Blinded by the Light
Morgan Hunt
Alyson, Books, Aug 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 1593500858
After battling cancer, nothing bothers Tess Camillo because she realizes the only thing that matters is the cliché of living life to the fullest. Of course she would like a job since the firm she worked for downsized her. When her friend Beth Butler offers her work refining software for her company in New Mexico Tess grabs it.
After Tess is through working at the Bryce Corporation she and Beth decide to visit the Lightning Field; conceptual art that at dawn and dusk turns into a masterpiece and during a storm is incredibly beautiful. They stay at a cabin shared with four other people; they begin to bond after witnessing the Lightning Field at night. However, the next morning Tess sees a body of one of the other guests in the field. The medical examiner decides it is a homicide from an electrical gadget like a taser of cattle prod. Beth has a taser and her fingerprints are the only ones on it. When Beth is arrested, Tess investigates because she knows her friend is innocent.
Morgan Hunt has written an excellent amateur sleuth tale filled with plenty of red herrings and surprising plausible twists. A subplot involving a bit of romance eases some of the tension, but the methodical investigation by Tess is what the tale is all about; in fact the kind hearted woman should consider going professional as she does a great job seeking the real culprit. Ms. Hunt is a great mystery writer
Harriet Klausner
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Saturday, August 30, 2008
The Private Concierge-Suzanne Forster
The Private Concierge
Suzanne Forster
Mira, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0778325458
In Los Angeles, the rich and famous go to Lane Chandler to discreetly handle their whims and desires. Lane’s firm THE PRIVATE CONCIERGE has earned a superior reputation for subtly and tastefully taking care of the legal needs of the elite.
However someone must have either hacked into her client database or is a TPC employee because in a short time customers have been exposed to scandal and one is murdered in a scandalous way. LAPD investigates the homicide suspecting another TPC client Ned Talbert. His friend former cop Rick Bayless thinks otherwise and begins to investigate starting with TPC and its owner whom he recognizes as arresting back in 1993 when she was the juvenile Lucy Cox. She was innocent then and innocent now, but being innocent means nothing when it comes to the criminal system where money and power enable Lady Justice to look away. Although she loathes cooperating with the man who forced her to change her name, Lane has no choice as Rick is her only hope to end the reign of terror.
This is a fascinating investigative romantic suspense as the beleaguered heroine knows her options are limited to working with a man she detests though to her chagrin is attracted to him. The story line is action-packed from the opening salvo and never slows down as the predator assaults TPC with insider knowledge. Nick is a unique protagonist who regrets what he did fifteen years ago as he falls in love with Lane; however what makes him refreshing (pun intended) is he a slob who leaves dirty plates on the floor for a mouse to clean. Fans will enjoy Suzanne Forster entertaining tale.
Harriet Klausner
Suzanne Forster
Mira, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0778325458
In Los Angeles, the rich and famous go to Lane Chandler to discreetly handle their whims and desires. Lane’s firm THE PRIVATE CONCIERGE has earned a superior reputation for subtly and tastefully taking care of the legal needs of the elite.
However someone must have either hacked into her client database or is a TPC employee because in a short time customers have been exposed to scandal and one is murdered in a scandalous way. LAPD investigates the homicide suspecting another TPC client Ned Talbert. His friend former cop Rick Bayless thinks otherwise and begins to investigate starting with TPC and its owner whom he recognizes as arresting back in 1993 when she was the juvenile Lucy Cox. She was innocent then and innocent now, but being innocent means nothing when it comes to the criminal system where money and power enable Lady Justice to look away. Although she loathes cooperating with the man who forced her to change her name, Lane has no choice as Rick is her only hope to end the reign of terror.
This is a fascinating investigative romantic suspense as the beleaguered heroine knows her options are limited to working with a man she detests though to her chagrin is attracted to him. The story line is action-packed from the opening salvo and never slows down as the predator assaults TPC with insider knowledge. Nick is a unique protagonist who regrets what he did fifteen years ago as he falls in love with Lane; however what makes him refreshing (pun intended) is he a slob who leaves dirty plates on the floor for a mouse to clean. Fans will enjoy Suzanne Forster entertaining tale.
Harriet Klausner
Friday, August 29, 2008
Exposed-Alex Kava
Exposed
Alex Kava
Mira, Oct 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0778325571
In Quantico, Virginia FBI special agent Maggie O'Dell and her boss Assistant Director Cunningham receive a note from “God” telling them not to miss a crash at 13949 Elk Grove. They race to the site where they find a dying woman from what appears to be a deadly contagion; also there is a frightened young girl Mary Louise who vomits all over them. They quickly take the pair to the secret U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases at Ft Detrick. Maggie and Cunningham are quarantined there to insure they were not exposed to hemorrhagic fever virus.
Maggie’s partner, Agent R.J. Tully investigates the case based on the little information the frustrated O’Dell provides while she remains in a secure area. The culprit seems to be working randomly across the United States using the murderous signatures of infamous serial killers, but no pattern has emerged linking the victims even as the body count rises.
This is a terrific entry in the O’Dell FBI cases as the heroine, probably EXPOSED, is forced to help from the sidelines while her partner works the field. The story line is fast-paced but as always character driven from the moment Maggie fears she ate a poisoned donut and never slows down as “God” threatens the children. Although the scenario with taunting bragging serial killers has been done before; merging it with possible biological terrorism refreshes the theme. Alex Kava writes a winning thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Alex Kava
Mira, Oct 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0778325571
In Quantico, Virginia FBI special agent Maggie O'Dell and her boss Assistant Director Cunningham receive a note from “God” telling them not to miss a crash at 13949 Elk Grove. They race to the site where they find a dying woman from what appears to be a deadly contagion; also there is a frightened young girl Mary Louise who vomits all over them. They quickly take the pair to the secret U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases at Ft Detrick. Maggie and Cunningham are quarantined there to insure they were not exposed to hemorrhagic fever virus.
Maggie’s partner, Agent R.J. Tully investigates the case based on the little information the frustrated O’Dell provides while she remains in a secure area. The culprit seems to be working randomly across the United States using the murderous signatures of infamous serial killers, but no pattern has emerged linking the victims even as the body count rises.
This is a terrific entry in the O’Dell FBI cases as the heroine, probably EXPOSED, is forced to help from the sidelines while her partner works the field. The story line is fast-paced but as always character driven from the moment Maggie fears she ate a poisoned donut and never slows down as “God” threatens the children. Although the scenario with taunting bragging serial killers has been done before; merging it with possible biological terrorism refreshes the theme. Alex Kava writes a winning thriller.
Harriet Klausner
The Blessed-Lisa T. Bergren
The Blessed
Lisa T. Bergren
Berkley, Sep 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780425223420
The Gifted are a group of thirteen men, women and children from all walks of life; each endowed with a gift from God who sends them on a mission. According to a glass map they must travel to Avignon where the papacy is headquartered. They have a message to deliver to Pope Cornelius, but the evil men endowed with the Dark One’s powers try to prevent them from reaching him. Vincenzo de Bruce and his mentor Abramo fail n their attempt to kill them.
Daria D’Angelo who was betrayed by her Uncle Vincenzo is a healer who when demonstrated God’s powers she seems to convert most who observe her. The defection of her uncle hurts her badly and she hates Abramo who held her prisoner doing horrific things to her. She and the other Gifted know what awaits them in Avignon; corruption of the Cardinals by their enemies and influencing the pope byf the Gifted who now have a loyal following from believers. A showdown is coming with the Gifted praying they are victorious.
The third tale in the Gifted trilogy (see BETRAYED and BEGOTTEN) comes to a glorious finish. The de facto leader of the group is Daria, a strong independent woman who willingly suffers for God, but remains steadfast in her love and worship of Him. Besides wanting to clean out the depraved at the papal Court, the Gifted believe that the Word needs to be spoken in the native dialect and a worshipper do not a middle man priest to pray to God. This religious thriller is enthralling, filled with action and fascinating characters, and many messages, not all subtle, for the reader to ponder.
Harriet Klausner
Lisa T. Bergren
Berkley, Sep 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780425223420
The Gifted are a group of thirteen men, women and children from all walks of life; each endowed with a gift from God who sends them on a mission. According to a glass map they must travel to Avignon where the papacy is headquartered. They have a message to deliver to Pope Cornelius, but the evil men endowed with the Dark One’s powers try to prevent them from reaching him. Vincenzo de Bruce and his mentor Abramo fail n their attempt to kill them.
Daria D’Angelo who was betrayed by her Uncle Vincenzo is a healer who when demonstrated God’s powers she seems to convert most who observe her. The defection of her uncle hurts her badly and she hates Abramo who held her prisoner doing horrific things to her. She and the other Gifted know what awaits them in Avignon; corruption of the Cardinals by their enemies and influencing the pope byf the Gifted who now have a loyal following from believers. A showdown is coming with the Gifted praying they are victorious.
The third tale in the Gifted trilogy (see BETRAYED and BEGOTTEN) comes to a glorious finish. The de facto leader of the group is Daria, a strong independent woman who willingly suffers for God, but remains steadfast in her love and worship of Him. Besides wanting to clean out the depraved at the papal Court, the Gifted believe that the Word needs to be spoken in the native dialect and a worshipper do not a middle man priest to pray to God. This religious thriller is enthralling, filled with action and fascinating characters, and many messages, not all subtle, for the reader to ponder.
Harriet Klausner
Exposed-Alex Kava
Exposed
Alex Kava
Mira, Oct 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0778325571
In Quantico, Virginia FBI special agent Maggie O'Dell and her boss Assistant Director Cunningham receive a note from “God” telling them not to miss a crash at 13949 Elk Grove. They race to the site where they find a dying woman from what appears to be a deadly contagion; also there is a frightened young girl Mary Louise who vomits all over them. They quickly take the pair to the secret U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases at Ft Detrick. Maggie and Cunningham are quarantined there to insure they were not exposed to hemorrhagic fever virus.
Maggie’s partner, Agent R.J. Tully investigates the case based on the little information the frustrated O’Dell provides while she remains in a secure area. The culprit seems to be working randomly across the United States using the murderous signatures of infamous serial killers, but no pattern has emerged linking the victims even as the body count rises.
This is a terrific entry in the O’Dell FBI cases as the heroine, probably EXPOSED, is forced to help from the sidelines while her partner works the field. The story line is fast-paced but as always character driven from the moment Maggie fears she ate a poisoned donut and never slows down as “God” threatens the children. Although the scenario with taunting bragging serial killers has been done before; merging it with possible biological terrorism refreshes the theme. Alex Kava writes a winning thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Alex Kava
Mira, Oct 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0778325571
In Quantico, Virginia FBI special agent Maggie O'Dell and her boss Assistant Director Cunningham receive a note from “God” telling them not to miss a crash at 13949 Elk Grove. They race to the site where they find a dying woman from what appears to be a deadly contagion; also there is a frightened young girl Mary Louise who vomits all over them. They quickly take the pair to the secret U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases at Ft Detrick. Maggie and Cunningham are quarantined there to insure they were not exposed to hemorrhagic fever virus.
Maggie’s partner, Agent R.J. Tully investigates the case based on the little information the frustrated O’Dell provides while she remains in a secure area. The culprit seems to be working randomly across the United States using the murderous signatures of infamous serial killers, but no pattern has emerged linking the victims even as the body count rises.
This is a terrific entry in the O’Dell FBI cases as the heroine, probably EXPOSED, is forced to help from the sidelines while her partner works the field. The story line is fast-paced but as always character driven from the moment Maggie fears she ate a poisoned donut and never slows down as “God” threatens the children. Although the scenario with taunting bragging serial killers has been done before; merging it with possible biological terrorism refreshes the theme. Alex Kava writes a winning thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Treasure of Eden-S.L. Linnea
Treasure of Eden
S.L. Linnea
St. Martin’s, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0312942168
Army chaplain Jaime Richards arranges for him to do occasional special projects for Eden where she spent three years learning eternal secrets. Her current task is to escort to safety Edenite Dr. Andrea Farmer to the World Economic Summit in Davos, Switzerland in time to prevent fiscal subversion destroying the international monetary system.
Corrupt CIA Political Officer Frank McMillan, a member of the Geneva Terrorism Task Force, believes the Garden of Eden exists and has some circumstantial evidence that ties Jaime to the biblical Garden. When the legendary Treasure of Eden surfaces with an artifact put up for bid on eBay, he no longer has doubts about either of his assertions. He plans to kidnap Jamie and torture her if need be into telling him everything she knows about Eden.
The latest frenetic action packed Eden thriller (see CHASING EDEN and BEYOND EDEN) is a terrific tale that combines biblical references with modern day intrigue. The story line grips the audience from the onset as McMillan’s plans are revealed to the reader and never slows down as an incredible amount of escapades occur in an extremely short time span. Jaime is a fabulous protagonist holding the plot together as S.L. Linnea puts her through enough adventures to turn Job into a doubter. This is a superb entry in a fascinating saga.
Harriet Klausner
S.L. Linnea
St. Martin’s, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0312942168
Army chaplain Jaime Richards arranges for him to do occasional special projects for Eden where she spent three years learning eternal secrets. Her current task is to escort to safety Edenite Dr. Andrea Farmer to the World Economic Summit in Davos, Switzerland in time to prevent fiscal subversion destroying the international monetary system.
Corrupt CIA Political Officer Frank McMillan, a member of the Geneva Terrorism Task Force, believes the Garden of Eden exists and has some circumstantial evidence that ties Jaime to the biblical Garden. When the legendary Treasure of Eden surfaces with an artifact put up for bid on eBay, he no longer has doubts about either of his assertions. He plans to kidnap Jamie and torture her if need be into telling him everything she knows about Eden.
The latest frenetic action packed Eden thriller (see CHASING EDEN and BEYOND EDEN) is a terrific tale that combines biblical references with modern day intrigue. The story line grips the audience from the onset as McMillan’s plans are revealed to the reader and never slows down as an incredible amount of escapades occur in an extremely short time span. Jaime is a fabulous protagonist holding the plot together as S.L. Linnea puts her through enough adventures to turn Job into a doubter. This is a superb entry in a fascinating saga.
Harriet Klausner
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
The Firemaster’s Mistress-Christie Dickason
The Firemaster’s Mistress
Christie Dickason
Harper, Sep 2008, $14.95
ISBN 9780061568268
In 1605 in London with plenty of circumstantial evidence abounding, the Earl of Salisbury worries about an insidious plot against King James I. He needs someone to get inside the traitors’ inner circle to learn what they are plotting so they can be stopped; that volunteer must have a special skill the conspirators would need to succeed in their plot or he would never be accepted.
Explosives expert Francis Quoynt accepts the dangerous undercover mission in which he will act as if he is against the King. Francis understands the risk. If he caught by the Royalists too soon he will hang as the counter attempt must be kept secret; if the plotters uncover his loyalties they will torture and kill him.
Francis’s former lover Kate Peach happens to be in the capital; she is a Catholic at a time when the religion is not visibly practiced in London and she is alone having lost her family to the plague. Her current lover merchant Hugh Taylor is abusive so she earns money by pretending her dad still lives so she can make gloves to illegally sell to his customers; money she saves to leave London soonest while she remains alive and not incarcerated. When she and Francis meet, their desire for one another is as strong as ever; but their trust is as weak as ever.
This is an exciting historical intrigue that retells the events of the Gunpowder Treason plot. The lead couple is a terrific pairing as their emotions seem real while the support cast is strong whether they were real like Guy Fawkes or fiction. Although at times it seems half of early sventeenth century London appears (the scorer’s sheet of characters helps) they add depth to a complex thriller that will leave grateful fans demanding more historicals from Christie Dickason.
Harriet Klausner
Christie Dickason
Harper, Sep 2008, $14.95
ISBN 9780061568268
In 1605 in London with plenty of circumstantial evidence abounding, the Earl of Salisbury worries about an insidious plot against King James I. He needs someone to get inside the traitors’ inner circle to learn what they are plotting so they can be stopped; that volunteer must have a special skill the conspirators would need to succeed in their plot or he would never be accepted.
Explosives expert Francis Quoynt accepts the dangerous undercover mission in which he will act as if he is against the King. Francis understands the risk. If he caught by the Royalists too soon he will hang as the counter attempt must be kept secret; if the plotters uncover his loyalties they will torture and kill him.
Francis’s former lover Kate Peach happens to be in the capital; she is a Catholic at a time when the religion is not visibly practiced in London and she is alone having lost her family to the plague. Her current lover merchant Hugh Taylor is abusive so she earns money by pretending her dad still lives so she can make gloves to illegally sell to his customers; money she saves to leave London soonest while she remains alive and not incarcerated. When she and Francis meet, their desire for one another is as strong as ever; but their trust is as weak as ever.
This is an exciting historical intrigue that retells the events of the Gunpowder Treason plot. The lead couple is a terrific pairing as their emotions seem real while the support cast is strong whether they were real like Guy Fawkes or fiction. Although at times it seems half of early sventeenth century London appears (the scorer’s sheet of characters helps) they add depth to a complex thriller that will leave grateful fans demanding more historicals from Christie Dickason.
Harriet Klausner
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
The Glass of Time-Michael Cox
The Glass of Time
Michael Cox
Norton, Oct 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0393067734
In 1876, her Parisian guardian Madame de L’Orme directs nineteen years old orphan Esperanza Gorst to obtain work as a lady’s maid at the home of widow Baroness Tansor. The teen succeeds though she remains ignorant of what the “Great Task” is all about. Still she tries to masquerade as a maid at Evenwood.
However, everyone can see through her disguise as she has all the qualities of a lady and none of a servant. The two Tansor sons, Perseus and Randolph court her while Esperanza becomes closer to her employer. Shockingly Esperanza realizes the Baroness still grieves the death of her fiancé Phoebus Daunt murdered by Edward Glyver over 20 years ago. While still putting on a pretense though all know otherwise, Esperanza still wonders why Madame sent her undercover inside of Evenwood.
The irony of the well written exciting Victorian thriller is those who read the first tale (see THE MEANING OF NIGHT) will know a lot more of what is happening than the bewildered Esperanza as that previous tale serves as a key to the GLASS OF TIME. Michael Cox displays his skills with that clever spin, but newcomers will enjoy THE GLASS OF TIME too because of how the author intertwines the previous plot into this story line. Readers will enjoy a great historical brilliantly enacted.
Harriet Klausner
Michael Cox
Norton, Oct 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0393067734
In 1876, her Parisian guardian Madame de L’Orme directs nineteen years old orphan Esperanza Gorst to obtain work as a lady’s maid at the home of widow Baroness Tansor. The teen succeeds though she remains ignorant of what the “Great Task” is all about. Still she tries to masquerade as a maid at Evenwood.
However, everyone can see through her disguise as she has all the qualities of a lady and none of a servant. The two Tansor sons, Perseus and Randolph court her while Esperanza becomes closer to her employer. Shockingly Esperanza realizes the Baroness still grieves the death of her fiancé Phoebus Daunt murdered by Edward Glyver over 20 years ago. While still putting on a pretense though all know otherwise, Esperanza still wonders why Madame sent her undercover inside of Evenwood.
The irony of the well written exciting Victorian thriller is those who read the first tale (see THE MEANING OF NIGHT) will know a lot more of what is happening than the bewildered Esperanza as that previous tale serves as a key to the GLASS OF TIME. Michael Cox displays his skills with that clever spin, but newcomers will enjoy THE GLASS OF TIME too because of how the author intertwines the previous plot into this story line. Readers will enjoy a great historical brilliantly enacted.
Harriet Klausner
The King of Ragtime-Larry Karp
The King of Ragtime
Larry Karp
Poisoned Pen, Oct 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9781590585269
In 1916 in Manhattan a dying Scott Joplin knows he is running out of time to insure his wife Lottie is financially set and to gain his place in the music pantheon. It deeply disturbs him that he believes Irving Berlin cheated him from credit for some work stolen from him; still he has written a musical that he hopes Waterson, Berlin, and Snyder Music Publishers will want to use. Piano student Martin Niederhoffer offers to bring the two men together as he takes lessons from Joplin and works for Berlin.
The meeting proves futile as Joplin accuses Berlin of stealing his work. Soon afterward Martin finds Joplin holding a straight razor while standing over the murdered body of Martin's peer Sid Altman.. Joplin claims his innocence and Martin needs to believe him. Nell Stanley, daughter of a former Joplin publisher, hides him while the cops want him for questioning. Martin hires hit man Footsie Vinny to pressure Berlin into giving up the musical play Joplin says he left with him, but Berlin denies it. Things turn uglier when thugs kidnap Martin’s girlfriend.
The second Joplin historical mystery (see THE RAGTIME KID) is a fascinating look at the Manhattan music world during WWI. The story line is a bit loose, but readers will enjoy the wild ride anyway as real figures like Joplin and Berlin come to life beyond the legend. The amateur sleuthing is fun to follow but it is the obsessed with insuring for Lottie’s future and how history recalls him Joplin who turns this whodunit into a concerto performance.
Harriet Klausner
Larry Karp
Poisoned Pen, Oct 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9781590585269
In 1916 in Manhattan a dying Scott Joplin knows he is running out of time to insure his wife Lottie is financially set and to gain his place in the music pantheon. It deeply disturbs him that he believes Irving Berlin cheated him from credit for some work stolen from him; still he has written a musical that he hopes Waterson, Berlin, and Snyder Music Publishers will want to use. Piano student Martin Niederhoffer offers to bring the two men together as he takes lessons from Joplin and works for Berlin.
The meeting proves futile as Joplin accuses Berlin of stealing his work. Soon afterward Martin finds Joplin holding a straight razor while standing over the murdered body of Martin's peer Sid Altman.. Joplin claims his innocence and Martin needs to believe him. Nell Stanley, daughter of a former Joplin publisher, hides him while the cops want him for questioning. Martin hires hit man Footsie Vinny to pressure Berlin into giving up the musical play Joplin says he left with him, but Berlin denies it. Things turn uglier when thugs kidnap Martin’s girlfriend.
The second Joplin historical mystery (see THE RAGTIME KID) is a fascinating look at the Manhattan music world during WWI. The story line is a bit loose, but readers will enjoy the wild ride anyway as real figures like Joplin and Berlin come to life beyond the legend. The amateur sleuthing is fun to follow but it is the obsessed with insuring for Lottie’s future and how history recalls him Joplin who turns this whodunit into a concerto performance.
Harriet Klausner
Blood Moon-M.R. Sellars
Blood Moon
M.R. Sellars
WillowTree, Oct 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 9780979453335
Pagan witch Rowan Gant and his wife Felicity are there when their special friend FBI agent Constance Mendility is shot by Felicity’s half sister Annalise Devereaux. She was the host for the evil spirit Miranda and taking advantage of the fact she and Felicity look so much alike she made it seem like her sibling was the killer and the one into BDSM. Miranda wants to leave Annalise to ride Felicity, but Rowen prevents the switch from happening. In fact both witches need a holiday from all the trauma they have been intwined in lately. Rowan, a medium who communicates with the dead, vows not to listen to them anymore because his efforts only lead to trouble for him and his wife.
Unfortunately Rowen misunderstands communication is two way and the deceased refuse to honor his wishes. One particularly insistent spirit wants to talk to Rowan. Detective Ben Storm thinks it is a young woman who wears a puncture mark on her neck and the blood from her body drained. Rowan relcutantly acqueices and learns another body with the same markings is waiting to be found. When a third woman vanishes, the niece of Christian fundamentalist Captain Barbara Albright, who insists Rowan is a devil worshipper, she pulls strings to get him to search for her relative. Rowan places himself in danger in an attempt to end the serial killings.
As usual, the Rowan Gant paranormal mystery is a thrill to read as psychic and magical powers play key roles in polcie investiagtions. Rowan wants to walk away from his responsibilities which physcially shows up with blinding headaches and bleeding, but knows he cannot as he is needed. With a bit of humor mostly to ease the stess levels of readers, , BLOOD MOON is another superb paranormal whodunit. This great Gant novel is a must read.
Harriet Klausner
M.R. Sellars
WillowTree, Oct 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 9780979453335
Pagan witch Rowan Gant and his wife Felicity are there when their special friend FBI agent Constance Mendility is shot by Felicity’s half sister Annalise Devereaux. She was the host for the evil spirit Miranda and taking advantage of the fact she and Felicity look so much alike she made it seem like her sibling was the killer and the one into BDSM. Miranda wants to leave Annalise to ride Felicity, but Rowen prevents the switch from happening. In fact both witches need a holiday from all the trauma they have been intwined in lately. Rowan, a medium who communicates with the dead, vows not to listen to them anymore because his efforts only lead to trouble for him and his wife.
Unfortunately Rowen misunderstands communication is two way and the deceased refuse to honor his wishes. One particularly insistent spirit wants to talk to Rowan. Detective Ben Storm thinks it is a young woman who wears a puncture mark on her neck and the blood from her body drained. Rowan relcutantly acqueices and learns another body with the same markings is waiting to be found. When a third woman vanishes, the niece of Christian fundamentalist Captain Barbara Albright, who insists Rowan is a devil worshipper, she pulls strings to get him to search for her relative. Rowan places himself in danger in an attempt to end the serial killings.
As usual, the Rowan Gant paranormal mystery is a thrill to read as psychic and magical powers play key roles in polcie investiagtions. Rowan wants to walk away from his responsibilities which physcially shows up with blinding headaches and bleeding, but knows he cannot as he is needed. With a bit of humor mostly to ease the stess levels of readers, , BLOOD MOON is another superb paranormal whodunit. This great Gant novel is a must read.
Harriet Klausner
Monday, August 25, 2008
The Bone Box-Bob Hosteler
The Bone Box
Bob Hosteler
Howard (Simon & Schuster), Oct 2008, $13.99
ISBN: 1416566473
As he works in Israel with his long time friend Yigal Havner, archeologist Randall Bullock continues to grieve the death of his wife; killed by a drunken driver. Nothing interests him until Yigal informs him of a cave in at a park project in Jerusalem. The authorities need an expert to evaluate and evacuate the site. The widower agrees to lead the dig.
Israeli Antiques Authority agent Miri Sharon works alongside the American when they uncover an incredible find; a stone casket etched with "Joseph, son of Caiaphas" on the outside containing scrolls that document the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. While the pair is euphoric his estranged nineteen year old daughter Tracey, expelled from Rothan College in Ohio, arrives in Jerusalem to join her dad who was never there for her; not even at her mom’s funeral as he came too late. Soon the trio is on the run from those who want their discovery interred. At the same time they are fleeing the threesome also tries to confirm their find even as the agnostic American archeologist begins to question his personal belief system.
This is an exciting religious thriller that puts a different spin to the typical Brownian theme. The story line is fast-paced from the moment the troubled Randall and Miri make their find and never slows down. Having Tracey join them adds to the deep look at the obsessive disturbed hero; but one must wonder why she was expelled rather than counseled especially since she is grieving while another student involved was allowed to remain in school because her dad showed up to defend her. Still, minor quibbles aside, readers will enjoy this fine thriller as the find has Randall questioning himself even while many want their proof buried along with the archeologist and his female partners.
Harriet Klausner
Bob Hosteler
Howard (Simon & Schuster), Oct 2008, $13.99
ISBN: 1416566473
As he works in Israel with his long time friend Yigal Havner, archeologist Randall Bullock continues to grieve the death of his wife; killed by a drunken driver. Nothing interests him until Yigal informs him of a cave in at a park project in Jerusalem. The authorities need an expert to evaluate and evacuate the site. The widower agrees to lead the dig.
Israeli Antiques Authority agent Miri Sharon works alongside the American when they uncover an incredible find; a stone casket etched with "Joseph, son of Caiaphas" on the outside containing scrolls that document the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. While the pair is euphoric his estranged nineteen year old daughter Tracey, expelled from Rothan College in Ohio, arrives in Jerusalem to join her dad who was never there for her; not even at her mom’s funeral as he came too late. Soon the trio is on the run from those who want their discovery interred. At the same time they are fleeing the threesome also tries to confirm their find even as the agnostic American archeologist begins to question his personal belief system.
This is an exciting religious thriller that puts a different spin to the typical Brownian theme. The story line is fast-paced from the moment the troubled Randall and Miri make their find and never slows down. Having Tracey join them adds to the deep look at the obsessive disturbed hero; but one must wonder why she was expelled rather than counseled especially since she is grieving while another student involved was allowed to remain in school because her dad showed up to defend her. Still, minor quibbles aside, readers will enjoy this fine thriller as the find has Randall questioning himself even while many want their proof buried along with the archeologist and his female partners.
Harriet Klausner
The 731 Legacy-Lynn Sholes and Joe Moore
The 731 Legacy
Lynn Sholes and Joe Moore
Midnight Ink, Oct 2008, $15.95
ISBN: 9780738713175
A very ill man bleeding from many orifices goes to SNN Television network to talk to Nephilim Cotton Stone. With his last dying breath he mutters " Black Needles". His body disappears before an autopsy occurs; the mortuary that picked his corpse up is nowhere to be found.
A woman in West Virginia dies from the same virus and her body also goes missing. In the Brazilian Rain Forest a woman of the Yanomomo tribe contarcts the virus.
Cotton begins to notice the pattern, but is diverted from pursuing the story when the man she loves is kidnapped in an Eastern European country. With the help of former KGB agents, Stone rescues Priest Father John Tyler. During the return she overhears the Father and the Nephilim discuss the abduction as a diversion because Cotton was getting to close to the truth. In North Korea a scientist has found a way to activate a dormant retrovirus that harms humans. She and the country’s “Dear Leader” plan to spread this lethal virus around the world; decimating the globe and leaving North Korea as the superpower. When Father John gets the disease, the Son of the Morning gives Cotton a choice.To save him she must surrender to the darkness.
THE 731 LEGACY is an enthralling thriller in which a woman with the blood of angels must decide whether to fall to the Nephilim to save her beloved Father John. Cotton knows anyone can be trapped by the darkness, but is prepared to do so willingly by joining the “Old Man” to save the priest. The plague seems plausible which adds to the tensionthat the readers feel. The protagonist is strong willed chip off of her fallen angelic father’s DNA. Lynn Sholes and Joe Moore provide another entertaining, enthralling and creative Stone thriller (see THE HADES PROJECT, THE LAST SECRET and THE GRAIL CONSPIRACY).
Harriet Klausner
Lynn Sholes and Joe Moore
Midnight Ink, Oct 2008, $15.95
ISBN: 9780738713175
A very ill man bleeding from many orifices goes to SNN Television network to talk to Nephilim Cotton Stone. With his last dying breath he mutters " Black Needles". His body disappears before an autopsy occurs; the mortuary that picked his corpse up is nowhere to be found.
A woman in West Virginia dies from the same virus and her body also goes missing. In the Brazilian Rain Forest a woman of the Yanomomo tribe contarcts the virus.
Cotton begins to notice the pattern, but is diverted from pursuing the story when the man she loves is kidnapped in an Eastern European country. With the help of former KGB agents, Stone rescues Priest Father John Tyler. During the return she overhears the Father and the Nephilim discuss the abduction as a diversion because Cotton was getting to close to the truth. In North Korea a scientist has found a way to activate a dormant retrovirus that harms humans. She and the country’s “Dear Leader” plan to spread this lethal virus around the world; decimating the globe and leaving North Korea as the superpower. When Father John gets the disease, the Son of the Morning gives Cotton a choice.To save him she must surrender to the darkness.
THE 731 LEGACY is an enthralling thriller in which a woman with the blood of angels must decide whether to fall to the Nephilim to save her beloved Father John. Cotton knows anyone can be trapped by the darkness, but is prepared to do so willingly by joining the “Old Man” to save the priest. The plague seems plausible which adds to the tensionthat the readers feel. The protagonist is strong willed chip off of her fallen angelic father’s DNA. Lynn Sholes and Joe Moore provide another entertaining, enthralling and creative Stone thriller (see THE HADES PROJECT, THE LAST SECRET and THE GRAIL CONSPIRACY).
Harriet Klausner
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Immunity-Lori Andrews
Immunity
Lori Andrews
St. Martin’s, Sep 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0312352727
DEA Agents Ted Silliman and Castro Baxter are part of a joint workforce with the Las Vegas Police Department investigating the use of the date rape drug “J”; the victims end up in many cases mutilated and dead. Evidence leads to the Fantasy Resort owned by septuagenarian Frankie “The Bayonet” DiBondi, but it makes no sense for him to deal with an illegal relatively minor remittance when his legal brothel brings in a million declared dollars a month and who knows how much of the profit iceberg remains beneath the surface. Still they follow DiBondi onto an Indian Reservation when Ted suddenly goes into convulsions and dies.
The official response is an overdose of cocaine, but Castro rejects it as inane because he knew his partner and knows what a cocaine death looks like. Armed Forces Institute of Pathology Dr. Alex Blake conducts an autopsy and agrees with Castro. She believes Simmons died from his body violently reacting with a hyper-immune response. Soon afterward his corpse disappears and DEA grabs the autopsy results and all related information to the Simmons’ death. Teaming up with Castro, Alex learns of eight other identical deaths on that same night that all tie back to a fountain in a Taos, New Mexico public square. Based on unnamed government sources the media blames Native American radical rights group Red Rights for introducing a new “silent assassin” disease into the drinking water as a widening epidemic seems imminent with new deaths; shockingly Homeland Security chief Martin Kincade demands Blake and Castro back down or else.
This exhilarating conspiratorial thriller will grip readers with the opening prologue when the seemingly healthy but tired Silliman suddenly convulses. The story line is fast-paced and filled with plenty of action and strong characters (including the lead duo) with personal agendas; these protagonists represent real groups goals such as denoting Native American issues and signifying Homeland Security leaderships’ self interest goals. Readers will enjoy the latest AFIP adventure.
Harriet Klausner
Lori Andrews
St. Martin’s, Sep 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0312352727
DEA Agents Ted Silliman and Castro Baxter are part of a joint workforce with the Las Vegas Police Department investigating the use of the date rape drug “J”; the victims end up in many cases mutilated and dead. Evidence leads to the Fantasy Resort owned by septuagenarian Frankie “The Bayonet” DiBondi, but it makes no sense for him to deal with an illegal relatively minor remittance when his legal brothel brings in a million declared dollars a month and who knows how much of the profit iceberg remains beneath the surface. Still they follow DiBondi onto an Indian Reservation when Ted suddenly goes into convulsions and dies.
The official response is an overdose of cocaine, but Castro rejects it as inane because he knew his partner and knows what a cocaine death looks like. Armed Forces Institute of Pathology Dr. Alex Blake conducts an autopsy and agrees with Castro. She believes Simmons died from his body violently reacting with a hyper-immune response. Soon afterward his corpse disappears and DEA grabs the autopsy results and all related information to the Simmons’ death. Teaming up with Castro, Alex learns of eight other identical deaths on that same night that all tie back to a fountain in a Taos, New Mexico public square. Based on unnamed government sources the media blames Native American radical rights group Red Rights for introducing a new “silent assassin” disease into the drinking water as a widening epidemic seems imminent with new deaths; shockingly Homeland Security chief Martin Kincade demands Blake and Castro back down or else.
This exhilarating conspiratorial thriller will grip readers with the opening prologue when the seemingly healthy but tired Silliman suddenly convulses. The story line is fast-paced and filled with plenty of action and strong characters (including the lead duo) with personal agendas; these protagonists represent real groups goals such as denoting Native American issues and signifying Homeland Security leaderships’ self interest goals. Readers will enjoy the latest AFIP adventure.
Harriet Klausner
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Body In the Record Room-Joe Barone
Body In the Record Room
Joe Barone
Dunne, Oct 2008
ISBN: 0312384106
In 1954 at the Sunrise Mental Institute, Roy Rogers is a patient; not the movie star, but someone who took his name to emulate the western actor’s doing good deeds. Roy the patient enjoys sneaking in the record room to look at the files. He and his sidekick Harry enter only to find the battered corpse of elderly Father Coonie. Instead of notifying the Little Man who runs the place, Roy persuades Harry to bury the priest in the stables.
Roy investigates and learns Coonie’s tied to Marcia Weinhart, who was murdered two decades earlier. A second murder occurs when someone murders Father Hogan. With help from asylum worker Nancy Jane and some of the patients, Roy begins to put together who killed the two fathers and how it ties back to the unsolved cold case homicide of Marcia.
This engaging historical amateur sleuth tale provides readers deep insight into the mindset of mentally ill people and the mega-hospital asylums where many lived. Roy is a fascinating lead character as he tries to live up to the moral mantra set by the actor. At times Roy preaches about the legacy of Reagan and subsequent administrations that the politicians prefer to ignore; condemning the avarice that slowly eroded mental health assistance to those in need. A female patient explains she is safe at Sunrise due to Dr. “Little Man”, but once the bigwigs shut the facility as she expects she will live homeless under a bridge waiting until the rapes begin.
Harriet Klausner
Joe Barone
Dunne, Oct 2008
ISBN: 0312384106
In 1954 at the Sunrise Mental Institute, Roy Rogers is a patient; not the movie star, but someone who took his name to emulate the western actor’s doing good deeds. Roy the patient enjoys sneaking in the record room to look at the files. He and his sidekick Harry enter only to find the battered corpse of elderly Father Coonie. Instead of notifying the Little Man who runs the place, Roy persuades Harry to bury the priest in the stables.
Roy investigates and learns Coonie’s tied to Marcia Weinhart, who was murdered two decades earlier. A second murder occurs when someone murders Father Hogan. With help from asylum worker Nancy Jane and some of the patients, Roy begins to put together who killed the two fathers and how it ties back to the unsolved cold case homicide of Marcia.
This engaging historical amateur sleuth tale provides readers deep insight into the mindset of mentally ill people and the mega-hospital asylums where many lived. Roy is a fascinating lead character as he tries to live up to the moral mantra set by the actor. At times Roy preaches about the legacy of Reagan and subsequent administrations that the politicians prefer to ignore; condemning the avarice that slowly eroded mental health assistance to those in need. A female patient explains she is safe at Sunrise due to Dr. “Little Man”, but once the bigwigs shut the facility as she expects she will live homeless under a bridge waiting until the rapes begin.
Harriet Klausner
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Once Were Cops-Ken Bruen
Once Were Cops
Ken Bruen
St. Martin's, Oct 2008, $22.95
ISBN 9780312384401
Clever sociopathic Galway, Ireland cop Matthew Patrick “Shea” O'Shea arranges through extortion and blakcmail for a one-year assignment with NYPD as part of a police exchange program. The Irish cop is teamed with abusive New York cop Kurt “Kebar” Browski.
Matthew knows he must hide his vice as his host city will not tolerate him choking to death beautiful women with lovely long swan necks. Shea realizes quickly his partner is as crazy as he is; perhaps even sicker as Matthew gains more pleasure than he does with roughing up someone. The two nasty police officers seem to work well together as poster-boys of police brutality until Kebar introduces Shea to his retarded sister, who has a beautiful long swan neck.
These two brutal cops who believe in taking no prisoners star in Ken Bruen’s deep character study of two sadistic police officers abusing their authorities not so much to catch felons even but more for personal pleasure of sorts. The plot is somewhat limited though readers anticipate a violent showdown between the lead police officers once the long swan neck sibling is involved. Fans of Mr. Bruen will appreciate his New York Noir style Irish stew.
Harriet Klausner
Ken Bruen
St. Martin's, Oct 2008, $22.95
ISBN 9780312384401
Clever sociopathic Galway, Ireland cop Matthew Patrick “Shea” O'Shea arranges through extortion and blakcmail for a one-year assignment with NYPD as part of a police exchange program. The Irish cop is teamed with abusive New York cop Kurt “Kebar” Browski.
Matthew knows he must hide his vice as his host city will not tolerate him choking to death beautiful women with lovely long swan necks. Shea realizes quickly his partner is as crazy as he is; perhaps even sicker as Matthew gains more pleasure than he does with roughing up someone. The two nasty police officers seem to work well together as poster-boys of police brutality until Kebar introduces Shea to his retarded sister, who has a beautiful long swan neck.
These two brutal cops who believe in taking no prisoners star in Ken Bruen’s deep character study of two sadistic police officers abusing their authorities not so much to catch felons even but more for personal pleasure of sorts. The plot is somewhat limited though readers anticipate a violent showdown between the lead police officers once the long swan neck sibling is involved. Fans of Mr. Bruen will appreciate his New York Noir style Irish stew.
Harriet Klausner
In the Dark-Mark Billingham
In the Dark
Mark Billingham
Harper, Sep 30 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780061432736
In London, Ezra “Easy” Dennison informs Theo Shirley his illegal drug sales revenues have reached the level where the gang is ready to promote him. Theo is elated as he has two dependents to take care of. However, he has one more step left to prove he is ready for increased responsibility. Theo is in a car in which the headlights are off; he is to shoot in the backseat of a selected vehicle. A BMW flashes the lights at the darkened auto and Theo thanks the driver by firing as directed into the car.
The driver Sarah Ruston loses control and veers into a bus stop where Detective Superintendent Paul Hopwood and his eight plus months pregnant girlfriend Helen Weeks are waiting. One of the two at the bus stop dies. The police investigation soon takes a wicked turn beyond gang initiation rituals into an internal affairs investigation as someone believes the freak ricochet accident was not a random incident; that individual is easily killing the gang and others involved in the deadly incident.
IN THE DARK lives up to its title as it paints a bleak grim London landscape in which life is worthless regardless of which side of the crime line a person belongs too. The story line is action-packed as the police assume initially a sad weird but deadly accident killed one of them until the gang murders begin. As such the plot switches from the deep gritty look at the social and economic behavior of gangs to a more suspenseful but less insightful homicide investigation. This is a strong crime caper even with Mark Billingham’s prime protagonist Detective Inspector Tom Thorne playing a limited cameo role.
Harriet Klausner
Mark Billingham
Harper, Sep 30 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780061432736
In London, Ezra “Easy” Dennison informs Theo Shirley his illegal drug sales revenues have reached the level where the gang is ready to promote him. Theo is elated as he has two dependents to take care of. However, he has one more step left to prove he is ready for increased responsibility. Theo is in a car in which the headlights are off; he is to shoot in the backseat of a selected vehicle. A BMW flashes the lights at the darkened auto and Theo thanks the driver by firing as directed into the car.
The driver Sarah Ruston loses control and veers into a bus stop where Detective Superintendent Paul Hopwood and his eight plus months pregnant girlfriend Helen Weeks are waiting. One of the two at the bus stop dies. The police investigation soon takes a wicked turn beyond gang initiation rituals into an internal affairs investigation as someone believes the freak ricochet accident was not a random incident; that individual is easily killing the gang and others involved in the deadly incident.
IN THE DARK lives up to its title as it paints a bleak grim London landscape in which life is worthless regardless of which side of the crime line a person belongs too. The story line is action-packed as the police assume initially a sad weird but deadly accident killed one of them until the gang murders begin. As such the plot switches from the deep gritty look at the social and economic behavior of gangs to a more suspenseful but less insightful homicide investigation. This is a strong crime caper even with Mark Billingham’s prime protagonist Detective Inspector Tom Thorne playing a limited cameo role.
Harriet Klausner
The Lost Tomb-David Gibbins
The Lost Tomb
David Gibbins
Dell, Sep 30 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780553591194
Many thought that Claudius died from poisoning in 54 AD, but the diabolical Roman Emperor faked his death and that of his freedman Narcissus because he knew his health did not allow him to rule any longer. He rushes to Herculaneum in the shadows of the Vesuvius where he takes up his writing .He once met with Herod Agrippa who he knew in Rome and later met with him and Jesus in Galilee where he hoped the Christ would cure him of his affliction. He didn’t but Claudius writes down their encounter but to guard Jesus he hid the scroll in a safe place.
In the present marine archaeologist Jack Howard confirms that he has found the shipwreck that St. Paul was on when he was being deliveried to Rome. Before Jack and his crew can complete their quest, he is called to Herculaneum by his colleague Costas, who found the secret villa of Claudius that was devastated by an earthquake, but the quake opened up a concealed secret room that contains information about a scroll written by Jesus. They head to Rome seeking the lost gospel; there a message sends them to London devotion that leads them to Santa Paulo, California and finally to Jerusalem. The last decipher proves difficult but ultimately they find a secret chamber in a a church; those who were following them want them killed.. Jack understands immediately why as what he and Costas has found will send tsunami like waves throughout organized religion.
Obvious Brownian connections aside, this tale is filled with adventure and action as readers will enjoy the escapades of the two brave heroes. Jack is an Indiana Jones style archaeologist who understands the danger he and his friends will face as he accepts the mission. He is on a scavenger hunt that if successful will change the world as he simply seeks the truth, which in some ways may not set people free. David Gibbons provides a fun tale that feels like a cross (no pun intended) between Dan Brown, Clive Cusssler and George Lucas.
Harriet Klausner
David Gibbins
Dell, Sep 30 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780553591194
Many thought that Claudius died from poisoning in 54 AD, but the diabolical Roman Emperor faked his death and that of his freedman Narcissus because he knew his health did not allow him to rule any longer. He rushes to Herculaneum in the shadows of the Vesuvius where he takes up his writing .He once met with Herod Agrippa who he knew in Rome and later met with him and Jesus in Galilee where he hoped the Christ would cure him of his affliction. He didn’t but Claudius writes down their encounter but to guard Jesus he hid the scroll in a safe place.
In the present marine archaeologist Jack Howard confirms that he has found the shipwreck that St. Paul was on when he was being deliveried to Rome. Before Jack and his crew can complete their quest, he is called to Herculaneum by his colleague Costas, who found the secret villa of Claudius that was devastated by an earthquake, but the quake opened up a concealed secret room that contains information about a scroll written by Jesus. They head to Rome seeking the lost gospel; there a message sends them to London devotion that leads them to Santa Paulo, California and finally to Jerusalem. The last decipher proves difficult but ultimately they find a secret chamber in a a church; those who were following them want them killed.. Jack understands immediately why as what he and Costas has found will send tsunami like waves throughout organized religion.
Obvious Brownian connections aside, this tale is filled with adventure and action as readers will enjoy the escapades of the two brave heroes. Jack is an Indiana Jones style archaeologist who understands the danger he and his friends will face as he accepts the mission. He is on a scavenger hunt that if successful will change the world as he simply seeks the truth, which in some ways may not set people free. David Gibbons provides a fun tale that feels like a cross (no pun intended) between Dan Brown, Clive Cusssler and George Lucas.
Harriet Klausner
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
The Keepsake-Tess Gerritsen
The Keepsake
Tess Gerritsen
Ballantine, Sep 2008, $26.00
ISBN: 9780345497628
Boston-based medical examiner Maura Isles has examined a lot of corpses while on the job, but this one is special. The Crispin Museum invited the ME to attend a CAT scan of Madame X; the perfectly preserved mummy found in their basement who the curator believes will save their financially troubled facility.
However, instead of an ancient Egyptian royal, the modern medical test proves the mummy is a recent homicide victim. They also find a cryptic note inside. Boston Police Department Detectives Jane Rizzoli and Barry Frost lead the investigation. The message leads the cops to archeologist Josephine Pulcillo, who along with her mom has been on the run from an obsessed serial killer. Soon more modern day mummies are found, but the culprit remains elusively hidden in spite of Egyptian embalming knowledge.
The latest Rizzoli-Isles police procedural is a superb thriller that needs a graphic warning label not to read on a full stomach. The story line is fast-paced from the moment the mummy goes from ancient historical to contemporary and never slows down as obsession keeps a mother and daughter in fear of revealing secrets to the cops. Tess Gerritsen is at her best with this gruesome horrific murder mystery.
Harriet Klausner
Tess Gerritsen
Ballantine, Sep 2008, $26.00
ISBN: 9780345497628
Boston-based medical examiner Maura Isles has examined a lot of corpses while on the job, but this one is special. The Crispin Museum invited the ME to attend a CAT scan of Madame X; the perfectly preserved mummy found in their basement who the curator believes will save their financially troubled facility.
However, instead of an ancient Egyptian royal, the modern medical test proves the mummy is a recent homicide victim. They also find a cryptic note inside. Boston Police Department Detectives Jane Rizzoli and Barry Frost lead the investigation. The message leads the cops to archeologist Josephine Pulcillo, who along with her mom has been on the run from an obsessed serial killer. Soon more modern day mummies are found, but the culprit remains elusively hidden in spite of Egyptian embalming knowledge.
The latest Rizzoli-Isles police procedural is a superb thriller that needs a graphic warning label not to read on a full stomach. The story line is fast-paced from the moment the mummy goes from ancient historical to contemporary and never slows down as obsession keeps a mother and daughter in fear of revealing secrets to the cops. Tess Gerritsen is at her best with this gruesome horrific murder mystery.
Harriet Klausner
The Dracula Dossier-James Reese
The Dracula Dossier
James Reese
Morrow, Oct 2008, $24.95
ISBN 9780061233548
In 1888 Oscar Wilde's mother and William Butler Yeats invites Bram Stoker to attend the Order of the Golden Dawn indoctrination ritual. Initially fascinated by the ceremony, Bram and other attendees are stunned when something goes wrong.
Visiting American patent medicine salesman Francis Tumblety, who also attended, has become possessed by the evil Egyptian god Set. Tumblety-Set is methodically killing Whitechapel prostitutes using his surgeon’s skills on these misfortunate women. Scotland Yard is stymied as there appears no motive for the homicdes, but Stoker is seen in the area and his knife used as the murder weopon. He becomes the prime suspect. However, Stoker believes he knows the reasons behind the slaughters; he plans to confront Francis-Set whom he believes he has seen stalk the shadows of Whitechapel before someone else dies.
The story line starts off purposely boring to bring a journal methodolgy as the underpinning to the tale; once established, the plot accelerates and never look back. Tumblety as an evilly possessed Ripper makes for a perfect opponent to the Dracula author with both characters fully developed. References to the period, the Ripper serial killings and the literary works of Stoker round out an excellent late nineteenth century thriller.
Harriet Klausner
James Reese
Morrow, Oct 2008, $24.95
ISBN 9780061233548
In 1888 Oscar Wilde's mother and William Butler Yeats invites Bram Stoker to attend the Order of the Golden Dawn indoctrination ritual. Initially fascinated by the ceremony, Bram and other attendees are stunned when something goes wrong.
Visiting American patent medicine salesman Francis Tumblety, who also attended, has become possessed by the evil Egyptian god Set. Tumblety-Set is methodically killing Whitechapel prostitutes using his surgeon’s skills on these misfortunate women. Scotland Yard is stymied as there appears no motive for the homicdes, but Stoker is seen in the area and his knife used as the murder weopon. He becomes the prime suspect. However, Stoker believes he knows the reasons behind the slaughters; he plans to confront Francis-Set whom he believes he has seen stalk the shadows of Whitechapel before someone else dies.
The story line starts off purposely boring to bring a journal methodolgy as the underpinning to the tale; once established, the plot accelerates and never look back. Tumblety as an evilly possessed Ripper makes for a perfect opponent to the Dracula author with both characters fully developed. References to the period, the Ripper serial killings and the literary works of Stoker round out an excellent late nineteenth century thriller.
Harriet Klausner
The Dracula Dossier-James Reese
The Dracula Dossier
James Reese
Morrow, Oct 2008, $24.95
ISBN 9780061233548
In 1888 Oscar Wilde's mother and William Butler Yeats invites Bram Stoker to attend the Order of the Golden Dawn indoctrination ritual. Initially fascinated by the ceremony, Bram and other attendees are stunned when something goes wrong.
Visiting American patent medicine salesman Francis Tumblety, who also attended, has become possessed by the evil Egyptian god Set. Tumblety-Set is methodically killing Whitechapel prostitutes using his surgeon’s skills on these misfortunate women. Scotland Yard is stymied as there appears no motive for the homicdes, but Stoker is seen in the area and his knife used as the murder weopon. He becomes the prime suspect. However, Stoker believes he knows the reasons behind the slaughters; he plans to confront Francis-Set whom he believes he has seen stalk the shadows of Whitechapel before someone else dies.
The story line starts off purposely boring to bring a journal methodolgy as the underpinning to the tale; once established, the plot accelerates and never look back. Tumblety as an evilly possessed Ripper makes for a perfect opponent to the Dracula author with both characters fully developed. References to the period, the Ripper serial killings and the literary works of Stoker round out an excellent late nineteenth century thriller.
Harriet Klausner
James Reese
Morrow, Oct 2008, $24.95
ISBN 9780061233548
In 1888 Oscar Wilde's mother and William Butler Yeats invites Bram Stoker to attend the Order of the Golden Dawn indoctrination ritual. Initially fascinated by the ceremony, Bram and other attendees are stunned when something goes wrong.
Visiting American patent medicine salesman Francis Tumblety, who also attended, has become possessed by the evil Egyptian god Set. Tumblety-Set is methodically killing Whitechapel prostitutes using his surgeon’s skills on these misfortunate women. Scotland Yard is stymied as there appears no motive for the homicdes, but Stoker is seen in the area and his knife used as the murder weopon. He becomes the prime suspect. However, Stoker believes he knows the reasons behind the slaughters; he plans to confront Francis-Set whom he believes he has seen stalk the shadows of Whitechapel before someone else dies.
The story line starts off purposely boring to bring a journal methodolgy as the underpinning to the tale; once established, the plot accelerates and never look back. Tumblety as an evilly possessed Ripper makes for a perfect opponent to the Dracula author with both characters fully developed. References to the period, the Ripper serial killings and the literary works of Stoker round out an excellent late nineteenth century thriller.
Harriet Klausner
I Am Not a Cop!-Richard Belzer with Michael Black
I Am Not a Cop!
Richard Belzer with Michael Black
Simon & Schuster, Oct 2008, $24.00
ISBN 9781416570660
When comic Richard Belzer’s friend, New York City assistant medical examiner Rudy Markovich disappears without a trace, the comic actor becomes concerned especially when his pal fails to meet him at MSG for the heavyweight title fight as they planned. The more he learns of the vanishing, the more worried he becomes. Unable to remain idle, Richard decides to investigate even as he keeps reminding himself that “I AM NOT A COP”; only an actor who has seen many TV corpses in NYC and Baltimore..
He understands his experience as a sleuth is based on his role as role as Detective John Munch in Law & Order, but he believes how hard is it for real life to imitate Hollywood. He affirms his belief when Belzer finds a clue that ties four deaths to his case. Meanwhile Belzer’s producer worries about his actor getting hurt while on the mean streets of New York so Kalisha Carter is assigned to accompany him as he makes inquiries into the four deaths and their ties to Rudy.
The fun story line rotates action with detective musing as Beltzer investigates the disappearance starting at MSG and continuing on the mean streets of New York. Although Beltzer the literary amateur sleuth is no Munch, fans will appreciate his efforts especially his stand up comic Noir-Lit aside commentary.
Harriet Klausner
Richard Belzer with Michael Black
Simon & Schuster, Oct 2008, $24.00
ISBN 9781416570660
When comic Richard Belzer’s friend, New York City assistant medical examiner Rudy Markovich disappears without a trace, the comic actor becomes concerned especially when his pal fails to meet him at MSG for the heavyweight title fight as they planned. The more he learns of the vanishing, the more worried he becomes. Unable to remain idle, Richard decides to investigate even as he keeps reminding himself that “I AM NOT A COP”; only an actor who has seen many TV corpses in NYC and Baltimore..
He understands his experience as a sleuth is based on his role as role as Detective John Munch in Law & Order, but he believes how hard is it for real life to imitate Hollywood. He affirms his belief when Belzer finds a clue that ties four deaths to his case. Meanwhile Belzer’s producer worries about his actor getting hurt while on the mean streets of New York so Kalisha Carter is assigned to accompany him as he makes inquiries into the four deaths and their ties to Rudy.
The fun story line rotates action with detective musing as Beltzer investigates the disappearance starting at MSG and continuing on the mean streets of New York. Although Beltzer the literary amateur sleuth is no Munch, fans will appreciate his efforts especially his stand up comic Noir-Lit aside commentary.
Harriet Klausner
Beside a Burning Sea-John Shors
Beside a Burning Sea
John Shors
NAL, Sep 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780451224927
In 1942, the hospital ship Benevolence with five hundred filled patients’ beds is sailing the South Pacific near the Solomon Islands bringing medical assistance to sailors from both sides of the conflict as required by international law. Suddenly a Japanese torpedo hits the vessel ripping the boat in half. In the next instant, as the Benevolence is engulfed in chaos, most of the crew and patients die, but a few manage to make it to a nearby island.
The survivors include the captain, his spouse a nurse, another officer, an engineer, a Japanese prisoner of war, a second nurse, and a Fijian stowaway. Each has felt the horrors of war, but now must find a way to cooperate if they are to survive. However one of them is a traitor who has their own agenda defining survival quite differently than the others.
The key to this powerful WW II survivor drama is each cast member is fully developed with differing personalities and backgrounds; this leads to unexpected relationships as race, culture, social class, and war are explored through the interactions of the characters. Perhaps the only minor quibble is a traitor seems unnecessary suspense padding, as John Shors provides a deep historical character study.
Harriet Klausner
John Shors
NAL, Sep 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780451224927
In 1942, the hospital ship Benevolence with five hundred filled patients’ beds is sailing the South Pacific near the Solomon Islands bringing medical assistance to sailors from both sides of the conflict as required by international law. Suddenly a Japanese torpedo hits the vessel ripping the boat in half. In the next instant, as the Benevolence is engulfed in chaos, most of the crew and patients die, but a few manage to make it to a nearby island.
The survivors include the captain, his spouse a nurse, another officer, an engineer, a Japanese prisoner of war, a second nurse, and a Fijian stowaway. Each has felt the horrors of war, but now must find a way to cooperate if they are to survive. However one of them is a traitor who has their own agenda defining survival quite differently than the others.
The key to this powerful WW II survivor drama is each cast member is fully developed with differing personalities and backgrounds; this leads to unexpected relationships as race, culture, social class, and war are explored through the interactions of the characters. Perhaps the only minor quibble is a traitor seems unnecessary suspense padding, as John Shors provides a deep historical character study.
Harriet Klausner
Something Wicked-Alan Gratz
Something Wicked
Alan Gratz
Dial, Oct 2008, $16.99
ISBN: 9780803736665
High school junior Horatio Wilkes attends the annual Highland Fair near Pigeon Forge, Tennessee at the invitation of his friend Joe Mackenzie; his family is major participants every year. Fortune teller Madame Hecate informs Mac that he will be king of the mountain and his cousin Wallace Banks will own Mount Birnam. Joe’s college girlfriend Beth Weigle is excited while Horatio is cynical.
Horatio sees booth employee Megan Sternwood and is attracted to her. When her uncle asks him to watch over her, he is excited because he has a reason to meet her. However, Horatio has a different issue when he enters a tent to find the Highland Fair owner Duncan MacRae murdered. Unable to resist Horatio investigates not realizing the passion some have for this mountain and the danger the clues will lead to.
Although the amateur sleuth whodunit starts a bit late (almost halfway into the book), young adult readers will enjoy the plot due to the cynical mouthy hero who is caustic towards almost everyone at the Fair; surprisingly he didn’t get his face rearranged. The story line is fun to follow even more so when the murder occurs as fans will feel they attend the Tennessee Highland Fair. Some profanity seems inappropriate even if much of the targeted audience uses the words and it fit the moment but that may be this reviewer’s ancient outlook. SOMETHING WICKED is an apt title just don’t wear kilts near the wickedly sarcastic Horatio unless your thick skinned or a bruiser.
Harriet Klausner
Alan Gratz
Dial, Oct 2008, $16.99
ISBN: 9780803736665
High school junior Horatio Wilkes attends the annual Highland Fair near Pigeon Forge, Tennessee at the invitation of his friend Joe Mackenzie; his family is major participants every year. Fortune teller Madame Hecate informs Mac that he will be king of the mountain and his cousin Wallace Banks will own Mount Birnam. Joe’s college girlfriend Beth Weigle is excited while Horatio is cynical.
Horatio sees booth employee Megan Sternwood and is attracted to her. When her uncle asks him to watch over her, he is excited because he has a reason to meet her. However, Horatio has a different issue when he enters a tent to find the Highland Fair owner Duncan MacRae murdered. Unable to resist Horatio investigates not realizing the passion some have for this mountain and the danger the clues will lead to.
Although the amateur sleuth whodunit starts a bit late (almost halfway into the book), young adult readers will enjoy the plot due to the cynical mouthy hero who is caustic towards almost everyone at the Fair; surprisingly he didn’t get his face rearranged. The story line is fun to follow even more so when the murder occurs as fans will feel they attend the Tennessee Highland Fair. Some profanity seems inappropriate even if much of the targeted audience uses the words and it fit the moment but that may be this reviewer’s ancient outlook. SOMETHING WICKED is an apt title just don’t wear kilts near the wickedly sarcastic Horatio unless your thick skinned or a bruiser.
Harriet Klausner
Small Crimes-Dave Zeltserman
Small Crimes
Dave Zeltserman
Serpent Tail, Oct 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 9781852429713
Bradley County police officer Joe Denton moonlighted for local mafia chief Manny Vassey doing all sorts of mostly SMALL CRIMES to pay off his gambling debts and to insure no harm came to his wife Elaine or their two preadolescent daughters. District Attorney Phil Coakley caught Joe breaking into his office; panicked into a berserker rage the crooked cop stabs the DA thirteen times in the face with a screwdriver. He scarred the DA for life. Joe confessed, is convicted and goes to the county prison.
Seven years later Joe is paroled and moves in with his parents who do not want him there. His wife left town with the kids with a new name and no forwarding address. Vengeful Phil wants to hang Joe and feels he has a reliable source if he can crack the dying Manny who fears he is going to hell if he fails to confess his sins. Crooked county Sheriff Dan Pleasant, who took care of Joe while he was in prison, reminds him of the Ferguson homicide and warns him he either kills Vassey or Coakley if he does not want Plan B implemented because the lawman knows he faces twenty years hard time otherwise.
This crime Noir stars a former crooked cop unable to overcome his past as the key players from back then seem to converge on him now that he is “free” though he would argue otherwise. Readers will appreciate Dave Zeltserman’s character driven tale as Joe’s options are limited obviously by the triangulation that he feels is strangling him and by his own amoral outlook; not having his three beloved females nearby increases his anti-societal tendencies. Fans will appreciate this deep Noir-lit as Phil and Dan put the pressure on Joe while Manny is the one who can send him up for life.
Harriet Klausner
Dave Zeltserman
Serpent Tail, Oct 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 9781852429713
Bradley County police officer Joe Denton moonlighted for local mafia chief Manny Vassey doing all sorts of mostly SMALL CRIMES to pay off his gambling debts and to insure no harm came to his wife Elaine or their two preadolescent daughters. District Attorney Phil Coakley caught Joe breaking into his office; panicked into a berserker rage the crooked cop stabs the DA thirteen times in the face with a screwdriver. He scarred the DA for life. Joe confessed, is convicted and goes to the county prison.
Seven years later Joe is paroled and moves in with his parents who do not want him there. His wife left town with the kids with a new name and no forwarding address. Vengeful Phil wants to hang Joe and feels he has a reliable source if he can crack the dying Manny who fears he is going to hell if he fails to confess his sins. Crooked county Sheriff Dan Pleasant, who took care of Joe while he was in prison, reminds him of the Ferguson homicide and warns him he either kills Vassey or Coakley if he does not want Plan B implemented because the lawman knows he faces twenty years hard time otherwise.
This crime Noir stars a former crooked cop unable to overcome his past as the key players from back then seem to converge on him now that he is “free” though he would argue otherwise. Readers will appreciate Dave Zeltserman’s character driven tale as Joe’s options are limited obviously by the triangulation that he feels is strangling him and by his own amoral outlook; not having his three beloved females nearby increases his anti-societal tendencies. Fans will appreciate this deep Noir-lit as Phil and Dan put the pressure on Joe while Manny is the one who can send him up for life.
Harriet Klausner
Monday, August 18, 2008
Too Close to Home-Linwood Barclay
Too Close to Home
Linwood Barclay
Bantam, Oct 2008, $22.00
ISBN: 9780553805567
Promise Falls, New York is a small town where big crimes are never supposed to happen. Teenager Derek Cutler hides in his neighbor’s basement crawlspace waiting for them to leave so he have some cuddly time with his girlfriend Penny. When they finally go, he takes a tour of their house, but hears a noise and scurries back to his basement hiding place. The Langleys have returned home because the wife felt ill. Derek waits for them to go to sleep so he can sneak out. Someone enters the house and shoots the entire family; Derek flees without talking to anyone including the police about what he witnessed.
The police find a suspect who lied to them. They realize Derek was in the house when the homicides occurred based on phone calls he made. His earring is found in the bed of the late mother and the blood on his sneaker belonged to his friend Adam. The cops arrest Derek; however other evidence surfaces exonerating Derek who is freed from imprisonment as the charges are dropped. His parents fear the nightmare has just begun as a cold blooded killer is still on the loose and their family may be the target.
Linwood Barclay creates a great complicated crime caper that seems so genuine especially for anyone who has a teen in the household. The murders strip away the veneer of safety in the small town ands secrets become known that were never meant to see the light of day. The only moralistic person in Promise Falls is Derek’s dad Jim who always wants to do the right thing, but also realizes how difficult that can be with so many choices to make that harm perhaps kill someone; often an innocent. Although he knows there is NO TIME FOR GOODBYE with his expecting a stalking killer coming their way, his cerebral ethical pondering adds depth to a strong whodunit that will have sub-genre fans seeking Mr. Barclay’s backlist.
Harriet Klausner.
Linwood Barclay
Bantam, Oct 2008, $22.00
ISBN: 9780553805567
Promise Falls, New York is a small town where big crimes are never supposed to happen. Teenager Derek Cutler hides in his neighbor’s basement crawlspace waiting for them to leave so he have some cuddly time with his girlfriend Penny. When they finally go, he takes a tour of their house, but hears a noise and scurries back to his basement hiding place. The Langleys have returned home because the wife felt ill. Derek waits for them to go to sleep so he can sneak out. Someone enters the house and shoots the entire family; Derek flees without talking to anyone including the police about what he witnessed.
The police find a suspect who lied to them. They realize Derek was in the house when the homicides occurred based on phone calls he made. His earring is found in the bed of the late mother and the blood on his sneaker belonged to his friend Adam. The cops arrest Derek; however other evidence surfaces exonerating Derek who is freed from imprisonment as the charges are dropped. His parents fear the nightmare has just begun as a cold blooded killer is still on the loose and their family may be the target.
Linwood Barclay creates a great complicated crime caper that seems so genuine especially for anyone who has a teen in the household. The murders strip away the veneer of safety in the small town ands secrets become known that were never meant to see the light of day. The only moralistic person in Promise Falls is Derek’s dad Jim who always wants to do the right thing, but also realizes how difficult that can be with so many choices to make that harm perhaps kill someone; often an innocent. Although he knows there is NO TIME FOR GOODBYE with his expecting a stalking killer coming their way, his cerebral ethical pondering adds depth to a strong whodunit that will have sub-genre fans seeking Mr. Barclay’s backlist.
Harriet Klausner.
Thread of Fear-Laura Griffin
Thread of Fear
Laura Griffin
Pocket, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9781416570639
She is one of the best forensic artists in the country and police from all parts of the nation ask her to talk with witnesses and victims so she can draw a picture of their assailant. Her success rate is phenomenal, but it also takes a toll on her emotionally. Fiona Glass keeps telling herself no more as she cannot cope with how she personalizes each case.
When the FBI talks to her about the abduction of ten year old Shelby with the witness being her six years old brother Colton who refuses to talk to any one, Fiona knows she has no choice but to help. She gets a tremendous sketch of the perpetrator from the frightened child.
She still reels from internalizing the trauma of that case when Police Chief Jack Bowman asks her to interview a rape torture victim. Reluctantly she agrees. Fiona learns that the trauma happened eleven years ago and the victim was Bowman’s girlfriend at the time. He explains to the forensic artist that he believes that cold case is related to a recent murder of a girl dumped in a place where her corpse would be found fast. He admits no one else buys his theory. Fiona obtains decent sketches from Jack’s former girlfriend. When the culprit kidnaps a state senator’s daughter; suddenly everyone from the Feds to the State to the locals dive head first into the investigation. Fiona finds the clues that allows Jack to close in on the killer, but neither realize the perp is targeting her.
Laura Griffin provides a strong suspense thriller with a supporting romantic subplot that enhances the growing tension as Jack worries about the mental state of the woman he loves who risks her sanity and her life to help others. While investigating, the sparks between them is unwanted as one is commitment phobic and the other does not want to get involved. Although forensic experts with emotional issues is not new, THREAD OF FEAR is a crisp police procedural.
Harriet Klausner
Laura Griffin
Pocket, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9781416570639
She is one of the best forensic artists in the country and police from all parts of the nation ask her to talk with witnesses and victims so she can draw a picture of their assailant. Her success rate is phenomenal, but it also takes a toll on her emotionally. Fiona Glass keeps telling herself no more as she cannot cope with how she personalizes each case.
When the FBI talks to her about the abduction of ten year old Shelby with the witness being her six years old brother Colton who refuses to talk to any one, Fiona knows she has no choice but to help. She gets a tremendous sketch of the perpetrator from the frightened child.
She still reels from internalizing the trauma of that case when Police Chief Jack Bowman asks her to interview a rape torture victim. Reluctantly she agrees. Fiona learns that the trauma happened eleven years ago and the victim was Bowman’s girlfriend at the time. He explains to the forensic artist that he believes that cold case is related to a recent murder of a girl dumped in a place where her corpse would be found fast. He admits no one else buys his theory. Fiona obtains decent sketches from Jack’s former girlfriend. When the culprit kidnaps a state senator’s daughter; suddenly everyone from the Feds to the State to the locals dive head first into the investigation. Fiona finds the clues that allows Jack to close in on the killer, but neither realize the perp is targeting her.
Laura Griffin provides a strong suspense thriller with a supporting romantic subplot that enhances the growing tension as Jack worries about the mental state of the woman he loves who risks her sanity and her life to help others. While investigating, the sparks between them is unwanted as one is commitment phobic and the other does not want to get involved. Although forensic experts with emotional issues is not new, THREAD OF FEAR is a crisp police procedural.
Harriet Klausner
The Sign of the Sinister Sorcerer-Brad Strickland
The Sign of the Sinister Sorcerer
Brad Strickland
Dial, Oct 2008, $16.99
ISBN: 9780803731516
In the mid 1950s in New Zebedec, Michigan young orphan Lewis Barnavelt lives with his Uncle Jonathan, a wizard who can perform illusions. Recently, Lewis has become interested in information pertaining to the magical Rule of Three that his Uncle claims is an obsolete theory, but next door neighbor the powerful witch (and great cook) Mrs. Zimmerman insists some mages believed in threesomes to embellish exponentially the power.
While watching his friends play baseball, Lewis is distracted by newcomer Hal Everit when his best friend Rose Rita Pottinger warns him to watch out; a foul ball hits him in the face. Just before it struck him, Lewis noticed a hooded robed individual watching him. Although he suffers two black eyes, overall Lewis is okay. A few days later, Jonathan gives him his allowance of five silver dollars, but on his way to the movies with Rose Rita and joined at the theater by Hal, he realizes he lost his money due to a hole in his pocket. The next morning, he smells Mrs. Zimmerman cooking breakfast so he runs down the steps, but trips and injures his leg. Lewis thinks a powerful wizard is trying to harm him; as he believes he suffered an attack based on the Rule of Three. Jonathan thinks otherwise and besides the trio of assaults already occurred; but he soon revises his opinion based on a message in a mirror; he believes he and his nephew are under magical siege and he thinks he knows who the culprit is.
This is an entertaining middle school historical thriller with some fantasy and suspense elements enhancing the tale. Young readers will enjoy Lewis’ summer vacation as he begins to believe THE SIGN OF THE SINISTER SORCERER has him under siege.
Harriet Klausner
Brad Strickland
Dial, Oct 2008, $16.99
ISBN: 9780803731516
In the mid 1950s in New Zebedec, Michigan young orphan Lewis Barnavelt lives with his Uncle Jonathan, a wizard who can perform illusions. Recently, Lewis has become interested in information pertaining to the magical Rule of Three that his Uncle claims is an obsolete theory, but next door neighbor the powerful witch (and great cook) Mrs. Zimmerman insists some mages believed in threesomes to embellish exponentially the power.
While watching his friends play baseball, Lewis is distracted by newcomer Hal Everit when his best friend Rose Rita Pottinger warns him to watch out; a foul ball hits him in the face. Just before it struck him, Lewis noticed a hooded robed individual watching him. Although he suffers two black eyes, overall Lewis is okay. A few days later, Jonathan gives him his allowance of five silver dollars, but on his way to the movies with Rose Rita and joined at the theater by Hal, he realizes he lost his money due to a hole in his pocket. The next morning, he smells Mrs. Zimmerman cooking breakfast so he runs down the steps, but trips and injures his leg. Lewis thinks a powerful wizard is trying to harm him; as he believes he suffered an attack based on the Rule of Three. Jonathan thinks otherwise and besides the trio of assaults already occurred; but he soon revises his opinion based on a message in a mirror; he believes he and his nephew are under magical siege and he thinks he knows who the culprit is.
This is an entertaining middle school historical thriller with some fantasy and suspense elements enhancing the tale. Young readers will enjoy Lewis’ summer vacation as he begins to believe THE SIGN OF THE SINISTER SORCERER has him under siege.
Harriet Klausner
The Sign of the Sinister Sorcerer-Brad Strickland
The Sign of the Sinister Sorcerer
Brad Strickland
Dial, Oct 2008, $16.99
ISBN: 9780803731516
In the mid 1950s in New Zebedec, Michigan young orphan Lewis Barnavelt lives with his Uncle Jonathan, a wizard who can perform illusions. Recently, Lewis has become interested in information pertaining to the magical Rule of Three that his Uncle claims is an obsolete theory, but next door neighbor the powerful witch (and great cook) Mrs. Zimmerman insists some mages believed in threesomes to embellish exponentially the power.
While watching his friends play baseball, Lewis is distracted by newcomer Hal Everit when his best friend Rose Rita Pottinger warns him to watch out; a foul ball hits him in the face. Just before it struck him, Lewis noticed a hooded robed individual watching him. Although he suffers two black eyes, overall Lewis is okay. A few days later, Jonathan gives him his allowance of five silver dollars, but on his way to the movies with Rose Rita and joined at the theater by Hal, he realizes he lost his money due to a hole in his pocket. The next morning, he smells Mrs. Zimmerman cooking breakfast so he runs down the steps, but trips and injures his leg. Lewis thinks a powerful wizard is trying to harm him; as he believes he suffered an attack based on the Rule of Three. Jonathan thinks otherwise and besides the trio of assaults already occurred; but he soon revises his opinion based on a message in a mirror; he believes he and his nephew are under magical siege and he thinks he knows who the culprit is.
This is an entertaining middle school historical thriller with some fantasy and suspense elements enhancing the tale. Young readers will enjoy Lewis’ summer vacation as he begins to believe THE SIGN OF THE SINISTER SORCERER has him under siege.
Harriet Klausner
Brad Strickland
Dial, Oct 2008, $16.99
ISBN: 9780803731516
In the mid 1950s in New Zebedec, Michigan young orphan Lewis Barnavelt lives with his Uncle Jonathan, a wizard who can perform illusions. Recently, Lewis has become interested in information pertaining to the magical Rule of Three that his Uncle claims is an obsolete theory, but next door neighbor the powerful witch (and great cook) Mrs. Zimmerman insists some mages believed in threesomes to embellish exponentially the power.
While watching his friends play baseball, Lewis is distracted by newcomer Hal Everit when his best friend Rose Rita Pottinger warns him to watch out; a foul ball hits him in the face. Just before it struck him, Lewis noticed a hooded robed individual watching him. Although he suffers two black eyes, overall Lewis is okay. A few days later, Jonathan gives him his allowance of five silver dollars, but on his way to the movies with Rose Rita and joined at the theater by Hal, he realizes he lost his money due to a hole in his pocket. The next morning, he smells Mrs. Zimmerman cooking breakfast so he runs down the steps, but trips and injures his leg. Lewis thinks a powerful wizard is trying to harm him; as he believes he suffered an attack based on the Rule of Three. Jonathan thinks otherwise and besides the trio of assaults already occurred; but he soon revises his opinion based on a message in a mirror; he believes he and his nephew are under magical siege and he thinks he knows who the culprit is.
This is an entertaining middle school historical thriller with some fantasy and suspense elements enhancing the tale. Young readers will enjoy Lewis’ summer vacation as he begins to believe THE SIGN OF THE SINISTER SORCERER has him under siege.
Harriet Klausner
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Rough Weather-Robert B. Parker
Rough Weather
Robert B. Parker
Putnam, Oct 2008, $26.95
ISBN: 9780399155192
Wealthy, almost famous for her marriages, Heidi Bradshaw hires Boston based private investigator Spenser to be her escort on her privately owned island, Tashtego. The occasion is her daughter Adelaide’s wedding. Spenser gets the impression his client wants a bodyguard; he takes the job and brings his lover Susan Silverman with him. The bride and groom exchange vows only to have gunmen arrive led by Rugar the Gray Man; and they abduct Adelaide.
Spenser does not try to protect Heidi as his first concern is Susan’s safety. The kidnappers and the bride reach a helicopter but not before Rugar kills the groom and the minister. Spenser is shocked as the scenario is not Rugar’s precise efficient MO and no ransom note is sent. As the Boston sleuth begins closing in on the truth, Rugar sends assassins to kill him, but they fail. He vows to rescue Adelaide and learn why Rugar is behaving out of character.
ROUGH WEATHER is Robert B. Parker at his very best with a great suspenseful mystery enhanced by the hero’s even greater love for Susan; her safety comes first before his client or himself. Susan accepts Spenser for who he is and tries not to change her beloved into a more “acceptable” boyfriend fitting in her circle. The story line is fast-paced from the moment the Gray Man arrives in a shockingly fumbled caper, but it is the dry witted Spenser who turns the tale into a thriller’s thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Robert B. Parker
Putnam, Oct 2008, $26.95
ISBN: 9780399155192
Wealthy, almost famous for her marriages, Heidi Bradshaw hires Boston based private investigator Spenser to be her escort on her privately owned island, Tashtego. The occasion is her daughter Adelaide’s wedding. Spenser gets the impression his client wants a bodyguard; he takes the job and brings his lover Susan Silverman with him. The bride and groom exchange vows only to have gunmen arrive led by Rugar the Gray Man; and they abduct Adelaide.
Spenser does not try to protect Heidi as his first concern is Susan’s safety. The kidnappers and the bride reach a helicopter but not before Rugar kills the groom and the minister. Spenser is shocked as the scenario is not Rugar’s precise efficient MO and no ransom note is sent. As the Boston sleuth begins closing in on the truth, Rugar sends assassins to kill him, but they fail. He vows to rescue Adelaide and learn why Rugar is behaving out of character.
ROUGH WEATHER is Robert B. Parker at his very best with a great suspenseful mystery enhanced by the hero’s even greater love for Susan; her safety comes first before his client or himself. Susan accepts Spenser for who he is and tries not to change her beloved into a more “acceptable” boyfriend fitting in her circle. The story line is fast-paced from the moment the Gray Man arrives in a shockingly fumbled caper, but it is the dry witted Spenser who turns the tale into a thriller’s thriller.
Harriet Klausner
The Devil’s Closet-Stacy Dittrich
The Devil’s Closet
Stacy Dittrich
Leisure, Oct 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780843961591
Richland Metropolitan Police Department Detective CeeCee Gallagher specializes in juvenile sex crimes and homicides. Her clearance record is near perfect because she never gives up and constantly pushes herself beyond the limit; she does not want to hold herself responsible for the death of a child due to her being too slow to catch the predator.
An Amber Alert goes out when Hannah Peltrew disappears from her yard; another child witnessed a man grabbing her and putting her in a car. Hannah is found dead in the filed of an Amish farmer; she was dressed up like a doll and obviously tortured before being killed. The FBI investigates with Agent in Charge Michael Haerman leading the case. CeeCee has not seen him in a year, but still loves him although she chose to stay with her husband who might be having an affair with his trainee. Another child is reported missing and soon afterward found dead; as with Hannah she was made up and posed like a doll. Michael and CeeCee work as a team to end the horrific killing spree, but also know they remain attracted to one another. Meanwhile the serial killer taunts CeeCee sending her clues in a cat and mouse game with another youngster’s life on the line.
This first CeeCee Gallagher police procedural is a terrific thriller mostly due to the dedicated lead character, who is tough yet vulnerable because she cares. Although the serial killer taunting the cops with clues is old, fans will feel this predator is as amorally evil as Lector is. The romance between the two cops adds depth to a strong tale that will frighten readers with what happens to the innocent young.
Harriet Klausner
Stacy Dittrich
Leisure, Oct 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780843961591
Richland Metropolitan Police Department Detective CeeCee Gallagher specializes in juvenile sex crimes and homicides. Her clearance record is near perfect because she never gives up and constantly pushes herself beyond the limit; she does not want to hold herself responsible for the death of a child due to her being too slow to catch the predator.
An Amber Alert goes out when Hannah Peltrew disappears from her yard; another child witnessed a man grabbing her and putting her in a car. Hannah is found dead in the filed of an Amish farmer; she was dressed up like a doll and obviously tortured before being killed. The FBI investigates with Agent in Charge Michael Haerman leading the case. CeeCee has not seen him in a year, but still loves him although she chose to stay with her husband who might be having an affair with his trainee. Another child is reported missing and soon afterward found dead; as with Hannah she was made up and posed like a doll. Michael and CeeCee work as a team to end the horrific killing spree, but also know they remain attracted to one another. Meanwhile the serial killer taunts CeeCee sending her clues in a cat and mouse game with another youngster’s life on the line.
This first CeeCee Gallagher police procedural is a terrific thriller mostly due to the dedicated lead character, who is tough yet vulnerable because she cares. Although the serial killer taunting the cops with clues is old, fans will feel this predator is as amorally evil as Lector is. The romance between the two cops adds depth to a strong tale that will frighten readers with what happens to the innocent young.
Harriet Klausner
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Payback-Clare Curzon
Payback
Clare Curzon
Dunne, Oct 2008 $24.95
ISBN 9780312375317
The biker deliberately hits Warren Laing in front of the auction house run by Charles Hennigan. The chief auctioneer visits the severely injured and fully bandaged comatose victim at the hospital and informs the police that he is his employee porter Sandy Craddock. Meanwhile the real Sandy learning of the identity mistake believes he was the intended victim so he pretends to be his half-brother Warren.
Craddock moves into Laing’s luxurious flat figuring he is safe for now and can live off of his half brother’s affluence. However, things spin further out of control when Fiona Morgan enters Laing’s bed where Craddock sleeps. Fiona invites him to join her at an art course where she is the nude model even as she wonders why he seems to not care that his sibling lies in a coma; she still mourns her sister who died last year in an accident. Things turn even nastier when his art class partner Rosa Burford is murdered. When Rosa fails to show up for class, Thames Valley police led by Superintendent Mike Yeadings investigate.
This may be the best police procedural in this excellent long running series as the story line starts off seemingly to scatter in a zillion directions, but Mike Yeadings and his Thames Valley squad manage to methodically bring it into focus. Readers will appreciate this strong entry as the Superintendent is more laid back than usual while his staff works the missing person’s case that keeps spinning into something new with each revelation.
Harriet Klausner
Clare Curzon
Dunne, Oct 2008 $24.95
ISBN 9780312375317
The biker deliberately hits Warren Laing in front of the auction house run by Charles Hennigan. The chief auctioneer visits the severely injured and fully bandaged comatose victim at the hospital and informs the police that he is his employee porter Sandy Craddock. Meanwhile the real Sandy learning of the identity mistake believes he was the intended victim so he pretends to be his half-brother Warren.
Craddock moves into Laing’s luxurious flat figuring he is safe for now and can live off of his half brother’s affluence. However, things spin further out of control when Fiona Morgan enters Laing’s bed where Craddock sleeps. Fiona invites him to join her at an art course where she is the nude model even as she wonders why he seems to not care that his sibling lies in a coma; she still mourns her sister who died last year in an accident. Things turn even nastier when his art class partner Rosa Burford is murdered. When Rosa fails to show up for class, Thames Valley police led by Superintendent Mike Yeadings investigate.
This may be the best police procedural in this excellent long running series as the story line starts off seemingly to scatter in a zillion directions, but Mike Yeadings and his Thames Valley squad manage to methodically bring it into focus. Readers will appreciate this strong entry as the Superintendent is more laid back than usual while his staff works the missing person’s case that keeps spinning into something new with each revelation.
Harriet Klausner
Payback-Clare Curzon
Payback
Clare Curzon
Dunne, Oct 2008 $24.95
ISBN 9780312375317
The biker deliberately hits Warren Laing in front of the auction house run by Charles Hennigan. The chief auctioneer visits the severely injured and fully bandaged comatose victim at the hospital and informs the police that he is his employee porter Sandy Craddock. Meanwhile the real Sandy learning of the identity mistake believes he was the intended victim so he pretends to be his half-brother Warren.
Craddock moves into Laing’s luxurious flat figuring he is safe for now and can live off of his half brother’s affluence. However, things spin further out of control when Fiona Morgan enters Laing’s bed where Craddock sleeps. Fiona invites him to join her at an art course where she is the nude model even as she wonders why he seems to not care that his sibling lies in a coma; she still mourns her sister who died last year in an accident. Things turn even nastier when his art class partner Rosa Burford is murdered. When Rosa fails to show up for class, Thames Valley police led by Superintendent Mike Yeadings investigate.
This may be the best police procedural in this excellent long running series as the story line starts off seemingly to scatter in a zillion directions, but Mike Yeadings and his Thames Valley squad manage to methodically bring it into focus. Readers will appreciate this strong entry as the Superintendent is more laid back than usual while his staff works the missing person’s case that keeps spinning into something new with each revelation.
Harriet Klausner
Clare Curzon
Dunne, Oct 2008 $24.95
ISBN 9780312375317
The biker deliberately hits Warren Laing in front of the auction house run by Charles Hennigan. The chief auctioneer visits the severely injured and fully bandaged comatose victim at the hospital and informs the police that he is his employee porter Sandy Craddock. Meanwhile the real Sandy learning of the identity mistake believes he was the intended victim so he pretends to be his half-brother Warren.
Craddock moves into Laing’s luxurious flat figuring he is safe for now and can live off of his half brother’s affluence. However, things spin further out of control when Fiona Morgan enters Laing’s bed where Craddock sleeps. Fiona invites him to join her at an art course where she is the nude model even as she wonders why he seems to not care that his sibling lies in a coma; she still mourns her sister who died last year in an accident. Things turn even nastier when his art class partner Rosa Burford is murdered. When Rosa fails to show up for class, Thames Valley police led by Superintendent Mike Yeadings investigate.
This may be the best police procedural in this excellent long running series as the story line starts off seemingly to scatter in a zillion directions, but Mike Yeadings and his Thames Valley squad manage to methodically bring it into focus. Readers will appreciate this strong entry as the Superintendent is more laid back than usual while his staff works the missing person’s case that keeps spinning into something new with each revelation.
Harriet Klausner
Heartless-Alison Gaylin
Heartless
Alison Gaylin
Obsidian, Sep 2008, $21.95
ISBN: 0451224973
Investigative reporter Steve Sorensonis stunned to learn his best friend celebrity reporter Zoe Greene is not only in love with a soap opera star; the die hard Manhattanite is moving to San Esteban, Mexico to live with Warren Clark. Steve is upset for two reasons; first he loves Zoe though he has hidden his feelings from her with the façade of friendship and second he knows this town as the place a NYU student had his heart torn from his chest.
Steve decides to go to Mexico to insure Zoe is okay. Meanwhile her romance with Warren collapses as she begins to do what she does best as a reporter, interrogate. The Sangre Para La Vida cult members are interested in Zoe’s "blood in exchange for life".
HEARTLESS is a fascinating horror thriller with a unique romantic underpinning. The story line is based on the Sangre Para La Vida cult believing the Fountain of Youth is to suck human blood vampire style with their latest “donor being Zoe. Although the tale at times crosses into the absurd without humor or satire, readers will enjoy this tense thriller for a fun Mexican vacation; that is for readers not tourists.
Harriet Klausner
Alison Gaylin
Obsidian, Sep 2008, $21.95
ISBN: 0451224973
Investigative reporter Steve Sorensonis stunned to learn his best friend celebrity reporter Zoe Greene is not only in love with a soap opera star; the die hard Manhattanite is moving to San Esteban, Mexico to live with Warren Clark. Steve is upset for two reasons; first he loves Zoe though he has hidden his feelings from her with the façade of friendship and second he knows this town as the place a NYU student had his heart torn from his chest.
Steve decides to go to Mexico to insure Zoe is okay. Meanwhile her romance with Warren collapses as she begins to do what she does best as a reporter, interrogate. The Sangre Para La Vida cult members are interested in Zoe’s "blood in exchange for life".
HEARTLESS is a fascinating horror thriller with a unique romantic underpinning. The story line is based on the Sangre Para La Vida cult believing the Fountain of Youth is to suck human blood vampire style with their latest “donor being Zoe. Although the tale at times crosses into the absurd without humor or satire, readers will enjoy this tense thriller for a fun Mexican vacation; that is for readers not tourists.
Harriet Klausner
Everything Under the Sky-Matilde Asensi
Everything Under the Sky
Matilde Asensi
Harper, Aug 12 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780061458415
Spanish artist Elvira De Poulain is notified that her husband Remy was murdered by the Green Gang assassins in China. Stunned but not shocked as her late debauched spouse seemed to get into trouble all the time, she leaves accompanied by her orphaned niece Fernanda from Paris for Shanghai to bring his body home for burial.
In Shanghai, Elvira feels out of place and looks forward to returning to the comfort of Europe. However, she quickly realizes she has major issues to deal with as her self-indulgent husband ran up unbelievable debts due to his vices of gambling, hookers, and opium. She learns he was killed because he owned a priceless box that allegedly contains clues to the burial location of China's First Emperor and his treasure; others demanded he hand over his find, but he refused and died for his stubbornness. Elvira considers seeking the booty and soon finds allies: fiftyish pot bellied Irish journalist Patrick Tichborne, a white bearded Celestial local antiquarian Mr. Jiang and an orphaned young servant Biao.
This is an entertaining 1920s saga that fans will enjoy as the no nonsense European and her niece slowly acclimate to China while seeking the tomb and dodging killers. The story line is driven the by the quintet who consists of the artist, two youths and two older men; whereas their adversaries are professional assassins. EVERYTHING UNDER THE SUN is an entertaining tale as the audience wonders whether Elvira will survive her physical ordeal and solve the complex clues, get killed, or flee back to France.
Harriet Klausner
Matilde Asensi
Harper, Aug 12 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780061458415
Spanish artist Elvira De Poulain is notified that her husband Remy was murdered by the Green Gang assassins in China. Stunned but not shocked as her late debauched spouse seemed to get into trouble all the time, she leaves accompanied by her orphaned niece Fernanda from Paris for Shanghai to bring his body home for burial.
In Shanghai, Elvira feels out of place and looks forward to returning to the comfort of Europe. However, she quickly realizes she has major issues to deal with as her self-indulgent husband ran up unbelievable debts due to his vices of gambling, hookers, and opium. She learns he was killed because he owned a priceless box that allegedly contains clues to the burial location of China's First Emperor and his treasure; others demanded he hand over his find, but he refused and died for his stubbornness. Elvira considers seeking the booty and soon finds allies: fiftyish pot bellied Irish journalist Patrick Tichborne, a white bearded Celestial local antiquarian Mr. Jiang and an orphaned young servant Biao.
This is an entertaining 1920s saga that fans will enjoy as the no nonsense European and her niece slowly acclimate to China while seeking the tomb and dodging killers. The story line is driven the by the quintet who consists of the artist, two youths and two older men; whereas their adversaries are professional assassins. EVERYTHING UNDER THE SUN is an entertaining tale as the audience wonders whether Elvira will survive her physical ordeal and solve the complex clues, get killed, or flee back to France.
Harriet Klausner
Friday, August 15, 2008
Dead Stop-Jamie Denton
Dead Stop
Jamie Denton
Kensington Brava, Sep 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780758210166
Serenity Heights Sentinel reporter Ainsley Brennan is concerned with the package that she finds on her desk as there is no return address. The label on the tape inside says: "Day One". She plays the recording to hear tormented female screams. Not long after listening to the harrowing tape, the mutilated corpse of young woman is found in the woods.
Ainsley tries to persuade deputy police chief Beck Raines that this is the beginning; he reluctantly agrees. After burning out as a LAPD homicide detective, he came here for peace and quiet. Now he fears he is working a ritual serial killer case who has just stared with the murder of a freshman and he fears a second murder as another young woman has vanished. Worse he is attracted to the beautiful nosy Ainsley who he worries could be next.
DEAD STOP is an exciting investigative romantic suspense starring two likable competitors falling in love. The subplot of a major conglomerate buying the local paper adds a touch of reality to the fine tale. The killer is somewhat typical of the sub-genre, as the culprit is in plain sight yet able to hide his psychopathic tendencies from everyone. Jamie Denton provides a fun to read police-procedural-journalist investigative romantic thriller as the predator is watching the “Bitch”.
Harriet Klausner
Jamie Denton
Kensington Brava, Sep 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780758210166
Serenity Heights Sentinel reporter Ainsley Brennan is concerned with the package that she finds on her desk as there is no return address. The label on the tape inside says: "Day One". She plays the recording to hear tormented female screams. Not long after listening to the harrowing tape, the mutilated corpse of young woman is found in the woods.
Ainsley tries to persuade deputy police chief Beck Raines that this is the beginning; he reluctantly agrees. After burning out as a LAPD homicide detective, he came here for peace and quiet. Now he fears he is working a ritual serial killer case who has just stared with the murder of a freshman and he fears a second murder as another young woman has vanished. Worse he is attracted to the beautiful nosy Ainsley who he worries could be next.
DEAD STOP is an exciting investigative romantic suspense starring two likable competitors falling in love. The subplot of a major conglomerate buying the local paper adds a touch of reality to the fine tale. The killer is somewhat typical of the sub-genre, as the culprit is in plain sight yet able to hide his psychopathic tendencies from everyone. Jamie Denton provides a fun to read police-procedural-journalist investigative romantic thriller as the predator is watching the “Bitch”.
Harriet Klausner
The Telltale Turtle-Joyce & Jim Lavene
The Telltale Turtle
Joyce & Jim Lavene
Midnight Ink, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780738712260
Mary Catherine Roberts is a pet psychic who can communicate with all types of creatures. She is world famous and has her own talk show on Lite 102 5 WRSC in Wilmington, Delaware. She has converted the building she owns into an animals shelter, which depends on donations to supplement the large amount of money she contributes.
One day when Mary Catherine was driving home she hears a noise as if a creature is in distress. She zeroes in on the anguished sounds until she finds a house. Inside is a woman whose throat is slashed. She takes Tommy the Turtle with her to her home, but is shocked to learn the victim was Ferndelle Jamison, her station manager Colin’s aunt. He immediately becomes a suspect because he is expected to inherit her fortune. Mary Catherine rejects the notion that Colin killed his aunt, but someone threatens her by injuring her beloved cat Balor and makes nasty calls to her show. When she gets injured after someone breaks in her home, former cop Charlie, now a private eye is hired to protect her. He is like a guardian angel after someone cuts her brake lines. However in spite of him, an unknown adversary plans to make Mary Catherine deceased number two,
Joyce & Jim Lavene always write a charming cozy that immerses the reader deep into the story line. THE TELLTALE TURTLE is no exception as the audience will enjoy middle aged Mary Catherine’s antics as the heroine does not slow down for a breather especially since her menagerie includes new guest Tommy, her cat Balor, a horde of canines, and some sly squirrels, etc. Plus she has a case to work as the cops focus on Colin while she looks elsewhere. The audience will enjoy this fine lighthearted tale and look forward to more capers in this delightful series.
Harriet Klausner
Joyce & Jim Lavene
Midnight Ink, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780738712260
Mary Catherine Roberts is a pet psychic who can communicate with all types of creatures. She is world famous and has her own talk show on Lite 102 5 WRSC in Wilmington, Delaware. She has converted the building she owns into an animals shelter, which depends on donations to supplement the large amount of money she contributes.
One day when Mary Catherine was driving home she hears a noise as if a creature is in distress. She zeroes in on the anguished sounds until she finds a house. Inside is a woman whose throat is slashed. She takes Tommy the Turtle with her to her home, but is shocked to learn the victim was Ferndelle Jamison, her station manager Colin’s aunt. He immediately becomes a suspect because he is expected to inherit her fortune. Mary Catherine rejects the notion that Colin killed his aunt, but someone threatens her by injuring her beloved cat Balor and makes nasty calls to her show. When she gets injured after someone breaks in her home, former cop Charlie, now a private eye is hired to protect her. He is like a guardian angel after someone cuts her brake lines. However in spite of him, an unknown adversary plans to make Mary Catherine deceased number two,
Joyce & Jim Lavene always write a charming cozy that immerses the reader deep into the story line. THE TELLTALE TURTLE is no exception as the audience will enjoy middle aged Mary Catherine’s antics as the heroine does not slow down for a breather especially since her menagerie includes new guest Tommy, her cat Balor, a horde of canines, and some sly squirrels, etc. Plus she has a case to work as the cops focus on Colin while she looks elsewhere. The audience will enjoy this fine lighthearted tale and look forward to more capers in this delightful series.
Harriet Klausner
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Hell Bent-William G. Tapply
Hell Bent
William G. Tapply
St. Martin’s, Oct 2008, $24.95
ISBN 9780312358303
Boston based attorney Brady Coyne is taken aback when Alexandria Shaw enters his office. They were once lovers, but they had not seen one another in seven years. Alexandra asks Brady to represent her brother photojournalist Gus Shaw in his divorce. Brady agrees to meet with Gus; who suffers from post traumatic stress disorder following a harrowing experience in Iraq in which he lost his hand. He also says at that time they will decide if he should be his lawyer.
They talk and in spite of knowing Gus will prove to be at best a difficult withdrawn client, Brady agrees to handle the divorce. However, soon afterward, Gus is dead in what looks like a suicide. Alexandria refuses to accept her sibling killed himself; she believes he may have been depressed but would not have taken his life. Reluctantly and questioning his motive for acquiescing, Brady agrees to investigate though he is believes he will only affirm the official ruling.
Although similar to ONE-WAY TICKET as HELL BENT is more an investigative tale than a legal thriller especially after Gus dies, fans of Coyne will enjoy this strong regional mystery. The investigation into whether Gus was murdered or committed suicide is well done although somewhat obvious. However, Coyne’s inquiry is incredibly illuminating on the impact of the Iraq war on family members of the military. The deep look into those struggling with grief and in some cases sudden poverty while not always coping with deaths that hiding the flag draped coffin from the media does not hide it from the loved ones. Others must deal with physical or mentally hurt soldiers who left healthy and upbeat and return in pain both physical and mental.. Well written and entertaining, William G. Tapply showcases the hidden cost of the Iraq War that those who claim to support the soldier prefer to ignore.
Harriet Klausner
William G. Tapply
St. Martin’s, Oct 2008, $24.95
ISBN 9780312358303
Boston based attorney Brady Coyne is taken aback when Alexandria Shaw enters his office. They were once lovers, but they had not seen one another in seven years. Alexandra asks Brady to represent her brother photojournalist Gus Shaw in his divorce. Brady agrees to meet with Gus; who suffers from post traumatic stress disorder following a harrowing experience in Iraq in which he lost his hand. He also says at that time they will decide if he should be his lawyer.
They talk and in spite of knowing Gus will prove to be at best a difficult withdrawn client, Brady agrees to handle the divorce. However, soon afterward, Gus is dead in what looks like a suicide. Alexandria refuses to accept her sibling killed himself; she believes he may have been depressed but would not have taken his life. Reluctantly and questioning his motive for acquiescing, Brady agrees to investigate though he is believes he will only affirm the official ruling.
Although similar to ONE-WAY TICKET as HELL BENT is more an investigative tale than a legal thriller especially after Gus dies, fans of Coyne will enjoy this strong regional mystery. The investigation into whether Gus was murdered or committed suicide is well done although somewhat obvious. However, Coyne’s inquiry is incredibly illuminating on the impact of the Iraq war on family members of the military. The deep look into those struggling with grief and in some cases sudden poverty while not always coping with deaths that hiding the flag draped coffin from the media does not hide it from the loved ones. Others must deal with physical or mentally hurt soldiers who left healthy and upbeat and return in pain both physical and mental.. Well written and entertaining, William G. Tapply showcases the hidden cost of the Iraq War that those who claim to support the soldier prefer to ignore.
Harriet Klausner
The Highly Effective Detective Goes to the Dogs-Richard Yancey
The Highly Effective Detective Goes to the Dogs
Richard Yancey
St. Martin's, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0312347537
For the second time Teddy Ruzak fails the Tennessee private investigator licensing exam; he also failed the police exam. Already despondent, he knows the two strikes your out state rule. He is notified to shut his practice.
Teddy leaves his office only to notice a homeless man just outside; he gives the man his hat. The next day, Teddy returns to his office only to see the same man dead in the ally behind the building. Someone beat the homeless person to death. Rationalizing that he does not have a paying customer so he is breaking no violations, Teddy begins to investigate even as he is joined by Archie the clever sleuthing canine so intelligent he was residing at the pound and the pound desk assistant U of T philosophy student Amanda.
Teddy is terrific in his second appearance as THE HIGHLY EFFECTIVE DETECTIVE who bumbles his way through the investigation. The story line is driven by Teddy who’s “Noir-lit" asides and his sleuthing companions make for an amusing Tennessee waltz as he struggles to solve the case, feed the dog, and get the woman. His successful ineptitude makes for a fun anti-hardboiled detective.
Harriet Klausner
Richard Yancey
St. Martin's, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0312347537
For the second time Teddy Ruzak fails the Tennessee private investigator licensing exam; he also failed the police exam. Already despondent, he knows the two strikes your out state rule. He is notified to shut his practice.
Teddy leaves his office only to notice a homeless man just outside; he gives the man his hat. The next day, Teddy returns to his office only to see the same man dead in the ally behind the building. Someone beat the homeless person to death. Rationalizing that he does not have a paying customer so he is breaking no violations, Teddy begins to investigate even as he is joined by Archie the clever sleuthing canine so intelligent he was residing at the pound and the pound desk assistant U of T philosophy student Amanda.
Teddy is terrific in his second appearance as THE HIGHLY EFFECTIVE DETECTIVE who bumbles his way through the investigation. The story line is driven by Teddy who’s “Noir-lit" asides and his sleuthing companions make for an amusing Tennessee waltz as he struggles to solve the case, feed the dog, and get the woman. His successful ineptitude makes for a fun anti-hardboiled detective.
Harriet Klausner
Envy the Night-Michael Koryta
Envy the Night
Michael Koryta
St. Martin's, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0312361580
When his other clandestine life as a mob hit man is exposed, U.S. Marshal Frank Temple II, a, commits suicide. His family is shocked first by the revelation by the patriarch’s death and his son who worshipped him cannot deal with his hero crumbling like this.
Seven years later, his twenty-four years old son, Frank III remains angry and still drifting as he has since his dad killed himself. When a friend from his dad’s military days in Nam Ezra Ballard informs him the rat who squealed on his father is Devin Matteson, the son finally finds a reason to focus on life; he wants vengeance. He has the opportunity when Devin is coming from Florida to Wisconsin. The III waits at his late dad’s cabin in Willow Flowage, but soon realizes he has a bigger issue to deal with; he and auto repair shop owner Nora Stafford are in deep trouble as some nasty killers stalk the area.
This tense thriller hooks readers from the moment Frank III leaves jail with a severe headache while thinking what to do about the info Ballard provided him.. Character fueled mostly by the son, ENVY THE NIGHT is a fast-paced taut tale that never misses a beat even when the exciting story line makes a turn from III the stalker to III the stalked. Michael Koryta is at his best with this action-packed Wisconsin thriller. This is an unputdownable thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Michael Koryta
St. Martin's, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0312361580
When his other clandestine life as a mob hit man is exposed, U.S. Marshal Frank Temple II, a, commits suicide. His family is shocked first by the revelation by the patriarch’s death and his son who worshipped him cannot deal with his hero crumbling like this.
Seven years later, his twenty-four years old son, Frank III remains angry and still drifting as he has since his dad killed himself. When a friend from his dad’s military days in Nam Ezra Ballard informs him the rat who squealed on his father is Devin Matteson, the son finally finds a reason to focus on life; he wants vengeance. He has the opportunity when Devin is coming from Florida to Wisconsin. The III waits at his late dad’s cabin in Willow Flowage, but soon realizes he has a bigger issue to deal with; he and auto repair shop owner Nora Stafford are in deep trouble as some nasty killers stalk the area.
This tense thriller hooks readers from the moment Frank III leaves jail with a severe headache while thinking what to do about the info Ballard provided him.. Character fueled mostly by the son, ENVY THE NIGHT is a fast-paced taut tale that never misses a beat even when the exciting story line makes a turn from III the stalker to III the stalked. Michael Koryta is at his best with this action-packed Wisconsin thriller. This is an unputdownable thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Crossfire- JoAnn Ross
Crossfire
JoAnn Ross
Signet, Sep 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780451224798
In Somersett, South Carolina, the sniper needed one shot to assassinate Brigadier General John Jacob. Because of the high visibility of an Army field grade officer murdered in the States, the FBI claims terrorist act means their jurisdiction. FBI agent Caitlin Cavanaugh leads the task force that includes state and local law enforcement.
The team quickly concludes they are dealing with a serial killer whose accuracy denotes military precision of a trained sniper. Former Navy SEAL Quinn McKade is added to the investigative team because of his former military experience as a sniper. The killer sends messages to local TV reporter Valentine Snow that insists the list of victims has just begun. As Cait and her team struggle with the motive that would link the killer’s targets, she and Quinn are attracted to one another; but first there is a deadly apparently military trained killer on the loose they have to catch.
The latest High Risk romantic suspense is a terrific serial killer police procedural with the tie to FREEFALL being a harrowing incident during the Afghan War. Cait is excellent as a woman who prefers to be in charge while Quinn is used to going solo and not taking field orders. They make a fine coupling, but the strength of this superb thriller is the deep look at the sufferer of post-traumatic stress disorder and those emotionally connected to the disturbed person.
Harriet Klausner
JoAnn Ross
Signet, Sep 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780451224798
In Somersett, South Carolina, the sniper needed one shot to assassinate Brigadier General John Jacob. Because of the high visibility of an Army field grade officer murdered in the States, the FBI claims terrorist act means their jurisdiction. FBI agent Caitlin Cavanaugh leads the task force that includes state and local law enforcement.
The team quickly concludes they are dealing with a serial killer whose accuracy denotes military precision of a trained sniper. Former Navy SEAL Quinn McKade is added to the investigative team because of his former military experience as a sniper. The killer sends messages to local TV reporter Valentine Snow that insists the list of victims has just begun. As Cait and her team struggle with the motive that would link the killer’s targets, she and Quinn are attracted to one another; but first there is a deadly apparently military trained killer on the loose they have to catch.
The latest High Risk romantic suspense is a terrific serial killer police procedural with the tie to FREEFALL being a harrowing incident during the Afghan War. Cait is excellent as a woman who prefers to be in charge while Quinn is used to going solo and not taking field orders. They make a fine coupling, but the strength of this superb thriller is the deep look at the sufferer of post-traumatic stress disorder and those emotionally connected to the disturbed person.
Harriet Klausner
The Diva Runs Out of Thyme-Krista Davis
The Diva Runs Out of Thyme
Krista Davis
Berkley, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780425224267
Sophie Winston and Natasha Smith have known each other for years as friendly acquaintances who seemed to always compete against each other. Both write food columns for differing newspapers. Sophie’s is down to earth with simplicity as the idea while Natasha’s are sophisticated almost works of art. While going to a grocer, a man asks Sophie if she wants a cat; she says no but changes her mind.
She sees the cat by a dumpster. When she goes over to look she sees inside a corpse. The police find her name and number on the victim so coupled with her reporting the body she becomes a person of interest. At the Stupendous Stuffing Shakedown Contest, the sponsor Simon Greer asks her for a date and when she goes to find him after she turned him down, she sees him dead bashed in by the Turkey trophy. The same detective catches both cases; he thinks Sophie is a killer using the ploy of finding corpses to throw off the scent; or she is a bad luck innocent. Sophie wants her record cleared so she is helped by her family and friends on her investigation before she ends up reviewing prison cuisine.
“Sugar and spice” is not as Sophie should know the omen for the week that begins with the ingredients for her entry turn up missing. Two murders later, one peeping Tom, and the police make for a harrowing week except Sophie has one thing going for her: she is alive although at a breaking point. She suspects everyone and can’t relax for a moment out of fear of dining on jailhouse food or being the third victim. Although a food reporter going sleuthing is hard to swallow even if circumstantially she fears the cops will give her the FBI anthrax treatment; Krista Davis provides an enjoyable whodunit starring THE DIVA RUNS OUT OF THYME.
Harriet Klausner
Krista Davis
Berkley, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780425224267
Sophie Winston and Natasha Smith have known each other for years as friendly acquaintances who seemed to always compete against each other. Both write food columns for differing newspapers. Sophie’s is down to earth with simplicity as the idea while Natasha’s are sophisticated almost works of art. While going to a grocer, a man asks Sophie if she wants a cat; she says no but changes her mind.
She sees the cat by a dumpster. When she goes over to look she sees inside a corpse. The police find her name and number on the victim so coupled with her reporting the body she becomes a person of interest. At the Stupendous Stuffing Shakedown Contest, the sponsor Simon Greer asks her for a date and when she goes to find him after she turned him down, she sees him dead bashed in by the Turkey trophy. The same detective catches both cases; he thinks Sophie is a killer using the ploy of finding corpses to throw off the scent; or she is a bad luck innocent. Sophie wants her record cleared so she is helped by her family and friends on her investigation before she ends up reviewing prison cuisine.
“Sugar and spice” is not as Sophie should know the omen for the week that begins with the ingredients for her entry turn up missing. Two murders later, one peeping Tom, and the police make for a harrowing week except Sophie has one thing going for her: she is alive although at a breaking point. She suspects everyone and can’t relax for a moment out of fear of dining on jailhouse food or being the third victim. Although a food reporter going sleuthing is hard to swallow even if circumstantially she fears the cops will give her the FBI anthrax treatment; Krista Davis provides an enjoyable whodunit starring THE DIVA RUNS OUT OF THYME.
Harriet Klausner
Aphrodisiac-Allyson Roy
Aphrodisiac
Allyson Roy
Berkley, Sep 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425223239
They are both shocked when they learn their close friend Gwen Applebee committed suicide. In fact neither sex therapist Saylor Oz nor her buddy Benita believes it especially since the fashionista would never be caught dead with a fanny pack. Instead they decide to investigate Gwen’s death as the police are writing it off as self inflicted.
Their theory is Gwen was murdered due to her work on a new perfume that made women irresistible. The pair begins to sniff around the perfume industry, but find too many suspects. However, the case turns odd and dangerous when thugs demand Saylor produce the perfume or else they will batter the two families of the amateur sleuths; one joint at a time. Saylor’s lover boxer Eldridge refuses to take a dive even though the two women tell him to stay out of their fight.
Chick lit mystery fans will enjoy this amusing New York City amateur sleuth as Saylor and Benita take over Brooklyn and Manhattan in their quest to prove Gwen would never go to her grave willingly holding a fanny pack. The story line is fast-paced with plenty of laugh out loud escapades, but also has too many subplots going on. Still sub-genre fans will enjoy this fun urban frolic.
Harriet Klausner
Allyson Roy
Berkley, Sep 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425223239
They are both shocked when they learn their close friend Gwen Applebee committed suicide. In fact neither sex therapist Saylor Oz nor her buddy Benita believes it especially since the fashionista would never be caught dead with a fanny pack. Instead they decide to investigate Gwen’s death as the police are writing it off as self inflicted.
Their theory is Gwen was murdered due to her work on a new perfume that made women irresistible. The pair begins to sniff around the perfume industry, but find too many suspects. However, the case turns odd and dangerous when thugs demand Saylor produce the perfume or else they will batter the two families of the amateur sleuths; one joint at a time. Saylor’s lover boxer Eldridge refuses to take a dive even though the two women tell him to stay out of their fight.
Chick lit mystery fans will enjoy this amusing New York City amateur sleuth as Saylor and Benita take over Brooklyn and Manhattan in their quest to prove Gwen would never go to her grave willingly holding a fanny pack. The story line is fast-paced with plenty of laugh out loud escapades, but also has too many subplots going on. Still sub-genre fans will enjoy this fun urban frolic.
Harriet Klausner
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Always Look Twice-Geralyn Dawson
Always Look Twice
Geralyn Dawson
Signet, Sep 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780451224880
Former Military Intelligence officer Mark Callahan believes someone is killing off the members of his covert ops unit one at a time. He knows the danger he faces from this unknown adversary but has no idea what the motive could be; however, he is more concerned for his ex-wife private investigator Annabelle Monroe; in his mind the most dangerous member of their military squad.
Although both are wary to team up after their disastrous short lived marriage, Mark and Annabelle agree they must act to stop the killer. As they begin to follow clues that they hope leads to the killer soonest, their attraction remains as hot as ever especially in the bedroom. As they realize they remain in love and Mark begins to understand his past keeps them apart, they remain focused on bringing down a covert serial killer.
Mark and Annabelle heat the sheets in this exciting romantic suspense mystery. The story line is fast-paced from the moment that Mark believes someone is killing their former brothers and sisters in arms. Although the confrontational climax will be anticipated early on, fans will enjoy this fast-paced second chance at love whodunit (except perhaps rooters of the Kansas Jayhawks).
Harriet Klausner
Geralyn Dawson
Signet, Sep 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780451224880
Former Military Intelligence officer Mark Callahan believes someone is killing off the members of his covert ops unit one at a time. He knows the danger he faces from this unknown adversary but has no idea what the motive could be; however, he is more concerned for his ex-wife private investigator Annabelle Monroe; in his mind the most dangerous member of their military squad.
Although both are wary to team up after their disastrous short lived marriage, Mark and Annabelle agree they must act to stop the killer. As they begin to follow clues that they hope leads to the killer soonest, their attraction remains as hot as ever especially in the bedroom. As they realize they remain in love and Mark begins to understand his past keeps them apart, they remain focused on bringing down a covert serial killer.
Mark and Annabelle heat the sheets in this exciting romantic suspense mystery. The story line is fast-paced from the moment that Mark believes someone is killing their former brothers and sisters in arms. Although the confrontational climax will be anticipated early on, fans will enjoy this fast-paced second chance at love whodunit (except perhaps rooters of the Kansas Jayhawks).
Harriet Klausner
Broken Pieces-Carla Cassidy
Broken Pieces
Carla Cassidy
Signet, Sep 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780451224897
The assault from an unknown person frightened teenager Mariah Sayers as she expected to die; instead the man he zipped his pants back up and claimed he broke her and owned her before leaving. Frightened she ran from her hometown of Plains Point, Missouri. She vowed never to return and for almost sixteen years she avoided the place.
However with the death of her father, Mariah accompanied by her teenage daughter Kelsey has come home with plans to sell the family house. However, Mariah and Kelsey feel as if they finally came home as each enjoys living here and the mom is seeing Jack. Still, the shadow of the monster lingers in the background until a girl is murdered; Mariah believes her assailant is the killer just from the little she knows. This time she plans not to run as she decides instead to uncover the identity of her fiend.
Using the topics of teen rape and child abuse, Carla Cassidy provides a strong romantic suspense thriller starring a brave flawed woman and a deep support cast especially her daughter and her boyfriend, but especially the villain who for the most part is off page yet his few words emphasize the terror he causes. Years after her harrowing incident Mariah still suffers from nightmares as in his way the predator truly owns her. However, this time she refuses to run. Lights will be left on long after the reader finishes BROKEN PIECES.
Harriet Klausner
Carla Cassidy
Signet, Sep 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780451224897
The assault from an unknown person frightened teenager Mariah Sayers as she expected to die; instead the man he zipped his pants back up and claimed he broke her and owned her before leaving. Frightened she ran from her hometown of Plains Point, Missouri. She vowed never to return and for almost sixteen years she avoided the place.
However with the death of her father, Mariah accompanied by her teenage daughter Kelsey has come home with plans to sell the family house. However, Mariah and Kelsey feel as if they finally came home as each enjoys living here and the mom is seeing Jack. Still, the shadow of the monster lingers in the background until a girl is murdered; Mariah believes her assailant is the killer just from the little she knows. This time she plans not to run as she decides instead to uncover the identity of her fiend.
Using the topics of teen rape and child abuse, Carla Cassidy provides a strong romantic suspense thriller starring a brave flawed woman and a deep support cast especially her daughter and her boyfriend, but especially the villain who for the most part is off page yet his few words emphasize the terror he causes. Years after her harrowing incident Mariah still suffers from nightmares as in his way the predator truly owns her. However, this time she refuses to run. Lights will be left on long after the reader finishes BROKEN PIECES.
Harriet Klausner
Murder, She Wrote: A Slaying in Savannah-Jessica Fletcher & Donald Bain
Murder, She Wrote: A Slaying in Savannah
Jessica Fletcher & Donald Bain
Obsidian, Oct 2008, $21.95
ISBN: 9780451225054
Jessica Fletcher receives a call from a Savannah lawyer informing her that her friend nonagenarian Tillie Mortelaine died. The two women worked together decades ago on an literacy program that became the Georgia standard. Tillie left Jessica with a million dollars for their literary program based on a stipulation that inside of a month the New Englander discovers who murdered the deceased’s fiancé Wanamaker Jones forty years ago; if Jessica fails the program gets nothing.
Four decades ago the police got nowhere with their inquiries as those living in the house closed ranks against outsiders. Determined to solve the case as she has a million motives from various suspects, Jessica questions those people who were there and still alive today. While she investigates, two ghost hunters and a man claiming to be Tillie’s fiancé get in her way; Tillie’s nieces are uncooperative as they believe Mrs. Fletcher will keep the money. Jessica ignores their slurs, but cannot disregard the attempts on her life or the ghostly happenings in Tillie’s house. She is running out of time to put together the puzzle as those central to solving it wants the money and obviously Jessica to fail.
As Tillie and series fans know Mrs. Fletcher is a contemporary New England Miss Marple. Her investigation is difficult because of the time lapse and the lack of cooperation of those involved. Whereas her motive is to insure the literacy program is funded, their motives with one exception are to inherit the money; the lone exception would be the killer if he or she is still alive. The police support the family in that they resent this northern outsider intruding even on a cold case; however she begins to win some of them over with her methods and they admire her moxie. This is one of the best cases Mrs. Fletcher (and Donald Bain) has worked on as she emotionally grieves the death of her friend, which also reminds her of her own mortality; while working on an entertaining cerebral cold case whodunit.
Harriet Klausner
Jessica Fletcher & Donald Bain
Obsidian, Oct 2008, $21.95
ISBN: 9780451225054
Jessica Fletcher receives a call from a Savannah lawyer informing her that her friend nonagenarian Tillie Mortelaine died. The two women worked together decades ago on an literacy program that became the Georgia standard. Tillie left Jessica with a million dollars for their literary program based on a stipulation that inside of a month the New Englander discovers who murdered the deceased’s fiancé Wanamaker Jones forty years ago; if Jessica fails the program gets nothing.
Four decades ago the police got nowhere with their inquiries as those living in the house closed ranks against outsiders. Determined to solve the case as she has a million motives from various suspects, Jessica questions those people who were there and still alive today. While she investigates, two ghost hunters and a man claiming to be Tillie’s fiancé get in her way; Tillie’s nieces are uncooperative as they believe Mrs. Fletcher will keep the money. Jessica ignores their slurs, but cannot disregard the attempts on her life or the ghostly happenings in Tillie’s house. She is running out of time to put together the puzzle as those central to solving it wants the money and obviously Jessica to fail.
As Tillie and series fans know Mrs. Fletcher is a contemporary New England Miss Marple. Her investigation is difficult because of the time lapse and the lack of cooperation of those involved. Whereas her motive is to insure the literacy program is funded, their motives with one exception are to inherit the money; the lone exception would be the killer if he or she is still alive. The police support the family in that they resent this northern outsider intruding even on a cold case; however she begins to win some of them over with her methods and they admire her moxie. This is one of the best cases Mrs. Fletcher (and Donald Bain) has worked on as she emotionally grieves the death of her friend, which also reminds her of her own mortality; while working on an entertaining cerebral cold case whodunit.
Harriet Klausner
Monday, August 11, 2008
Snow Blind-Lori Armstrong
Snow Blind
Lori Armstrong
Medallion, Oct 2008, $7.95
ISBN: 9781933836591
In Bear Butte County South Dakota, private investigator partners Julie “Jules” Collins and Kevin Wells know the winter months are extremely slow. So when Amery Grayson hires Wells/Collins Investigations to investigate the Prairie Gardens Assisted Living Facility where her grandfather Vernon Sloane lives, the pair jumps at the case. They quickly find the facility has almost no security system in place and unlicensed and unskilled staff dispensing health care. Even the elderly volunteer program looks suspicious though the sleuths know they must dig deeper to confirm their theory.
Soon after their initial evaluation, Julie is stuck on her family’s ranch sharing a cattle shelter with her estranged father while a blizzard unmercifully strikes. As the snow reminds her of her unhappy past, a ranch hand is found dead. As more bodies are found, Julie investigates the serial killings as much as she looks back to her past while her relationship with Tony Martinez falters. At the same time, Kevin continues to work the assisted living case, but breaks a PI taboo of becoming involved with the all leg and all blond client.
The latest Bear Butte County private investigative tale is an enjoyable entry though not quite as powerful as the previous novels (see HOLLOWED GROUND, SHALLOW GRAVE and BLOOD TIES) that goes down two prime paths. First there is the assisted living case with Wells crossing taboo lines as Jules has done in the past as Tony’s “Blondie”. Second there is Collins stuck with her father and a murder mystery on the ranch. With Hombres business seemingly interfering with Jules’ relationship with Tony, readers will wonder what next is going to happen in South Dakota.
Harriet Klausner
Lori Armstrong
Medallion, Oct 2008, $7.95
ISBN: 9781933836591
In Bear Butte County South Dakota, private investigator partners Julie “Jules” Collins and Kevin Wells know the winter months are extremely slow. So when Amery Grayson hires Wells/Collins Investigations to investigate the Prairie Gardens Assisted Living Facility where her grandfather Vernon Sloane lives, the pair jumps at the case. They quickly find the facility has almost no security system in place and unlicensed and unskilled staff dispensing health care. Even the elderly volunteer program looks suspicious though the sleuths know they must dig deeper to confirm their theory.
Soon after their initial evaluation, Julie is stuck on her family’s ranch sharing a cattle shelter with her estranged father while a blizzard unmercifully strikes. As the snow reminds her of her unhappy past, a ranch hand is found dead. As more bodies are found, Julie investigates the serial killings as much as she looks back to her past while her relationship with Tony Martinez falters. At the same time, Kevin continues to work the assisted living case, but breaks a PI taboo of becoming involved with the all leg and all blond client.
The latest Bear Butte County private investigative tale is an enjoyable entry though not quite as powerful as the previous novels (see HOLLOWED GROUND, SHALLOW GRAVE and BLOOD TIES) that goes down two prime paths. First there is the assisted living case with Wells crossing taboo lines as Jules has done in the past as Tony’s “Blondie”. Second there is Collins stuck with her father and a murder mystery on the ranch. With Hombres business seemingly interfering with Jules’ relationship with Tony, readers will wonder what next is going to happen in South Dakota.
Harriet Klausner
Espresso Shot-Cleo Coyle
Espresso Shot
Cleo Coyle
Berkley, Oct 2008, $22.95
ISBN: 9780425221778
Her ex-husband Matteo Allegro is getting married and Clare Cosi, head barista of The Village Blend coffeehouse, is responsible for the desserts and coffee bar. Clare dislikes Matteo’s soon to be bride, Trend magazine editor Breanne Summour because the woman is mean and nasty; lacking any kindness in her personality.
A car almost hits Breanne; Matteo pulls her to safety. At his bachelor party a stripper who looks like the bride to be is murdered by a sniper while she walked on the street with Matteo and Clare. Matteo asks Clare, who has conducted several successful investigations, to look into the stripper’s death; he believes someone wants Breanne dead. Clare knows Breanne has many enemies and few if any friends; however she doubts anyone would loath the woman enough to kill her even the wedding help dealing with this odious Bridezilla. Her opinion changes after spending a day with Breanne; besides Clare wanting to kill Ms. Mean, Clare overhears Monica, a worker, talking suspiciously on a phone and not much later Monica is found dead in her office. Although the world wants Breanne dead, Clare has to figure out who is willing to actually kill her.
ESPRESSO SHOT is one of the best whodunits in the Coffeehouse Mysteries. Matteo comes across as a caring person who has given up his hope that one day soon Clare will remarry him; he has found another woman to love. His feelings for both women affirm he is a tender compassionate man with a big heart even if his request places his beloved in danger as he is confident of her skills. The mystery is a wonderful amateur sleuth tale filled with chilling incidents (besides spending a day with Bridezilla); Clare is almost robbed, shot at and attacked. Cleo Coyle creates mysteries that fans will appreciate while drinking coffee.
Harriet Klausner
Cleo Coyle
Berkley, Oct 2008, $22.95
ISBN: 9780425221778
Her ex-husband Matteo Allegro is getting married and Clare Cosi, head barista of The Village Blend coffeehouse, is responsible for the desserts and coffee bar. Clare dislikes Matteo’s soon to be bride, Trend magazine editor Breanne Summour because the woman is mean and nasty; lacking any kindness in her personality.
A car almost hits Breanne; Matteo pulls her to safety. At his bachelor party a stripper who looks like the bride to be is murdered by a sniper while she walked on the street with Matteo and Clare. Matteo asks Clare, who has conducted several successful investigations, to look into the stripper’s death; he believes someone wants Breanne dead. Clare knows Breanne has many enemies and few if any friends; however she doubts anyone would loath the woman enough to kill her even the wedding help dealing with this odious Bridezilla. Her opinion changes after spending a day with Breanne; besides Clare wanting to kill Ms. Mean, Clare overhears Monica, a worker, talking suspiciously on a phone and not much later Monica is found dead in her office. Although the world wants Breanne dead, Clare has to figure out who is willing to actually kill her.
ESPRESSO SHOT is one of the best whodunits in the Coffeehouse Mysteries. Matteo comes across as a caring person who has given up his hope that one day soon Clare will remarry him; he has found another woman to love. His feelings for both women affirm he is a tender compassionate man with a big heart even if his request places his beloved in danger as he is confident of her skills. The mystery is a wonderful amateur sleuth tale filled with chilling incidents (besides spending a day with Bridezilla); Clare is almost robbed, shot at and attacked. Cleo Coyle creates mysteries that fans will appreciate while drinking coffee.
Harriet Klausner
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Forsaken-James David Jordan
Forsaken
James David Jordan
B&H, Oct 2008, $14.99
ISBN: 9780805447491
Her father raised Taylor Pisbury after her mother deserted both of them. He trained his tall daughter to protect herself. However when two associates threaten to rape her and they actually murder her father, she kills both of them; but feels guilt that she originally ran from the scene.
In Dallas eleven years later, the FBI informs renowned televangelist widower Simon Mason that a plausible threat from Muslim terrorists has been intercepted. He hires former Secret Service Agent Taylor to provide him and his twenty year old daughter Kacey, an SMU student, security. Filled with importance and pride, as the best known Christian on the planet hired her; perhaps that is why she fails to ask him why her. Simon hides from her that he knows much about her including things she don’t know. He hopes one day he will be able to confess the full truth to Taylor and prays if he can his revelation becomes SOMETHING THAT LASTS forever for her. Soon after being hired, Taylor’s euphoria abruptly ends when the terrorists abduct Kacey; their demand is simply to make Simon turn his back on his religion with a betrayal to rival Judas or never ever see the tortured corpse of his beloved offspring again.
Although the opening chapters provide insight into the heroine, they feel unnecessary although quite exhilarating as fans will relish this engaging Christian thriller especially once Simon is put into a Hobson’s Choice dilemma. He and Taylor are fully developed protagonists while the support cast either enhances understanding the quandary he faces, the lead duo, or his ministry. Fans will enjoy the FORSAKEN as to be human is to feel that way sometimes; but to be divine is to know no one is fully FORSAKEN.
Harriet Klausner
James David Jordan
B&H, Oct 2008, $14.99
ISBN: 9780805447491
Her father raised Taylor Pisbury after her mother deserted both of them. He trained his tall daughter to protect herself. However when two associates threaten to rape her and they actually murder her father, she kills both of them; but feels guilt that she originally ran from the scene.
In Dallas eleven years later, the FBI informs renowned televangelist widower Simon Mason that a plausible threat from Muslim terrorists has been intercepted. He hires former Secret Service Agent Taylor to provide him and his twenty year old daughter Kacey, an SMU student, security. Filled with importance and pride, as the best known Christian on the planet hired her; perhaps that is why she fails to ask him why her. Simon hides from her that he knows much about her including things she don’t know. He hopes one day he will be able to confess the full truth to Taylor and prays if he can his revelation becomes SOMETHING THAT LASTS forever for her. Soon after being hired, Taylor’s euphoria abruptly ends when the terrorists abduct Kacey; their demand is simply to make Simon turn his back on his religion with a betrayal to rival Judas or never ever see the tortured corpse of his beloved offspring again.
Although the opening chapters provide insight into the heroine, they feel unnecessary although quite exhilarating as fans will relish this engaging Christian thriller especially once Simon is put into a Hobson’s Choice dilemma. He and Taylor are fully developed protagonists while the support cast either enhances understanding the quandary he faces, the lead duo, or his ministry. Fans will enjoy the FORSAKEN as to be human is to feel that way sometimes; but to be divine is to know no one is fully FORSAKEN.
Harriet Klausner
Shoot the Lawyer Twice-Michael Bowen
Shoot the Lawyer Twice
Michael Bowen
Poisoned Pen, Oct 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 1590585291
Married couple, Milwaukee based copyright attorney Rep and University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee Professor Melissa Pennyworth wonder how they got involved in this entangled fiasco that makes the DNA helix look like Lego construction. The mess apparently started at sea on Lake Michigan when undergraduate student Jimmy Clevenger arrives at Carolyn Hoeckstra’s boat and blithely gives her a choice between sex and swimming. She chose the water. Later she filed attempted rape charges that ended in a hang jury; she followed that up with a piracy suit in federal court.
At about the same time, thriller writer Taylor Gates plans to write a novel based on a WWII document that might be a fake but paints the Vatican as the good guys. Meanwhile Professor Harold Angstrom wants out of a contract he signed to write a centennial history of the Goettinger Corporation, who’s CEO happened to be Carolyn’s father and just died suspiciously. The situation spins further out of control when an avaricious extortionist professor is apparently murdered and an amoral reporter seeks the scoop while Rep struggles with a stuffed nose and his spouse is caught up the middle of a politically uncorrected scenario.
Total satirical chaos as the above and much more occur with no or limited connections between the events except for driving the Pennyworth couple into wanting to dive into the Great Lakes. The story line is fast-paced and humorous as the eccentric cast sends even the amiable lead pair seeking shelter. Rep and Melissa are learning that sometimes good and honorable intentions leave the Samaritan trapped in hell although still might prove safer than PUTTING LIPSTICK ON A PIG.
Harriet Klausner
Michael Bowen
Poisoned Pen, Oct 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 1590585291
Married couple, Milwaukee based copyright attorney Rep and University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee Professor Melissa Pennyworth wonder how they got involved in this entangled fiasco that makes the DNA helix look like Lego construction. The mess apparently started at sea on Lake Michigan when undergraduate student Jimmy Clevenger arrives at Carolyn Hoeckstra’s boat and blithely gives her a choice between sex and swimming. She chose the water. Later she filed attempted rape charges that ended in a hang jury; she followed that up with a piracy suit in federal court.
At about the same time, thriller writer Taylor Gates plans to write a novel based on a WWII document that might be a fake but paints the Vatican as the good guys. Meanwhile Professor Harold Angstrom wants out of a contract he signed to write a centennial history of the Goettinger Corporation, who’s CEO happened to be Carolyn’s father and just died suspiciously. The situation spins further out of control when an avaricious extortionist professor is apparently murdered and an amoral reporter seeks the scoop while Rep struggles with a stuffed nose and his spouse is caught up the middle of a politically uncorrected scenario.
Total satirical chaos as the above and much more occur with no or limited connections between the events except for driving the Pennyworth couple into wanting to dive into the Great Lakes. The story line is fast-paced and humorous as the eccentric cast sends even the amiable lead pair seeking shelter. Rep and Melissa are learning that sometimes good and honorable intentions leave the Samaritan trapped in hell although still might prove safer than PUTTING LIPSTICK ON A PIG.
Harriet Klausner
Ghost Radio-Leopoldo Gout
Ghost Radio
Leopoldo Gout
Morrow, Oct 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 0061242683
Supported by his girlfriend Alondra and his radio engineer Watts, former punk rocker and ham operator Joaquin and his cult favored talk show Ghost Radio are in amidst the American alternate lifestyle crowd. Based in Mexico, Joaquin emcees chat-analysis discussions mostly centered on myths, legends and the supernatural turning real.
He sets the tone by providing two frightening inexplicable incidents from his youth that he fortunately survived but his family in the first paranormal event and his best friend in the second happening died. Callers tell their encounters on the air. The more he hears, the more Joaquin seems unable to separate the real from the fake as realty perceived by this talk show host has vanished; a born again believer in supernatural phenomena he cannot stop himself from tussling with those who defy the laws of physics by being here.
GHOST RADIO is an entertaining supernatural thriller that builds on the theory that some white noise is not beneficial especially the unexplained. Joaquin is an interesting protagonist who goes from true believer to true skeptic to born again believer. Although the writing at times feels oddly stilted and off kilter for what is occurring at that moment, fans will enjoy Joaquin’s adventures on and off the air.
Harriet Klausner
Leopoldo Gout
Morrow, Oct 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 0061242683
Supported by his girlfriend Alondra and his radio engineer Watts, former punk rocker and ham operator Joaquin and his cult favored talk show Ghost Radio are in amidst the American alternate lifestyle crowd. Based in Mexico, Joaquin emcees chat-analysis discussions mostly centered on myths, legends and the supernatural turning real.
He sets the tone by providing two frightening inexplicable incidents from his youth that he fortunately survived but his family in the first paranormal event and his best friend in the second happening died. Callers tell their encounters on the air. The more he hears, the more Joaquin seems unable to separate the real from the fake as realty perceived by this talk show host has vanished; a born again believer in supernatural phenomena he cannot stop himself from tussling with those who defy the laws of physics by being here.
GHOST RADIO is an entertaining supernatural thriller that builds on the theory that some white noise is not beneficial especially the unexplained. Joaquin is an interesting protagonist who goes from true believer to true skeptic to born again believer. Although the writing at times feels oddly stilted and off kilter for what is occurring at that moment, fans will enjoy Joaquin’s adventures on and off the air.
Harriet Klausner
Dark Summer-Iris Johansen
Dark Summer
Iris Johansen
St. Martin's, Oct 2008, $26.95
ISBN: 9780312368081
Six days ago the 7.5 earthquake devastated several villages on Santa Marina Island in the Caribbean. Former Navy SEAL Jude Marrok and his dog Ned are part of the Red Cross rescue effort hoping to find survivors. However, whereas Jude has given up in this small hamlet, Ned keeps searching when someone starts shooting at them; Ned is hit. Jude vows to find the sniper and rip out his or her heart after he takes his canine buddy to the rescue effort veterinarian Dr. Devon Brady.
Kingston reports to his superior Raymond Danner informing him he shot the dog, but Jude is unharmed. Raymond warns him to kill both or else; Kingston knows hunting the SEAL is safer
Jude brings Ned to Devon ordering her to fix his dog before vanishing like a magician. The note he left her says he will come for Ned as soon as he can. Devon and Ned return to her home in Colorado where his Caribbean caper follows Ned there. Jude arrives to protect his buddy, one of the “Dogs of Summer” while Danner and his business associates use her as a target to get to him.
Although over the top of the Pike’s Peak and overloaded with too many angles, fans of Iris Johanson will enjoy her latest romantic suspense thriller due to the gender war between the battling buddies of Ned. The story line is fast-paced and loaded with non-stop action even as the various prime support cast groups at times seem overwhelming for the reader and Marrok to handle. Still, with Ned matchmaking and refereeing, DARK SUMMER is a fun read.
Harriet Klausner
Iris Johansen
St. Martin's, Oct 2008, $26.95
ISBN: 9780312368081
Six days ago the 7.5 earthquake devastated several villages on Santa Marina Island in the Caribbean. Former Navy SEAL Jude Marrok and his dog Ned are part of the Red Cross rescue effort hoping to find survivors. However, whereas Jude has given up in this small hamlet, Ned keeps searching when someone starts shooting at them; Ned is hit. Jude vows to find the sniper and rip out his or her heart after he takes his canine buddy to the rescue effort veterinarian Dr. Devon Brady.
Kingston reports to his superior Raymond Danner informing him he shot the dog, but Jude is unharmed. Raymond warns him to kill both or else; Kingston knows hunting the SEAL is safer
Jude brings Ned to Devon ordering her to fix his dog before vanishing like a magician. The note he left her says he will come for Ned as soon as he can. Devon and Ned return to her home in Colorado where his Caribbean caper follows Ned there. Jude arrives to protect his buddy, one of the “Dogs of Summer” while Danner and his business associates use her as a target to get to him.
Although over the top of the Pike’s Peak and overloaded with too many angles, fans of Iris Johanson will enjoy her latest romantic suspense thriller due to the gender war between the battling buddies of Ned. The story line is fast-paced and loaded with non-stop action even as the various prime support cast groups at times seem overwhelming for the reader and Marrok to handle. Still, with Ned matchmaking and refereeing, DARK SUMMER is a fun read.
Harriet Klausner
Saturday, August 9, 2008
To Catch a Thief-Christina Skye
To Catch a Thief
Christina Skye
Harlequin HQN, Sep 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780373773077
When the Da Vinci sketch was stolen from the National Art Gallery, suspicion falls on art restorer Nell MacInnes and her father, a notorious thief just out of prison. Navy SEAL Dakota Smith is assigned to keep a close eye on Nell, which he knows is too easy to do as she is beautiful. They meet in the Isle of Skye where they work together to rescue stranded young climbers from treacherous Mt. Blaven.
Soon afterward an unknown adversary arranges to abduct Nell. Although they fail, her worried dad tells her to obtain the help of Nicholas Draycott and his Foxfire team. Even if she does not trust authorities who insist they are there to help she feels she has no choice so Nell goes for help; there she encounters Dakota again with the mission to recover the art treasure linked to a terrorist group.
Combining her “Code Name” saga with her “Draycott Abbey” escapades, Christina Skye provides her fans with the best from both. The story line is fast-paced and filled with non stop action from the moment the lead couple use body warmth on Blaven until the final dual rings. Readers will appreciate this fine romantic suspense thriller starring a strong capable heroine (just ask a Viet Nam vet about Nell’s skills), a tough caring hero, and brilliant enemies.
Harriet Klausner
Christina Skye
Harlequin HQN, Sep 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780373773077
When the Da Vinci sketch was stolen from the National Art Gallery, suspicion falls on art restorer Nell MacInnes and her father, a notorious thief just out of prison. Navy SEAL Dakota Smith is assigned to keep a close eye on Nell, which he knows is too easy to do as she is beautiful. They meet in the Isle of Skye where they work together to rescue stranded young climbers from treacherous Mt. Blaven.
Soon afterward an unknown adversary arranges to abduct Nell. Although they fail, her worried dad tells her to obtain the help of Nicholas Draycott and his Foxfire team. Even if she does not trust authorities who insist they are there to help she feels she has no choice so Nell goes for help; there she encounters Dakota again with the mission to recover the art treasure linked to a terrorist group.
Combining her “Code Name” saga with her “Draycott Abbey” escapades, Christina Skye provides her fans with the best from both. The story line is fast-paced and filled with non stop action from the moment the lead couple use body warmth on Blaven until the final dual rings. Readers will appreciate this fine romantic suspense thriller starring a strong capable heroine (just ask a Viet Nam vet about Nell’s skills), a tough caring hero, and brilliant enemies.
Harriet Klausner
14-J.T. Ellison
14
J.T. Ellison
Mira, Sep 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780778325567
In the 1980s in Nashville, the Snow White Killer murdered ten women who looked similar with their dark hair and the red lipstick painted haphazardly all over their lips. The serial killer was never caught, but taunted the police with a note claiming mission accomplished. At the time of the murders, preadolescent Taylor Jackson was fascinated by them; she hoped, if the predator was not caught then, to one day have the opportunity to catch the psychopath when she became an adult police detective.
Two decades later, the case remains unsolved, but Taylor knows that was the impetus that turned her to law enforcement. The homicide lieutenant is stunned when the Snow White type murders begin again. She and her fiancé FBI profiler John Baldwin investigate planning to bring the killer, whether he is the original or a copycat, to justice.
The second Taylor Jackson police procedural (see ALL THE PRETTY GIRLS) is a gritty urban serial killing thriller with strong plausible twists. The story line is fast-paced and filled with action as Taylor got her tweener wish as she goes after the deadly effective and efficient psychopath. 14 is a tense and intense thriller throughout.
Harriet Klausner
J.T. Ellison
Mira, Sep 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780778325567
In the 1980s in Nashville, the Snow White Killer murdered ten women who looked similar with their dark hair and the red lipstick painted haphazardly all over their lips. The serial killer was never caught, but taunted the police with a note claiming mission accomplished. At the time of the murders, preadolescent Taylor Jackson was fascinated by them; she hoped, if the predator was not caught then, to one day have the opportunity to catch the psychopath when she became an adult police detective.
Two decades later, the case remains unsolved, but Taylor knows that was the impetus that turned her to law enforcement. The homicide lieutenant is stunned when the Snow White type murders begin again. She and her fiancé FBI profiler John Baldwin investigate planning to bring the killer, whether he is the original or a copycat, to justice.
The second Taylor Jackson police procedural (see ALL THE PRETTY GIRLS) is a gritty urban serial killing thriller with strong plausible twists. The story line is fast-paced and filled with action as Taylor got her tweener wish as she goes after the deadly effective and efficient psychopath. 14 is a tense and intense thriller throughout.
Harriet Klausner
A Killer Workout-Kathryn Lilley
A Killer Workout
Kathryn Lilley
Obsidian, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780451225351
It is not easy being a plus size female TV reporter as Kate Gallagher knows first hand from the not so supple hints about her weight from the suits. She decides to trim down so goes to Body Blast run by her old South Boston friend Riley Matthews whose partner is his lover Kahn.. The place is run like a boot camp more than an exclusive exercise spa, but Kate finishes the obstacle course. Her roommate Marnie Taylor fails. The next morning, Kate awakens to find Marnie gone though her bed looks used.
Marnie’s body is found on the wall in the obstacle course. Although the evidence points heavily towards murder, the authorities treat the incident as an unfortunate accident. Kate sees the connection between the death of her “body buddy” and another woman who died lat year; the latter’s parents sued Body Blast for negligence. Kate asks questions even as someone goes through her things in her room. Kate remains determined to solve what she now believes is two homicides although by continuing to sleuth she could end upping the murder count with her death.
It is fascinating to learn how a television news story comes together even before the on screen journalist gives the report on the air. Late is a complete professional who knows she needs to lose weight if she wants to move on to the big city TV news shows, but isn’t panicking to do so as she is overall comfortable with herself as she is. Her investigation is fun to follow as she uses her investigative news skills in search of a killer.
Harriet Klausner
Kathryn Lilley
Obsidian, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780451225351
It is not easy being a plus size female TV reporter as Kate Gallagher knows first hand from the not so supple hints about her weight from the suits. She decides to trim down so goes to Body Blast run by her old South Boston friend Riley Matthews whose partner is his lover Kahn.. The place is run like a boot camp more than an exclusive exercise spa, but Kate finishes the obstacle course. Her roommate Marnie Taylor fails. The next morning, Kate awakens to find Marnie gone though her bed looks used.
Marnie’s body is found on the wall in the obstacle course. Although the evidence points heavily towards murder, the authorities treat the incident as an unfortunate accident. Kate sees the connection between the death of her “body buddy” and another woman who died lat year; the latter’s parents sued Body Blast for negligence. Kate asks questions even as someone goes through her things in her room. Kate remains determined to solve what she now believes is two homicides although by continuing to sleuth she could end upping the murder count with her death.
It is fascinating to learn how a television news story comes together even before the on screen journalist gives the report on the air. Late is a complete professional who knows she needs to lose weight if she wants to move on to the big city TV news shows, but isn’t panicking to do so as she is overall comfortable with herself as she is. Her investigation is fun to follow as she uses her investigative news skills in search of a killer.
Harriet Klausner
Friday, August 8, 2008
Death in Daytime-Eileen Davidson
Death in Daytime
Eileen Davidson
Obsidian, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780451225641
She has worked on the daytime soap opera The Young Tide for over twenty years until recently it feels like a second home. The show acquired new head writer Marcy Blanchard who hates star Alexis Peterson for stealing her boyfriend two decades ago. She believes if Alexis didn’t go out with her lover, he would have married her and they would have raised kids together. Instead she is totally alone living miserably but with plans to make Alexis’ life even more miserable than hers.
When Marcy forgets to give Alexis her script, the actress decides enough and plans to have it out with her. When she enters the writer’s office, she finds Marcy on the floor with her head bashed in. Alexis is the prime suspect because they had public fights witnessed by the TV crew and their history together. Unwilling to sit idly by, Alexis investigates and learns Marcy had a husband she divorced and a teen daughter. When Marcie’s ex is murdered, someone cleverly designs the crime scene to make it look as if Alexis killed him. Alexis goes full speed to uncover the real culprit before she needs bail.
Readers get treated to the inside scoop of what happens at a popular soap opera off screen as Eileen Davidson uses her experiences on the Young and the Restless and the Bold and the Beautiful to create the background to this exciting, heady and enthralling mystery. The investigation is cleverly handled even if a frantic drama queen like Alexis probably should have hired a pro private investigator. Still with great characters, a fun look at soaping and an engaging whodunit, fans beyond the soaps will enjoy this fine amateur sleuth tale.
Harriet Klausner
Eileen Davidson
Obsidian, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780451225641
She has worked on the daytime soap opera The Young Tide for over twenty years until recently it feels like a second home. The show acquired new head writer Marcy Blanchard who hates star Alexis Peterson for stealing her boyfriend two decades ago. She believes if Alexis didn’t go out with her lover, he would have married her and they would have raised kids together. Instead she is totally alone living miserably but with plans to make Alexis’ life even more miserable than hers.
When Marcy forgets to give Alexis her script, the actress decides enough and plans to have it out with her. When she enters the writer’s office, she finds Marcy on the floor with her head bashed in. Alexis is the prime suspect because they had public fights witnessed by the TV crew and their history together. Unwilling to sit idly by, Alexis investigates and learns Marcy had a husband she divorced and a teen daughter. When Marcie’s ex is murdered, someone cleverly designs the crime scene to make it look as if Alexis killed him. Alexis goes full speed to uncover the real culprit before she needs bail.
Readers get treated to the inside scoop of what happens at a popular soap opera off screen as Eileen Davidson uses her experiences on the Young and the Restless and the Bold and the Beautiful to create the background to this exciting, heady and enthralling mystery. The investigation is cleverly handled even if a frantic drama queen like Alexis probably should have hired a pro private investigator. Still with great characters, a fun look at soaping and an engaging whodunit, fans beyond the soaps will enjoy this fine amateur sleuth tale.
Harriet Klausner
Death in Daytime-Eileen Davidson
Death in Daytime
Eileen Davidson
Obsidian, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780451225641
She has worked on the daytime soap opera The Young Tide for over twenty years until recently it feels like a second home. The show acquired new head writer Marcy Blanchard who hates star Alexis Peterson for stealing her boyfriend two decades ago. She believes if Alexis didn’t go out with her lover, he would have married her and they would have raised kids together. Instead she is totally alone living miserably but with plans to make Alexis’ life even more miserable than hers.
When Marcy forgets to give Alexis her script, the actress decides enough and plans to have it out with her. When she enters the writer’s office, she finds Marcy on the floor with her head bashed in. Alexis is the prime suspect because they had public fights witnessed by the TV crew and their history together. Unwilling to sit idly by, Alexis investigates and learns Marcy had a husband she divorced and a teen daughter. When Marcie’s ex is murdered, someone cleverly designs the crime scene to make it look as if Alexis killed him. Alexis goes full speed to uncover the real culprit before she needs bail.
Readers get treated to the inside scoop of what happens at a popular soap opera off screen as Eileen Davidson uses her experiences on the Young and the Restless and the Bold and the Beautiful to create the background to this exciting, heady and enthralling mystery. The investigation is cleverly handled even if a frantic drama queen like Alexis probably should have hired a pro private investigator. Still with great characters, a fun look at soaping and an engaging whodunit, fans beyond the soaps will enjoy this fine amateur sleuth tale.
Harriet Klausner
Eileen Davidson
Obsidian, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780451225641
She has worked on the daytime soap opera The Young Tide for over twenty years until recently it feels like a second home. The show acquired new head writer Marcy Blanchard who hates star Alexis Peterson for stealing her boyfriend two decades ago. She believes if Alexis didn’t go out with her lover, he would have married her and they would have raised kids together. Instead she is totally alone living miserably but with plans to make Alexis’ life even more miserable than hers.
When Marcy forgets to give Alexis her script, the actress decides enough and plans to have it out with her. When she enters the writer’s office, she finds Marcy on the floor with her head bashed in. Alexis is the prime suspect because they had public fights witnessed by the TV crew and their history together. Unwilling to sit idly by, Alexis investigates and learns Marcy had a husband she divorced and a teen daughter. When Marcie’s ex is murdered, someone cleverly designs the crime scene to make it look as if Alexis killed him. Alexis goes full speed to uncover the real culprit before she needs bail.
Readers get treated to the inside scoop of what happens at a popular soap opera off screen as Eileen Davidson uses her experiences on the Young and the Restless and the Bold and the Beautiful to create the background to this exciting, heady and enthralling mystery. The investigation is cleverly handled even if a frantic drama queen like Alexis probably should have hired a pro private investigator. Still with great characters, a fun look at soaping and an engaging whodunit, fans beyond the soaps will enjoy this fine amateur sleuth tale.
Harriet Klausner
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Defenseless-Celeste Marsella
Defenseless
Celeste Marsella
Dell, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN 9780440244660
The four female friends work at the office of the Rhode Island Attorney General. They go out together on weekly “Sabbats”; this time drinking a bit too much at the seedy Fez, a mob hangout. Laurie, Shannon, Beth and Marianna are leaving when the murdered body of a young woman is tossed from a car.
The quartet knows they should never have gone to that dive so each lies to their respective bosses. They quietly investigate not wanting to raise the ire of the AG Vincent Piganno, the police, or the mob. However as the truth of what they did and saw surfaces, they are removed from the coed homicide investigation so as to not taint the case. Meanwhile ADA Mariana takes the hit with Piganno so is the one sent undercover to Holton College to learn why student Melinda Hastings was with mobsters; similar to the question the four Sabbat females keep asking themselves why they went there too.
Marianna lives up to the title as she is DEFENSELESS while working undercover at the college. Although her soliloquies can be disruptive, fans will enjoy her escapades as she struggles with a touch of romance from a babe magnet and plenty of danger. Celeste Marsella provides an enjoyable romantic suspense thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Celeste Marsella
Dell, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN 9780440244660
The four female friends work at the office of the Rhode Island Attorney General. They go out together on weekly “Sabbats”; this time drinking a bit too much at the seedy Fez, a mob hangout. Laurie, Shannon, Beth and Marianna are leaving when the murdered body of a young woman is tossed from a car.
The quartet knows they should never have gone to that dive so each lies to their respective bosses. They quietly investigate not wanting to raise the ire of the AG Vincent Piganno, the police, or the mob. However as the truth of what they did and saw surfaces, they are removed from the coed homicide investigation so as to not taint the case. Meanwhile ADA Mariana takes the hit with Piganno so is the one sent undercover to Holton College to learn why student Melinda Hastings was with mobsters; similar to the question the four Sabbat females keep asking themselves why they went there too.
Marianna lives up to the title as she is DEFENSELESS while working undercover at the college. Although her soliloquies can be disruptive, fans will enjoy her escapades as she struggles with a touch of romance from a babe magnet and plenty of danger. Celeste Marsella provides an enjoyable romantic suspense thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Fade Away-Harlan Coben
Fade Away
Harlan Coben
Delacorte, Sep 2008, $22.00
ISBN: 9780385342506
Ten years ago an injury ended his stint in the NBA without him playing one professional regular season game, but though Myron Bolitar has always thought of what could have been he uses self deprecating humor to move on and mope over what was lost to fate. He spent time as the most visible undercover FBI agent in the country (remember this is pre Plame days) before deciding to become a sports agent.
New Jersey Dragons owner Chip Arnstein wants to hire Myron to find his longtime sports rival going back to the sixth grade and the ACC, Greg Downing, who has had an illustrious pro career. The word to the media is he sprained his ankle; but on the street and in the Dragons front office Greg vanished five days ago. Using his not so honed FBI skills, Myron investigates with clues leading to a corpse, gambling, bold thirsty point shaving mobsters and a bit of everything else. Myron realizes he never came to grips with the injury that ended his career before it began.
The reprint of the third Bolitar tale (see DEAL BREAKER and DROPSHOT) is a superb story that easily overcomes the initial credibility of an owner hiring a sports agent to play sleuth due to the hero. Myron is wisecracking throughout targeting himself more so than others, but as he gets closer to finding his firmer rival, he realizes the humor hides his disappointment. This is a terrific series that holds up nicely a decade plus since its first printing as this entry affirms.
Harriet Klausner
Harlan Coben
Delacorte, Sep 2008, $22.00
ISBN: 9780385342506
Ten years ago an injury ended his stint in the NBA without him playing one professional regular season game, but though Myron Bolitar has always thought of what could have been he uses self deprecating humor to move on and mope over what was lost to fate. He spent time as the most visible undercover FBI agent in the country (remember this is pre Plame days) before deciding to become a sports agent.
New Jersey Dragons owner Chip Arnstein wants to hire Myron to find his longtime sports rival going back to the sixth grade and the ACC, Greg Downing, who has had an illustrious pro career. The word to the media is he sprained his ankle; but on the street and in the Dragons front office Greg vanished five days ago. Using his not so honed FBI skills, Myron investigates with clues leading to a corpse, gambling, bold thirsty point shaving mobsters and a bit of everything else. Myron realizes he never came to grips with the injury that ended his career before it began.
The reprint of the third Bolitar tale (see DEAL BREAKER and DROPSHOT) is a superb story that easily overcomes the initial credibility of an owner hiring a sports agent to play sleuth due to the hero. Myron is wisecracking throughout targeting himself more so than others, but as he gets closer to finding his firmer rival, he realizes the humor hides his disappointment. This is a terrific series that holds up nicely a decade plus since its first printing as this entry affirms.
Harriet Klausner
The Book Stops Here-Ian Sansom
The Book Stops Here
Ian Sansom
Harper, Aug 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 0061452009
In Tumdrum, Northern Ireland Jewish mobile librarian Israel Armstrong informs his peer Ted Carson that for him THE BOOK STOPS HERE as he plans to tell their boss Linda he is resigning so he can restart his exciting London life especially with his girlfriend. However, before he can open his moth, Linda tells Israel and Ted they will to London on an all paid expenses trip to represent their district at the annual mobile library gala. Ted does not want to go claiming he once went to Belfast, which was enough of a big city for him. However, Israel, dropping his quitting plans at least until after the trip, cons his mobile partner into going by betting the prideful Carson that their library vehicle will win no prizes from the Mobile Library Steering Committee unless there is something given for the worst.
On the way to London, the duo stops in Finchley to see Israel’s mom only to lose the van, which makes no sense to Israel as the vehicle is a crappy rusty junker older than him. He, his Londoner mom, and Ted search for the lost mobile in a quest that takes them to Stonehenge in order to recover and bring the mobile to the competition before Linda learns they lost the vehicle.
The third Mobile Library mystery (see THE CASE OF THE MISSING BOOKS and MR. DIXON DISAPPEARS) is a lighthearted frolic that never takes itself seriously. The stolen van mystery is low keyed as the tale focuses on the misadventures of the lead pair and the ensemble support cast consisting mostly of family, the Mobile Library Committee, the thieves and a few other eccentrics. Although crime buffs will pass, fans of an amusing satirical mystery will laugh at the antics of those crime busting buddies "not" Israel and Ted.
Harriet Klausner
Ian Sansom
Harper, Aug 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 0061452009
In Tumdrum, Northern Ireland Jewish mobile librarian Israel Armstrong informs his peer Ted Carson that for him THE BOOK STOPS HERE as he plans to tell their boss Linda he is resigning so he can restart his exciting London life especially with his girlfriend. However, before he can open his moth, Linda tells Israel and Ted they will to London on an all paid expenses trip to represent their district at the annual mobile library gala. Ted does not want to go claiming he once went to Belfast, which was enough of a big city for him. However, Israel, dropping his quitting plans at least until after the trip, cons his mobile partner into going by betting the prideful Carson that their library vehicle will win no prizes from the Mobile Library Steering Committee unless there is something given for the worst.
On the way to London, the duo stops in Finchley to see Israel’s mom only to lose the van, which makes no sense to Israel as the vehicle is a crappy rusty junker older than him. He, his Londoner mom, and Ted search for the lost mobile in a quest that takes them to Stonehenge in order to recover and bring the mobile to the competition before Linda learns they lost the vehicle.
The third Mobile Library mystery (see THE CASE OF THE MISSING BOOKS and MR. DIXON DISAPPEARS) is a lighthearted frolic that never takes itself seriously. The stolen van mystery is low keyed as the tale focuses on the misadventures of the lead pair and the ensemble support cast consisting mostly of family, the Mobile Library Committee, the thieves and a few other eccentrics. Although crime buffs will pass, fans of an amusing satirical mystery will laugh at the antics of those crime busting buddies "not" Israel and Ted.
Harriet Klausner
The Good Thief-Hannah Tinti
The Good Thief
Hannah Tinti
Dial, Aug 2008, $25.00
ISBN: 0385337450
In New England at Saint Anthony’s for Boys orphanage, twelve years old resident Ren wonders how he lost his left hand and who his biological parents are. He has tried to solve both puzzles for as long as he can remember, but has made no progress on either of his inquiries. He especially would like to find his family as he fears the Brothers who run the facility will soon toss him out into the real world.
Adult Benjamin Nab arrives at Saint Antony with an astonishing claim that Ren is his younger brother. He backs his declaration by explaining how the preadolescent lost his hand and ended up in an orphanage. The Brothers feels good for Ren that his older sibling has come to take him home. However, Benjamin and his partner Tom are con artists whose newest ploy is to use a young angelic looking cripple to expedite the swindle. This proves quite lucrative as Ren takes to a life of crime as if he was born to it; Benjamin and Tom are family to him until they reach North Umbrage where everything unravels.
This engaging historical stars three fascinating crooks with radically different personalities whose adventures in con crime is somewhat abated. Readers especially the young adult audience will relish Ren’s escapades but also undertsanbd his obsessive need to belong to someone who cares about him even if that means criminal activities; this is similar to youngsters joining gangs. Hannah Tinti provides a deep look at THE GOOD THIEF whose psychological relational needs are the driving elements to this enjoyable nineteenth century character driven thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Hannah Tinti
Dial, Aug 2008, $25.00
ISBN: 0385337450
In New England at Saint Anthony’s for Boys orphanage, twelve years old resident Ren wonders how he lost his left hand and who his biological parents are. He has tried to solve both puzzles for as long as he can remember, but has made no progress on either of his inquiries. He especially would like to find his family as he fears the Brothers who run the facility will soon toss him out into the real world.
Adult Benjamin Nab arrives at Saint Antony with an astonishing claim that Ren is his younger brother. He backs his declaration by explaining how the preadolescent lost his hand and ended up in an orphanage. The Brothers feels good for Ren that his older sibling has come to take him home. However, Benjamin and his partner Tom are con artists whose newest ploy is to use a young angelic looking cripple to expedite the swindle. This proves quite lucrative as Ren takes to a life of crime as if he was born to it; Benjamin and Tom are family to him until they reach North Umbrage where everything unravels.
This engaging historical stars three fascinating crooks with radically different personalities whose adventures in con crime is somewhat abated. Readers especially the young adult audience will relish Ren’s escapades but also undertsanbd his obsessive need to belong to someone who cares about him even if that means criminal activities; this is similar to youngsters joining gangs. Hannah Tinti provides a deep look at THE GOOD THIEF whose psychological relational needs are the driving elements to this enjoyable nineteenth century character driven thriller.
Harriet Klausner
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