. But the cover photo nudged me out of my comfort zone and into the unknown with a digital copy of The Castle on Sunset. Yeah, the full title is a bit wordy. That should have been a clue that the writing might be too. . .In places, Levy does get heavy handed with historical backstories, while in others a little more information would have been appreciated. There were a few times the narrative was gossipy and felt more like I was reading a grocery store magazine. Then suddenly Levy seemed to find his footing and we were back to the classy, fluid writing for which he is known. Although I understand the reasons for limiting photos, having more is always great. As for research...Wow! Shawn Levy takes readers all the way back to the onion fields that once populated the ground and journeys us through to the present day, revealing a lot of the "stuff" that makes Chateau Marmont...well...Chateau Marmont.
Teetering on a cliff, overlooking Sunset, Chateau Marmont is in a league of her own. There's no way to get a travel advisory app to compare this hotel to any other - because she is a one-of-a-kind. Just like each of her bungalows, no two are the same. Each is fully equipped with everything a guest needs to stay a night, a week. or whatever. Pop stars, rock stars, movie stars, has-beens, are being, and wannabes. The clientele at Chateau Marmont is as diverse as her atmosphere. There are many well-known stories included in the book and the guest registers read like a who's who of the mega-stars -- Katherine Hepburn, Anthony Perkins, and Duke Ellington just a few to pique your curiosity.
Evolving and changing ever so slightly -- just enough to stay relevant and "in vogue." Chateau Marmont has stood as a silent observer to history. Until now. Shawn Levy's "The Castle on Sunset" has given her a voice. With every paragraph, it is as if her walls are whispering the stories she has kept to herself for nearly a century. Levy's The Castle on Sunset is most definitely worth a read.
Happy Reading,
RJ
Merged review:
ChBuilt as an apartment complex in 1929, then the Great Depression hit, and the European styled monstrosity became a hide-a-way for Hollywood A lister's. Every "room" is a complete living area, gorgeous and littered with antiques. Personality. That's the word that comes to mind to describe this hotel. Loaded with personality.
You're probably thinking "Uh, I don't know, I don't usually read books like this." That's exactly what I thought too. But the cover photo nudged me out of my comfort zone and into the unknown with a digital copy of The Castle on Sunset. Yeah, the full title is a bit wordy. That should have been a clue that the writing might be too. . .In places, Levy does get heavy handed with historical backstories, while in others a little more information would have been appreciated. There were a few times the narrative was gossipy and felt more like I was reading a grocery store magazine. Then suddenly Levy seemed to find his footing and we were back to the classy, fluid writing for which he is known. Although I understand the reasons for limiting photos, having more is always great. As for research...Wow! Shawn Levy takes readers all the way back to the onion fields that once populated the ground and journeys us through to the present day, revealing a lot of the "stuff" that makes Chateau Marmont...well...Chateau Marmont.
Teetering on a cliff, overlooking Sunset, Chateau Marmont is in a league of her own. There's no way to get a travel advisory app to compare this hotel to any other - because she is a one-of-a-kind. Just like each of her bungalows, no two are the same. Each is fully equipped with everything a guest needs to stay a night, a week. or whatever. Pop stars, rock stars, movie stars, has-beens, are being, and wannabes. The clientele at Chateau Marmont is as diverse as her atmosphere. There are many well-known stories included in the book and the guest registers read like a who's who of the mega-stars -- Katherine Hepburn, Anthony Perkins, and Duke Ellington just a few to pique your curiosity.
Evolving and changing ever so slightly -- just enough to stay relevant and "in vogue." Chateau Marmont has stood as a silent observer to history. Until now. Shawn Levy's "The Castle on Sunset" has given her a voice. With every paragraph, it is as if her walls are whispering the stories she has kept to herself for nearly a century. Levy's The Castle on Sunset is most definitely worth a read.
The Perfect Wife is a cross between a good mystery and a sci-fi, techno-thriller. On the one hand, you have a wife that is missing and all the juicy uThe Perfect Wife is a cross between a good mystery and a sci-fi, techno-thriller. On the one hand, you have a wife that is missing and all the juicy unanswered questions that go along with that. On the other hand, you have a robotic-companion, created by a "distraught husband" that is the spitting image of the missing wife. What? Yep! The technological genius built an exact replica of his missing wife. Now everyone that has lost someone you love can relate to wanting them back - to missing them so much it is literally painful. But to go so far as to build a robotic resemblance - - -that is just plain creepy. Not to mention the ramifications of such a thing on the children. Morally, ethically, where do we draw the techno line? How far is too far?
But let's table that deep stuff and concentrate on the story. Delaney does a pretty good job of keeping the reader unsure and guessing. The technology is frightening and all too real. When robo-Abbie begins to question not only her programmed memories but the programmer, I literally felt my rate double. The unusual use of second person narration made the story read oddly to me. Maybe it's just me and other readers will be fine with it. I found it interrupted the flow and made it feel choppy and disjointed. While I understand the differentiation between the characters, I feel there was a better way to present this to the reader. I don't read science fiction very often, so you don't have to be a sci-fi lover to enjoy this novel. The science is interesting and scarrie but it doesn't dominate nor drive the story. At its' core, this is a suspense/thriller and it's a pretty-darned-good-one.
I have to start by admitting Poe has always been my hands down, by far, absolute, #1 all-time favorite author. This is just my second literary adventuI have to start by admitting Poe has always been my hands down, by far, absolute, #1 all-time favorite author. This is just my second literary adventure into Magna, so I still have to catch and correct my reading direction. (Magna is read right to left.)
Some of Poe's most popular stories are included. "The Tell-Tale Heart" is a five-star example of eerie, gothic prose. The artwork by Virginia-Nitouhei is nothing short of amazing. "The Cask of Amontillado" is another scary tale of murder that stays with you. I felt Chagen's cube style was granular and difficult to follow. 'The Masque of the Red Death" was brought to life by Uka Nagao' stunning illustrations. "The Fall of the House of Usher' has always been toward the bottom of my favorite Poe stories. However, incredible art by Linus Liu drew me into the story like never before. Of course, "The Raven" is one Poe work that needs no introduction. The art by Pikomaro was eerily beautiful and easy to follow.
A Magna newbie this was a real treat. I enjoyed it so much I want the hardcover edition to share with my granddaughter. Magna is a wonderful way to introduce a new generation to the genius work of writers long since passed.
4.5 Stars Curse of the Dead-Eyed Doll is a YA story with middle school'ers being the target audience. I am many, many moons from school age, middle or 4.5 Stars Curse of the Dead-Eyed Doll is a YA story with middle school'ers being the target audience. I am many, many moons from school age, middle or otherwise. But I enjoy YA titles. I like being in 'the know' about what my granddaughter will be reading. Although an advanced reader, she is a couple of years from middle school. She really loves spooky, creepy stories, so we read this together. She loved it!
The story centers around a doll named Robert currently on display in a Key West, Florida museum. Before entering Robert's room visitors are instructed to be respectful at all times and if they want a photo, to ask Robert's consent first. All the students comply, except one. (There is always one.) Al doesn't believe in such mumbo-jumbo. So acting the part of class smarty-pants, he insults Robert the doll and snaps a picture without permission.
Soon after strange things start happening. He chalks his sudden case of bad luck up to coincidence. There's no such thing as haunted dolls. As the reader sees Al spiraling into a frenzied state of near insanity his denial of the supernatural ring more and more hollow. Is Al being haunted by Robert or is he driving himself mad?
I am flipping the pages like 'mad'. . . Curious to know what happens next. The author's vocabulary, overall pacing, and characters were well thought out. I kept wondering about Al's Mother. I would've liked an explanation of her absence. My granddaughter asked about her too. She thought if his Mom had been there, he could've confided in her. We both wished the story had been a little longer. Maybe then some of the important sections would have felt more realistic, vs. stated and rushed past. All said this is an excellent, very creepy, rapid read that saves the real chiller to last. Standing your hair on end with five little words -- "Based on a true story." Don't miss this one. (You wouldn't want to insult Robert. LOL)...more
This is a magical, imaginative, and fun, fast read for middle graders. The story focuses on a young girl named Tessa and an old tale her Grandfather (This is a magical, imaginative, and fun, fast read for middle graders. The story focuses on a young girl named Tessa and an old tale her Grandfather (Opa in Switzerland, Germany) told her. She was very close to him and was struggling to deal with his death. So she was determined to find the gnome-like creatures called Barbegazi that once saved her beloved Grandfather's life.
Thus begins the snowy adventure in search of the berry-loving snow-dwellers. We follow the two main character's plot-lines, building tension and anticipation -- eager for Tessa and the young male Barbegazi, Gawain's paths to intersect. The story moved forward nicely until we get stuck inside Tessa's head -- in her thoughts. . . this bogs down the plot's progression. I found these sections boring and often felt the urge to skip them entirely.
Middle-schooler's will enjoy this tale of trust, friendship, and self-discovery. They can understand Tessa's feelings towards her Grandfather (Opa) and the importance of his role in her life. The combination of centuries-old creatures popularized in mythological folk-lore and Norup's imagination is a one, two knock-out! She has delivered a new, entertaining (and hopefully long-running) cast of characters. I look forward to the author's future works -- as she hones her craft and develops her own unique flair.
2.5 Stars for While You Sleep by Stephanie Merritt (Pegasus Books)
I was anxious t0 read While You Sleep. The creative and inviting cover art had just 2.5 Stars for While You Sleep by Stephanie Merritt (Pegasus Books)
I was anxious t0 read While You Sleep. The creative and inviting cover art had just enough spookiness to grab my attention. The author laid the foundation with the mysterious deaths a century ago. Then upped-the-ante by adding the recent disappearance of a boy acting on a dare. This could have been one-heck-of-a good read. The writing is solid and stylish. But I found it impossible to connect with Merritt's lead character, Zoe. She was self-centered and utterly self-absorbed. It was frustrating and served as a significant distraction from the central narrative.
Then I got to the "Fifty Shades" of what the hell is that doing here? That level of erotica was unnecessary. IMO it felt like a desperate attempt to shock and re-engage the reader, thus luring us to the ending. Unfortunately, I couldn't connect, didn't like, and was often (very often) frustrated with the main character. . .and "Grey" just isn't my cup of tea.
If I've counted correctly this is the eleventh novel starring fan favorite, super detective, Lincoln Rhyme. Since the '97 release of "The Bone CollectIf I've counted correctly this is the eleventh novel starring fan favorite, super detective, Lincoln Rhyme. Since the '97 release of "The Bone Collector," readers have held their collective breath each year, awaiting the next book. Thus far, author Jeffery Deaver has delivered pulse-pounding, edge-of-your-seat, stories. Some did a little more pounding than others. But that's to be expected with long-running central characters. Throughout the series, Lincoln Rhyme has worked with the NYPD as a crime scene consultant. In Steel Kiss, Deaver takes a significant risk, by "messing with" this tried and true recipe and Rhyme resigns to pursue his passion, teaching forensics and representing plaintiffs in civil litigation.
At first, it seems Amelia Sachs and Rhyme are moving in two different arenas. However, it doesn't take long before their individual cases merge together as the pursuit for Unsub 40 heats up. There's lots of classic Deaver writing here, including multiple subplots. While there's some meat on the bones - meaning these fringe stories could easily have been novels in their own right. (With a lot of work of course.) But, personally, I would prefer these "ideas" be left out until they are given the time, energy and effort necessary for me to want to read them. As is, they just get in the way of the actual story.
Jeffery Deaver is one of the best suspense/thriller writers and his character, Lincoln Rhyme is unique, brilliant and continuing to evolve. I look forward to the next one.
Listen as Mama Bird leads little animal friends on the journey to dreamland.
Bedtime can be a tension-filled, scary time for children and parents alikeListen as Mama Bird leads little animal friends on the journey to dreamland.
Bedtime can be a tension-filled, scary time for children and parents alike. Meltdowns, crying, clinging, the monster under the bed, just to name a few. The search is never ending for how to manage bedtime. Let's Go To Sleep by Maisie Reade has been one of the most effective tools I've personally used with my granddaughter. The soft, calming text was designed to encourage relaxation and deep breathing.
The audio edition of Let's Go To Sleep was the perfect addition to our established bedtime routine. Now we read the book of her choice and press play. The first couple of nights she made it through the entire CD. Curiosity more than anything kept her awake. After that, she's sound asleep in less than ten minutes. A few nights, Nana has fallen asleep right there with her. The hardcover edition has color-coded words with instructions for each. (example: speak in a whisper or use an elongated vowel sound) With the audio, this is done for you.
I love "Let's Go To Sleep." It definitely gets two thumbs up from my granddaughter. We now have the hardcover and audio editions. She wanted the book to put her "animal friends" to sleep. During playtime, she gathers her buddies and I read the book, and off to sleep, they go.
I would recommend this to anyone who has a little one overnight. (Even occasionally.)
Best selling author David Baldacci has an innate ability to create interesting characters, there’s even something different about his bad guys… it isnBest selling author David Baldacci has an innate ability to create interesting characters, there’s even something different about his bad guys… it isn’t that they are more evil or that his books contain more graphic violence – quite the opposite. Baldacci’s writing is classy. It is easy to identify with his characters, to feel for them, to be invested in what happens and Amos Decker is no exception. That said, this book is unlike any of Baldacci’s earlier works, it’s a breath of fresh air in an often stagnant genre.
Amos Decker suffered a crushing helmet to helmet blow ending his pro football career the first time he suited up. How his brain receives and interprets information was forever changed. He was diagnosed with rare cognitive phenomenons known as synesthesia and hyperthymesia. He can’t forget anything. Which for the first two decades of his career in law enforcement was a gift. Then came that horrific night, when Detective Decker, returning home from a stakeout walked into a nightmare from which he has yet to awaken. His family had been murdered – his beautiful wife Cassie shot in the head, 9-year-old daughter, Molly strangled and his brother-in-law’s throat had been slashed. Why? Who had done this? Despite their best efforts, the case remained unsolved. His life spun out of control…he lost his home, his job, and nearly his mind.
That was 15 months ago. Now working here and there as a private investigator, Decker is trying to find his way out the darkness when his former partner, Mary Lancaster tells him a man named Sebastian Leopold has confessed to killing his family. While trying to talk to this confessed killer, there’s a school shooting at his alma mater, Mansfield High. From this point forward everything speeds toward the resolution.
I have always loved David Baldacci’s writing style – he takes risks…thinks outside the box. And Memory Man is definitely outside the box, I had never heard of these cognitive conditions and after much reading on the subject, I still don’t understand it. But that’s ok. This was an interesting read that sparked my imagination and while it did seem to go flat in a few chapters, for the most part, everything was tied together and resolved by the last page. I can’t say exactly what made this novel fall short for me, except that it just didn’t have the “fire” I have come to expect when reading a Baldacci book.
If you love reading mystery-thrillers, you are going to love "Lies." T.M. Logan has taken an average, everyday family, no different than my own, and tIf you love reading mystery-thrillers, you are going to love "Lies." T.M. Logan has taken an average, everyday family, no different than my own, and turned it inside out, and upside down. Driving home one day, playing one of those "keep your child occupied in the car games" we have all played at one time or another his son spots a "Mommy car." To Joe's surprise, it is Mommy's car. Joe decides to secretly follow his wife into a hotel parking lot. But when he witnesses her arguing with their friend Ben, he cannot stay in the car. Joe intervenes on his wife's behalf and the argument quickly turns violent. Joe can hardly believe he knocked Ben out. As he is trying to check on Ben, back at the car his son has a severe asthma attack. Joe immediately turns his full attention to his son.
When he goes back to try to make things right with Ben. . .he is gone. Next thing you know Ben is missing, maybe dead, and as far as the police are concerned Joe is the number one suspect. But that is just the beginning. Then the eerie messages start arriving on Joe's phone. Ben's not dead. He's not even really missing. He is trying to ruin Joe's life. (And doing a darned good job.) Their love of social media is being used against Joe and Alice. They were habitual posters. Updating their entire lives online. Now his account has been hacked, posts, and pictures altered to make Joe look mentally unhinged and dangerous. Bless his heart, the ever-trusting, naive, go-with-the-flow Joe is forced to find his voice and stand up in ways he never imagined possible. It's either develop some umpphhh or be convicted of crimes he did not commit.
Logan's short, crisp chapters are quickly paced and nearly everyone ends with the reader hanging from a cliff by a daisy. Those cliff-hanger chapter endings did exactly what was intended --kept me up late reading. I didn't want to stop for the night. I desperately wanted to find out who was lying, about what, and why. The characters are well-thought-out and delivered with a master thriller writer's flair. The story starts off a bit slow. But stick with it. About twenty pages in you'll be glad you kept going. Joe is naive, overly trusting, and starts out spineless. He contributes to the lackluster beginning. I just wanted to grab him and say "wake up, you cannot go around believing everything these people say." His wife Alice, I didn't trust from jump street. She seemed sneaky and suspicious. . .like if she is talking and words are coming out of her mouth, then she is lying. That kind of person. Ben was creepy, scarrie, and he had an agenda. I could not wait to find out what it was. Logan's characters are so ordinary they could be your next-door neighbors. That is what makes this story so chilling. Do you love social media? Do you update your life online? After reading Lies, I will definitely think twice before pressing that "post" button in the future. I bet you will too.
Happy Reading,
RJ
*Thank you to St. Martin's Press for a courtesy copy of Lies by T.M. Logan....more
You may have watched the movie, the 2-night special, or the latest adaptation on Netflix - but you haven't truly experienced Anne of Green Gables untiYou may have watched the movie, the 2-night special, or the latest adaptation on Netflix - but you haven't truly experienced Anne of Green Gables until you read the books. I read them as a pre-teen and have re-read them many times. Published well over a hundred years ago the narrative reads a tad clunky and dated at times. But I am not saying that is a bad thing. In a world filled techno-gadgets, vampires, and witches, where something is blown-up or killed every three-seconds-- it was nice to have a stress-free, relaxing reading experience.
Anne is an 11-year-old orphan longing for a home to call her own. Despite her tender age, she had known heartbreak. It was how she chose to deal with it that resonates with me to this day. Anne looked for the good in everyone and everything and with her boundless imagination if she couldn't find it -- she simply created it. She had a light within her that refused to be dimmed. This is a timeless classic I cannot wait to share with my granddaughter. If you have never read this book or if it has been a while, sneak off to your favorite, comfy spot and reconnect with a simpler time.
If you have read even one of the Lemony Snicket books, then you know Daniel Handler is a talented writer with a quirky, unique style a2.5 - 2.75 Stars
If you have read even one of the Lemony Snicket books, then you know Daniel Handler is a talented writer with a quirky, unique style all his own. I loved those books, and I was anxious to read this one.
The story opens on Rebecca and Ben's wedding ceremony. Family and friends join the newlyweds for their reception in a park on the edge of San Francisco called Bottle Grove park. The celebration turns into an outrageous fiasco when Reynard, the officiating vicar, is caught in a compromising situation with someone other than his fiance' Nina. What follows is a huge blowout, leading to a questionable car accident where Reynard suspiciously goes missing.
Then We meet Padgett and Martin. They are a couple going in opposite directions and just don't know it. Martin owns the town's watering hole -- a bar Handler christened "the Bottle Grove." In financial trouble and sinking fast he thinks he has the perfect plan. He wants his to use his girlfriend as bait to siphon money out of a wealthy man and into his bar. The catch? His girlfriend is even sneakier and greedier.
Unfortunately, Handler's style did not translate well when paired with the Bottle Grove narrative. There were sections where his true talent would shine through; then sadly it would be followed by slow, boring dialogue. This book was confusing. I found myself reading and re-reading sentences, passages, even entire chapters in an attempt to wrap my mind around what was going on. I often felt what the author was trying to convey through dark comedy and satirical dialogue was "lost in translation." A story set amid the tech boom. A time when the division between the haves and the have nots was deeper than ever. These characters are not very likable, making it difficult to care about or connect with them. It felt to me like a lot of ideas were thrown at the reader in hopes something would stick. Love, marriage, cheating, money and how far people will go to have it. Plus a shape-shifter for good measure.
I love Daniel Handler, but I could not lose myself in Bottle Grove. For me, it was a jumbled mess that in no way represents this talented author's ability to entertain readers.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury for providing me a courtesy digital copy of Bottle Grove....more
The synopsis and well-designed cover art lured me to this book. I have not read any of this author's work prior to The Invited. I love3.5 - 3.75 Stars
The synopsis and well-designed cover art lured me to this book. I have not read any of this author's work prior to The Invited. I love spooky stories, especially those with an "other-worldly" connection. Be it real or a figment of the imagination, in the hands of a good writer I am along for the ride. McMahon lays the foundation of parallel stories then slowly pulls the reader into both. It is a fast read, with a cast of easy to know characters, delivered through tension-filled dialogue that keeps the reader invested.
Many couples talk about leaving city life behind and making a new, calmer life elsewhere. Nate and Helen took the plunge. They bought a forty-four-acre farm in Vermont and began building their dream home. The townspeople are less than receptive to the outsiders and are none too shy about it. Helen begins digging into the history of the property. She quickly discovers their property has a shady history dating back well over a hundred years. Locals have long thought it to be haunted by the ghost of Hattie Breckenridge. Convicted by rumor and innuendo in the hay-day of witch hysteria, she was burned at the stake. As Helen becomes more and more wrapped up in the history, Nate begins seeing ghostly animals manifestations that lead him on wild romps through the woods.
As tensions rise with this part of the story, we meet Olive. A teenager whose mother mysteriously disappeared a year ago. Now Olive is trying to find her mother and the treasure the two dreamed of finding that is rumored to be hidden on Helen and Nate's farm. At first, I didn't get the connection. But as the story progressed what was happening with each of the three characters intersects and all is made clear.
McMahon had a strong story going until the introduction of the ouji board. I felt like this was a short-cut, cop-out. It is cliche, has been overused, and does nothing to lift the story. Aside from that I really liked the story. I think McMahon is a talented writer. She knows how to grab a reader early in the story and keep them invested right up to the last sentence. This is a good mystery able to keep even the most astute reader interested.
3.75 stars for The Last Book Party by Karen Dukess
The old coming-of-age story gets a modern, bookish, facelift in The Last Book Party by Karen Dukess.3.75 stars for The Last Book Party by Karen Dukess
The old coming-of-age story gets a modern, bookish, facelift in The Last Book Party by Karen Dukess. The main character, Eve is a 25-year-old woman trying to find herself in the outrageous, over-the-top 80s. Set in New York, Dukess paints a stunningly accurate picture of life in NYC, Cape Cod, and Truro. Eve dreams of being a published author. Famous, beloved, and idolized by others. When Eve is offered the opportunity to spend the summer of 1987 as author Henry Grey's assistant, she is overjoyed. Working closely with the famous Grey family is an eye-opening, heartbreaking experience. Eve learns there's a lot of ugliness going on behind the flawless facade put on display for fans.
The Last Book Party is narrated by Eve, a naive booklover dreaming of the day her book will sit on the top shelf next to the authors she loves. Her path is convoluted at times and her naivety (at age 25) a bit frustrating. She makes a few bad decisions resulting in unforeseen detours and hard truths. But it was a learning experience -- mere stepping stones on her life's path. The ending was realistic and satisfying, despite feeling rushed. I liked Eve. I loved that she loved books and her adoration of writers mimics my own. All the bookish references were like extra icing on an already delicious cake. I devoured this book in one sitting and cannot wait to see what Karen Dukess serves up to readers next. I just hope the next book is longer.
You should know before you even open the cover --this is it! The finale is only four-hundred-pages away. Be prepared to stay until the end b4.5 Stars
You should know before you even open the cover --this is it! The finale is only four-hundred-pages away. Be prepared to stay until the end before you begin. While the author has written short, crisp chapters that would allow a reader a place to pause, you will not want to do that. You've come too far and it is way too intense for a pause.
Dean Koontz introduced readers to Jane Hawk in the explosive, mind-bending first book, The Silent Corner. Since then he has ratcheted-up the psychological warfare, warped reality, and turned thousands of citizens into nano-manipulated robots. Jane was once a highly respected agent, but that seems like a lifetime ago. She's been America's Most Wanted fugitive for so long it is hard to remember what it was like not to be in hiding. She has assembled a rag-tag army of everyday citizens that have two things in common. They truly believe in Jane and they would give their lives for her. You can't buy or manipulate that kind-of loyalty. Jane plays a deadly game of cat and mouse as she whinds her way to the "impregnable center of power."
Yes, there's enough background information to read this book without being totally lost. However, to truly enjoy all the nuances, and to feel a connection with Jane, you really need to read the other books first. This is a short series, only five books. I strongly recommend reading them all. If you like suspense/thrillers you will not want to miss the Jane Hawk series. Dean Koontz created a strong, independent, ferociously loving mother that we could both relate too and cheer for. Now here we are in book five. The ending has been written. All we have to do is read fast enough to get to it. But like all book-lovers, once finished we are ready for the next adventure. I am anxious to read Dean Koontz's next novel.
4.25 -4.50 Stars for Pay Attention, Carter Jones written by Gary D. Schmidt
You are gonna love Gary Schmidt's 21st Century male version of Mary Poppins4.25 -4.50 Stars for Pay Attention, Carter Jones written by Gary D. Schmidt
You are gonna love Gary Schmidt's 21st Century male version of Mary Poppins...umbrella and all. He speaks the Queens English -- and he insists on proper decorum at all times. Meet Carter Jones' new Butler -- or "gentlemen's gentlemen"as he would say.
Do you know the game of cricket? You will after reading Pay Attention Carter Jones. Each chapter heading is decorated with a word associated with cricket. It is printed in an attractive, italicized font, that while a bit difficult for older readers, youngsters will have no problem. It was a creative way to include definitions and complicated rules without muttering-up the story. For example, if I say, "bunny," you picture a cute, flop-eared, animal. Right? Wrong. "A Bunny is an unskilled batsman - who consequently appears as a rabbit caught in headlights." I appreciated the extra effort to familiarize readers with a game many readers know nothing about. But then the author included page after page of cricket into the body of the story. A wicket, true ticket, sticky wicket. Ugh! It is a swampy-mess readers must slog through to get to the heart of the story. In the midst of all the cricket there is a well-written, witty, deeply moving narrative told through the eyes of young master Jones.
The story opens on what appears to be a disastrous first day of school. Everything is going wrong in the Jones house when there's a knock at the door. Standing in the pouring rain with an umbrella as big as a satellite dish is a man dressed in a "funeral suit" and wearing a bowler. The sixth-grader thinks to himself 'no one has worn a bowler since the horse and buggy days.' After several attempts to shoo the man away and with his Mom "going crazy," Carter accepts his offer of help. We see immediately the cultural divide the butler intends to bridge. From the way he speaks -- using the "Queens English," to his proper manners, and his love of cricket. All will be introduced to the Jones family and through them to the entire middle school.
Carter learned that the Butler had worked for his Grandfather for many years. He made arrangements that upon his passing, the Butler's services would be provided to the Jones' family. So Mr. Bowles-Fitzpatrick and his huge, purple, "eggplant-looking," Bentley were here to stay. With his father on yet another deployment, his Mother definitely needed the help. The story is told from Cater's sixth-grade perspective. This gives the reader insight into his feelings and how kids react to grown-up problems. Because there's a deeper story going on inside Carter. He's dealing with his father's absence and a secret he's been keeping since their last camping trip together.
Mr. Bowles-Fitzpatrick is a delightful character that fills a void in the Jones family. Not just the absence of a father figure for the children, or a help-mate for the mother, but a deeper, more meaningful role that eases the family forward without Mr. Jones. This is a quick read. (I read it in about two hours.) It is well-written and thoroughly entertaining. Middle-schoolers will enjoy the dialogue and lunch-time shenanigans. There is a heartfelt story hiding amid all the cricket. If you can get through it, you will love this book. It's worth it.
Happy Reading,
RJ *Thank you to HMHKids and Amazon for providing a courtesy copy of this book in exchange for my honest, unbiased opinion....more
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