The Bolter: The True Story of Idina Sackville
The story of Idina Sackville by Frances Osborne In the first half of the twentieth century, less than a hundred years ago, life was very different indeed. That was particularly the case for aristocrats, such as Idina Sackville. This fabulous biography, written with the help of private family papers and letter by Idina’s great granddaughter, is a fascinating book which is a fast-paced as any novel. It’s the sort of book...
Queen Victoria and her Indian Servant
Queen Victoria and the Munshi. It was Queen Victoria whose catchphrase supposedly was ‘we are not amused’. And yet there is no evidence to show that she actually uttered this phrase. Ever. When we think about her,it’s easy to think only of that elderly woman we know from photographs but I suspect that she was a much more interesting character than is sometimes thought. When her husband,Prince Albert,died,she...
A Fifty Year Silence: Book Review
A Fifty Year Silence by Miranda Richmond Mouillot. Miranda is American. Growing up, she was devoted to her grandmother Anna, a woman full of character and spirit. As Miranda grew up, she discovered that her grandmother was a European Jew who had survived the Holocaust. Anna lived alone but when Miranda was five, she discovered that she also had a grandfather, Armand. She couldn’t remember him, although a photograph existed of...
Dancing with the Enemy: Paul Glaser
Dancing with the Enemy: A true story of the Holocaust in the Netherlands. In addition to being one woman’s fascinating and sometimes horrific account of life as a Jew when the Netherlands were occupied by the Germans in WW2, this is also the true story of how the author found out about his family’s secret. Paul Glaser was born in the Netherlands after the Second World War and brought up as a Catholic. It was only when he...
Who Was Edgar Rice Burroughs?
Who was Edgar Rice Burroughs? Edgar Rice Burroughs was one of the most successful American authors of the twentieth century. Although he wrote about several subjects, he will always be mainly remembered for his Tarzan series. Burroughs was born into a wealthy Chicago family. However, he was considered the black sheep of the family. He took to heart the advice ‘go west, young man’ and spent time working in ranches and...
Guy Bradley: Murder in the Everglades
Guy Bradley: A true story about an environmental murder. Does environmental murder seem to be strange description? This is the true story that took place in the Florida Everglades in 1905. At and before the turn of the century, there was a huge fashion in America that dictated that the truly stylish woman wore hats decorated with bird plumes. In order to satisfy the trade, beautiful birds – many endangered – were shot in...
Who Was Colonel Tom Parker?
To start with, he wasn’t a colonel. And actually he really wasn’t called Tom Parker. He wasn’t a musician but his name has gone down in musical history. He was also an illegal immigrant, an army deserter and quite possibly a murderer. Some people who knew him say that you couldn’t wish to meet a nicer guy and that his generosity was legendary. Others say he was tough, ruthless and only interested in making...
The Bryant and May mysteries: By Christopher Fowler
The Bryant and May mysteries: By Christopher Fowler Do you love a good mystery? Do you like to read about eccentric characters? Do you appreciate the British sense of humour? If so, then I’m sure you’ll enjoy the escapades of Arthur Bryant and John May. They are detectives, yes, but I imagine that you’ve never met detectives like these before. Bryant and May are assigned to the Peculiar Crimes Unit in London (a...
Josephine Baker
The Joséphine Baker Story. Until I recently read a biography about Josephine Baker, I had only the haziest idea about who she was. Little did I know what a truly fascinating life she had. It’s amazing that someone who had such a poor start in life could achieve so much. The book tells so many fascinating stories about her life – and it wasn’t always an easy one. She inherited her terrific looks from her mother,...
Cat out of Hell, by Lynne Truss
Cat out of Hell, by Lynne Truss. This is a wonderful laugh-out-loud mystery and suspense novel that is intriguing, funny and thought-provoking all at the same time. It’s also horror story – of sorts. It’s been described by the Sunday Telegraph as a ‘masterpiece of comic writing’ and is definitely the sort of book that you’ll want to read in one sitting. I admit to taking time from my working day...
The Yorkshireman and the Sahara
Eric Jackson: Petrol in My Blood If you’re looking for a great read, full of adventure, humour and history, then I definitely recommend Petrol in My Blood by Eric Jackson. This is the autobiography of a Yorkshireman, born in a gipsy caravan in 1924, who started life with humble origins. Written when the author was in his eighties, the book spans generations and it’s a miracle that, because of his adventures, that he...
Irrepressible: The Life and Times of Jessica Mitford
Irrepressible: The Life and Times of Jessica Mitford. Jessica, almost always known as Decca, was one of the famous aristocratic Mitford sisters who were notorious in the twentieth century. There were six sisters (and one brother who died in the Second World War) and all drew notoriety in their own way. As society girls,they were constantly in trouble during their teens. Their mother always remarked that if ever she saw newspaper...
The Great Pearl Heist
Joseph Grizzard and the Great Pearl Heist. Who was Joseph Grizzard? Joseph Grizzard was a cultured man. He was elegant, wealthy, owned a lovely home and had a wife and children. He was also a criminal mastermind. A Londoner, he had been born in 1866 and despite humble beginnings, by the Edwardian Era he was a wealthy man – thanks to crime. He was wonderfully urbane. In 1909, he was having a small dinner party at his home when...
Hetty Green
Who was Hetty Green? Hetty Green was at one time one of the richest women in the world, certainly in the United States. She was born in 1834 to a wealthy family. She also had the advantage of being the only offspring her parents managed to bring up. She’d had a younger brother but he had died as a child. However, her parents – especially her father – had particularly wanted a son so Hetty never felt loved. But she...
The Last Escaper: Peter Tunstall
The Last Escaper. True stories from Peter Tunstall, Colditz prisoner of war. In the Second World War many British men, often RAF pilots, became prisoners of war in Germany. Their planes had been shot down and then men, often only in their late teens or early twenties, were captured and imprisoned by German soldiers. This is the story about one of them – Pete Tunstall. RAF pilot Tunstall was only twenty one when he was shot down...
Monaco? Forget it if You’re a Criminal
Is Monaco a police state? When the book you see below was published – and it wasn’t too long ago – the author believed that the gorgeous, fairytale principality of Monaco was a police state. The home of the wealthy and the playground of the famous, Monte CArlo is famous throughout the world for its glittering,luxury lifestyle. It’s also claimed that it’s one of the safest, crime-free places in the world....
When Hitler Took Cocaine and Lenin Lost His Brain: History’s Unknown Chapters
When Hitler Took Cocaine and Lenin Lost His Brain: By Giles Milton. Do you like trivia and strange stories from history? If you do, and you’re looking for a great read, then I highly recommend what Mr Milton has created here. It’s perfect for dipping into as each true story is a short one and you’ll learn such a lot about the weird and the wonderful. One or two of these tales from history might be familiar to you...
Intimate Letters of England’s Queens
The Intimate Letters of England’s Queens For lovers of history, or simply those who want to know more about fascinating lives – discovering Intimate Letters of England’s Queens is like finding a treasure trove. After all, there’s no better way about finding out about who these people really were than reading letters written at testing times in their lives. For example, we know the facts about Anne Boleyn. We...
Started Early, Took My Dog: Kate Atkinson
Started Early, Took My Dog: Kate Atkinson What a remarkable book. It’s always a little tricky to write about a mystery story without alerting the reader to spoilers but if you’ve read Kate Atkinson’s books before, you’ll know that you’re in for a treat. If you haven’t, then what are you waiting for? It’s certainly time you discovered this author and her current series. Kate Atkinson has always...
Last Chain on Billie
Last Chain on Billie: How One Extraordinary Elephant Escaped the Big Top. Although the title of this book seems to suggest that this is the story of one elephant, it is really a fascinating history of elephants in captivity in the United States. Using the story of Billie’s life as a background author Carol Bradley tells about the earliest days of elephants being brought into the country to appear in circuses, fairs and...
Mystic Sweet Communion: The Stranahans of Fort Lauderdale
Mystic Sweet Communion: The Stranahans of Fort Lauderdale. Almost hidden away, flanked by enormous high-rise buildings, is the Stranahan House on Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale. The house itself – now a museum – is fascinating but what’s even more interesting is the story of its original owners, Frank and Ivy Stranahan. Ivy Cromartie was still a teenager in when she first went to a tiny South Florida...
Gypsy Rose Lee
Stripping Gypsy Gypsy Rose Lee, or Rose Hovick as she was originally named, was the product of a driven stage mother. Rose was born in 1911 and her sister June followed a year later. After the girls’ parents were divorced, the two youngsters were made to perform on the vaudeville stage to support the small family. Rose and June’s mother is said to have had a variety of forged birth certificates for the girls to...
Who is Travis McGee?
Who is Travis McGee? Living down in the Venice of America, you can still feel the unmistakeable live-aboard vibe if you look hard enough. There’s a characterful crowd of folks who choose to live on docked boats and yachts; idling away the hours for the rest of us. If you’re really lucky, you can still find the Friday night Marguaritatimers sitting around on dock chairs putting the goddam world to rights. As wave upon wave...
Shunt: A Review of the James Hunt Story
Who was the real James Hunt? I have to admit that unlike now, I wasn’t really fanatical about Formula One in the 1970s. I read race reports and sometimes watched the sport on TV so although the name and the face were familiar to me, I didn’t really know much about the extraordinary James Hunt. Not just for race fans Although James became the Formula One World Champion, and of course, this book discusses his racing a great...
Boy soldiers in the Congo
Boy soldiers: The Congo, 1967 Children have been used for military services for almost as long as mankind has existed. In 1967, two men were driving through the Congo where they had the most frightening encounter with a couple of boy soldiers who held them at gunpoint. Read on. The two men were rally drivers, Eric Jackson and Ken Chambers, and they were racing – of all things – an ocean liner from Cape Town to Southampton....
The Lives and Loves of Violette Morris
The curious life of Violette Morris See this chap here? Well actually, this is Violette Morris; not a chap after all but a Frenchwoman who was born in 1893. She rose to fame as a sportswoman, excelling in those sports that require strength and power such as shot put and javelin. She was also keen on boxing, soccer and, as you can see in the photograph here, motor racing. Violette wasn’t just a tomboy, she was a confirmed...
Did Queen Victoria write Alice in Wonderland?
Did Queen Victoria write Alice in Wonderland? Yes, you read that correctly. There are some people who firmly believe that Alice in Wonderland wasn’t the work of Lewis Carroll but that of the recently widowed Queen Victoria. Her beloved husband Albert had died in December of 1861 and proponents of the theory believe that writing the book was a comfort to her. But what about Lewis Carroll? It’s generally supposed that on...
The Tusk that did the Damage: Review
The Tusk that did the Damage This fabulous book will take you on a journey to the south of India. This is a story about the ivory trade and it’s told from the perspective of three protagonists. The first is Manu, the son of a rice farmer. His older brother becomes involved in the ivory-poaching business. The family is poor, the work on the farm is hard and killing elephants for their tusks can put bread on the table. It’s...
The Water Room, a Fine Mystery Novel
A mystery, a thriller, an education, a comedy – all in Christopher Fowler’s The Water Room. Yes, all in one book we have all these ingredients and more. Comedy, lots of action and a superb and unfathomable mystery. There’s no doubt that this is a quirky book, featuring as it does two detectives who are in their eighties (yep) and who work for a secretive branch of the London Police Force called the Peculiar Crimes...
The Mistress of Bjerkebæk
The Mistress of Bjerkebæk I’m an avid reader, but have a narrow genre preference when reading. Sometimes I stray into other areas of interest and am rarely disappointed. One such excursion was the series Kristin Lavransdatter by Sigrid Undset. I still reflect on the books and on the life of the author, also a Nobel Prize laureate. Though I reviewed the series on HubPages, I’ve wanted to learn more about the author. Undset...
The Race for Paris: Review
The Race for Paris: A novel by Meg Waite Clayton. We’ve all seen photographs taken during the Second World War but have you ever stopped to wonder about the people who took them? I have to admit that this had never crossed my mind until I read this based-on-the-facts novel. Some of the photographers were assigned by newspapers; others were official military personnel. But another fact I was unaware of until I read this book is...
Crooked Heart: By Lissa Evans
Crooked Heart: A review. A review copy of book recently landed at JAQUO HQ and I was captivated from the very first page. Dinner remained uncooked (‘can’t you make do with a bowl of cornflakes?’), laundry was ignored and writing took second place to reading as I was instantly drawn into this fascinating story. It’s set in the Second World War – always a great period of history to read about – but...
The Magus: John Fowles
The Magus: John Fowles. The Magus is one of my desert island books -one I can read again and again.I’ve probably read it half a dozen times – at least. My reading of this book has spanned many years. It’s a book that has been largely misunderstood, in my opinion. Many reviewers get this book completely wrong – especially the amateur reviewers at Amazon. I’d truly recommend that you don’t read them...
Rocco DiSpirito: Cook Your Butt Off!
Rocco DiSpirito: Cook Your Butt Off! I would have really preferred Mr DiSpirito to have called this fascinating book something else, but never mind. It’s still pretty amazing and as for the recipes – wow. Yes, this is a weight loss book but it’s certainly one with a difference and something I love is that it’s incredibly easy to follow. Rocco gives a two-week eating plan, plus the recipes and shopping lists,...
The Ways of the World by Robert Goddard
The Ways of the World by Robert Goddard: Review A James Maxted Thriller I was lucky in having a review copy of this book so that I could alert you to it so that you could pre-order. I highly recommend it. The story will intrigue you from the first page. Set in 1919, the book opens with James Maxted, a World War 1 flyer, sizing up a couple of planes that he intends to buy to start a flying school. But his negotiations are interrupted...
Book Spotlight: Don’t Write A Crappy Book!
Presenting….”Don’t Write A Crappy Book!” by James M Ranson Author James M. Ranson is currently on a virtual book tour hosted by iRead Book Tours. Jaquo Lifestyle Magazine is happy to be a part of that tour today. Many of us have always wanted to write a book. Even more of us aren’t sure where to start. Mr. Ranson’s book will guide you straight onto a path toward that success. You can see some of...
Book Spotlight: Murder by Perfection, by Lauren Carr
An Article from Lauren Carr: Inside Criminal Minds It’s always a delight to feature a book written by Lauren Carr. Not only is Lauren an outgoing and vivacious author who is always willing to share, she also writes highly amusing mysteries that grab your attention. Throw in characters that grow on you and independent dogs that sometimes take over a scene, and you have a hit series. Murder by Perfection is book three in the...
Funny Girl, by Nick Hornby
Funny Girl: A Novel by Nick Hornby Funny is quite right – laugh out loud funny, in fact. The book is set in the nineteen sixties – what an era of change that was – and features Barbara, a young woman from Blackpool in the north of England whose heroine is Lucille Ball. Barbara wants to be on television too, to make people laugh. And Barbara certainly has several assets that make her look great on television. At the...
Who Was Anne Morrow?
Anne Morrow. Anne Morrow was born in 1906 and at one time, was one of the most talked-about women in America —but not for reasons she would have wished. She was an acclaimed and prolific author but during the early nineteen thirties – when she was often in the newspaper headlines, not many readers were aware of her literary talents. Most people – then and now – when they hear the name ‘Lindbergh’...
Ted Hughes, An Unauthorized Life
Andy Royston walks out on the wily windy moors with the ghost of Ted Hughes. Poor Heathcliff trying to tear away the veil between death and life… crying out to Cathy’s soul… to haunt him and torment him… till he died.” Emily Brontë “I have often had the fancy that there is one myth for every man, which, if we but knew it, would make us understand all he did and thought” W.B. Yeats Living as I...
Lunch in Paris: By Elizabeth Baud
Subtitle: A Love Story with Recipes. As a European who has lived in the USA for many years, it was fascinating to read the culture shock experiences of someone who did exactly the same but the other way around. This is a fun book to read on the beach or on a short flight – easy to read, light and entertaining. Featuring the memoirs of an American woman who married a Frenchman, it tells of her life during the time she was getting...
The Collision of Grief and Gratitude, by Rosanne Liesveld
On Tour with Rosanne Liesveld We are pleased to join iRead Book Tours this morning on the virtual book tour for The Collision of Grief and Gratitude. Rosanne Leisveld can be found currently at a variety of sites, to share her story. If you have lost a spouse–or any loved one–you can relate to the thoughtful sharing written within this book. The grief that surrounds you is indeed spotted with gratitude for the people you...
Kyle Mills, The Man Chosen to Carry on for Author Vince Flynn.
Kyle Mills, The Man Chosen to Carry on for Author Vince Flynn. Last June, in 2014, it was announced that an author had been selected to complete Vince Flynn’s works in progress AND to continue the Mitch Rapp series. The decision was made my the Vince Flynn Estate and his published, Emily Bestler Books. That author is Mr. Kyle Mills. It’s very uplifting as a fan of the late Vince Flynn, to think that Mitch Rapp will continue to keep...
Bill Bryson and Yorkshire
What is it about Bill Bryson and Yorkshire? I really think that he seems to be a good bloke. I can imagine sitting in a pub with him and having a great chat. I’ve read a couple of his books and he has a nice turn of phrase that made me smile quite often. I will most probably read more. But what is it with him and Yorkshire? He lived there for a while, that’s true. (As you know, Yorkshire is the biggest and best county in...
The Most Beautiful Villages & Towns of the South
The Most Beautiful Villages and Towns of the Southern USA by Bonnie Ramsey This gorgeous book features some of the finest architecture and scenery in the southern United States. It is part travel guide, part art book and part photography extravaganza. It shows some of the finest home you’ll ever see – everyone with its own character and charm. But you’ll also see quirky cottages, old bridges, churches and other...
Andrew Morton: 17 Carnations
17 Carnations: The Duke & Duchess of Windsor and the Nazis. Less than two years before the Second World War began, the king of England abdicated from the throne. And the Nazis wanted to use him for their own ends. After the war, the Allies spent ten years recovering secret German files that revealed their plans. That sounds like the basis for an excellent novel but this book is non-fiction. In addition, American industrialists...
Some Girls, Some Hats and Hitler: By Trudi Kanter
Holocaust memoir from Vienna. Trudi is an independent young woman – a hat designer – separated from her husband and living in Vienna just before the outbreak of the Second World War. She falls in love with Walter, a charming and intelligent man. Her parents live nearby, Trudi has her wonderful man and her own flourishing business. What could possibly go wrong? Of course, we know the answer to that question now –...
Recipe: Mushrooms in red wine sauce
This is a splendid recipe which we often have as the main dinner course. We are a non meat eating household but I’ve served this dish to devoted carnivores who love it. If you wish, it’s excellent to serve as a side dish or even as an appetizer.Because these delicious mushrooms are cooked and served in a red wine sauce, it’s quite a rich dish that is perfect to serve with pasta or rice. Its very richness also makes...
Nora Ephron: Everything is Copy
Everything is copy – true? Writer Nora Ephron was told this by her mother. Her parents were both writers and Nora took the words to heart – she wrote a great deal about her own experiences. I think most writers would agree that writing about personal experience is not only easier, it’s more fun and quite possibly more interesting to the reader simply because it comes from the heart. But I’m not talking here...
Did President Kennedy’s Drug Use Affect His Leadership?
When John Kennedy’s medical records were released, they revealed that the president had been taking an enormous cocktail of prescription drugs. Many of these drugs would be considered unsuitable – if not illegal – today. Throughout his life, Kennedy was besieged by medical problems, starting when he was a young teenager and suffered from colitis. It was in London, where his father was ambassador prior to...
John Cleese: So Anyway…
John Cleese: So Anyway… What makes us laugh? What is funny? John Cleese knows. But did you know that we might never have never have known Monty Python and Basil Fawlty? John Cleese was sure that he was going to have a career in law. That’s what he was studying at university and he had been offered legal position – with a wage of £12 a week – with a prestigious firm of solicitors. (Can you imagine Basil Fawlty...
Through a Broken Heart: Finding Hope and Healing After a Breakup
Featuring Author Colleen Meissner Today’s book spotlight is Through a Broken Heart: Finding Hope and Healing After a Breakup. This devotional will help and inspire you through God’s Word and His love. Ms. Meissner is currently on a virtual book tour hosted by iRead Book Tours. We are delighted to be a part of that tour. Take a look at the description below, learn more about the author. Then pick up a copy for yourself...
Mystery Writer Tackles Cold Case Series, by Lauren Carr
Best Selling Author, Lauren Carr Lauren Carr has a new series once again! Beginning with Ice, we meet Christopher Matheson, retired FBI Agent, who soon becomes embroiled in a decades old murder investigation. What is unusual about this one is that Christopher himself was the prime suspect. Our review of Ice is found here on Jaquo. We do hope you will take a look at that. Today we are honored to present an article written by this...
Signs in The Rearview Mirror: Leaving a Toxic Relationship Behind
Kelly Smith’s Debut Novel Today we are pleased to spotlight Signs in the Rearview Mirror: Leaving a Toxic Relationship Behind, by Kelly Smith. Her first novel is proving to be an inspirational, helpful book for many, whether inside or outside of a relationship. We hope you will check out the information below and get a copy for you and a friend. Knowledge is often the first step to change. Ms. Smith is currently on a virtual...
Ice, by Lauren Carr
New! The Christopher Matheson Mystery Series Here’s another instant hit for bestselling author Lauren Carr. The disappearance of a young girl has branded Chris Matheson a killer for most of his adult life, though never convicted of a crime. After so many years is it possible to find what really happened to her? The title actually does reveal the nature of the first installment of this new series by best-selling author, Lauren,...
Spotlight: Buckaroo Buckeye, by Kristin Anderson Cetone
Buckaroo Buckeye: A Little Nut with Big Dreams Written by Kristin Anderson Cetone Today we present the winner of the Mom’s Choice Silver award. This charming book, written for ages 3 to 7, is certain to delight your young readers. Author Kristin Anderson Cetone is currently on a virtual book tour with iRead Book Tours to introduce Buckaroo. You will find her at many sites with interviews and articles she will share. We are...
Spotlight: The Boy Who Dreamt of Fire Trucks
The Boy Who Dreamt of Fire Trucks By Alvita Mack Spotlighting a children’s book is a favorite of ours here at Jaquo. Encouraging kids to read is so important. A child can learn most anything in a book. Add to that the love of fire trucks and firemen, and you are sure to have a popular book for young one. Author Alvita Mack is currently on a virtual tour to introduce the book to you. Hosted by iRead Book Tours, you will find...
Just Kids – Patti Smith and Robert Mapplethorpe
I first heard Patti Smith as a teenager. The song – if you can call it a song, was Piss Factory, an extraordinary conversational poem set to haunting improvised free-jazz piano by Richard Sohl. It turned out to be from Patti Smith’s first recording session, and tells a story partly related to her time working in a low paid job back in New Jersey, at a factory that made baby buggies. It was a soul destroying environment,...
Spotlight: Out of Time, By Thomas William Lowrie
On Tour with Thomas William Lowrie Just read the brief excerpt below and you’ll know why we’ve been looking forward to this book spotlight. Embroiled in World War II is a man who wasn’t born until 1963. If the history doesn’t intrigue you, the apparent time travel will. Jaquo is pleased to feature Out of Time as part of a virtual book tour currently hosted by iRead Book Tours. Mr. Lowrie will be stopping by a...
Book Spotlight: Poppy, by Kat Flannery
Kat Flannery’s New Release: Poppy Today we are pleased to spotlight the second book in the Montgomery Sisters series. A little western, a little historical, added to romantic suspense is sure to please readers. Author Kat Flannery is currently on a virtual book tour hosted by iRead Book Tours. It’s always a treat to learn more about a book and its author. Check out the details below. We’re sure you will enjoy it....
Oh! You Pretty Things by Shanna Mahin: Review.
Oh! You Pretty Things by Shanna Mahin: Review. This was the latest review copy to land on the editorial desk at JAQUO HQ and I’m so glad it did. It’s very funny, it moves along at a hare-brained pace and you’ll love the quirky characters as they stumble through the strange world of Hollywood in present day. But this is not all glamour and ‘swimming pools, movie stars’ – this is the reality of a...
An Interview With Author Gabriella Contestabile
From The Author of “Sass, Smarts, and Stilettos” Jaquo Lifestyle Magazine is pleased to be a part of the virtual book tour for Sass, Smarts, and Stilettos, written by Gabriellla Contestabile. Currently on tour with Italy Book Tours, you’ll find the author at a variety of sites discussing her newest book. You’ll find our review of the book here on Jaquo as well. Take a look. You won’t want to miss this...
Barbara Taylor Bradford: A Woman of Substance
Barbara Taylor Bradford: A Woman of Substance. I recently read and reviewed Ms Taylor Bradford’s latest book The Cavendon Women (which I recommend heartily) and this made me eager to reread the first books of hers that I ever read. Coincidentally, it was also the author’s first book. I can assure you that it stands the test of time admirably and reading it again now I find that it is just as absorbing as it was when I...
Sass, Smarts, and Stilettos: Review
Sass, Smarts, and Stilettos: How Italian Women Make the Ordinary, Extraordinary. The author of this book, Gabriella Contestabile, was brought up in North America (first Canada and then the United States) but had been born in Italy. She left the country of her birth when she was just four years old and unsurprisingly, when she grew up she became more interested in the Italy she barely remembered rather than her now home country. She...
Gabriel Garcia Marquez: Living to Tell the Tale
The early life of Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Should you read this amazing book before you read his novels? That wasn’t an issue for me because I have been reading Marquez for decades so to me, this book is a wonderful way about learning more. More, not just about the author’s life but how his books and stories are crafted. I knew that basic facts of his life – born in the nineteen twenties in Colobia, a journalist in...
Top British Chefs
Top British Chefs How did Britain get its ‘reputation’ as being a place with less than perfect cuisine? It’s a myth that’s easy to explain and you only have to look at the chefs you featured below to see that great food is alive and well in the United Kingdom. Britain has a very long history of fabulous food going back hundreds of years. Our first cookbook appeared in medieval days and the recipes are still...
The White Van: By Patrick Hoffman
The White Van: Review. Emily wakes up – sort of – to find herself alone in a hotel room. As she comes round, she remembers that she’d been in a bar and met a man – a Russian. No, it was nothing like that – she hadn’t exactly been picked up and there’d been no activity of the type normally associated with situations where two people of the opposite sex who met in abar ended up in a hotel room...
The Myths of Safe Pesticides, by Andre Leu
Book Spotlight: The Myths of Safe Pesticides The Tour We are so pleased to join the virtual book tour for The Myths of Safe Pesticides AND Poisoning Our Children. Both are touring with iRead Book Tours, from mid-March through mid-April. Important information for parents especially, but really for everyone. Do take a look at some of the stops along the tour for articles, reviews and more. This is a book you’ll want to share...
Poisoning Our Children, by Andre Leu
Spotlight: Andre Leu and “Poisoning Our Children” Jaquo is pleased to be a part of the book tour for Author Andre Leu’s “Poisoning Ou Children: The Parents Guide to Myths of Safe Pesticides. Such an important topic, this is a book you won’t want to miss. Hosted by iRead Book Tours, the author will be stopping in at various sites for reviews, articles and more. Do drop in at some of the tour sites for...
The Day Michael Caine Discovered a Family Secret
The day Michael Caine discovered a family secret. When actor Michael Caine and his younger brother, Stanley, were growing up in London, on every single Monday their mother used to go to visit their Aunt Lil. The two boys never thought anything about it – it was simply part of the family routine. But many years later, in 1991, the actor found out the truth.She had been going somewhere very different indeed. Michael Caine was in...
The Stranger in The Woods, by Michael Finkel
Alone in The Woods… The Stranger in the Woods: The Extraordinary Story of The Last True Hermit. What a well written, captivating story. This book written by Michael Finkel was a fascination to me. I got the audio version, knowing I’d enjoy reading of a man living alone, surviving harsh conditions. Stories of survival always draw me in. It was far more than that though. It was as much about capturing a thief. So intriguing that...
Walk With Me, by Debra Schoenberger
On Tour With Debra Schoenberger It’s a pleasure to once again present a photographic collection from author Debra Schoenberger. We were first introduced to her on her virtual book tour for India (Our review here). Walk With Me is even more, in that it includes photos from wherever the author might travel, along with photos from her regular walks in her hometown of Victoria BC. The photos are wonderful. Some appeal for the setting,...
The Museum of Extraordinary Things
The Museum of Extraordinary Things: Review This book, written by Alice Hoffman, is an exceptional fiction, bracketed at the beginning and the end with real events. It’s hard to know which are the more horrifying sections – the fact or the fiction. Set in the early years of the twentieth century. the book tells of a strange character indeed – a man who makes his living at Coney Island running a sideshow of...
How to be Parisian
How to be Parisian – wherever you are Have you ever admired that effortless style that women from Paris seem to have? Everything they do seems to be so stylish and effortless. Whether sitting at a sidewalk café sipping a glass of wine or shopping for the best French bread, they exude a special something and what’s more, they do it with a twinkle in their eye. Sophisticated they may be, but they are also fun. They are...
The Corfu Trilogy by Gerald Durrell: Review
The Corfu Trilogy by Gerald Durrell: Review In later life, Gerald Durrell was a respected naturalist and conservationist but in 1935 he was a ten year old boy when he and his somewhat eccentric family went to live in the Greek Island of Corfu. He was the youngest child of the family and, even though life in the Durrell household was bizarre enough, introduced various creature and animals into the home with disastrous – and...
Book Spotlight: Snap! By Gary Small and Gigi Vorgan
On Tour With Gary Small, M.D. and Gigi Vorgan You won’t want to miss Dr. Gary Small’s new book, Snap! Change Your Personality in 30 Days. Co-written with Gigi Vorgan, the book is bound to change lives and minds. Scientists have discovered that it IS possible to change some of our long held personality traits, and in far less time than you would expect. It’s a book we should all have since it provides a clear path to...
A Circle of Sisters: The MacDonalds
A Circle of Sisters: The MacDonalds Remarkably, four daughters of a nineteenth century Methodist minister became powerful and feted by Victorian society – against all odds. The girls were born into a relatively impoverished family; their father being a minister who moved around the country and their mother the daughter of a wholesale grocer. The had few advantages. They weren’t particularly educated. In that society in...
Twofer Murder, by Lauren Carr
On Tour with Lauren Carr and “Twofer Murder” Another wonderful mystery from bestselling author Lauren Carr. It’s a fun and adventurous treat as always. Well written. Fast paced. Humorous, of course. Complex and twisting reaches a new high with this one. Many of our favorite series characters are on hand for Twofer Murder, including those from the Mac Faraday Series, the Lovers-in-Crime series, and the Thorny Rose series....
Rufus Estes – the first African-American Cookbook
Rufus Estes – author of the first African-American Cookbook In 1911, Rufus Estes published cookbook. There is nothing particularly unusual in that except Estes is believed to be the first African-American chef to publish his recipes. Rufus was born in 1857 in Tennessee and given the last name of his master; the man who ‘owned’ Rufus’ mother, a slave. When civil war broke out he said that most of the male...
Author Lauren Carr on Tour With “Twofer Murder”
A New Interview with Bestselling Author, Lauren Carr Spotlight On: Twofer Murder Anyone who visits Mystery Suspense Reviews often will know we are great fans of Lauren Carr and her various series. What began with one series has grown into the Mac Faraday series, The Partners in Crime series, and the Thorny Rose Mystery series. Each with interconnecting characters, you can’t help but grow attached. So we were delighted to join...
A Review of “Fishbowl,” by Bradley Somer
A Captivating Novel from Bradley Somer Fishbowl is a very unusual story that weaves together the ordinary lives of many during a short moment of time. Bradley Somer’s skill at bringing us along is phenomenal. Quirky characters? Without a doubt. Strange circumstances? Definitely. Making us want answers? Yes! The Story First there is Ian. A goldfish. A thoughtful yet adventurous fish who may not have a long memory, but who does...
Unquiet Spirits: Bonnie MacBird
Unquiet Spirits: A Sherlock Holmes Adventure. On the cover of this book, right underneath the titles, are three words that give the potential reader a clue as to what they can expect: Whisky, Ghosts, Murder. Yes, it seems like a strange combination, doesn’t it? But author Bonnie MacBird has skillfully entwined these to create a new Sherlock Holmes novel that will truly be hard for you to put down. Are you a little wary of modern...
The First Rule, by Robert Crais, A Book Review
The First Rule, by Robert Crais, A Book Review. It’s always a treat to get back to Elvis Cole and Joe Pike, the featured characters in many of Robert Crais’ novels. You grow so fond of both of them during the series, you get anxious to see what they will get into next. Usually in the series, Elvis is the lead, outgoing and witty, working at their detective agency. In this book, Joe Pike takes the lead. He is not so outgoing, or so...
So You Think You Want To Narrate Audiobooks? by Mike Alger
On Tour With Author, Lauren Carr, and Real Murder Not just Real Murder actually. When Lauren Carr decided to have her bestselling series recorded into audio versions, she was, as always, very effective. She did all of them. To celebrate and announce their completion, Lauren is on tour. Not with a single book, but with a batch of them. So, here we are on the fantastic Audiobook-a-palooza Tour, hosted by iRead Book Tours. As a bonus in...
If I Understood You, Would I Have This Look on My Face?
If I Understood You, Would I Have This Look on My Face? By Alan Alda: Book Review Yes, that Alan Alda. Hawkeye. M*A*S*H. When this book landed on the review desk at JAQUO HQ my immediate thought was ‘Alan Alda – must be well worth reading’. Then I saw the tag line under the title – My Adventures in the Art and Science of Relating and Communication. Hmm. Well… But then I remembered the great title –...
Real Murder, by Lauren Carr, A Review
On Tour with Lauren Carr and the Audiobook-a-palooza Blog Tour Real Murder, by bestselling author Lauren Carr, is the second in The Lovers In Crime mystery series. Dead on Ice, the first in the series, brought together Joshua Thornton, Prosecutor, from his earlier series, and Cameron Gates, Homicide Detective. When they first met, their chemistry sparked. Now married, the two will once again work together to find a murderer. The Story...
Whispered Lies, by Kathleen Brooks, A Review
An Excellent Audiobook! Whispered Lies was a “must listen” when I noticed on Audible that Therese Plummer is the narrator. She has been a favorite for years now. Ms. Plummer is one of the best. Her voices for women and men both are clear and so well done. Variations in voices as well make it easy for the listener to be clear who is speaking. Please listen to the sample here, see if you won’t be as drawn in as I was. The Story...
When is Towel Day?
What is Towel Day? I’m surprised that you have to ask. Although if you are a Douglas Adams fan – and in particular a devoteé of the amazing Hitchhikers’ Guide to the Galaxy – you are very familiar with Towel Day. The Guide is a fictional (um, obviously) handbook for those who are hitching their way through space and everything that entails. Should you ever find yourself hitchhiking in the galaxy (and you never...
We Are Legion (We Are Bob), by Dennis E Taylor
So Imaginative! We are Legion is definitely a phenomenon. Definitely one you shouldn’t miss. How author, Dennis Taylor, put together an entire universe in such detail, is fascinating. The complexities it considers are mind boggling. Yet he covers the details so well. It’s a book I will listen to again, very soon. I know I missed some details while pondering the scope of their activities. There is so much in the story...
Surrounded by Enemies: Bryce Zabel
‘JFK was not killed at Dallas’. This is the premise of the fascinating novel, Surrounded by Enemies. Author Bryce Zabel has woven a plausible and thoroughly-imagined fictional series of events that might have taken place had Kennedy suirvived. Maybe you have your own theory about how America would have developed over the years if Kennedy had lived? It’s a subject that many people – the general public and expert...
The Cavendon Women: Barbara Taylor Bradford
The Cavendon Women: Barbara Taylor Bradford This is exactly the sort of book to choose when you need a little light, but dramatic reading. It’s set in the nineteen twenties and features the lives of the members of an aristocratic family in England. You’ll certainly see how the other half lived. But the characters in the book are strangely appealing and you’ll be drawn in by the trials and complexities of their lives...
Plot vs. Character, by Author D. M. Annechino
Spotlight On: “More Than A Soldier” We are so pleased to feature an article written by D. M. Annechino, author of his newly released novel, More Than A Soldier. Currently on a virtual book tour hosted by Italy Book Tours, you will find this fine author around the web at a number of sites, with articles, interviews and more. He writes on a variety of topics, which adds to the enjoyment when you pick up one of this books....
Presenting “Middle South”
It’s a pleasure to present this entertaining debut novel written by Maya Nessouli Abboushi. Middle South is now on a virtual book tour hosted by iRead Book Tours. From April 17th through May 5th, you will find the author at a variety of sites across the internet. Please check out the list before and stop in on a few. There are interviews and guest articles, such as the one we are sharing with you today. The book is sure to be...
Passenger 19, by Ward Larsen
A Deadly Air Crash Passenger 19 is an exciting, fast paced, tension filled story that suspense fans will love. Ward Larsen has great series here. Grab a copy now! Featuring ‘Jammer’ Davis, the series is built around an NTSB crash investigator. In this entry, Jammer rushes to Bogota, Columbia after his boss tells him of the disappearance of a small passenger jet. That wouldn’t be unusual. He’s been investigating for decades. But this...
Aunt Evelyn: An Article by Barbara Casey
Barbara Casey is back with Assata Shakur: A 20th Century Escaped Slave Barbara Casey is a favorite guest of ours here on Jaquo. Her style of writing, the variety of her subjects, the stories themselves are always intriguing and so enjoyable. Now on tour with her latest, Assata Shakur: A 20th Century Escaped Slave, we hope you will check out her schedule of events and drop in on some. Hosted by iRead Book Tours, you will find...
Mama Says Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees, by Iris Mack
An Important Book For Parents And Children I’m excited to share today’s book. Dr. Iris Mack takes on credit card debt, teaching children how it works. It will give them the skills to understand and control their spending and expenses. The importance of these lessons can impact their entire lives. Not only is the book important, children are loving it. How perfect is that? If you can gain their interest, they are happy to learn. Dr....
Marthe Cohn
Behind Enemy Lines: Marthe Cohn The number of people who took part in the Second World War is slowly dwindling. But it’s important that we should never forget them- and the heroism that so many of them showed during that terrible conflict. You can read about many of them in this book by Marthe Cohn. Marthe Hoffnung (her maiden name) was born in 1920 and was still a teenager when war broke out. Yet she worked as spy,...
Truths Not Spoken, by Pamela T. Starr
Truth: Something we want, often expect, in our lives and relationships. Lies bring distrust and doubt. What about the in-between? The partial truths. The truth left unsaid. In Pamela T Starr’s first novel will have you questioning your own unspoken truths. Do we all have them? Truths Not Spoken will please any reader who enjoys a light romance with a bit of suspense added. The fast paced story keeps you reading, a little anxious...
The Outsider, by Anthony Franze
A Review of Anthony Franze’s Latest Novel From the very start of Anthony Franze’s latest thriller, The Outsider had me hooked. Get a copy and set aside some time. You won’t want to put this one down. It’s a twisting, complicated plot that will shock and delight at the same time. It’s exciting, fast paced, and well written. This author writes a compelling legal thrillers that give a back room view of the undercurrents and...
What’s The Price of Love? by Pamela T. Starr
Pamela T. Starr, Author of Truths Not Spoken Truths Not Spoken is such an entertaining story, one that fans of romantic suspense will enjoy. The first in the Shifting Sands Series, we can look forward to more too. You can read our review here on Jaquo. Now Ms. Starr is on tour with iRead Book Tours. We are pleased to join the tour with our review, published a few days ago, and a delightful article from Ms. Starr below. After...
Sirio Maccioni and Le Cirque
The biography of a restaurateur extraordinaire. Sirio Maccioni was born into a poor Italian family of farmers in the nineteen thirties. And yet this extraordinary man became the most important restaurateur in America, if not the world. The philosophy behind his success was simple. He believed in hard work — it’s as simple as that. He believed in the traditional Italian values that had been passed to him from his family...
Every Secret Thing, by Susanna Kearsley, A Review
London, England: Kate Murray is standing there, just feet away from the man when he is killed. If something like that happened to you, wouldn’t you want to know about the man? It happened to Kate. She can’t help but want to know more. After all, he had approached her, as though he knew her, about a story, a long ago murder. The fact that he mentioned her grandmother increases her curiosity. His name, Andrew Deacon, a kind, elderly...
Ready Player One, by Ernest Cline, A Book Review
Ready Player One, by Ernest Cline, A Book Review. A Virtual Classroom? Would send your children to virtual school? Can you picture it? It sounds intriguing when you first think of it. No more bullying, less distractions, right? Yet in a virtual world would it be too isolating? Could there be a balance? Would class size matter then? Would teachers like it better? That is one of the considerations you will find as you read Ready...
All About Spinach in “The Spinach Collection” Cookbook
Leafy Green Power Plant Want your family to eat more vegetables? Leafy greens especially are considered the top food you can eat for nutrition. Excellent for heart health and brain health both, it is important to include it in your diet as often as possible. I started including spinach in more meals when I was reading up on Alzheimer’s Prevention. If you have experienced Alzheimer’s or dementia with a family member or friend, you...
Gunmetal Gray, by Mark Greaney
Have You Met The Gray Man? Court Gentry, The Gray Man, has returned in another exciting, fast moving thriller from Mark Greaney. Book Six in the series is every bit as exciting as the first. What a delight it is to delve into another series book written by a favorite author. You know the feeling if you like to follow a character. Each book you start, you know you will enjoy the characters, the author’s writing, and the excitement...
Mangrove Lightning, by Randy Wayne White
Book 24 in the Doc Ford Series Randy Wayne White’s latest novel has arrived! Mangrove Lightning makes the twenty-fourth book in his bestselling “Doc Ford” series. Can you imagine how well he knows his characters by this time? Every quirk, every strength—and weakness—must come as naturally as it would if you were writing about family. The same must be true about the Florida setting. He lives where he writes, knowing all the little...
St. Patrick’s Day: Books to Celebrate Ireland
If you’ve never been to Ireland, you probably have your own image of it in your mind. The view I see is one of green hills, windy cliffs, little cottages and villages, and smiling faces. Hopefully one day I’ll get to see it in person and pass some time there. Not being a city person, the wandering roads hold much appeal. While the beauty is undeniable, it hasn’t always had a happy history. It wasn’t so long ago that the IRA was...
A Fine Year For Murder, By Lauren Carr, A Review
And “A Fine Year for Murder” It Is What fun it is to be back with Jessica Faraday and Murphy Thornton. The newlyweds in Lauren Carr’s newest series, The Thorny Rose Mysteries, are a hit with fans! This time Jessica and Murphy will find their still new relationship tested as violence from the past invades their present. The Story The Past: As the book begins, a young girl is hiding, cowering in terror. Another is screaming. Present...
India, by Debra Schoenberger
Spotlight on “India” A Nation Within The Pages of a Book Join us in the virtual book tour for “India,” the newest photography book from Debra Schoenberger. Her tour from March 6th through the 24th, hosted by iRead Book Tours. You can find interviews, reviews, and articles by the author at the numerous stops. The full schedule is at the bottom of the page here. Step into another world It was a treat to have the...
Comparing ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’ & ‘The Shadow of the Wind’
Can we really compare Carlos Ruiz Zafon to Gabriel Garcia Marquez? I first read One Hundred Years of Solitude a long, long time ago and I’ve re-read it many times since then. In April 2014, I read The Shadow of the Wind. One of the things that attracted me to the book is that the blurb on the back cover compared these two books. I enjoyed Shadow and, on the evening I finished the book, was determined to read more of Carlos Ruiz...
She Captains by Joan Druett
She Captains: Heroines of the Sea. Prize winning historian and author Joan Druett has created a fabulous book which is chock-full of fascinating about women at sea throughout history. Seafaring was a dangerous business in times gone by and yet many women were attracted to life aboard. Some were captains – and even pirates – in their own right.Others went to sea with their husbands. All their stories are fascinating....
The Whizbang Machine, by Danielle A. Vann
Secrets in A Typewriter An intriguing title to a surprising novel that will appeal to adults and teens alike. What is there about the supernatural that inspires such interest? The imagination it involves? The suspense of learning what exactly it is? Perhaps simply fear of something we aren’t sure we believe. Whichever it might be for you, The Whizbang Machine includes all three. A typewriter that is meant for only one person, responds...
Cardiac, by Jeffrey Monaghan
On Tour with “Cardiac” Cardiac is a thoroughly suspenseful novel. In great part because of how personal it is. It isn’t that uncommon to read a plot where someone is blackmailed or coerced into doing something wrong. Sometimes with threats to your life. Bad enough, but what if someone could control your pacemaker? That would surely bring that tension up several notches, right along with blood pressure. Once anyone has...
Grimm Woods, by D. Melhoff, A Review
On A Virtual Tour with D. Melhoff If you’ve read any of the Grimms Fairy Tales, you probably remember them as stories for children with lessons in each. While that isn’t how they were written—early on most were considered inappropriate for children—the adaptations we see today, in movies or children’s books are generally more uplifting stories. Grimm Woods brings those tales into a gruesome, very adult novel, all set in a park created...
Back Blast, by Mark Greaney: A Review
Court Gentry, The Gray Man The Gray Man is back. And truly back this time–to the United States. After five years eluding his own government, working on his own, Court Gentry has come home. Still hunted, he has finally returned to find out why. Back Blast, released February 16th, 2016, is the fifth in the Gray Man series. Mark Greaney has created a terrific character in Court Gentry. Each book has been an exciting thrill ride....
Book Review: The Testament, by John Grisham.
One of Grisham’s Best The Testament is one of my favorite books by John Grisham. He’s so well know for his legal thrillers, like The Firm, The Client, or A Time to Kill. This story has an unusual twist to it though. Less time in the court room, and plenty of adventure in the Pantanal area of the Brazilian wetlands. Not what you might expect. I loved it! A billionaire announces his last will and testament to his money...
War Hawk, by James Rollins and Grant Blackwood
The Bond Between Man and Dog Tucker Wayne, a former Army Ranger, and Kane, his war dog, form a tight team once again in War Hawk. The second book in the Tucker Wayne series is another hit for the bestselling authors. The relationship between Tucker and Kane—pack–would be enough to keep me enjoying the book. The story is a most excellent bonus. Authors Rollins and Blackwood have done their research on the well trained military...
A Fine Year For Murder, by Lauren Carr
Book Spotlight: On Tour With Lauren Carr We are so happy to be a part of the spotlight tour for Lauren Carr’s latest novel, A Fine Year for Murder. As book two in her newest series, The Thorny Rose series, we’ve been anxiously awaiting its arrival. Jessica Faraday and Murphy Thornton, the children of the featured characters in the Mac Faraday series and The Lovers in Crime series, were an instant hit when the two of them...
Law and Disorder, by Mike Papantonio
A Book Review Nicholas Deketomis (Deke) is a Florida lawyer who has become very successful with class action lawsuits. Having won billions in judgments, he is now involved with multiple cases going after huge corporations. Currently On His Schedule First, a drug company apparently willing to overlook the harm their biggest selling drug may cause. The drug, Ranidol, is approved as a birth control pill. A happy side effect from the drug...
Favorite Health Book: The Paleo Cure
Favorite Health Book: The Paleo Cure The Paleo Cure by Chris Kresser is my new favorite health book. I’ve been studying it all through 2014, and now into 2015 (the time of this review is January 2015). This is saying a lot, since another health book I’ve reviewed here on Jaquo.com called The Blood Sugar Solution, by Dr. Mark Hyman, helped me lose over 50 lbs and drastically overhaul my health. Ever since I overcame multiple problems...
Spotlight on: iRead Book Tours
On Tour with iRead Book Tours After participating in dozens of tours with iRead Book Tours, this time we get to feature iRead itself. It is their third year featuring a wonderful variety of fiction and non fiction books, so they are celebrating with us. Founded by Laura Fabiani, an avid reader and reviewer herself, you will find iRead an excellent choice if you are interesting in a virtual tour with your own book. Ms Fabiani is a...
Dead Wake: The Story of the Lusitania
Dead Wake: The Story of the Lusitania by Erik Larson The wonderful thing about being a book reviewer is having the opportunity to read books before they are published and sharing them with you. I’ve long been fascinated by the story of the Lusitania and its final voyage and this book is by far the best I have read on the subject. It is incredibly detailed – more so than any other book about the tragedy that I’ve ever...
Essential Guide to Outdoor First Aid & Medical Emergencies
Essential Guide to Outdoor First Aid & Medical Emergencies Medicine for the Outdoors is one of a few books that I own that I view as essential. I use it at home, and not just when I’m, say, hiking or camping in the wilderness. There is a ton of incredibly important information in this book for just about every medical emergency you could possibly think of. Do you know what to do if someone is choking? Not breathing? Unconscious?...
Disruption, by Chuck Barrett
A Book Review Jake Pendleton is back with urgent mission in book four of Chuck Barrett’s popular series. It’s a treat to be back with him too! In Disruption, we are pulled into the world of hacking—about as current a topic as you could choose. The Story A global disaster is ‘scheduled,’ dependent on just a few men. Jake and his partner, Francesca Catanzaro, must stop it. Off on an international hunt that leads them to far more...
Access to Power, by Robert Ellis, A Review
Definite Suspense Thriller! Frank Miles, a top Washington DC “Image Maker, ” is one of the best at leading a campaign to a successful election. Manipulating the media to that end is a skill he knows well, but getting Melvin Murdoch may prove costlier than he could have imagined. With days left before the election, both sides are pulling all the tricks possible to destroy the other. Still, there are lines not to be crossed,...
Did Prince Charles send Harry to rehab?
Did Prince Charles send Harry to rehab? There is a persistent rumour abounding that in January 2002, the then teenaged Prince Harry of England was sent by his father, Prince Charles, to rehab because Harry had been exposed by the newspapers for ‘smoking drugs’. In other words, having a joint at a local pub. This is, according to a recent book, totally nonsense. It was (apparently) a typical example of the...
Life Outside The Box, By Marilyn R Wilson
An Article from Author, Marilyn R Wilson After over one thousand interviews, Marilyn R Wilson compiled the collection we find in Life Outside The Box. It is a fascinating look at how differently–and creatively–men and women alike solve the problems they face and find success. Currently on a virtual book tour spotlighting the second edition of her popular book, we are pleased to join iRead Book Tours in sharing the...
Right to Kill, by Andrew Peterson
Nathan McBride is Back “Excellent” is the correct word to describe Right to Kill from the very beginning. Author, Andrew Peterson, drops us right in the midst of an attack on Linda Genneken’s isolated home. His descriptions are so effective, you will clearly see each room, feel and sense what both Linda and Nathan feel as they respond to the attack. It pulls you in immediately and keeps you there, holding on, until...
Bitter Moon, by Alexandra Sokoloff
A Review of “Bitter Moon” The Huntress Series Continues! Much to the delight of her growing number of fans. Take a young child, Cara Lindstrom, the only survivor in her family after a horrific attack, and give her time to grow up. Victim though she is, she now feels no choice but to hunt the evil that nearly killed her. Her skills bring in the FBI, specifically Special Agent Matthew Roarke. As he investigates and learns...
Corporate Citizen, By Gabriel Valjan
A Book Review Gabriel Valjan returns this month with book five of his international “Roma” series. He has been touring with Italy Book Tours since October, so you can find lots of articles, reviews, and interviews with this popular author. The Story Alabaster Black, AKA Bianca Nerini, still appears to be on the run from her former association with Rendition in the latest book in the series. The previous books have seen our heroes...
Book Review: ‘The Lie’, by Helen Dunmore
The year is 1920 and Daniel returns to his Cornish village after his wartime discharge from the army. He is badly traumatised by the loss of his best friend, Frederick, blown to bits in No-Man’s Land in France. Daniel’s mother, a widowed cleaner, has died during his absence, and her rented cottage has been reclaimed by the landlord. Daniel, rootless and unemployed, is drawn back to the memories of his childhood friendship with...
Book Review: Body of Evidence, by Rachel Grant
Book Two in The Evidence Series Archaeologist Mara Garrett has a particular specialty. Her calling is discovering and retrieving bodies of people, soldiers, who lost their lives and went missing in foreign nations. Unfortunately, that is how she finds herself facing a firing squad in North Korea. Rescued at the very last minute, she finds herself aboard a flight with the United States Prosecutor Curt Dominick. The very same attorney...
A Life for a Life, by Lynda McDaniel, A Review
Mystery in Appalachia Laurel Falls, North Carolina, set in the Appalachian Mountains is a long way from Washington DC, in so many ways. A huge change for reporter Della Kinkaid, who goes from big city reporter to owner of a small town market. Step right into the past, where you expect simplicity in a small town. Small markets dot the streets within local communities across the country. Each of us has our own picture when we think of...
Hail to the Chief, by John Leslie and Carey Winfrey
Terrific Political Thriller! What a solid thriller with a fascinating and plausible premise. Strange that the even has never happened in reality. Fast forward several presidents in the future. The first woman has been elected president. Before she is inaugurated, she has an aneurysm burst, leaving her comatose with condition questionable. It is uncertain if she will regain her abilities, that is, if she even survives. So begins a fast...
Falling For The Stars: A Stunt Gal’s Tattle Tales, by Lisa Loving Dalton
The Amazon #1 Bestseller Lisa Loving Brown, stuntwoman, is our featured author today. Currently on tour with iRead Book Tours, you can find this entertaining author at a variety of virtual sites through December 9th 2016. You won’t want to miss this book or the article below. As a stuntwoman for many big name stars and movies, you will be fascinated by her stories. Lisa has shared the post below with Jaquo Lifestyle Magazine...
Murder of a Cranky Catnapper, by Denise Swanson
A Scumble River Mystery, Book 19 Denise Swanson is a wonderful cozy author. Her stories are light, but provide an intriguing mystery that engages you. You’ll find plenty of clues and suspects, but in cozy fashion, you don’t find the explicit violence or sex. Still, the required tension is there within the mystery, and the author is good at showing the attraction and love between the two newlyweds while retaining a PG rating. It would...
Book Review: The Gifts of Imperfection, by Brene Brown
Book Review: The Gifts of Imperfection, by Brene Brown. Accepting Imperfection: It is a Gift. Have you ever had that feeling that no matter how much you do or how hard you try, you are not enough? I know I have, and for more years than I should have! If you’ve felt that way too, this book is for you. It’s an easy to read book that nevertheless provides amazing insights into accepting yourself and loving yourself and living...
Killer in The Band, by Lauren Carr, A Review
Lovers in Crime, Book 3 Another captivating mystery from bestselling author, Lauren Carr, has arrived on the scene. If you haven’t read one of Lauren’s novels, do start as soon as you can. Mystery, suspense, and humor are all spun together into a complex plot that will keep you guessing. Homicide detective, Cameron Gates, and husband, County Prosecutor , Joshua Thornton, return in their Lovers in Crime series. The...
Prince Charles
Prince Charles: The writers’ moneymaker Here’s a cool way to make money. Write a book that contains ‘revelations’ about that famous British soap opera, the royal family. Publicise some of its more extreme stories. It doesn’t matter if you’ve simply made them up -newspapers do it all the time. Pretend, if you like, that this is authorised by Prince Charles. Never mind that it’s not true. Claim...
Book Review: The Ocean at the End of the Lane, by Neil Gaiman
Book Review: The Ocean at the End of the Lane, by Neil Gaiman A Clever Author and a Clever Novel. What a wonderful and unique story. This was my first Neil Gaiman book, but it won’t be my last. The Ocean at the End of the Lane was a beautifully written by an author who is clearly a master of the craft. It’s hard to put this book into a category, just as it is hard to describe the events in the book. I wouldn’t consider it...
President John Kennedy: Health Issues
President John Kennedy: Health Issues. In the year after President John Kennedy was assassinated, an eminent historian began a new project of oral histories. He asked people to record their memories on tape of the late president. He approached Kennedy’s widow, Jackie, to take part in the project and she agreed. There were three reasons for this. The first was that she knew it would help her in coming to terms with her husbands...
From An Idea To A Book, by Lisa de Nikolits
On Tour With “The Nearly Girl” Today we are delighted to share an article written by the author of The Nearly Girl. The award winning author will be touring with Partners In Crime Virtual Book Tours during the entire month of November. There is a link below that will show you the various sites she will visit. Do stop by to learn more about Lisa and her novels. You will find reviews, articles, interviews, and more. Her...
The Magus: John Fowles
The Magus: John Fowles. The Magus is one of my desert island books -one I can read again and again.I’ve probably read it half a dozen times – at least. My reading of this book has spanned many years. It’s a book that has been largely misunderstood, in my opinion. Many reviewers get this book completely wrong – especially the amateur reviewers at Amazon. I’d truly recommend that you don’t read them...
Lafayette’s Sword, by Eric Giacometti, Jacques Ravenne, Anne Trager
Book Review: The Lafayette Sword The Knights of Templar, The Freemasons… What does that bring to mind to you? Good, bad or both? A secret society, formed for good to protect. Yet, as often is the case, something intended for good can be manipulated for bad. Whatever we know about secret societies, their history holds dark mysteries unknown to many. The Lafayette Sword reveals a part of that. The novel was written by Eric...
Balancing Books and Briefs and Broadcasting, by Lis Wiehl
Presenting Lis Wiehl After reviewing The Candidate, the latest book written by Lis Wiehl and Sebastian Stuart, we asked Ms. Wiehl if she would tell us more about how one career has led to another. As a prosecutor, Fox News Analyst, and a bestselling author (just to name a few), she balances several full time careers. So, how did she get here from there? We are grateful to have her response below. As a fan of hers for years, it was...
The Judas Game, by Ethan Cross
On Tour With Ethan Cross The Judas Game takes a twisted path right from the beginning. A serial killer who is remorseful, looking to make amends. A man working for a discreet company known as the Shepherd Organization with a young son who is violent. A badly scarred soul who sees strange people asks to be arrested. Finally, add in a new killer, the Judas killer, who comes on the scene with his own complex plan. One that he will detail...
Book Review: Black Ice, by Greg Enslen
Greg Enslen’s New Release: Black Ice Frank Harper isn’t your typical hero. He hasn’t really been the same since Katrina struck New Orleans. Nor have assignments since helped him. Drinking for courage and calm, his days often blur. His wife left him years ago. He can’t blame her. Then after getting shot, he can no longer be out in the world as a cop. Yet he is trying. He has reconnected with his daughter and her son—his...
A Day in the Life of a Mystery Writer, by Lauren Carr
On Tour with “The Murders At Astaire Castle” Here at Jaquo and Mystery Suspense Reviews, we’ve been fans of Lauren Carr ever since reading the first book in her Mac Faraday series. You can’t help but grow attached to Mac, Archie, and of course, German shepherd Gnarly. Reading the series in order was great fun. That included The Murders at Astaire Castle, which I reviewed here on Jaquo as soon as I finished....
A Grave Prediction, by Victoria Laurie
A Review of Book 14 in The Bestselling Series Is it possible for one to identify a sociopath before that person is even a teen? Abby Cooper could, and that is without using her psychic skills. How is that? You’ll enjoy reading the book to see. Book fourteen in her series is a delightful listen (or read if you prefer). A dramatic mystery that is lightened up by the author theough the featured character and her friends and family. Abby...
Andrea Kane on Research: Past vs. Present
On Tour with Andrea Kane’s “Samantha” Andrea Kane is once again on a virtual book tour, this time for her historical romance series. Re-releasing Samantha and My Heart’s Desire will certainly delight fans! As part of the tour, Ms. Kane has written an article for Jaquo discussing how research varies across genres. You’ll enjoy her thoughtful and entertaining description. We hope you will check out...
Do-It-Yourself Publishing: Step-By-Step, By Lauren Carr
Book Spotlight: Killer in The Band We are thrilled to spotlight Lauren Carr’s latest entry in the Lovers in Crime mystery series. This newest release is going on tour! Today we are spotlighting the book, to wet your appetite. We will also be reviewing the book on November 16th. Don’t miss it! This time around, Ms. Carr has provided an excerpt to tempt you. You will find it at the very end of this post. Enjoy! I know I will. As...
The Candidate, by Lis Wiehl and Sebastian Stuart
Lis Wiehl and Sebastian Stuart are back with the second in the Newsmakers series. A presidential election struck by terror. A candidate, a hero, reliant on his wife. A personal assistant who seems a bit too personal. The top cable news host, on the scene, in the middle of it all. The ratings are dropping, and stardom is starting to fade since Erica uncovered and stopped a deadly plan in The Newsmakers, the first book in this...
Book Spotlight: Italian Street Food, by Paola Bacchia
Italian Street Food, by Paola Bacchia Jaquo is delighted to showcase this wonderful new release! Featuring more than eighty recipes along with a wonderful look at the ‘street scene’ that is rising there, unknown to many. It is a must have for both those who enjoying cooking and for those who enjoy the local side of a country when traveling. On a virtual book tour hosted by Italy Book Tours, the author has written a...
Rockers & Rollers: Brian Johnson
From Brian Johnson of AC/DC: An autobiography with a twist. This is really such an excellent book. It was tailor-made for me and it might be the same for you. At the very least, it’s a wonderful autobiography of a boy growing up in northern England and making the big time in a rock band. But it’s so much more. Even if you’ve never heard of Brian Johnson (really?) – even if you hate rock music (really??)...
Never Cry Mercy, by L. T. Ryan
An Unfriendly Town…Why? Jack Noble returns once again, this time in a story that reminds me of Jack Reacher. A wandering man who ends up in an unfriendly town, only to find himself in the middle of trouble. In an exciting fast paced story, Jack Noble will need his creative and efficient skills to figure out what is happening in the small Texas town. After four weeks exploring the country, trying to remove himself from the...
Need Halloween Ideas? Here’s a Book with 101
Craft Ideas for Any Age Get a head start on Halloween with this terrific book. Published by Better Homes and Gardens in 2000, Halloween: 101 Frightfully Fun Ideas offers 168 pages of fun and unique ideas. The cover alone attracted my interest. It show a pumpkin decorated with curled soldering wire. I find decorating pumpkins more fun than carving them, though that is mostly because of a lack of carving skill. I am amazed at...
Book Review: ‘Still Alice’
“They talked about her as if she weren’t sitting in the wing chair, a few feet away. They talked about her, in front of her, as if she was deaf. They talked about her, without including her …” There have been many non-fiction books and articles written on the impact of Alzheimer’s disease. But sometimes it takes a work of fiction to really connect. Still Alice, by Lisa Genova, published in 2007, is such a book. It captures the slow...
Who Is Detective Sergeant John Byron?
Among the Shadows, by Bruce Robert Coffin We are pleased to feature today an article written by author, Bruce Coffin. This former detective sergeant spent nearly thirty years in law enforcement, giving him knowledge and insight not often found in crime novels. Currently on a virtual book tour with Partners In Crime Book Tours, Mr. Coffin can be found about the web with articles, reviews and interviews. We hope you will take a look at...
Spotlight: The Dance Diaries (Books 1 and 2)
The Dance Diaries From Author, The Girl with the Tree Tattoo Are you interested in ballroom dancing? Yes or no, you will be after you read one dancers look at the art, both positive and negative. It is always fascinating today to see the variety of dancers in their lovely gowns, performing moves we would love to master. We are pleased to present both the Dance Diaries, Learning Ballroom Dance, as well as book two, Dance diaries,...
Martha Stewart: Vegetables
Getting the most out of vegetables with Martha Stewart. Whether it’s entertaining, home decor, crafts, home cooking or most lifestyle subjects, Martha Stewart is without doubt today’s home guru. And in her latest book, she tackles something most of us should do more often – cook and serve glorious fresh vegetables. Of course, the wonderfully photographed recipes all have that magic Stewart touch and there’s a...
I Had a Dream and I Followed It, by Author Barbara Warren
From The Author of “Everlasting Lies” Author Barbara Warren is with us today, on tour with her debut novel, Everlasting Lies. Ms. Warren is currently on a virtual book tour with iRead Book Tours, with stops at a number of sites. Take a look at the list below to find interviews, articles and reviews. As part of the tour, she has shared this terrific article. In case you missed it, you can find our review of Everlasting...
A Drop of Water, by Yvonne Williams Casaus
Book Spotlight: A Drop of Water Today we are pleased to feature A Drop of Water, written by Yvonne Williams Casaus. Ms. Casaus is currently on a virtual book tour hosted by iRead Book Tours. Check out her full schedule below or on her iRead Book Tours Page. We hope you will stop by other sites for interviews, reviews and articles. You will find it a thoughtful book will inspire and refresh–one you won’t want to miss....
Miracle on the Hudson
Captain Sullenberger and Flight 1549. People all over the world remember the events of January 15th, 2009. But many people have an even greater reason to remember that day – the 155 people who were travelling on a routine flight from New York to Charlotte and their families. The 150 passengers were a normal mix of ordinary people. The youngest person on board was a babe-in-arms – the eldest was a lady in her eighties,...
Flight Club, by Felena Hanson
Book Spotlight on Flight Club, by Felena Hanson Entrepreneur Felena Hanson has the years of experience to aptly write her new book, Flight Club. That is just one reason we are pleased to feature her book–and a guest article–today on Jaquo. Currently on a virtual book tour hosted by iRead Book Tours, you will find the author sharing stories, offering encouragement, and answering questions on the various sites on her tour....
Infamy, by Robert K. Tanenbaum, A Review
Book Review: Infamy Infamy: The state of being well known for a criminal, reproachful, or outrageous act. Another impressive author back with his 28th book in his bestselling series. Robert K. Tanenbaum is a master of the genre. Legal thriller, mystery, and plenty of suspense combine in Infamy for an exciting novel. Books contains tension of so many varieties. Sometimes it is terror, sometimes angst, sometimes it is simply fear of...
Emerald Buddha, by Russell Blake
Book Two in the Drake Ramsey Adventure Series Russell Blake has written another entertaining adventure with Emerald Buddha. This time a new treasure thought to be only a rumor draws Drake, Ally and Spencer. The treasure is the bait. The real reason is less clear than you would expect. They are to find a missing plane that crashed carrying the daughter of a senator. Is there really s treasure at all or is the whole thing a manipulation...
The Clifton Chronicles: By Jeffrey Archer
Jeffrey Archer: A bit of a villain? The first book I read by Jeffrey Archer made me think that the man must be a bit of a villain. That book was Not A Penny More, Not A Penny Less and like many others, I decided that if the author had the sort of mind that could create a book like that, he could also do well as an master criminal. Over the years, history has shown that yes, Mr Archer is certainly a bit of a lad. He has been involved...
Everlasting Lies by Barbara Warren: Review
Everlasting Lies: An intriguing novel. Author Barbara Warren has created a novel that will captivate you — and leave you wanting to hear more from her. Set in the early part of the twentieth century, the book takes us through the life of one man and his family as events take him from the north of England, to the horrors of France in the First World War and eventually to an exotic lifestyle in India. Charles disowns his parents...
John Lennon: By his family
John Lennon: By his family On December 8th., 1980 John Lennon was shot as he entered his home at the Dakota Building in New York. And still today we are fascinated by the story of this man who started out singing with his group (The Quarrymen) in Liverpool, morphed into the ‘Beatle John’ and then became one of the most well-known people on earth. Millions of words have been written and I’m inclined to suspect that a...
Game of Crowns by Christopher Andersen: Awful Book!
A truly terrible book. I’ve reviewed hundreds of books and my usual style is to review only books that I enjoy. But today I’m making an exception and writing about a book that is, quite honestly, terrible. It’s the first time I’ve ever done so. The reason for this is that the book is written by a best-selling American author and so-called ‘specialist’, and this supposedly factual book is a...
Writing: Good for Your Health? by Author June Gillam
June Gillam’s “House of Erie” on Tour Our article today comes to you courtesy of June Gillam, author of the Hillary Broome Novels series. Book three continues an entertaining mystery series, this time set in lovely Ireland. The location itself is enough to draw many readers, myself included. You can read our review of the novel here on Mystery Suspense Reviews. As part of her book tour, Ms. Gillam has written a...
The Cat, The Collector and The Killer, by Leann Sweeney
Book Review: A Cat’s in Trouble Series is Back LeAnn Sweeney’s eighth book in the “A Cats in Trouble” Series was a pleasure to listen to. The author has her characters mastered by now. If you are following the series, you will feel like you are back with good friends. If this is your first in the series, you will want to hear more. Jillian Hart, now married to acting Police Chief, Tom Stewart, surrounded by cats,...
The Science of Hitting: Book by Baseball Great Ted Williams
The Science of Hitting: Book by Baseball Great Ted Williams. Just how great of a hitter was Ted Williams? He’s the only hitter that anyone could try to argue was as good or better than Babe Ruth.Ted Williams had an amazing career interrupted by some service for the USA as a soldier during World War II and the Korean War. Despite these significant interruptions, his career totals in many hitting categories are astounding. One of his...
Book Review: Ramsey’s Gold, by Russell Blake
Russell Blake’s ‘Drake Ramsey’ Series If you enjoy an adventure Ramsey’s Gold will be hard to resist! The Incas, a lost city, and a long hidden journal start Ramsey’s Gold off to an exciting start. Go on a treasure hunt into the jungle, not knowing what is ahead or where it will lead. The Story When Drake Simmons is called to an attorney’s office, he has no clue where it will lead. A mysterious inheritance that...
An Interview with Barbara Casey, Author of “The Wish Rider”
Book Spotlight: The Wish Rider Barbara Casey is back on tour with her newest book in the F.I.G. mystery series. Once again, we are excited to share the book with you. The captivating series continues with The Wish Rider. Touring throughout the month of August, you will find Ms. Casey at a variety of sites with articles, interviews and reviews included. The tour is hosted by iRead Book Tours. Her full schedule is listed below, but...
Candidate For Murder, by Lauren Carr, A Review
Best one yet! Lauren Carr has once again surprised and delighted readers with Candidate For Murder, the newest addition to the Mac Faraday series. Well written, hugely entertaining, it is a book you won’t want to stop reading–even when you have reached the end. Because it isn’t just about politics. It is about murder. Murders, actually. Way more than one, and not all are recent. The Story It starts off with action...
The Kill Switch by James Rollins and Grant Blackwood, A Book Review
A New Series From Two Excellent Authors. What an exciting start to a new series, this time with James Rollins teaming up with Grant Blackwood. The Kill Switch is a winner in my opinion, and hopefully the beginning of many more stories about Tucker Wayne, and Kane. James Rollins currently has the Sigma Force series in progress, up to book ten now, I believe. In addition, he’s written novels like Subterranean, Amazonia, and Ice Hunt....
What Could Be or Ought To Be, by Barbara Casey
An Article from Bestselling Author, Barbara Casey The House of Kane takes us into the competitive world of publishing with all of its power, intrigue and ambition. The book, considered for a Pulitzer Prize, is a remarkable story you won’t want to miss. Writers will be delighted to find secrets revealed about the publishing industry. Readers will appreciate what goes on before the books they read reach their release date....
Where the Wild Things Bite, by Molly Harper
Return to Half Moon Hollow… Molly Harper’s newest book in the Half Moon Hollow series is a so entertaining. Of course, every book in Molly Harper’s various series reflect her humor and imagination. If you have the chance to listen to any of them, you’ll be hooked. Listening to the audiobook is highly suggested. Narrator, Amanda Ronconi, has the writer’s words and tone mastered. Molly Harper and Ms. Ronconi have worked...
The House of Kane: By Barbara Casey
The House of Kane: A fine read. In this novel, Barbara Casey takes us inside the world of book publishing and who knew it could be such a cut-throat industry? This book combines intrigue, mystery and relationships, and features some of the most interesting characters that you’re likely to meet. Few of us can imagine that intrigue plays a part in the book publishing industry but this novel shows just how fragile the system can be...
The Veritas Deception, by Lynne Constantine
A Book Review Have you ever wondered how much of your life has been manipulated? You will, after reading The Veritas Deception with its multi-layered plot. Good vs evil is at the core of it, but evil never plays fair. The Story The Veritas Deception starts off at a full run as Jack Logan tries to protect a senator’s wife. The two must learn why. The Present After a last minute change of vote on a bill in Congress, Senator Malcolm...
An Interview with Author, Pamela Ford
Spotlight on: The Continental Breakfast Club And Author Pamela Ford Pamela Ford has an entertaining, popular new series on her hands with The Continental Breakfast Club. The first book, Over Easy, was released in May of 2010, the second, Freshly Brewed, is scheduled for release late July or early August. Which is why she is currently on a virtual book tour hosted by iRead Book Tours. Our Interview Thank you, Pamela, for the...
The Killing Game, by Nancy Bush: A Review
From Bestselling Author, Nancy Bush… In a complicated plot that first seems like three separate stories, author Nancy Bush has written a complex and entertaining mystery. You will need to pay attention to this one. From the beginning murder by an apparent serial killer to old skeletons found in a basement, the suspense grows. At the same time Andi Wren is finding her way forward after her husband’s death. The Story Andi Wren...
Book Review: Over Easy, by Pamela Ford
Introducing The Continental Breakfast Club If you are looking for a light summer read that will keep you smiling you might enjoy over easy. Book one in the Continental Breakfast Club series has an unusual premise for its series name. Three girlfriends want to meet guys. When you’ve tried singles groups, church groups, the other usual choices, where do you look next? The story is a little romance, a little mystery, a lot...
For Better For Worse: Damian Horner
For Better For Worse, by Damian Horner. Or For Richer For Poorer by Siobhan Horner. What? Is this one book or two? Well, it’s one book by a husband and wife team and it’s truly fascinating. The couple decided to give up their middle-class, comfortable life in London to travel through France in an old fishing boat they had restored. Oh, and they had two young children Damian had bought the boat before he met Siobhan...
Book Review: Blue Moon, by Wendy Corsi Staub
On Tour with Wendy Corsi Staub Wendy Corsi Staub is back with the second in her newest series located in Mundy’s Landing. With the release of her book, she is on a book tour this month, hosted by Partners In Crime Virtual Book Tours. The bestselling author can be found at a number of sites during the tour. We hope you will enjoy our review and drop to several sites to find more reviews, guest articles and interviews with this...
The Murder of Marilyn Monroe: Case Closed
The Murder of Marilyn Monroe: Jay Margolis & Richard Buskin. I wondered – did we really need another book of theories regarding the death of Marilyn Monroe? Ever since her death in 1962, the official story – that she died by her own hand – has been questioned. Some books have said that her death was due to an accidental overdose and other theories are more sinister – that she was murdered. Invariably those...
Book Review: Dennis Lehane’s “A Drink Before The War”
Book Review: Dennis Lehane’s “A Drink Before The War”. If author Dennis Lehane is unfamiliar to you, I bet you will still know of his work. Have you seen Mystic River? How about Shutter Island? Those two recent hits were authored by Mr. Lahane. Years before that, Mr. Lahane published his very first book, A Drink before The War. Escape back to the 50’s, to a gentler time in many ways, but a harsher time in others. In the...
The Invoice: By Jonas Karlsson
The Invoice: A fabulous novel. Are you happy? This is the major theme that the author explores in this very funny, yet thought-provoking novel. It’s great fun to read and certainly gave me a wonderful warm glow after finishing the book. And in and among the story is a rather sinister ‘big brother’ element. The hero of this novel is a single guy living in Stockholm. He’s never made much out of his life but...
Book Review: Fortune Hunter, by Jana DeLeon
The Latest in the “Miss Fortune” Mystery Series Fortune Hunter is another engaging novel from Jana DeLeon. After reading Louisiana Longshot, the first in the series, I looked forward to another tale from Ms. Deleon. What a fun series to read. Number 8 in the “Miss Fortune” series, features the same familiar characters. Fortune Redding, police sergeant Carter LeBlanc, Gertie, Ida Belle, and more. In book one, we saw Fortune...
Game Changer, by Douglas E. Richards
The New Bestseller from Douglas E Richards A complicated plot, likable characters, and fast paced action combine into an exciting new novel from author, Douglas E Richards. Talk about a brain twister. As you read Game Changer you will understand why it is an Amazon bestseller already. It’s definitely an appropriate title. An operative, Kevin Quinn, who attempts to assassinate his employer. That employer happens to be the...
Book Review: The Lost Key, by Catherine Coulter and J T Ellison
“A Brit in the FBI” returns The Lost Key was—is—an unexpected surprise. Thinking it would be more a police procedural, it was that and more. A murder investigation that soon advances into a suspenseful thriller, it is filled with a variety of adventure and ultimately a terror threat. It’s fast paced in every setting with lives endangered at each stop. The Story Book two in the “A Brit in the FBI ” series brings...
Interview with Anjenique Hughes, Author of “Sovereignty”
Sovereignty: An All Too Plausible Dystopia Author Anjenique Hughes is off to a terrific start with her debut novel, Sovereignty. A dystopian novel, it paints a frightening future for our nation and the world. Written for young adults, any age teen really, adults too will enjoy it. The premise of the story and the characteristics of the teens are uplifting at the same time they are scary. Since Ms. Hughes is currently on a virtual...
Friendly Fire, by John Gilstrap, A Review
Book 8 in The Jonathan Graves Series Jonathan Graves has been a favorite character of mine since I ran across No Mercy on Audible. A hostage rescuer with all the talent and skills needed to stealthily find and retrieve the missing, he is a fun and fascinating character. The 8th book in the series increases that fondness. What do you do when a child you rescued is arrested for murdering the monster who hurt him? Friendly Fire is a...
Spotlight: The Great Disney Scavenger Hunt and Author Catherine F. Olen
Presenting Author Catherine F. Olen No matter what your age, you will appreciate and enjoy this clever book by Catherine F. Olen. So many of us have visited Disneyland at some time in our lives. The original California park has good reason to be called “The Magic Kingdom.” As Ms. Olen says in her book, we usually arrive with an enormous list of what we want to see and do. We then scurry from ride to ride, from...
Spotlight: Party With a Plan, by Randy Haveson
“I Couldn’t NOT Write this Book” We are pleased to participate today in the virtual book tour for Randy Haveson’s new book, Party With a Plan. Currently on tour with iRead Book Tours, you will find articles and interviews at numerous sites. To see the full schedule, check out the Author’s Home Page at iRead. Mr Haveson has written an article for us here on Jaquo as well, as part of the tour. Do enjoy the article,...
Kick Kennedy: By Barbara Leaming
The truth about John Kennedy’s sister. I’ve long been fascinated by the life and tragedies of President Kennedy’s sister, Kathleen. She was nicknamed ‘Kick’ because of her exuberance and vivacity. You may know the basic story of her life. Born the fourth child of Joe Kennedy Sr. and his deeply religious wife Rose, Kick fell in love with a member of the British aristocracy in the late 1930s. Her father was...
Book Spotlight: The Conscious Entrepreneur
The Conscious Entrepreneur, by Laura C. Cannon It is always a pleasure to spotlight a book that provides motivation for a work and life balance. Today’s book does just that. Speaker and coach, Laura Cannon, will encourage, suggest, and teach you how to do just that. The popular coach is currently on a virtual book tour taking place from July 11th to 29th, 2016. The tour, hosted by iRead Book Tours, will include articles and...
The Virgin of The Wind Rose, by Glen Craney, A Review
Don’t Miss This Adventure Thriller from Glen Craney The Virgin of the Wind Rose is an excellent novel that crosses time and continents, If you enjoy a good adventure, you will enjoy this engrossing tale filled with clues that may lead to secrets and a treasure without price. Jaqueline Quartermane is a newly hired lawyer with the State Department. A respected position that comes with some power. Will that status be enough to...
Writing Multiple Mystery Series: Keeping Up with Your Children, by Lauren Carr
Lauren Carr returns today to share with readers how she manages her various series. Each is different, yet the characters overlap in a way that makes you want to read all of them! This month, her latest in the Mac Faraday series, Candidate for Murder, will be released. Watch for our review coming soon! On a virtual tour in June and July, you can find more about Lauren, her series, and her books, here at her iRead Book Tours Home...