tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55733578218186174582024-03-19T03:48:39.634-05:00She Treads Softly~ reading and reviewing one book at a time since 2007Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.comBlogger3310125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-26181015152317459752024-03-16T22:56:00.007-05:002024-03-16T22:56:34.712-05:00What's Not Mine<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>What's Not Mine</i> by Nora Decter<br />
4/2/24; 248 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://ecwpress.com/products/whats-not-mine">ECW Press</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkWgnjJGdZIGjbEW62wzo50dePM1gl7jrKHlqq37-7DYFpr9zynDoVOX6eGtDK67LCRiGEcYIHqDfQoYD62hcONwwYyuG8rVR5j3QDVg5QAZhjRBjcpUCf5KNW6AnBSgRC3CXcouZ3FaqSgcTpCCEyQM1dQjJeDQextlybILVXgwKFG_I5ll3EBsleoUIS/s2511/whats%20not%20mine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2511" data-original-width="1568" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkWgnjJGdZIGjbEW62wzo50dePM1gl7jrKHlqq37-7DYFpr9zynDoVOX6eGtDK67LCRiGEcYIHqDfQoYD62hcONwwYyuG8rVR5j3QDVg5QAZhjRBjcpUCf5KNW6AnBSgRC3CXcouZ3FaqSgcTpCCEyQM1dQjJeDQextlybILVXgwKFG_I5ll3EBsleoUIS/s320/whats%20not%20mine.jpg" width="200" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>What's Not Mine</i> by Nora Decter is a recommended coming-of-age novel.</span></span></div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span>
</div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The
summer Bria Powers turns 16 she is living with her aunt Tash and bestfriend/cousin Ains because her
mother is long gone, her father is in jail for drug-dealing, and his girlfriend she was living with died from an overdose. During the day Bria and Ains babysit
Ains’s younger siblings. Then they both go to work at the Burger Shack. After work Bria is personally struggling with drugs, alcohol, a bad relationship with a man she calls Someboy, and trying to find her place in the world. As if that isn't enough, some male is texting her pornographic images.</span></span></div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span>
</div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Bria is not a likable
or trustworthy narrator. She will, however, elicit your sympathy
because she is such a mixed-up broken teen who needs more support than
she is receiving from those around her. She is in a rough situation that
would leave many teens struggling. The hot, dry summer and the plethora
of insects invading the area help set the desperate tone. <br /></span></span>
</div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span>
</div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The pace is steady,
but slow. There is some dark humor, but I was left mostly feeling
depressed by the novel. (It feels like a YA novel, although it is not
presented as one.) The novel does succeed in capturing the sad social
realites of fentanyl infiltrating the community and the descriptive
passages concerning the natural events of the summer are quite
well-written. It does have a satisfying ending. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to ECW Press for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via NetGalley. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.</span></span></div>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-61413249415390693952024-03-16T17:03:00.003-05:002024-03-16T17:03:22.466-05:00A History of the World in Twelve Shipwrecks<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>A History of the World in Twelve Shipwrecks</i> by David Gibbins<br />
4/2/24; 304 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://read.macmillan.com/lp/history-of-the-world-in-12-shipwrecks/">St. Martin's Press</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi38Ieu8YbOnyjli3WURlQxQJ_Sn6l2M2sjIMF0IVF6DBqQIpRY5L2-E_KNwoeBzb6AvQSWWkKPwAe7IXxd7a-BhTeSnFGl_uLt3VhdhqkpYSi4ovMVESj7p-xZrgm93tZZBF7kcpLlgzHlOf_3Vo1vqYNepY2xdBijUUTTpUKSCkqeLVUz-VZQtzCY7_l8/s2560/12%20shipwrecks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="1684" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi38Ieu8YbOnyjli3WURlQxQJ_Sn6l2M2sjIMF0IVF6DBqQIpRY5L2-E_KNwoeBzb6AvQSWWkKPwAe7IXxd7a-BhTeSnFGl_uLt3VhdhqkpYSi4ovMVESj7p-xZrgm93tZZBF7kcpLlgzHlOf_3Vo1vqYNepY2xdBijUUTTpUKSCkqeLVUz-VZQtzCY7_l8/s320/12%20shipwrecks.jpg" width="211" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>A History of the World in Twelve Shipwreck</i> by David Gibbins is a highly recommended history
based around 12 shipwrecks written by an
expert in both archaeology and diving. In the prologue Gibbons makes it
clear that the twelve shipwrecks he covers provide a springboard for
looking at the wider historical context. Shipwrecks are unique because
it represents a collection of objects used at the time of the shipwreck
and thus can be closely dated. This can offer new historical insights
into the past. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The shipwrecks examined are: The Dover Boat constructed in 1575-1520
BC; Royal cargoes at the time of Tutankhamun in 14th century BC and the
Uluburun wreck; a Classical Greece wreck off the Aegean coast of Turkey
from the 5th century BC; a shipwreck in the Mediterranean from the
Roman Empire in the 2nd century AD; 6th century AD Christianity and
early Byzantium; Tang China, the Land of Gold, and Addasid Islam in the
9th century AD; 11th century AD Viking warship of King Cnut the Great; the Mary Rose, the flagship of Henry VIII, 1545;the Santo Christo de Castello a Dutch ship from 1667; The Royal Anne Galley, 1721; the HMS Terror, 1848; and the SS Gairsoppa, destroyed
by a Nazi U-boat in the Atlantic during World War II.<i> </i>(The final version will include illustrations, an index, bibliography, endnotes, and resources.)<br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">These shipwrecks are the starting point to a larger discussion of
world history. It is well-researched and includes many ties into a wider
historical context of the time the ship would have been sea worthy. The
people, the cargo, the spread of the materials they carried and the
beliefs they held are all tied together with the 12 significant
shipwrecks and the insight they provide into the times in which they
sailed. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Admittedly, I found some of the shipwrecks and their historical context more interesting than others, but <i>A History of the World in Twelve Shipwreck</i> will appeal to those who enjoy history and especially maritime history. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to St. Martin's Press for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via NetGalley. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-36738380983763435862024-03-16T15:51:00.002-05:002024-03-16T15:51:14.362-05:00Everyone Is Watching<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Everyone Is Watching </i>by Heather Gudenkauf <br />
3/26/24; 320 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.harpercollins.com/products/everyone-is-watching-heather-gudenkauf?variant=41075512148002">Park Row Books</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTnNcl3DuFrNjXuyv9ZHrKhps0bBDMfW3IKOt9EzX8ikPZfoKWBE2T_pXuy5aiTU5zdhelNLmCsI1-ma3PExo56jv52KGrMPog4WUS9-zcXLvzLVti1m1squo6__bSLch0DYZDnQPo0twcjQY0vpy6b97mj8_ytpLOi6dIFIDrb57-CWak82mA086DgpCL/s445/everyone%20is%20watching.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="296" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTnNcl3DuFrNjXuyv9ZHrKhps0bBDMfW3IKOt9EzX8ikPZfoKWBE2T_pXuy5aiTU5zdhelNLmCsI1-ma3PExo56jv52KGrMPog4WUS9-zcXLvzLVti1m1squo6__bSLch0DYZDnQPo0twcjQY0vpy6b97mj8_ytpLOi6dIFIDrb57-CWak82mA086DgpCL/s320/everyone%20is%20watching.jpg" width="213" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Everyone Is Watching </i>by Heather Gudenkauf is a very highly recommended locked-room thriller that is absolutely riveting from start to finish.<br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Five contestants have been chosen to compete for ten million dollars on the game show <em>One Lucky Winner</em> which will be live streamed across the world.
The competition is held on a secluded estate in California and the
rules are strict - no contact with the outside world and you can't leave
the property. The contestants are given the monikers of The Best
Friend, The Confidant, The Senator, The Boyfriend, and The Executive.
Quite quickly, two facts become clear: they were purposefully chosen for
a reason and someone is out for blood.<br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Set all incredulity and disbelief aside and prepare yourself for a
well-written, twisty, unrelenting, immersive, and dangerous locked-room
thriller. The story is told through the point-of-view of three women: <span class="Formatted">Maire Hennessy, a
40-year-old single mother with a chronically ill child (The Best Friend); </span><span class="Formatted">Camille Tamerlane, a</span><span class="Formatted"> 38-year-old
</span><span class="Formatted"> therapist and popular podcast host; and Fern (</span><span class="Formatted">Fernanda) Espa,
the host of the show and assistant to the woman who is the demanding executive producer of <i>One Lucky Winner</i>.
We also learn their backstories and gain valuable insight into how the
seemingly random contestants are actually interconnected.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Everyone Is Watching </i>is fast-paced, tension-packed and thoroughly compelling from start to finish. The stakes, ten million dollars, are high, but it soon becomes clear that the challenges are very dangerous and made for revenge. What is really on the line is their reputations and exposure of secrets they hold.<span class="Formatted"> Thanks to Park Row Books for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via Edelweiss. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-38015551290766298172024-03-13T17:48:00.005-05:002024-03-13T17:48:27.087-05:00The Truth about the Devlins<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>The Truth about the Devlins</i> by Lisa Scottoline<br />
3/26/24; 384 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/602712/the-truth-about-the-devlins-by-lisa-scottoline/">G.P. Putnam's Sons</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ1IcIP8ld1Zl9PeG9e-bQOWb8Q3m4ne4R5-HKQaHPHgfnbLZ6thPtj47KXhV_o8wuhR1zxd_224uqKbOQKrxRIYMo4I6Wu6TYVZ_q6bKtq_qbPvw-5ZMKUNWkr3sgbU2PUlxm-ymqSBP2BFpvZGYikriwMmamCpeSIzXV_yYalTiaa5oMTpeiiBypRV52/s2777/devlins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2777" data-original-width="1840" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ1IcIP8ld1Zl9PeG9e-bQOWb8Q3m4ne4R5-HKQaHPHgfnbLZ6thPtj47KXhV_o8wuhR1zxd_224uqKbOQKrxRIYMo4I6Wu6TYVZ_q6bKtq_qbPvw-5ZMKUNWkr3sgbU2PUlxm-ymqSBP2BFpvZGYikriwMmamCpeSIzXV_yYalTiaa5oMTpeiiBypRV52/s320/devlins.jpg" width="212" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><div class="book-seller-cntnt">
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>The Truth about the Devlins</i> by Lisa Scottoline is a very highly recommended domestic psychological suspense novel following a dysfunctional Philadelphia family. This is an excellent, un-put-downable thriller that will hold your attention from start to finish.<br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">TJ
Devlin is the youngest son and the greatest disappointment in his family of lawyers. Both his parents, Paul and Marie, and two older siblings, John and Gabrielle,
are lawyers in the successful family firm of Devlin and Devlin. TJ, on
the other hand, is an ex-con and, after rehab, has maintain his current
sobriety for two years. The only employment he has been able to find is with the family law firm in a make-work job with the title of
investigator. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">When his older brother John is frantic because he thinks he
murdered Neil Lemaire, an accountant
he confronted with proof of embezzlement, he privately turns to TJ for
his help. TJ agrees to help him and this act of brotherly fidelity sets
into motion a complicated entanglement of schemes and deception,
especially after John falsely tells his family that TJ is drinking
again. At the same time, he is helping Gabby on a heart-breaking pro
bono case.<br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">TJ is a likable, genuine character who is honest about his many
flaws and failings. He is determined, intelligent, tenacious, but also
self-effacing and realistic. This is truly a family drama and the
interpersonal dynamics in the Devlin family play an important role. TJ
remains loyal to his family, even when it is to his own detriment. His
father is a disagreeable, unlikable character and John is an arrogant,
pompous jerk. His mother, Marie, and sister Gabby are both likable,
agreeable characters. <br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">As expected, the writing is exceptional and descriptive. The pace
is fast and compelling for most of the novel, although there is a more
even pace in the middle. The narrative is full of action and suspense,
containing a good dose of family drama and hysterics, as well as several
twists along the way. <i>The Truth about the Devlins</i> is truly an
un-put-downable, just one-more-chapter book that had me staying up
way-too-late to finish it. The pages flew by. There are several shocking
surprises and twists along the way. You will be cheering TJ on as it
seems more and more mud is slung in his direction while he is trying to
do his best. <br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>The Truth about the Devlins</i> is another winner from Scottoline! <span class="Formatted">Thanks to G.P, Putnam's Sons for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via NetGalley. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
</div>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-19390069893040695232024-03-13T15:43:00.001-05:002024-03-13T15:43:08.416-05:00The Memory Bank<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>The Memory Bank</i> by Brian Shea and Raquel Byrnes <br />
3/19/24; 328 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://severnriverbooks.com/products/the-memory-bank">Severn River Books</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaPiR1Iu-Scz067MGQXHBNe-vLS5f-4Xy3EUK-LnzTWV9nAWYCQ40pfWX0VKGKb-_FsfYlE8EDLjI-fCLrhLnKyqo1iMTHY6TafrMJhdCn9HnTfZCeOM2a6N7aqsM2rrdZiXHk2Nt96rGl40OYRGi_0oHlZ3wu3o2jSmYoSm4t0Bb9agI7S-nVBMCYGnE_/s1350/memory%20bank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaPiR1Iu-Scz067MGQXHBNe-vLS5f-4Xy3EUK-LnzTWV9nAWYCQ40pfWX0VKGKb-_FsfYlE8EDLjI-fCLrhLnKyqo1iMTHY6TafrMJhdCn9HnTfZCeOM2a6N7aqsM2rrdZiXHk2Nt96rGl40OYRGi_0oHlZ3wu3o2jSmYoSm4t0Bb9agI7S-nVBMCYGnE_/s320/memory%20bank.jpg" width="213" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>The Memory Bank</i> by Brian Shea and Raquel Byrnes is a murder
mystery that features an exciting, action-packed blend of a police
procedural and technothriller. It is very highly recommended and marks the start of an engrossing new series.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Detective Morgan Reed and new partner Detective Natalie (Nat) De La
Cruz start an investigation into a series of deaths with some
disconcerting and strange similarities. The most recent case is the
death of technology pioneer Dr. Gerald Price. The evidence seems to
point to a suicide, but after another death Reed notices a strange clue
that becomes the impetus to further investigate the two cases along with
some previous cases. Clearly, Reed and Nat are on to something as they
discover more clues, they also become targets.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Set in a near future <i>The Memory Bank</i> features cutting edge
technology that is easily to envision happening. The technology is in
the hands of the police too, and Nat is the one gifted in knowing how to
use it or who to go to for information. Reed is the one with the innate
instinct to see clues and question assumptions. The two have skills
that compliment each other, work well together, and have a dynamic
partnership. They are both great characters and I look forward to their
next case. <br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The well-written narrative moves at a lightning-fast pace and is
compelling from start to finish. Once started it is impossible to put
down. Sure, there are high-tech innovations as part of the plot, but the
technology is well-presented and the concepts are easily grasped. The
corporate treachery in the plot is readily understood as is the
heart-stopping action. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to Severn River Books for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via Edelweiss. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-86281257802860349052024-03-10T00:41:00.006-06:002024-03-10T00:41:54.207-06:00Good Half Gone<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Good Half Gone</i> by Tarryn Fisher<br />
3/19/24; 304 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.harpercollins.com/products/good-half-gone-tarryn-fisher?variant=41056493928482">Graydon House Books</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn_vLK4tI7PZlcKaaAGMiuZLDPdxhD2Z3NquXfIGEAh_rQ796CHDiCQQua7sYjvK2l1mAf1xXObDojKpuSXufJD3glsdmqsIyPoE7TJEMqla-EkEhKH3F-DRftzE85zhhWLgvlHRJB05GEoV-0s2dhyphenhyphenQTftrXT68G1XiOjWMUmmUCtRPS_qGut165E9z3X/s2400/good%20half%20gone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2400" data-original-width="1594" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn_vLK4tI7PZlcKaaAGMiuZLDPdxhD2Z3NquXfIGEAh_rQ796CHDiCQQua7sYjvK2l1mAf1xXObDojKpuSXufJD3glsdmqsIyPoE7TJEMqla-EkEhKH3F-DRftzE85zhhWLgvlHRJB05GEoV-0s2dhyphenhyphenQTftrXT68G1XiOjWMUmmUCtRPS_qGut165E9z3X/s320/good%20half%20gone.jpg" width="213" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><p>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Good Half Gone</i> by Tarryn Fisher is a thriller with two
timelines following a sister seeking her twin who was abducted in front
of her. It is highly recommended.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">When they were both fifteen, twin sisters Iris and Piper Walsh went
to the movies. As they were leaving a couple young men grabbed Piper,
threw her into a car and sped off. Iris contacted the police, but the
officers didn't believe her, assuming Piper was just another runaway. By
the time they took her seriously, it was too late. The girls were being
raised by their loving grandmother who rescued them from their
neglectful mother. A decade later after college Iris accepts an
internship at Shoal Island Hospital for the criminally insane. She
believes her sister's killer is locked up there.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The plot unfolds through two timelines. In the first Iris is a teen
looking for Piper, seeking clues about her abductors, and struggling to
continue on without her twin. In the second Iris is now in her 20's with
a son and she accepts the internship position at the Shoal Island
Hospital with ulterior motives. Both plot threads are compelling and add
important details to the narrative. They also move at an uneven pace
with several distractions along the way.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Iris is a fully realized character. Readers will know what motivates
her and drives her to proceed as she does in each time period. Piper,
her twin, has a very different personality and that also comes through.
Readers will appreciate her grandmother and the love she has for the
girls. The depiction of the grief Iris and her grandmother share for the
loss of Piper is well done, as is the obsession Iris has in her search
for her twin.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The ending requires the reader to accept a colossal dose of
disbelief, which I just couldn't do. I can often set aside disbelief and
go with the flow, but in this case it was too implausible. I can't ruin
the ending by listing all the reasons why, but let's just say it would
be paragraphs and lists. However, it can't be denied that it is an
entertaining, action-packed ending. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to Graydon House for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via NetGalley. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-53636974968420013102024-03-09T14:33:00.006-06:002024-03-09T14:33:32.708-06:00Has Anyone Seen Charlotte Salter?<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Has Anyone Seen Charlotte Salter?</i> by Nicci French<br />
3/19/24; 544 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.harpercollins.com/products/has-anyone-seen-charlotte-salter-nicci-french?variant=41074373361698">William Morrow</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWRGedKi5TtOqpbQAykG2qY50TCMViNwE1kEFHhuAlUD0eRGjOEK4WhqyzJOwthtQZHENjWvFrHRaGp4RWO7FIclkS8-FhZBRJwoTjAcav7b6v1tY4dhMdJr2XUPfJgK1bO4va0s9634h3ni6yvdtVMEyCtfWCx4aa_Jjxbppxcva8YsVZtLo-KrHsSNrI/s648/charlotte%20salter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="648" data-original-width="430" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWRGedKi5TtOqpbQAykG2qY50TCMViNwE1kEFHhuAlUD0eRGjOEK4WhqyzJOwthtQZHENjWvFrHRaGp4RWO7FIclkS8-FhZBRJwoTjAcav7b6v1tY4dhMdJr2XUPfJgK1bO4va0s9634h3ni6yvdtVMEyCtfWCx4aa_Jjxbppxcva8YsVZtLo-KrHsSNrI/s320/charlotte%20salter.jpg" width="212" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Has Anyone Seen Charlotte Salter?</i>
by Nicci French is a domestic mystery which ends as a police
procedural. This gripping story of families seeking closure while
dealing with a missing person and death is very highly recommended.<br /></span></span>
</div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span>
</div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">It is December 22, 1990 in the
village
of Glensted<span class="Formatted"> in East Anglia</span> and
Alec Salter's 50th birthday party is being held in a cleaned-up barn.
The four Salter children are present, Niall, Paul, Ollie, and Etty,
along with most of the village. It becomes clear that Alec's wife,
Charlie (Charlotte), is missing. Alec doesn't seem to care, but
fifteen-year-old Etty becomes increasingly worried and finally ends up
calling the police to report her missing. The police aren't as
concerned. As the days pass by and nothing is heard. Then the body of
neighbor and family friend, Duncan Ackerly is found in the river, a
presumed suicide, and the police tie the two cases together with no
supporting evidence.</span></span></div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span>
</div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The narrative is
presented in three parts. Part one is in 1990 and covers the missing
person case of Charlie and death of Duncan. It is mainly told through
Etty's point-of-view. Part two is set in 2022 and finds the Salter's
reunited to move their father Alec to a care facility. It has the two
Ackerly brothers also reuniting in the area to make a podcast about
their father's death and Charlie's disappearance. Part three has London sending
<span class="Formatted">Detective Inspector Maud O’Connor to Glensted
to in response to the podcast. Her job is to seriously look at the facts
and evidence to find a resolution to the 30 year-old case.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Formatted" style="font-family: arial;"><br />
</span></span></div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Has Anyone Seen Charlotte Salter?</i>
is an exceptionally well-written character-driven murder mystery that
transforms into a procedural. It was enjoyable to meet the characters
when the majority were young and living in dysfunctional homes, and then
viewing them as adults where you could see the damage the tragedies
inflicted on them and how their lives will always be interconnected. The
time span provided a full examination of them as individuals. Alec is
shown to be an angry, disagreeable man. Both Charlie and Duncan are also
developed as characters. <br /></span></span>
</div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span>
</div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> The first two parts are emotional, have an even pace, and the characters are handled with great compassion.
The switch between a character driven mystery and psychological
examination into a procedural, where the same characters are viewed by a
third party was a wonderful choice. The contrast between the two
investigations thirty years apart is disconcerting, as is the
introduction of <span class="Formatted">Detective Inspector Maud O’Connor into the plot</span>. She is an excellent character and I quite enjoyed the switch to a procedural to bring closure to the case. <br /></span></span>
</div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span>
</div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Formatted" style="font-family: arial;">Nicci French is the</span><span style="font-family: arial;">
<span class="Formatted"> pseudonym </span><span class="Formatted">adopted by writers Nicci Gerard and Sean French. </span><i>Has Anyone Seen Charlotte Salter?</i> is an excellent novel that showcases their skill and talent. This very highly recommended novel is outstanding. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to William Morrow for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via Edelweiss. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.</span></span></div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><br />
</div>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-30265897076263533292024-03-06T16:06:00.004-06:002024-03-06T16:06:37.679-06:00Still See You Everywhere<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Still See You Everywhere</i> by Lisa Gardner<br />
3/12/24; 416 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/lisa-gardner/still-see-you-everywhere/9781538765067/?lens=grand-central-publishing">Grand Central Publishing</a><br />
Frankie Elkin #3<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTHCvMKf9AHcHuJBplacany2JXbqrc2taH-Wkj6GslaR6uW4wYi5LYc036Q40KmwRNFZZBobzxgJLzZUAlLP7B_1f89nQmnJ7eB_9OJs9QMVlEGRNRuatCNfwQ0naThaVkJew_aDuaBcMQAl9nWykGe0vVpfLNvoa5y6it-KfxYZk6JM8o7TSfYRiQmgOW/s400/still%20see%20you.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="264" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTHCvMKf9AHcHuJBplacany2JXbqrc2taH-Wkj6GslaR6uW4wYi5LYc036Q40KmwRNFZZBobzxgJLzZUAlLP7B_1f89nQmnJ7eB_9OJs9QMVlEGRNRuatCNfwQ0naThaVkJew_aDuaBcMQAl9nWykGe0vVpfLNvoa5y6it-KfxYZk6JM8o7TSfYRiQmgOW/s320/still%20see%20you.jpg" width="211" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Still See You Everywhere</i> by Lisa Gardner sends Frankie Elkin
to a tropical island where her mission is to find a living girl who has
been missing for twelve years. It is a very highly recommended thriller
that is un-put-downable and compelling from beginning to end.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Frankie Elkin normally helps find the marginalized cold case missing
persons that are overlooked, so she is surprised to be asked to locate a
living person. It is the long-lost younger sister of Kaylee Pierson, a female serial
killer facing execution in three weeks’ time. Twelve years ago, Kaylee's sister, five-year-old Lea (Leilani), went missing in Hawaii. She has received a letter from Leilani.
Now she knows that Leilani is the "ward" of Kaylee's abusive
ex-boyfriend, tech mogul Sanders MacManus and Kaylee believes he
kidnapped her. Kaylee and her attorney are asking Frankie to take a job
as base camp support staff on
<span class="Formatted">the remote Hawaiian island of Pomaikai</span>
in the middle of the Pacific where MacManus is building an eco resort. Once on the island she will hopefully be able to reach out to Leilani.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">It was thrilling to read <i>Still See You Everywhere,</i> the latest novel by Lisa Gardner. Once I started reading, I
was completely immersed in the satisfying and intense plot. Sure,
readers will have to set aside some disbelief, but in such a
well-written and irresistible narrative this is not a problem. The setting becomes part of the story as the island is remote and isolated. Adding this to the limited staff makes the novel akin to a locked-room mystery with heat, humidity, and huge, omnivorous coconut crabs. <br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Frankie is a great character and it was good to see her back. She is a
recovering alcoholic who has settled into a nomadic life traveling and
picking up jobs along the way. She fits right in at the island and joins
an interesting group of characters. The development of all the
characters and the descriptions of the island are pitch-perfect. The
dialogue is engaging. As reading you will feel like you are there,
experiencing the events and the island along with Frankie. Adding to the
atmosphere are plenty of unexpected twists and turns in the plot. <br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Even though it is the third book featuring Frankie Elkin, it can be enjoyed as a stand alone novel. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to Grand Central Publishing for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via NetGalley. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-90262772570112965002024-03-06T14:28:00.002-06:002024-03-06T14:28:12.873-06:00One Moment<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>One Moment</i> by Becky Hunter<br />
3/12/24; 352 pages<br />
Forever (Grand Central Publishing)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7qJ76Xhi2nxvxgPYrs3ykZoxRTaTmxCMvwzVMVtXMyZkGS9pPs-xWXs7CTiF9hxlq6ExgRmlS-pOqDGZWcno0OLmOXJc571FD-PgVr_4emvLrBrGKjn-Z_DLuMdZRXvQndMQv9BUHKoHX-NARbMAxhgaeRE8e-dZzRxcX6PjKciAa0Q6AZjXOBpZ6y4Fo/s1500/one%20moment.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7qJ76Xhi2nxvxgPYrs3ykZoxRTaTmxCMvwzVMVtXMyZkGS9pPs-xWXs7CTiF9hxlq6ExgRmlS-pOqDGZWcno0OLmOXJc571FD-PgVr_4emvLrBrGKjn-Z_DLuMdZRXvQndMQv9BUHKoHX-NARbMAxhgaeRE8e-dZzRxcX6PjKciAa0Q6AZjXOBpZ6y4Fo/s320/one%20moment.jpg" width="213" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>One Moment</i> by Becky Hunter is a domestic drama about friendship, grief, love, and living with MS. It is highly recommended.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Scarlett and Evie became best friends after they first met at ten
years old and have been there for each other ever since. The day
Scarlett died changed everything. Now her spirit is still around,
watching Evie grieve and reliving memories of her life. Evie is
struggling with trying to live without Scarlett and dealing with her MS.
Nate, the man who Scarlett was helping when she died, keeps turning up,
trying to support Evie and help her live with her grief, while Scarlett
watches everything.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Chapters alternate between the point-of-view of Evie and Scarlett and
the two women are well-developed characters. While deeply missing
Scarlett, Evie is dealing with her grief, flaring MS symptoms, and Nate
constantly turning up. Scarlett observes this but also tells the reader
stories from her past that she now views with a changed perspective. The
depiction of Evie's love of music, grappling with grief, and her MS is
well done. Nate is an essential character to the plot, as is Astrid, a
teenage neighbor of Evie.<br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Admittedly, for me, the plot lagged a bit until later in the
narrative. I'm also not a huge fan of the spirit of a deceased character
looking on, following the actions of the living. It wasn't until much
later in the story that I appreciated what Hunter was doing in this
choice and it provides a poignant moment. The last part of the narrative
actually raised the rating for me. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to Forever for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via NetGalley. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-63280418284152260352024-03-02T21:20:00.000-06:002024-03-02T21:20:34.317-06:00Dark Dive<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Dark Dive</i> by Andrew Mayne<br />
3/12/24; 296 pages<br />
Thomas & Mercer<br />
Underwater Investigation Unit #5<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3o9dOjzEGM_y-16L5sw_CbpMeNyQZsf1G1i87KKocqnsPptJpGs6kUyamy_VMvzekbmSf7IuK6IfhF5GB5wF3bgUVqWM9QIiQCeMR57E6sa9xZl0tJU-x5xLyA8ctRbQC5G5I1z8wur-kdVUcoUQ9sVKLAkOpeHXNRA-RmMiMNW6weVnUqhnes_0nyto3/s346/dark%20dive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="227" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3o9dOjzEGM_y-16L5sw_CbpMeNyQZsf1G1i87KKocqnsPptJpGs6kUyamy_VMvzekbmSf7IuK6IfhF5GB5wF3bgUVqWM9QIiQCeMR57E6sa9xZl0tJU-x5xLyA8ctRbQC5G5I1z8wur-kdVUcoUQ9sVKLAkOpeHXNRA-RmMiMNW6weVnUqhnes_0nyto3/s320/dark%20dive.jpg" width="210" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Dark Dive</i> by Andrew Mayne brings back divers Sloan McPherson and Scott Hughes from the Florida Underwater Investigation Unit. It is a highly recommended procedural.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Sloan and Hughes are summoned by their boss George Solar to recover a coroners van and the two bodies in it from an
alligator breeding ground. After the harrowing dive Sloan had to make, their next case is that of a missing person, Fred Stafford, who is also a longtime family friend of Sloan. It seems Stafford was diving and/or treasure hunting with a group of underwater cavern
junkies called the Dive Rats. It also is clear that he was diving in the many sinkholes located in Florida and his truck is found near an
unmarked sinkhole. Sloan is concerned that they may be looking for a
body. The investigation takes some twists and turns along the way to an
exciting conclusion.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Dark Dive</i> meets the criteria for an exciting thriller/procedural, further cementing Mayne as a dependable go-to writer for the genre. <span class="Formatted">There are plenty of twists and interesting details uncovered during the investigation. </span>Although I was pleased with the main case, there is one story line that is left unresolved and a few other questions that were left unanswered. I liked the inclusion of Hughes' ROV, remotely operated vehicle, and AI into the narrative. Dangers the team face are numerous and many of them in the wild -
<span class="Formatted">big cats, alligators, crocodiles, anacondas, pythons, to name a few, along with the human threats. </span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">For those new to the series, it can be read as a standalone novel. There
is enough information and background about the characters to easily
slid into their world and enjoy the investigation. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to Thomas & Mercer for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via NetGalley. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-56730214516531630252024-03-02T15:19:00.004-06:002024-03-02T15:19:29.554-06:00Watch Where They Hide<p>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Watch Where They Hide</i> by Tamron Hall <br />
3/12/24; 256 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.harpercollins.com/products/watch-where-they-hide-tamron-hall?variant=41072618962978">William Morrow</a><br />
Jordan Manning #2<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLbt8RiNiKFY86Cd0cC7RHj19IabmrqvCkHZd-8v6yNuuhad15aw77ZuOBkFhuwsMIUu0NxEwLjDTPb2wYa4gPqnDZpnnKSjG0MJHSrpRmXz89r6m_C0Ijlzr-12DaUhZCgxoRZw6-iKlwpo83gsUK16B_020oK-69zGKzKYnPeiRbu4X2m5KneRGHS1r7/s785/watch%20where.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="785" data-original-width="520" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLbt8RiNiKFY86Cd0cC7RHj19IabmrqvCkHZd-8v6yNuuhad15aw77ZuOBkFhuwsMIUu0NxEwLjDTPb2wYa4gPqnDZpnnKSjG0MJHSrpRmXz89r6m_C0Ijlzr-12DaUhZCgxoRZw6-iKlwpo83gsUK16B_020oK-69zGKzKYnPeiRbu4X2m5KneRGHS1r7/s320/watch%20where.jpg" width="212" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Watch Where They Hide</i> by Tamron Hall follows Chicago TV crime reporter Jordan Manning as she investigates the disappearance
of an Indiana mother of two. It is recommended mystery.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Shelly Biltmore calls Channel 8 News to talk to reporter Jordan
Manning because her sister Marla, has been missing for several weeks and
she suspects foul play. Marla, who is in the middle of a divorce,
dropped her two children off at daycare and then disappeared. Shelly
doesn't think the police are taking her concerns seriously and does not
believe her sister would leave her children willingly. She thinks
Marla's husband is responsible. Jordan travels to Indiana and begins to
look into the case.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Jordan Manning is an interesting, fully realized, likeable character
and it was a pleasure to see her following clues and uncover hidden
secrets to solve the mystery of what happened to Marla. The missing
person case here has Jordan mainly following up on information her
sources uncover or reveal. It would have been nice to see some more
ground breaking discovery of information, a more intricate, interesting
plot, and some heart-stopping suspense along the way. <br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Even though this is the second in a series, it was easily read as a
stand-alone novel. I like the character of Jordan Manning and see
potential in future installments of the series. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to William Morrow for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via Edelweiss. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-32947685355911351832024-02-28T15:13:00.002-06:002024-02-28T15:13:11.396-06:00Watch It Burn <p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Watch It Burn </i>by Kristen Bird<br />
3/12/24; 336 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.harpercollins.com/products/watch-it-burn-kristen-bird?variant=41072567353378">MIRA Books</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX86j3Tb3fJmVHjp3A70Fy2ODkcChi5-p85ChkXugeeDOYgRNKzoggpi0J4YsTG7JWZATIaOxW_ezczT97MiHPsXeIw2AWwQl-z2FksSDgK7qmEpovJpGMHIgjRF1SV9LzeFha3zRqQjfl3_hudbPX5zyGcWJnnIeMpn0jYKx3WVWCDOzitpGDc_90eJWW/s3200/watch%20it.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3200" data-original-width="2125" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX86j3Tb3fJmVHjp3A70Fy2ODkcChi5-p85ChkXugeeDOYgRNKzoggpi0J4YsTG7JWZATIaOxW_ezczT97MiHPsXeIw2AWwQl-z2FksSDgK7qmEpovJpGMHIgjRF1SV9LzeFha3zRqQjfl3_hudbPX5zyGcWJnnIeMpn0jYKx3WVWCDOzitpGDc_90eJWW/s320/watch%20it.jpg" width="213" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Watch It Burn </i>by Kristen Bird is a mystery where three women
work together to find the secrets behind a woman's death and a self-help
movement. It is a highly recommended small town domestic mystery.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">When out on her morning run in the small
Texas town of Edenberg, Nichole Miller, an elementary school teacher, finds the body of 65 year-old Beverly
Hoffman. She calls 911 and then her best friend, journalist Jenny
Martin. Jenny has recently moved back to her hometown in hopes of saving
her marriage and reestablishing her writing career. Jenny rushes to the
scene and immediately realizes that Beverly's death was no accident. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Jenny and Nichole are sure Beverly's death is tied to her husband
George Hoffman and his cult-ish personal-development company Genetive.
Hoffman has bought up most of the town and controls everything in Edenberg. The two women are friends with Robin, Beverly’s
daughter-in-law, and enlist her help to expose the truth behind Genetive. Robin knows the lies, secrets, and manipulation behind the Genetive empire.<br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Watch It Burn </i>is a well-written examination of a death, small
town politics, family trauma, a self-development cult, and a
megalomaniacal man trying to control everything. The narrative is told
through three points-of-view, Jenny, Nichole, and the deceased Beverly.
Beverly is the most interesting <span class="kY2IgmnCmOGjharHErah" style="-webkit-line-clamp: 3;"><span>narrator </span></span> because <span class="kY2IgmnCmOGjharHErah" style="-webkit-line-clamp: 3;"><span>she
knows the truth. You know from the opening that you are not only trying
to solve a murder, but waiting to discover who set the entire town on
fire.</span></span> <br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The beginning of the novel does move at a slow pace and it takes some
time to really hold your attention. Once the three women decide to
register and attend a weekend retreat to the private Genetive compound,
the plot picks up the pace. The inside look into the cult of Genetive is
interesting, but also serves to increase the tension and a sense of
danger. The cult itself seems to be composed of some stereotypes
combined with some real cults. 3.5 rounded up. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to MIRA for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via NetGalley. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-26099975303051654432024-02-27T00:54:00.008-06:002024-02-27T00:54:48.410-06:00The Split<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>The Split </i>by S.E. Lynes<br />
3/8/24; 358 pages<br />
Bookouture<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKT0YVRwRrHJZGHIrFWW1ogCs1htiMYv-b_7EIjViMXTdrZasXTBkIvYGgwotkNJWvQnYhb6XyZyVfcHABnffAHenuBpeFcy_cqzEme5Y3533imDVtIzTqu_g-5kz5fCWHoEl9G7_IafopGOJ8y95XXjm2D3zobQJ84gKal4riDSWdSsASCtAypXHrczGW/s394/the%20split.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="394" data-original-width="255" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKT0YVRwRrHJZGHIrFWW1ogCs1htiMYv-b_7EIjViMXTdrZasXTBkIvYGgwotkNJWvQnYhb6XyZyVfcHABnffAHenuBpeFcy_cqzEme5Y3533imDVtIzTqu_g-5kz5fCWHoEl9G7_IafopGOJ8y95XXjm2D3zobQJ84gKal4riDSWdSsASCtAypXHrczGW/s320/the%20split.png" width="207" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>The Split </i>by S.E. Lynes follows a fractious break-up and the aftermath. It is a recommended, average domestic psychological thriller.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Jessica and Will are married and have two children. Jessica works
long hours in London and is the main support for the family. Will is a
life coach and the main care taker for the children. The morning after
they celebrated their anniversary Jessica received pictures of Will, by
all appearances, having an affair with another woman. When she confronts
him, he says it's not what she thinks but he can't talk about it. She
kicks him out of the house. This is the start of bigger problems than
their inability to talk to or trust each other.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Admittedly, I was not a fan of <i>The Split</i>. The pluses are I read it to the end. The plot is interesting, but average.
There are plenty of secrets and twists. The narrative moves at a fast
pace. It gets all the points for escapism and a sense of dread and
danger. The anger and frustration with each other seems realistic. The
characters are unlikable and gullible. As I was reading, I predicted to
myself early on what would happen and who would be responsible. I was
correct, repeatedly. Many readers will likely enjoy this for the
diversion. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to Bookouture for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via NetGalley. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-65711479999292446302024-02-27T00:09:00.008-06:002024-02-27T00:09:55.185-06:00Storm Cell <p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Storm Cell</i> by Brendan DuBois<br />
3/12/24 (originally 11/22/16); 268 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://severnriverbooks.com/products/storm-cell">Severn River Publishing</a><br />
Lewis Cole # 10<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvLXK1k9j0jNpD7wBilaqWB80HHrrAdRJsc_bXtO2_jMWSd26ARb7ee0P9Aka9L4xlGvJs-226lvIJx523xlvDLW9IGErHMijju4gufSCpNz2I2S3GE38qgHWJAEh2yQVPRIdxezznaR9Ntk00Uv6MXj7FWw3wu_yjHLvdrDiLJJ263vBPhnEYGIgVPv8D/s2560/storm%20cell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="1707" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvLXK1k9j0jNpD7wBilaqWB80HHrrAdRJsc_bXtO2_jMWSd26ARb7ee0P9Aka9L4xlGvJs-226lvIJx523xlvDLW9IGErHMijju4gufSCpNz2I2S3GE38qgHWJAEh2yQVPRIdxezznaR9Ntk00Uv6MXj7FWw3wu_yjHLvdrDiLJJ263vBPhnEYGIgVPv8D/s320/storm%20cell.jpg" width="213" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Storm Cell</i> by
Brendan DuBois finds Lewis Cole under pressure to prove Felix Tinos is
innocent of murder charges. It is the very highly recommended 10th
thriller in the Lewis Cole series.</span></span></div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span>
</div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Felix is on trial for the murder of
<span class="Formatted">Fletcher Moore and inexplicably is using a sub-par lawyer called</span>
<span class="Formatted">Hollis Spinelli</span>
<span class="Formatted"> instead of his long time go-to</span><span class="Formatted"> </span><span class="Formatted">Boston based</span><span class="Formatted"> attorney</span><span class="Formatted">
Raymond Drake. Since Lewis is not on Felix's visitor's list he can't
talk to him about it. The evidence seems conclusive on the surface, but
Lewis refuses to believe Felix is guilty. Things become more odd </span><span class="Formatted">when
two FBI agents approach Cole and tell him if he has to prove Felix is
innocent or Felix will be murdered in prison. Then, when Lewis tries to
talk to Spinelli about his defense of Felix, Spinelli sends a tough
young man to convince Lewis to back off. If Lewis had questions before,
this really raises his curiosity, and an inquisitive Lewis is a force to
reckon with.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Formatted" style="font-family: arial;"><br />
</span></span></div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Formatted" style="font-family: arial;">As
expected, the quality of the writing is exceptional and the plot is
compelling and intriguing. The investigation Lewis undertakes is
engaging and the information he uncovers is intriguing. Part of the
enjoyment is following the investigation and the clues and pieces of
information Lewis uncovers. It's also good to see reoccurring characters
from the series make an appearance in the narrative.</span></span></div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Formatted" style="font-family: arial;"><br />
</span></span></div>
<div class="overview-cntnt" itemprop="description"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Formatted" style="font-family: arial;">The Lewis Cole series is an excellent </span><span style="font-family: arial;">crime
fiction thriller set in New Hampshire that just gets better with every
book. The series is being re-released by Severn River Publishing. Most
of them can be read as stand-alone novels, but your reading experience
will be deeper and more engaging if you follow the series and have more
information about all the characters. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to Severn River Publishing for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via Edelweiss. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.</span></span></div>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-73765875170477401362024-02-24T20:59:00.003-06:002024-02-24T20:59:47.661-06:00Finding Sophie<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Finding Sophie</i> by Imran Mahmood<br />
3/5/24; 352 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/735280/finding-sophie-by-imran-mahmood/">Random
House</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgob_OZ-O9Ukk13F_vv21OalcQeGtiy3tcmVUmPDUiutZAWU3p_e_D4LxDTs8xxh5wJghWUI-pDr9ThwWam3jGFuVotUSgAtyhaDKAOZK014AEiWlUockQ-B2TcktbmS7uoTAjc7z8btto_DHEmTWUY6CTlvD9Y1butK_961dwee0RTk20PolgvHySwsQNJ/s2850/sophie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2850" data-original-width="1875" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgob_OZ-O9Ukk13F_vv21OalcQeGtiy3tcmVUmPDUiutZAWU3p_e_D4LxDTs8xxh5wJghWUI-pDr9ThwWam3jGFuVotUSgAtyhaDKAOZK014AEiWlUockQ-B2TcktbmS7uoTAjc7z8btto_DHEmTWUY6CTlvD9Y1butK_961dwee0RTk20PolgvHySwsQNJ/s320/sophie.jpg" width="211" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Finding Sophie</i> by Imran Mahmood combines a domestic drama
as parents desperately search for their missing daughter with a
courtroom drama because someone is charged with murder. It is
highly recommended.<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />
Harry and Zara King’s seventeen-year-old daughter, Sophie, has
been missing for six weeks and they feel the police have stopped
investigating. The deeply grieving parents especially want them to
question the man living in number 210 on their street. They went
door to door, talking to everyone in the area to see if they saw
or know something about Sophie. Every one talked to them or
answered a questionnaire they left except the man in 210. Now
Harry is obsessed with the man in 210 and why he refuses to talk
to them or answer the questionnaire. The standoff is about to
escalate. From the opening we know one of the parents will be
charged with murder.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The narrative unfolds between the alternating perspectives of
Harry and Zara. It also covering events in a dual timeline, the
weeks after Sophie's disappearance and a year in the future during
a murder trial. The slow start kept my interest low, but once
Harry's obsession took hold the pace becomes steady, with some
small jumps in action along the way. There are pieces of
information and clues provided during this section that don't pay
off until much later. The slow start is redeemed by the ending
when the pace and action pick up. <br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Where Mahmood excels is in his depiction of desperate, grieving
parents, Harry and Zara. Both are handling their frustration and
grief very differently, but their actions reflect their
personalities. Their grief also begins to put a strain on their
relationship. <br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The action in the court case also increases the tension. Keep in
mind this novel is set in the U.K., so the court action is
different from that in U.S. courtrooms. The dual timelines also
begin to merge here to explain more of what happened. The ending
is worth the journey. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to Random
House for providing me with an advance reader's copy via
NetGalley. </span>My review is voluntary and expresses my
honest opinion. </span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-4055689951681440252024-02-24T20:46:00.004-06:002024-02-24T20:46:27.472-06:00In Sunshine or in Shadow<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>In Sunshine or in Shadow </i>by Rhys Bowen, Clare Broyles<br />
3/12/24; 304 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250890788/insunshineorinshadow">Minotaur Books</a><br />
Molly Murphy Mystery #20<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt38NEZIlgAOVXB1CDM3wA-EohaSV3ox2NEQ1D05vMrSqhtQexG627fg78M29SPHADzKJHoetBlCG7ydUrfgj1VqQxhlvHEnNj_JZ-_c59hCOe1_uTVYOEiBdo4R-Fh5EJKOuCq7anVKD23BjFzWdnO0Qu_6JeaCS_GsY5WFSIbJcaMDsAHDG4bDNe1bY-/s2560/in%20sunshine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="1675" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt38NEZIlgAOVXB1CDM3wA-EohaSV3ox2NEQ1D05vMrSqhtQexG627fg78M29SPHADzKJHoetBlCG7ydUrfgj1VqQxhlvHEnNj_JZ-_c59hCOe1_uTVYOEiBdo4R-Fh5EJKOuCq7anVKD23BjFzWdnO0Qu_6JeaCS_GsY5WFSIbJcaMDsAHDG4bDNe1bY-/s320/in%20sunshine.jpg" width="209" /></a></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>In Sunshine or in Shadow </i>by Rhys Bowen and Clare Broyles
sends Molly out of Manhattan and up north to visit her
mother-in-law in Westchester County. It is highly recommended for
fans of the series.<br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">In 1908 typhoid is back in the city and retired detective Molly
Murphy Sullivan is expecting so Daniel wants her, along with their
toddler son and teenage ward, to go stay with his mother for the
summer. Much to her relief, her mother-in-law is a surprisingly
welcoming host. When Molly's friends, Sid and Gus, invite her to
come stay with them for a visit, she jumps at the chance. She
joins them in a visit to Sid's family in a Jewish bungalow in the
Catskills where tensions are running high and soon there is a
murder to solve. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Mother and daughter Rhys Bowen and Clare Broyles team up on this
20th installment of the mystery series. This is a typical Molly
Murphy mystery. At this point, the characters are fully realized
and developed across the whole series. The story arc is expected, a
murder will be solved, although this time it is slow to happen, which
marks the start of the investigation portion of the novel. It is a
predictable, but comfortable, plot.<br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The quality of the writing is excellent, as expected. Where it
really shines is in the descriptions of life during that time period, 1908, and all the historical information
on the early Catskill resorts. Fans will welcome this latest addition and those new to the series can enjoy it as a standalone novel. <span><span class="Formatted">This novel was reviewed in partnership with my mother who is an avid reader and big fan of the author. </span></span><span class="Formatted">Thanks to Minotaur Books for providing an
advance reader's copy via NetGalley. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-18446015481005837482024-02-22T23:47:00.006-06:002024-02-22T23:47:46.922-06:00The New Couple in 5B <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPv5Maxh8yqzMQKZav-n39F2IFL0z08tsu7nrL0TUq9_6tPvBlRzjJ6yqOwz5e9ta_GXdsDdlWSzMNYrYUu1zjrQ_LBrHl2-8fUJfltSIGPivOMce5zBXAmI8Qr4HBtsSgAyAsR_CJhwBHOlZz87rvCDdAmNNLO22Qrx9OsnIO4riPTYOojbPQupjZVOZP/s522/5B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="522" data-original-width="345" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPv5Maxh8yqzMQKZav-n39F2IFL0z08tsu7nrL0TUq9_6tPvBlRzjJ6yqOwz5e9ta_GXdsDdlWSzMNYrYUu1zjrQ_LBrHl2-8fUJfltSIGPivOMce5zBXAmI8Qr4HBtsSgAyAsR_CJhwBHOlZz87rvCDdAmNNLO22Qrx9OsnIO4riPTYOojbPQupjZVOZP/s320/5B.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>The New Couple in 5B</i> by Lisa Unger<br />
3/5/24; 384 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.harpercollins.com/products/the-new-couple-in-5b-lisa-unger?variant=41070655340578">Park
Row Books</a>
</span></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>The New Couple in 5B</i> by Lisa Unger is a mystery merged with a supernatural horror novel set in NYC in a
historic <span class="Formatted">Manhattan apartment building </span>
<span class="Formatted">in Murray Hill</span>
<span class="Formatted">on Park Avenue</span>. It is highly
recommended.<br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Rosie and Chad Lowan are living in NYC and struggling.
Rosie is a true crime writer and Chad is an actor. Right now she
needs a new book proposal accepted and he needs a good role.
During this same time the
two have spent the last year caring for his dying uncle Ivan. Much
to their surprise, Ivan has left his multi-million-dollar
apartment in the historic Windermere to them rather than his
estranged daughter, Dana. She is furious that she was not only cut
out of Ivan's will but that he gave the apartment to Rosie and Chad.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Rosie focuses the subject of her next book the Windermere. The
building had been the scene of many gruesome accidents, murders, and
incidents over the years. Even living there, Rosie can feel the dark
history and is sure she saw a ghost. It is certainly a weird atmosphere
present. Cameras are watching everywhere, the old elevator requires an
operator, and Abi, the longtime doorman seemingly always there. When two different murders occur, Rosie begins to wonder if a building can be cursed as she also questions the integrity of those around her.<br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Interspersed between the chapters following Rosie during the present
day happenings are chapters set in the 60' told from the point-of-view
of Willa, a married woman who lived in the same apartment before Ivan.
Both the story from the past and the present day intrigue are
suspenseful and increase the tension surrounding the story and the
Windermere. While reading you will become increasingly concerned and
anxious about Rosie's safety - and Willa's in the past. Rosie is a great character, however I wanted her to get a clue earlier.
</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Unger is a go-to writer for me who always excels at well-written, un-put-downable thrillers. <i>The New Couple in 5B</i>
by Lisa Unger met all those features, adding a supernatural element to
the mystery. I can't say I was a huge fan of the paranormal plot
elements, but I was glued to the pages regardless of my hesitancy. There
is enough going on that is sinister and creepy that the tension would
build anyway. There are some great twists along the way too. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Not my top-rated Lisa Unger novel, but she set the bar pretty high
with all her previous five star books. If you like a mix of the
supernatural with a mystery, this would be an excellent choice for you. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to Park Row Books for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via Edelweiss. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-49842181393383522022024-02-21T16:22:00.000-06:002024-02-21T16:22:04.559-06:00The Dredge <p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>The Dredge</i> by Brendan Flaherty<br />
3/5/24; 256 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://groveatlantic.com/book/the-dredge/">Grove/Atlantic</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_thzB5yDpAwyeNEVxCB8XrHsSJKp4e9SwvdCI4AZCNorfsZemeJ1Ikk5Z_-yc5JE6Ean_pnCiLF1HB6lut8Q5UICTvDSymtoSAvvAcvhtTYe_FqNI5dhtvwtn9Bvb7vsrfCBn9V5r776qqbLtukyrHs6-YtTUvo0k5LXoQGKy5Uee5hzfRtBKmdeOqI3F/s2500/dredge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2500" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_thzB5yDpAwyeNEVxCB8XrHsSJKp4e9SwvdCI4AZCNorfsZemeJ1Ikk5Z_-yc5JE6Ean_pnCiLF1HB6lut8Q5UICTvDSymtoSAvvAcvhtTYe_FqNI5dhtvwtn9Bvb7vsrfCBn9V5r776qqbLtukyrHs6-YtTUvo0k5LXoQGKy5Uee5hzfRtBKmdeOqI3F/s320/dredge.jpg" width="205" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>The Dredge</i> by Brendan Flaherty is a recommended debut character-driven mystery featuring secrets from the past that may emerge. <br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Cale
and Ambrose Casey are estranged brothers who grew up in rural
Connecticut. Ambrose still lives in the area and has a construction
company while Cale moved to Hawaii and sells high-end real estate. The two brothers are forced to talk to each other when they learned of a real
estate developer’s plan for Gibbs Pond and the land it is on.
Lily Rowe ended up living near Gibbs pond when that was the last place
her abusive father moved her and her brother Roy too. Now Lily is the
only one left and she is working for the development company that plans
to dredge the pond. Lily also has secrets to protect.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The narrative is mainly told through flashbacks and through multiple
points-of-view and differing timelines with abrupt shifts between them.
It all leads up to the secrets both families have that are tied to Gibbs
Pond. The tone is somber and depressing throughout. While the secrets
are revealed later in the novel, the title sort of gives away the
direction the plot will take. It really is a bit too predictable and my
attention flagged early on while reading.<br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The family secrets plot is a well-tread avenue so any venture down this road needs to be especially outstanding. Although <i>The Dredge</i>
didn't meet my high expectations for the plot, there is a lot of
promise in the portrayal of the characters. They were all complicated,
troubled, realistic individuals although, as a reader who appreciates
character-driven novels, I would have liked to see a bit more in-depth
character development of these three. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to Grove/Atlantic for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via Edelweiss. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-88347927676351798692024-02-20T02:42:00.002-06:002024-02-20T02:42:18.853-06:00After Annie<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>After Annie</i> by Anna Quindlen<br />
2/27/24; 304 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/647406/after-annie-by-anna-quindlen/">Random House</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuss5PFTCg4N2P64FOS7m1epls0z_LbH2bYW8ugjKxMSzsXp59nLQkFueyn2GuA-O4j3ytwzQkx0WC5YozkTm0ckOC4VUvcaAUgtEyphlscxCFKv3AAVURi6gznIFX_Rsy5SXOEAzjSe3o_gYe-AhPtlLSCGFSknCyspKOGA28n-30aoDOc1ZaUhqw2Rk8/s2850/after%20annie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2850" data-original-width="1875" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuss5PFTCg4N2P64FOS7m1epls0z_LbH2bYW8ugjKxMSzsXp59nLQkFueyn2GuA-O4j3ytwzQkx0WC5YozkTm0ckOC4VUvcaAUgtEyphlscxCFKv3AAVURi6gznIFX_Rsy5SXOEAzjSe3o_gYe-AhPtlLSCGFSknCyspKOGA28n-30aoDOc1ZaUhqw2Rk8/s320/after%20annie.jpg" width="211" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>After Annie</i> by Anna Quindlen is an outstanding breathtaking
and heartbreaking depiction of a family dealing with the untimely death
of a wife and mother over the span of a year. It is a very highly
recommended, exceptional literary family drama and not to be missed. One
of the best. I loved this book.<br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">When Annie Brown, 37, dies suddenly, she leaves behind her husband Bill, who is a plumber, and four children
<span class="Formatted">Ali (</span><span class="Formatted">Alexandra</span><span class="Formatted">)13,</span>
<span class="Formatted">Ant</span><span class="Formatted"> (Anthony) 11, </span><span class="Formatted"> Benjy (</span><span class="Formatted">Benjamin) 8, </span><span class="Formatted">and James 6. She also leaves behind her </span><span class="Formatted">best friend since childhood, </span><span class="Formatted">Annemarie.
No one knows how they can move forward without Annie. Bill is
overwhelmed and forfeits much of his parental responsibility to Ali, who
tries to step up and care for everyone as best she can. Ali carries the
weight and tries to keep her family going. Ant is angry and acting out,
Benjy begins wetting the bed, and James thinks his mom will still be
coming home. Annemarie, a recovering addict due to Annie's help, is
struggling with staying clean and sober.<br />
</span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Formatted" style="font-family: arial;">Quindlen is an extraordinary writer who can
deftly handle the subject matter accurately and with compassion. Anyone
who has had an untimely death in their family will understand the
emotional struggles this family is going through while trying to keep
living their day to day lives. It is a deeply moving, emotionally
charged story. Even when it seems not a lot of action is going on in the
plot, those who have experienced this will know moving on after a death
is like climbing a mountain every day. It is exhausting and
overwhelming. <br />
</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Formatted" style="font-family: arial;">The narrative is broken up into seasons,</span><span style="font-family: arial;">
<span class="Formatted">winter, spring, summer, and autumn, and
explores the inner life and practicalities of how each character is
handling the loss of a person who held them all together. The characters
are portrayed as fully-realized, complex, and realistic individuals who
are trying to continue living. Annie is present in their thoughts and
her backstory is told through them. The </span><span class="Formatted">story is primarily told through Bill, Annmarie, and Ali.</span>
<span class="Formatted">They are all faced with imagining life without Annie when she was a central part of their lives.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Formatted" style="font-family: arial;">Be prepared to cry as the characters learn to
live life without someone they loved. Yes, it is very sad, but there is
hope in their memories as well as their struggles</span><span style="font-family: arial;">. This is a very emotionally satisfying story. It is okay and good to grieve those you love. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to Random House for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via NetGalley. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-27667983135125238222024-02-18T01:04:00.001-06:002024-02-18T01:04:18.170-06:00Three-Inch Teeth <p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Three-Inch Teeth</i> by C. J. Box<br />
2/27/24; 384 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/673006/three-inch-teeth-by-cj-box/">Penguin, G.P. Putnam's Sons</a><br />
Joe Pickett Series #24<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcK4HQkm66XNgiXNfpv0adEOhxJo7JuatXZkLUIC5Om-l5PvzWWgGOiXShKXmfLINxJLSTQV-MQm8ckLG6cI76pdewbT44gydS_fOMg3Dli7e0foZgz2ztLu0lBQbn9_EoUy7n5pi11dEQRqd11Uuw6SLZERmoVMZTZrCnXCBwAE89MH4zObaCshhuBDSp/s400/three%20inch%20teeth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="266" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcK4HQkm66XNgiXNfpv0adEOhxJo7JuatXZkLUIC5Om-l5PvzWWgGOiXShKXmfLINxJLSTQV-MQm8ckLG6cI76pdewbT44gydS_fOMg3Dli7e0foZgz2ztLu0lBQbn9_EoUy7n5pi11dEQRqd11Uuw6SLZERmoVMZTZrCnXCBwAE89MH4zObaCshhuBDSp/s320/three%20inch%20teeth.jpg" width="213" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">"Mature grizzlies tend to have two- to four-inch claws and up to three-inch teeth."</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Three-Inch Teeth</i> by C. J. Box has Wyoming game warden Joe
Pickett facing a rampaging bear and enraged human. It is a very highly
recommended procedural/mystery and 24th addition to the popular, long
running series.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">When a grizzly kills <span class="Formatted">Clay Hutmacher Jr</span>.,
Sheridan Pickett's boyfriend, while he was out fly-fishing, Clay Sr.
finds his son's body and immediately calls game warden
Joe Pickett. It is clear what happened to Clay Jr. so Joe summons the
Predator Attack Team. Normally they are successful in tracking and
eliminating large predators who have attacked a human, but this time one
of the team is attacked. As attacks begin to happen across the area,
Joe is concerned that this bear is eluding everyone looking for it. <br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">What Joe doesn't know is that Dallas Cates, a man he helped lock
up years ago, has been released from prison. Cates has a list of six people that he plans to eliminate. Both Joe and Nate Romanowski are on the list of people he blames for the death of his family and he wants revenge.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The writing is excellent, as expected, and the pages just flew by in
this tension packed installment of the series. I was actually surprised
at the page count because it went by so fast. Fans of the series will know all the characters and their backstories
but those new to the series will still be able to appreciate the finely
tuned, fast-paced plot while meeting the characters. Once you read this you will want to read more books in the series.<br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The narrative alternates between Joe and Cates, which helps build
suspense and a sense of urgency. Readers will begin to put clues
together long before Joe, and Marybeth, his wife, begin to have an
inkling of what may be happening. Sheridan also makes a surprising
discovery when out on a job. <i>Three-Inch Teeth</i> is un-put-downable
and will keep you engrossed right to the surprising and shocking ending.
I can't wait for the next Joe Pickett novel! <span class="Formatted">Thanks to G.P. Putnam's Sons for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via NetGalley. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-47051330550161043342024-02-17T18:05:00.006-06:002024-02-17T18:05:55.683-06:00Leave No Trace<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Leave No Trace: A National Parks Thriller</i> by A. J. Landau<br />
2/27/24; 352 pages<br />
Minotaur Books<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5arnFTA9VGZu7JWF2Q4hGQMl4EGitN56OTr8KR0EGvD7OYJepVSEFPEQ7yxwkX2Go1HNK7iAuWDX3k5ODbq1Y7MZ0VfGavQsGnzWehbeEJTbR8JQpSEep_R4QdHs_4FFtegAPa32pL0Y5k9EHGsbioZqfO5zfV7h3vvWN7ymfcLfPVqxGA8w-vph51dsc/s400/leave%20no%20trace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="264" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5arnFTA9VGZu7JWF2Q4hGQMl4EGitN56OTr8KR0EGvD7OYJepVSEFPEQ7yxwkX2Go1HNK7iAuWDX3k5ODbq1Y7MZ0VfGavQsGnzWehbeEJTbR8JQpSEep_R4QdHs_4FFtegAPa32pL0Y5k9EHGsbioZqfO5zfV7h3vvWN7ymfcLfPVqxGA8w-vph51dsc/s320/leave%20no%20trace.jpg" width="211" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Leave No Trace: A National Parks Thriller</i> by A. J. Landau
follows a series of terrorist attacks at National Parks. It is a
recommended thriller by Jon Land and Jeff Ayers, writing as A. J.
Landau.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">When an explosion takes place on Liberty Island and topples the
Statue of Liberty, Special Agent Michael Walker of the National Park Service’s Investigative Services Branch is called by his boss and sent to New York. In spite of his lack of a security clearance, Walker ends up working with FBI Special Agent Gina Delgado. Delgado
has been placed in charge of the
investigation as the lead of the Joint Terrorism Task Force. Walker does
find a boy, Danny, who has crucial information about the attack and
must be protected. It quickly becomes clear that more attacks are
planned against other national cultural symbols by some radical domestic terrorist group.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The riveting start of this <span class="Formatted">domestic terrorism thriller</span>
takes off at a breathless pace and will quickly grab your complete
attention. The first part of the novel had all the qualities of a very
highly recommended thriller. As the action continues, however, some of
the initial momentum is lost when the investigation leave New York and
expands to other national parks. The short chapters jumping between
characters and action probably don't help as they add additional
secondary characters and action. As I continued reading there would be
chapters that grabbed my attention again, but they were followed by some
that lessened the intensity of my interest. It was also a bit of a let
down when the antagonists were identified too early in the narrative as
well as the excessive personal commentary being inserted in the story. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">One plus is that the opening of all the 98 chapters have an
interesting fact about one of
the various national parks across the country. These were all
engaging diversions and represented one of the better parts of the whole
novel. This is the first of a new series and I would definitely read
the second book in the series based on the pluses in <i>Leave No Trace</i>. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to Minotaur Books for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via NetGalley. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion. 3.5 rounded down
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-22283449211831597512024-02-17T16:45:00.000-06:002024-02-17T16:45:03.500-06:00Studies at the School by the Sea<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Studies at the School by the Sea</i> by Jenny Colgan<br />
3/26/24; 288 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.harpercollins.com/products/studies-at-the-school-by-the-sea-jenny-colgan?variant=41076253458466">HarperCollins</a><br />
School by the Sea #4<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJTcMe_TRap5ApNvMC78yIob0bJubyFtWjr18wprhBR3atnHZC7AFOSI9op27k4PoM4bChpbXFZMsRk2oqPlFOPL0gwntaLW3xVdj1ydpSKIQG8J8IgWEMcqIa88FNTazKL7PlLWVBo_zlaAAVMNxib0nJXetKEKfEdeyYgS_I9kajH4tqfrA2vPdlmJfr/s320/studies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="213" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJTcMe_TRap5ApNvMC78yIob0bJubyFtWjr18wprhBR3atnHZC7AFOSI9op27k4PoM4bChpbXFZMsRk2oqPlFOPL0gwntaLW3xVdj1ydpSKIQG8J8IgWEMcqIa88FNTazKL7PlLWVBo_zlaAAVMNxib0nJXetKEKfEdeyYgS_I9kajH4tqfrA2vPdlmJfr/s1600/studies.jpg" width="213" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Studies at the School by the Sea</i> by Jenny Colgan is highly
recommended. As a Whole, the whole series of four School by the Sea
books are very highly recommended.<br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Maggie Adair loves teaching at the prestigious
Downey House boarding school in Cornwall and she is sure she loves David, a teacher at the inner city
<span class="Formatted">Philip Dean </span>
school. After she had to cancel a summer vacation with him and returned
home to Scotland due to an emergency, Maggie is hoping to continue her
relationship with David, however, she is also misses the idea of a
different life back in Scotland. Maggie's favorite students are back, Fliss, Alice, Simone, and Isme, and bring with them their individual struggles as they
finally finish their studies at the school by the sea.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Fans of the series will applaud another addition to the series. <i>Studies at the School by the Sea</i>
is an entertaining, quirky story, but not my favorite book in the
series. New readers need to know that this series is best read in order
and the individual books won't work well as stand-alone novels. The
first book in the series, <i>Welcome to the School by the Sea</i>, was my favorite in the series. The second and third books are <i>Rules at the School by the Sea</i>, and <i>Lessons at the School by the Sea. </i>
a good final novel to end the series with, even though there are a few
cliff hangers. Now, apparently, there is news that there will be a fifth
book in the series. <span class="Formatted">This novel was reviewed in partnership with my mother who is a big fan of the author. Thanks to HarperCollins for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via Edelweiss. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses our honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-87835447949193453022024-02-17T15:36:00.002-06:002024-02-17T15:36:09.737-06:00The Rumor Game<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>The Rumor Game </i>by Thomas Mullen<br />
2/27/24; 368 pages<br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250842770/therumorgame">Minotaur
Books</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPxOAuQOeH4X7Wk9VYvuyi_lnuWij-T9iv0jPlxOxVuGveFH1i2Wb6g4IpnW_iIGpO5OwplgnIwDIOr2MVcGqWWHbdA4jwg4xhOxVMZXWttiYxdrGNneWHQPKFMLtufKQPy6YEJJzOmmg7dCLjY-xOa-3W4IHd9q5xwIIGnHHNQ9Q92bBMOkgAEyrKrPsE/s2560/rumor%20game.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="1684" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPxOAuQOeH4X7Wk9VYvuyi_lnuWij-T9iv0jPlxOxVuGveFH1i2Wb6g4IpnW_iIGpO5OwplgnIwDIOr2MVcGqWWHbdA4jwg4xhOxVMZXWttiYxdrGNneWHQPKFMLtufKQPy6YEJJzOmmg7dCLjY-xOa-3W4IHd9q5xwIIGnHHNQ9Q92bBMOkgAEyrKrPsE/s320/rumor%20game.jpg" width="211" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><p> <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>The Rumor Game </i>by Thomas Mullen is a highly recommended
historical mystery set in Boston during WWII. It is 1943 and
reporter Anne Lemire is investigating disinformation while FBI
agent Devon Muvey is preventing industrial sabotage. <br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Annie Lemire writes the newspaper column The Rumor Clinic. In it
she debunks various seditious rumors, gossip, and disinformation
running rampant around town. Although her editor isn't interested
in the story, Anne is also investigating antisemitic assaults on
teens by Irish gangs and printed propaganda being spread around
the city. Special FBI Agent Devon Mulvey is
investigating national security concerns including the fatal
stabbing of an employee of Northeast Munitions, Abraham Wolff.
Their investigations lead them to meet each other. It turns out they
knew each other as children. More importantly, their investigations
actually converge and careen toward dangerous connections to organized
crime, espionage, and domestic subversion.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Mullen's does an excellent job capturing the historical details and
atmosphere in the setting, which is essential to the plot. All the
actions the characters undertake and all the areas of Boston they
encounter reflect the city and the times in which they live. This is a
mystery that also explores the use of disinformation and power to
control the people enmeshed in the struggle for domination. Although the
action does move at a slower pace through much of the beginning of the
novel, the last quarter mark a gripping turn and a heart-stopping pace. <br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The narrative is consistently interesting throughout the novel. There
are several mysteries and questions that need to be answered and it is
the search for all the answers through the investigations undertaken by
Anne and Devon that will hold your attention even when the pace feels
slow. The interest is in seeing the intersection of the two complicated
investigations and anticipating the merging of them. The romance between
Anne and Devon is secondary to the action and intrigue they are
embroiled in investigating. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to Minotaur Books for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via NetGalley. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-39131037575292786372024-02-14T14:54:00.000-06:002024-02-14T14:54:00.990-06:00The Other Valley<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>The Other Valley</i> by Scott Alexander Howard<br />
2/27/24; 304 pages<br />
Atria Books<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBRjao_pLuVy9lNFPr_P9ucZLJVoqfJQvGjCVRC18yij7z7p6p8YBr_yZjzkFaNmhJOso99TYd89oBXamnivP6mlxP-RRv2ynwGQQHApl6yqHW5tLD-Fpoae5c7YGczDyUIEHcUsEcniXc2xvMnFFpMragUQHkozDVYmPsMwXVjDe9IB-3IS9biLthL0Ex/s2113/other%20valley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2113" data-original-width="1400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBRjao_pLuVy9lNFPr_P9ucZLJVoqfJQvGjCVRC18yij7z7p6p8YBr_yZjzkFaNmhJOso99TYd89oBXamnivP6mlxP-RRv2ynwGQQHApl6yqHW5tLD-Fpoae5c7YGczDyUIEHcUsEcniXc2xvMnFFpMragUQHkozDVYmPsMwXVjDe9IB-3IS9biLthL0Ex/s320/other%20valley.jpg" width="212" /></a><br /></span></span>
</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>The Other Valley</i> by Scott Alexander Howard is a literary
speculative fiction novel which puts a new spin on time travel. It is
highly recommended.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Sixteen-year-old Odile Ozanne knows her current reality is life in the
town in the valley where she lives. She also knows that beyond the
mountains to the west is the same town 20 years in the past, while to
the east is the same town 20 years in the future and as far as she knows
this pattern repeats ad infinitum. The border between the towns are well-fenced, carefully patrolled, and heavily guarded. In each town, the governing body
called the Conseil are the only ones who can approve a visit to the past or the future. <br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">When Odile recognizes two visitors from the future that she wasn't to
see, she realizes the implications for her friend Edme. After Odile is
accepted to compete for a
apprentice position for a
coveted seat on the Conseil, she is also talked to about her
observations of the visitors and it is made clear that she must preserve
the timeline and not intervene. <br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>The Other Valley</i> is a literary novel in a unique setting. It is a beautifully written examination of the substance of fate versus
free will, grief and love, within a coming-of-age story that turns into a larger exploration
of ethics and power. It does feel slow moving, however, and the lack of
quotation marks is likely is the culprit for the lack of smooth reading
progression as readers have to sort out the conversations for
themselves. <br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The novel is divided into two sections, Odile at sixteen and at
thirty-six, and Odile is the narrator. She is a sympathetic character
who is always introspective. The tone of the first part of the story is
more promising while the second part is rather morose. This could be an
excellent choice for thoughtful book clubs.<br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Science fiction aficionados may find some time travel continuity problems in <i>The Other Valley</i>.
Concentrating on Odile's story and simply going along with the plot
will allow you to overcome any questions. The final denouement is very
satisfying. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to Aria Books for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via Edelweiss. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5573357821818617458.post-51673871566196518652024-02-11T14:37:00.006-06:002024-02-11T14:37:36.553-06:00Under the Storm <p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Under the Storm</i> by Christoffer Carlsson<br />
2/27/24; 416 pages<a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/703046/under-the-storm-by-christoffer-carlsson/"></a></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCjwK64XXocB6qDRZe6g243-1RLtI911snvTBkzIHXvNC1VWjDIdq7UD79ggEO7lBtIdIHbpldJsrVDG1zltEWllU3Rzrp7JPLQMjh5NfM7AI1cJNSUu1FwSdEOFPG04rY1DBXMXiMvtxxAYUf07Ytx7izQMvVUzqU4mgAbANhzve8Fc2AEkiUHR_vl_F6/s2400/under%20storm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2400" data-original-width="1556" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCjwK64XXocB6qDRZe6g243-1RLtI911snvTBkzIHXvNC1VWjDIdq7UD79ggEO7lBtIdIHbpldJsrVDG1zltEWllU3Rzrp7JPLQMjh5NfM7AI1cJNSUu1FwSdEOFPG04rY1DBXMXiMvtxxAYUf07Ytx7izQMvVUzqU4mgAbANhzve8Fc2AEkiUHR_vl_F6/s320/under%20storm.jpg" width="207" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/703046/under-the-storm-by-christoffer-carlsson/">Random House</a><a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/703046/under-the-storm-by-christoffer-carlsson/"><br /></a></span>
<p></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Under the Storm</i> by Christoffer Carlsson is a highly recommended Nordic noir procedural with excellent character development. It is translated from the original Swedish by Rachel Willson-Broyles.<b><b><br />
</b></b></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">In the rural community of Marbäck, Sweden on November, 1994, a
farmhouse burns down with a young woman, Lovisa, inside. The autopsy
reveals she was murdered before the fire was purposefully set. The
investigation focuses on her boyfriend, Edvard Christensson, after officer Vidar Jörgensson finds evidence and Edvard passed out nearby. The overwhelming opinion is that Edvard is a Christensson and violent just like his father. Edvard's nephew, seven-year-old Isak Nyqvist, who loves his uncle, cannot believe he did it, but Edvard is found guilty and sent to prison, so it must be true. This fact leaves Isak feeling like he is cursed by the same bloodlines and doomed to be violent.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Police officer Vidar is initially proud of his role in the case, but
later begins to have doubts over Edvard's guilt and secretly begins to
investigate the crime again. Meanwhile, Isak feels his life is
preordained and that Vidar is always watching him, looking for Isak's
guilt in one thing or another.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The novel is broken into three parts. The first part opens in
November 1994 into 1995, and follows the original investigation and the
beginning of Isak's doubts about himself. The second is 9 years later,
in 2004 and follows Vidar's questioning the original investigating as he
quietly reexamines the case. This time period leads up to when
<span class="Formatted">Hurricane Gudrun slams into Sweden. Isak is
just turning eighteen and still believe genetics have doomed him to be
violent, like his uncle, like his grandfather. T</span>he third is set in 2017, twelve years later, when the truth is finally revealed.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The novel shines in the character development and psychological
insight into the characters of Isak and Vidar. Both characters are fully
realized. They struggle with relationships and doubts. The case impacts
and has consequences in both of their lives. Isak's story is especially
heartbreaking.<br /></span></span>
</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Under the Storm</i> does take a very measured pace in both the
plot and the action. This makes it a slow-moving novel, however this
deliberate pace leaves room for the atmospheric descriptions, psychological insights, and the development of the characters to take the forefront as the whole story progresses thoughtfully to a satisfying conclusion. <span class="Formatted">Thanks to Random House for providing me with an
advance reader's copy via NetGalley. </span>My review is voluntary and
expresses my honest opinion.
</span></span></p>
Lori Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04575196285923366103noreply@blogger.com0