An Interview With Author, Austin Williams
Austin Williams on Tour Author Austin Williams is currently touring for his latest novel, Blind Shuffle. When we were invited to be part of his tour, we were delighted. You can find a full list of his stops at the tour sponsor, Partners In Crime Virtual Book Tours. His tour runs from October 26th through November 8th. The book was a wonderful find. Featuring a magician is a brilliant idea, offering a very unique angle for crime...
The Making of A Character, by John Enright
John Enright, author of New Jerusalem News, is currently on his virtual book tour with iRead Book Tours. We are happy to feature an article here today from Mr. Enright. You can find the full schedule of his stops at iRead Book Tours. Drop in on the tour to learn still more about the book and the author. The Characters in New Jerusalem News I had been absent from the U.S. mainland for more than a quarter of a century, living among,...
Book Spotlight: New Jerusalem News, by John Enright
Spotlight We are so pleased to present New Jerusalem News as our spotlight book today. As part of the virtual book tour now underway with iRead Book Tours you will find this spotlight and a wonderful article here, contributed by author, John Enright. His tour runs from November 2nd through November 20th. We hope you will check out his schedule here on iRead Book Tours, so you can learn more about the book and the author....
Blind Shuffle, by Austin Williams, A Book Review
Meet Rusty Diamond Jaquo is pleased to be participating in the virtual book tour for Blind Shuffle, by Austin Williams. Mr. Williams is touring from November 2nd through November 13th with Partners In Crime Tours. Blind Shuffle is the second book in a trilogy, though we personally we hope Rusty will be part of a continuing series. Rusty Diamond, the featured character of the series, is a magician. That surely offers a unique...
The Influence of The Past, by Ronald L. Ruiz, Author of Jesusita
Today we are featuring an article written by Ronald L. Ruiz, the author of Jesusita. Currently Mr Ruiz is on a virtual book tour sponsored by iRead Book Tours. The tour runs from November 2nd through November 20th. You can check out the full schedule here. We hope you will stop by to learn more about this book and the author. The Influence of The Past There were two things from my childhood that influenced me most in writing...
Jesusita: Ronald L. Ruiz
Jesusita: A novel. The circumstances in which the characters in this novel live seem to be light years away from today’s reality. Yet the story of Jesusita and the other people you will meet in this novel tell us something about what life was like for immigrants in the years following the Second World War — yes, in America. These characters will stay with you for a long time. This is unlikely to be a book you will quickly...
The Real Mbuno from “Murder on Safari,” by Peter Riva
Author Peter Riva has another hit with his latest novel of Africa, entitled Murder on Safari. We were delighted to join his virtual book tour to share news of his book. You can see his entire tour schedule here on iRead Book Tours. In Murder on Safari, his character, Mbuno, enriched the story greatly, with his love and knowledge of the land. When we learned he was an actual guide, we asked Mr. Riva to share more about the man. The...
Book Spotlight: Murder on Safari
An African Adventure Today we are pleased to feature a terrific book by Peter Riva, as part of his virtual book tour with iRead Book Tours. You are sure to enjoy journeying to Africa in this mystery thriller. If you click on the link above, you can see the full schedule Mr Riva has for the tour. Stop by any day, past or future to learn more about the author and the book. Don’t miss the wonderful article that Peter shared with...
Top Authors of Romantic Suspense
Romantic Suspense Authors to Keep You Reading A dramatic, suspenseful novel is a favorite form of entertainment to me. It’s a pleasure to get lost in the tension, to be on the edge of my seat anxious to find out what will happen on the next pages. Suspense, thrillers, crime fiction, mysteries…all among my favorites. Sometimes it is nice to catch your breath with a little romance added in to the mystery. When looking for a good book...
Book Review: Noble Beginnings, by L. T. Ryan
Noble Beginnings The Jack Noble series of book is one you may have seen often on social media. Jack sounded like an intriguing character in the suspense thriller genre. When it became available on Audible it was time for a listen to see what it was all about. A fine listen it was too. Narrated by Dennis Holland, it was a great listen. He handled the voices and the pacing very well. The book went so fast, but that was partly...
Book Review: 61 Hours, by Lee Child
Book Review: 61 Hours, by Lee Child. Give a book or movie a countdown and the pressure is on. That is exactly what happens in this edition of the Jack Reacher series, 61 Hours. Lee Childs created a very suspenseful tale here with enough intrigue that you lose sight of how short a time the whole story covers. Only two and a half days, give or take a few minutes. Reacher catches a ride on a tourist bus filled with senior citizens....
The Girl on the Train: Book Review
The Girl on the Train: A novel by Paula Hawkins. Oh, what a fabulous story Ms Hawkins has in store for us here. This is an incredibly suspenseful novel, it’s so mysterious and its twists and turns will keep you reading long after you intended to. It’s without doubt a one-sitting book. The girl of the title is Rachel. She’s divorced, overweight, unhappy and she drinks too much. Her life is a mess. Every morning she...
Slade House by David Mitchell
Slade House by David Mitchell: Book review. I challenge you to be able to put this book down once you’ve started reading it. You’ll be tempted to stay up all night, cancel your appointments and hide your cellphone. It’s likely that you won’t realise it at first. But before long you’ll want to learn more about the secrets of the mysterious Slade House as they are gradually revealed. The first person we...
The British Lion by Tony Schumacher
Book review: The British Lion. One of the latest books to arrive on the review desk at JAQUO HQ is, without doubt, a can’t-put-it-down historical novel with a twist. Several twists. Along with many other readers, I find that the ‘what-if’ novels of the twenty first century can provide rollicking good stories along with a generous dose of thought provoking ideas along the way. Mr Schumacher has certainly provided us...
November New Releases for Mystery Suspense
Connelly, Crais, and Cussler, Just to Start… It’s already time for the new Mystery/Suspense/Thrillers that will be released in November of 2015. The months go so quickly. Exciting for readers, but still starting to think 2015 is nearing year end. This month features some wonderful authors. Every month does actually, doesn’t it? It’s nice the publishers or authors spread them out so we always have excellent books to watch for....
Behind “Birds of Passage”, by Joe Giordano
We are pleased to present an article written by Joe Giordano, author of the book, Birds of Passage. Mr. Giordano is currently on a virtual book tour with Italy Book Tours. We are happy to be participating in the tour with this article and our review of Birds of Passage. The tour runs October 19th through November 6th. Stop in and see the full schedule, past and future, here at Italy Book Tours. We asked Mr. Giordano how he developed...
Birds of Passage: Book Review
Birds of Passage: A Novel by Joe Giordano. I do hope that Mr Giordano has many more active writing years in front of him because after reading Birds of Passage, I’m left wanting to read much more from this author – in particular about this fascinating subject. Mr Giordano, who is from an Italian immigrant family himself, has created a wonderfully rich narrative detailing life in the early 1900s for those who had moved from...
Book Review: The Path, by Peter Riva
An Appealing Techno Thriller Anything to do with technology, and where it may one day lead, fascinates me. As fast as it is improving, you have to wonder where it will take us in another decade. That is probably why I enjoyed The Path so much. Peter Riva has created a very entertaining—and possible—view into that future. When iRead Book Tours asked us to join the virtual book tour for The Path, it sounded like fun. I admit it is one...
Travels With My Aunt: Graham Greene
A great read: Travels With My Aunt. Henry Pulling was a retired bank manager. He had enjoyed a good but rather dull life. He’d never married, but he had a comfortable home, his books and his increasing interest in cultivating dahlias in his garden. It was a boring life but he had no complaints. He rather imagined that he would spend his retirement peacefully, enjoying his quiet little lifestyle, until the day he drew his last...
A Review of High Crimes, the Movie and the Book
A Review of High Crimes, the Movie and the Book If you could enjoy watching Ashley Judd, Morgan Freeman, James Caviezel all in the same movie, would you pass it up? I wouldn’t. When High Crimes came out in 2002, I was anxious to see it. First, there was Morgan Freeman. I’ve been a fan of his as long as I can remember, but since his role in Shawshank Redemption, he’s become a favorite. His voice alone makes his movies worthwhile,...
Book Review: Named of The Dragon, by Susanna Kearsley
The Past and The Future Susanna Kearsley has a wonderful way of weaving the present with the past. Her novels seamlessly flow back and forth, taking the reader on an adventure that may cover centuries. Named of the Dragon does the same. This time we are led to Wales, to the Pembrokeshire coast, to the small town of Angle, and to Castle House. The beautiful setting comes to life in Ms. Kearsley’ words, even more listening to the...
An Exciting Suspense Thriller called Enraged
An Exciting Suspense Thriller called Enraged Each book in this page turning series by Brett Battles gets better and better. Isn’t that a credit to an excellent author? Enraged is the seventh in the Jonathan Quinn series. It was so good, I’ve already purchased number eight by Mr. Battles. When several members of his team are captured and tortured, the Cleaner plans their rescue. You could say the rescue was a success—he...
Who Let The Dog Out? A Book by David Rosenfelt
Andy Carpenter had me laughing from the first chapter of David Rosenfelt’s latest mystery. He has a way of making even youth softball funny. Who Let The Dog Out, released in July, 2015, is the thirteenth book in this fabulous series. I am smiling in expectation with the first page. Like his many fans, I know I can look forward to Andy’s amusing humor. This entry in the series may be the funniest yet. It is an intriguing...
Look Who’s Back: By Timur Vermes
Hitler in the twenty first century: Hilarious satirical novel. I know, it just seems so wrong, doesn’t it? But this very clever fictional account of the fuhrer is just so very funny and I recommend it wholeheartedly; it’s sure to tickle your funny bone. The book has been a best seller in Germany (yes, in Germany) and has been translated into twenty seven (yes, twenty seven) languages including English (and yes, reviews...
Book Review: The Toymaker, by Chuck Barrett
Book Review: The Toymaker by Chuck Barrett I just finished an entertaining novel by an author new to me, Chuck Barrett. This second novel in the Jake Pendleton series was published in 2012. I didn’t realize it was a series when I got The Toymaker or I would have read them in order, but this one is definitely a stand alone. It has a beginning that will draw you in, and an satisfactory ending. That is to say, it doesn’t...
Book Review: Never Die Alone, by Lisa Jackson
The Bentz and Montoya Series Returns Bestselling author, Lisa Jackson, has a hit with her new romantic suspense thriller, Never Die Alone. A chilling story right from the first chapter, it rates high on the thriller scale. I was unable to stop listening until I finished the book. Much more suspense this time than romance, with what appears to be multiple killers stalking New Orleans. Next, it appears the serial killer known as...
Book Review: Chasing Fire, by Nora Roberts
The Best Book by Nora Roberts. Chasing Fire is my favorite book by Nora Roberts and one of my top five favorite audiobooks. This romantic suspense mystery is about the ‘Zulies,’ the elite team of smokejumpers out of Missoula, Montana, who parachute in to remote locations to fight wildfires. What caught my interest? First, it takes place in Montana. I love to read most anything about Montana. The unspoiled beauty of the...
Book Review: A Case of Redemption
Book Review: A Case of Redemption A Case of Redemption, the second novel written by Adam Mitzner, has received rave reviews. The author was new to me, but I finally had to read it to see what all the talk was about. It was very good! Mr. Mitzner is being compared to Scott Turow and John Grisham–so you can see he is already quite popular. In this story, a young woman approaches Dan Sorenson to defend a rapper accused of killing...
A Book Review of Two Vince Flynn Bestsellers: Extreme Measures and Pursuit of Honor
Normally a book review features one book. This time I had to combine these two amazing books by the late Vince Flynn. Sadly Mr. Flynn died June 19th 2013. Partly because of that, I’ve tried to spread the books in his series over months. All but his very first book (Term Limits) features Mitch Rapp as the leading and recurring character. As soon as I finished Extreme Measures I had to start Pursuit on Honor. The two novels take...
The Atlantis Ship, by A. C. Hadfield
The Story Picture our world a few hundred years in the future. What do you see? Will it be as dramatic a change as Mr.Hadfield has presented here, in The Atlantis Ship? The first in a very entertaining series is sure to be a hit inside and out of the Sci-Fi genre. In his future the planet earth has been used up, pretty much a wasteland now. Human, and non human actually, coexist in space on various stations or the odd planet here...
Dead on Ice, by Lauren Carr, A Review
The Lovers In Crime Dead on Ice is the beginning of the new “Lovers In Crime Mystery” series that found it’s footing in the Mac Faraday series. Fans of the Mac’s series will recognize the characters we get to know in this fun mystery. State police detective Cameron Gates from Pennsylvania and Prosecutor Joshua Thornton, of Hancock County are the lovers in crime. The two both showed up on a case involving Mac...
Authors of the Pacific Northwest
The Northwest Series Begins Today starts a new and continuing series about authors of the Pacific Northwest. Some have lived in these northern states, some still do, and a few may live elsewhere but enjoy setting their stories amidst the beauty found here. Since we did our Author series on Florida, as far south and east as you can get in the United States, it seems appropriate to go to the opposite end of the continuous States, to...
Fishbowl: By Bradley Somer
Review: Fishbowl by Bradley Somer. Ian is an adventurous goldfish and one day he leaps out of his bowl ……. wait! Don’t click away. I don’t read novels about goldfish either (as a general rule) but if you stop reading now, you could miss finding out about a novel that is without doubt one of the best I’ve read this year. Ian belongs to Connor and lives in a bowl on the balcony of the Seville. The Seville...
An Interview with Author Michele May
Michele May is the successful author of the Circle City mysteries. She took time out from writing her fifth novel in the series to chat with me today. The first book in her series, Perfidy, was the first I had read by Ms. May, but I am looking forward to more. Thank you, Michele, for allowing us to get into your mind as a writer. It’s always fascinating… The Interview Readers are always curious/interested in how an author...
New Mystery Suspense Novels for October
October is a month of wonderful mystery suspense thrillers for your reading pleasure. There are many of our popular favorites releasing new books this month. It is always exciting to learn a book is coming some, and even more so as that release date arrives. John Sandford, Elizabeth George, John Grisham, Robin Cook, Tess Gerritsen…Does that whet your appetite? You will find many more on the list here at Mystery Suspense Reviews. As...
Book Review: Perfidy, by M. E. May
Perfidy is the first book in the Circle City Mystery series that includes four books to date, all centered around the city of Indianapolis and its police force. Different members of the force are featured in each book in the series. That is always a treat, since we so often want to learn more about the different characters we’ve met. The Story Perfidy drew me in right from its mysterious beginning. When Mandy Stevenson’s mother...
Book Review: The Ark, by Boyd Morrison
A Terrific Race to Save The Planet Boyd Morrison in another author, living in the Pacific Northwest, in Seattle, Washington. I am so pleased to add him to our list. I’ve enjoyed two of his novels so far, with more to come. His suspense thrillers are fast paced, exciting adventures that are pure fun.The Ark was a terrific beginning to the Tyler Locke series. The book introduces Tyler Locke, a former combat engineer, along with...
Kill and Run, by Lauren Carr: A Review
We are pleased to be a part of Lauren Carr’s virtual book tour for Kill and Run, sponsored by iRead Book Tours. The tour began August 31st and runs through October 6th. That means Ms. Carr has been keeping a very busy schedule. Here’s our review of her latest soon-to-be-bestseller! Kill and Run, by Lauren Carr If you are a fan of mystery suspense thrillers, you won’t want to miss the latest book from Lauren Carr....
The Asylum, by Jeannette de Beauvoir, A Book Review
A Tragic History, A Dramatic Story, an Intriguing Present Day Mystery Asylum is a dark story that is sure to capture your attention. Mystery surrounds us even as this book begins. A mother surrenders her child to Sisters at a Montreal orphanage in the 1950’s. Why? In present day Montreal, Quebec, four women who appear to have nothing in common are murdered. The police assume a serial killer is on the loose. In a well written style,...
Top New Suspense Thrillers, Part 2: Ben Coes, Author
Top New Suspense Thrillers, Part 2: Ben Coes, Author. Ben Coes and Dewey Andreas This is the first author in our series on the top new writers of suspense thrillers. “ Newer” is perhaps a better word, since this excellent author now has five bestsellers now published with his latest, Independence Day. Newer as compared to Vince Flynn, Tom Clancy, and Brad Thor. Ben Coes is first since his character Dewey Andreas is one of...
Three Days to Forever, by Lauren Carr, A Book Review
Will Murder Stop The Wedding? The Mac Faraday Mystery series, written by Lauren Carr, has been a pleasure to read. When I first learned of Ms. Carr’s books, I went back to the beginning to follow the series in order. As a result, I’ve grown fond of each character in the series, along with characters that appear in her Lovers in Crime series. Up until now, the books have often been called cozy mysteries. In some ways I understand...
Book Review: Supreme Justice, by Phillip Margolin
From Oregon, Phillip Margolin Phillip Margolin is another of our Pacific Northwest Authors, one well recognized. An attorney himself, he has not only worked in the Oregon courts, but has handled all sorts of criminal cases, including over thirty homicides. With a background like that, you can see why he is so able to provide the vivid detail of what goes on behind the scenes. It is always a pleasure to begin a book by an...
Book Review: Damage Control, by J A Jance
An Author of the Pacific Northwest. J A Jance is another long time resident of the Pacific Northwest. She and her husband now divide their time between Seattle, WA, and Arizona. Ms. Jance has written so many books, it was hard to pick a first to read. Damage Control turned out to be a terrific selection. Book number 13 in the Joanna Brady series, it features Sheriff Joanna Brady, along with her husband Butch, her mother and...
The Wind in the Willows: Wonderful Family Book
The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Graham is one of the best-loved children books ever. It is loved so much by so many because it’s a tale for child and adult alike that deals with universal themes. My sister bought this edition for my son when he was only 5 years old, and we have loved it ever since, and it has become our family book. So my son has grown up with the Wind in the Willows. When he was very young we read him the...
Art in the Blood by Bonnie MacBird
A new Sherlock Holmes mystery. Impossible? Not in the hands of Ms MacBird. Yes, here we have a new Sherlock Holmes adventure that even the most traditional Conan Doyle aficionado will enjoy. If you think that nothing could compare to the original Sherlock Holmes stories, then this book will surely change your mind. When this book landed on the review desk at JAQUO HQ, I too was dubious, but I can thoroughly recommend Art in the Blood...
Lauren Carr’s New Virtual Book Tour Begins Monday
Get ready to take an online tour with bestselling author, Lauren Carr! August 31, 2015 will begin a six week virtual book tour featuring her new release, Kill and Run. We are pleased to be a part of this tour, both here at Jaquo and at Mystery Suspense Reviews. The first in the The Thorny Rose Mysteries will take a big step into the suspense thriller genre. I’m about halfway through the advanced reader copy I received for the tour...
A Wrongful Death, by Kate Wilhelm, A Book Review
Pacific Northwest Authors Series Author Kate Wilhelm is part in the Pacific Northwest Author series. Her series takes place in Eugene, Oregon. This story spends time along the beautiful Oregon Coast as well as in the city. The novel, A Wrongful Death, is the ninth in the popular Barbara Holloway series. It was the first for me from this author, but won’t be the last. I enjoyed it very much. The characters are likable, the path...
The Black Echo, by Michael Connelly, A Review
Going Back to the Beginning Michael Connelly writes a fine story. That was true from his very first novel. It was a pleasure spending time in The Black Echo. The first novel published by Mr. Connelly was also our introduction to Harry Bosch, L.A. Police Detective. The book earned him an Edgar Award for best first novel from the Mystery Writers of America, only the beginning of many awards, well over twenty bestselling novels. I...
Book Review; Contract to Kill, by Andrew Peterson
Already a #1 Bestseller Nathan McBride, accompanied by Harvey Fontana, return in the latest novel from Andrew Peterson. The fifth in the series doesn’t disappoint. I enjoyed the story of this one immensely. In less than ten days, it has already become the number one bestseller in crime action fiction! The entire series is so entertaining. For me, it is a sure thing, and an automatic order. Nathan and Harv are an experienced team,...
Book Review: The Affair, by Lee Child
It is always a treat to read another of Lee Child’s Jack Reacher series. In audio they are even better, narrated by Dick Hill. He is just the right voice, and attitude, for Jack’s laconic character. The entire series is so enjoyable, one I highly recommend. Reacher isn’t your usual hero. He has the skills. He is very good at seeing clues and solving crimes. He is well trained, which is a good thing since he is often taking on...
New Suspense Thrillers for September
Coming Soon! New Mystery Releases This month is another exciting month for mystery suspense readers. Long popular series, a revival of a series most of us thought had ended, and a new series for a popular author are just a few among the list. It seems every month this summer has offered so many favorites. At least for me. You too? That is certainly one of the benefits of a series. Knowing that each year (or almost) another book...
The Lightning Stones, by Jack DuBrul, A Book Review
Pure Adventure… …You won’t want to stop reading! If you are in the mood for a good adventure that includes plenty of exciting action, I suggest you try a book from Jack DuBrul. If the Lightning Stones is any indication, you will be quite satisfied. The non stop action that our hero faces is totally entertaining! Philip Mercer, the recurring character in a series of novels from Mr. DuBrul, is a geologist and mining...
Life After Life by Kate Atkinson
Life After Life by Kate Atkinson: Review. I’ve enjoyed every one of Kate Atkinson’s novels thoroughly and Life After Life is no exception. Just when I think that she surely can’t do any better, she goes ahead and does so. If you’ve read God in Ruins, which I recently reviewed here, then the characters in this book will be familiar to you. Life After Life was written before God in Ruins but that doesn’t...
What The Fly Saw, by Frankie Y. Bailey, A Book Review
Great New Police Procedural The year is 2020. It’s a cold, snowy January in Albany, New York. That is where the new Detective Hannah McCabe series is set. Slightly in the future, Hannah McCabe and her partner, Mike Baxter, are back for book two, in What The Fly Saw. It was my first book by Frankie Bailey. I enjoyed it very much, and will look forward to future books. Ms. Bailey has written a very entertaining police procedural....
Book Review: Runner, by Thomas Perry
The Jane Whitefield Series Jane Whitefield helps desperate people disappear. Or at least she did. Now married several years, she has given up that life with a promise to her husband. But what should she do when a young pregnant woman comes to her for help? Especially since its immediately after an explosion rocks the building they are in. Especially when the girl says the explosion was about her. With six people after her,...
Top New Suspense Thrillers, Part 1
A New Series on the Top New Suspense Writers. Make way for Dewey Andreas by author Ben Coes, Nathan McBride by author Andrew Peterson, Court Gentry by author Mark Greaney, and Jonathan Grave by author John Gilstrap. These are the lead characters in four recent series of suspense thriller novels that deserve our attention. When I say new, I mean most of these have been written since 2009 and the authors are writing more in their...
A Review of The Final Cut, by Catherine Coulter and J.T. Ellison
A Brit in the FBI In the beginning of a new series, Catherine Coulter, co-writing with J. T. Ellison, introduces Nick Drummond of Scotland Yard, and FBI Agent, Michaela (Mike) Kane. If you are fans of Dillon Savich and Lacey Sherlock, don’t fear. They are not only still featured in their own continuing series, they show up often in The Final Cut as well. The series is named, “A Brit in FBI.” It will be an interesting basis...
Book Review: Breaking Creed, by Alex Kava
A Former Soldier and His Service Dogs I couldn’t resist this audiobook when I saw one of the main characters was a service dog. Grace, in this case, is a rescue dog with a growing reputation for finding and identifying people, drugs and more. Perhaps not your standard expectation in a service dog, she is a Jack Russell terrier. Small but wise. The Story She and her partner/handler, Ryder Creed are called out to a fishing boat in...
New Mystery Suspense Coming in August
August brings a good selection of new mysteries and suspense thriller, including a bunch of new additions to series and a variety of cozy mysteries. Peter Robinson with his Inspector Banks series, Allison Brennan with Lucy Kinkaid, number 21 in the Deborah Knott series by Margaret Maron, to list a few. Many of this month’s releases are well into the series collection. Both Jonathan Kellerman and Michael Koryta will introduce new...
Hooked on Audiobooks
‘Reading’ More Books with Audio I confess, I am addicted to audiobooks. There isn’t a program for us yet, but it may come to that as more and more people are learning the pleasure of listening to high quality narrators reading books of all genres. A looming fifteen hour drive from Oregon to Southern California first inspired me to listen to an audiobook. I remember the store had only a few to choose from when I...
The Book of Nonsense, by David Michael Slater, A Review
Entertaining New Teen Series! Looking for a new series to entertain your young reader? I think any child who reads well enough to manage a 150 page book will enjoy this one! Adults too if you enjoy the YA genre. Mystery, magic, adventure, incredible secrets, missing ancient books, all requiring two 13 year olds. Yes, require is the right word. It will be up to them. Imagine how you would feel if the fate of the world rested in...
Top New Suspense Thrillers, Part 6: Brett Battles. Author
There is one more entry to the Top New Suspense Thrillers that must be included here now. That would be the Jonathan Quinn series by Brett Battles. Every book is the series has been a wonderful surprise. Every book has been different enough as well, even while featuring the Cleaner. It’s easy to see what a variety of assignments Quinn may face going forward as well. Jonathan Quinn is a Cleaner. Not in the traditional sense that...
Island of the Blue Dolphins and the Sequel, Zia: Book Reviews
There is nothing better than a true story brought to life. Even if some of the story is changed some from the historical event in the 19th century, the basic idea is there. I love survivor stories especially when they are true! I LOVE historical fiction. I had not heard about Island of the Blue Dolphins book when it came out when I was age 10 in 1960. I wished I would have read it then! However, when I did read it I was in my 50′s and...
![Tomorrow War: The Chronicles of Max [Redacted], by J. L. Bourne](https://jaquo.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Tomorrow-War-240x240.jpg)
Tomorrow War: The Chronicles of Max [Redacted], by J. L. Bourne
When first starting, Tomorrow War: The Chronicles of Max [Redacted], I didn’t realize where the story would lead. Actually, I think I expected more science fiction than I would normally wish for. It wasn’t at all. It is a well done, realistic story that takes place in the very near future. The year 2021. Not far from now at all, as quickly as time passes. Setting up the story, the author is critical of the government, but don’t...
Book Review: A Wedding and a Killing, by Lauren Carr
Murder interferes with Archie and Mac’s attempt to get married in this entry to the Mac Faraday series. In church for a quiet ceremony, Gnarly alerts the attendants to a body. Mac assures Archie they will wrap it up quickly. It looks like he might be right when a man comes to the police station to confess. Before they can interview him, there are two more confessions. Why is everyone so anxious to claim responsibility?...
The Most Excellent Andy Carpenter Mystery Series by David Rosenfelt
A Laugh-Out-Loud Mystery Series Meet Andy Carpenter, Attorney-at-law (Occasionally) If you haven’t yet met him, let me introduce you to Andy Carpenter. I am certain you will want to get to know him once you do. If you’ve read even one of his series, you will remember him. Most of us would like to hang out with him one afternoon, watching a game of course. Andy is David Rosenfelt’s reticent attorney in a wonderfully...
Book Review: The Destroyed, by Brett Battles
A Stunning Crime What sort of crime could be committed by some one high in the government that would shock and appall even those in espionage? I would be surprised if you guessed the answer. It’s a stunning secret that has led to several deaths. Not that unusual perhaps for a cleaner such as Jonathan Quinn. Or is it? In another wonderfully complicated novel from Brett battles, the cleaner will revisit a past assignment. Quinn...
A God in Ruins by Kate Atkinson
Author Kate Atkinson has so many strengths as a writer but one must surely be the way she creates such memorable characters. It must be almost twenty years since I read her first book, Behind the Scenes at the Museum, and that characters within in still live in my mind. A God in Ruins is no exception. In this book, we follow the life of Teddy – from when he is a small boy until the day he dies as an old, old man – and he...
Piranha, by Clive Cussler and Boyd Morrison, A Review
An Oregon Files Adventure Juan Cabrillo, and crew, have put a wealth of time and money into their ship, the Oregon. Derelict on the outside, thoroughly modern with the most advanced technology on the inside, the ship has gotten them through many near death assignments. So why would Juan allow it to be destroyed? The Oregon, Juan and his crew are back, and up to their clever tricks, in Piranha. Somewhat different from Mr. Cussler’s...
Book Review: The Eye of Heaven, by Clive Cussler
Clive Cussler, probably The Master of adventure Clive Cussler has been one of my favorite authors since I picked up a copy of Raise the Titanic many years ago. It was such a fun adventure featuring Dirk Pitt that subsequently the rest of his books landed in my cart. Still today I read most of them. He has several series now, some written solo, others co-written with a variety of writers. This is the sixth book in the Fargo series,...
Top New Suspense Thrillers, Part 5: John Gilstrap, Author
John Gilstrap, Author, Brings us Jonathan Graves This is the excellent series by John Gilstrap. You may know him from his bestseller, Nathan’s Run. Besides several other published novels, he is a screenwriter and a safety expert, with solid knowledge in explosives and hazardous materials. Good information to have when he is writing his novels. The series begins with Jonathan Graves, no longer in the employ of the...
Bryant & May on the Loose: Review of a London Mystery
Christopher Fowler has done it again. John May, although he was in his eighties, was a dapper man who drove a BMW and wore Prada shoes. His colleague however, octogenarian Arthur Bryant, was an intellectually curious eccentric who gave the appearance of being something the cat dragged in. Together, they ran the PCU – the Peculiar Crimes Unit. What is the Peculiar Crimes Unit? The pair had been heading the PCU since they were in...
Top New Suspense Thrillers, Part 4: Andrew Peterson, Author
Andrew Peterson, Author Bringing us Nathan McBride Next in the top new suspense novels is a series by Andrew Peterson. So far he has four excellent books available, with the fifth due out in August. Each star Nathan McBride, former CIA sniper. One of the differences we find in Nathan is his kindness and determination to do the right thing, in spite of horrible treatment he has received in the past. Personally I’ve listened to...
Book Review: Black List, by Brad Thor
Brad Thor is One of the Best. The excellent novel, Black List, may have you reconsidering your electronic fingerprint. Though in all honesty, it may be too late. According to the author the technology included in the book is currently in use or in final stages of development. In a revealing look at our potential future, the author shows what a few people with power over technology might achieve. This is the twelfth selection in the...
Ben Coes’ New Novel, Independence Day
Independence Day, Ben Coes’ fifth book in the Dewey Andreas series, is now available. If you are a fan of suspense thriller, I hope you’ve already read his series. If you haven’t read him yet, I suggest you start soon. Ben Coes became one of my favorite authors with his very first novel, Power Down. It was an amazing start to a new writing career. His most excellent hero, Dewey Andreas, has a background that will let you know the...
A Review of Poseidon’s Arrow, by Clive Cussler
Clive Cussler and Dirk Pitt: You Can’t Go Wrong When there is time between reading Clive Cussler’s wonderful novels, It seems I forget how much I enjoy them. Every book I have read by Mr Cussler, with or without a co-writer, has been an exciting adventure. Ever since finding Raise the Titanic so many years ago, it has been true. Poseidon’s Arrow has reaffirmed that. From the very beginning the reader is drawn in to the complicated...
Book Review: Power Down, by Ben Coes
Outstanding! Power Down is A Definite 5-Star Read This powerful debut novel sent Ben Coes straight to my favorites list. He has remained there with the subsequent entries in his Dewey Andreas series. Released in August of 2011, it is still a very timely novel that brings to mind the current political issues we still face on energy. Meet Dewey Andreas We are introduced to a remarkable, if somewhat damaged hero, Dewey Andreas. Former...
Coming in July, New Suspense Novels
A Big Month for Many Bestselling Authors July brings an exciting list of new releases from several favorite authors. Mysteries, thrillers, suspense, a fantasy thriller…Many well known names…more in continuing series. All that should build to a wonderful and exciting month of summer reading. A few of my must reads are shown below. For a more complete list of what is coming in July, you can see it here on Mystery Suspense Reviews....
A Scourge of Vipers, by Bruce DeSilva, A Review
Bruce DeSilva’s Newest Novel A Scourge of Vipers was the first book I’ve read written by Mr. DeSilva. It won’t be the last. The title turns out to be quite fitting for the novel. It is the fourth in the Liam Mulligan series, and the fourth book published by the acclaimed author. The many years he spent in journalism clearly enable the author to paint a realistic view of the field and the newspaper business itself. This entry...
Twelve to Murder, by Lauren Carr, A Review
A couple found murdered in their mansion, a man’s name spelled out in blood. Could it really be that easy? Not likely in a novel written by Lauren Carr! If you are familiar with her series, you will know there will be many potential killers with as many potential motives. This one involves… A long ago kidnapping A woman killed when her car goes over a cliff A missing man who may have done it Drugs and the dealing of them...
Suspect by Robert Crais, a Book Review
Since publishing the article here on Jaquo about Robert Crais’ upcoming novel, The Promise , It seemed fitting to recommend the book that first introduced me to Mr. Crais’ and his excellent books. That book would be Suspect. It is still one of my favorite books. Robert Crais is the author of the wonderful private detective series featuring Elvis Cole and Joe Pike. There are more than ten in that series so far. Besides that he has...
Book Review: Destiny, by Tom Lowe
Could papers written hundreds of years ago hold the secret to conspiracies today? Can one man uncover the truth? You will want to find out! Grab a copy of this exciting thriller written by Tom Lowe. Mr. Lowe’s first stand alone novel is sure to be a hit. The Audible version of Destiny was just released June 9, 2015. The book version was first published in February 2015. Once I started, it was very difficult to stop listening to...
Book Review: Last to Die, by Tess Gerritsen
Last to Die is another excellent, suspenseful mystery by Tess Gerritsen. As soon as I finished Ice Cold, by Tess Gerritsen I had to get Last to Die, another book in her Rizzoli and Isles series. It was so good! At the end of Ice Cold, a young, self sufficient teen who calls himself Rat, is invited to attend an unusual private school in Maine, after his family is killed. I’d grown fond of him in Ice Cold, so was curious to see...
Book Review: Dog Tags, by David Rosenfelt
There aren’t many books that I read that having me laughing as often as David Rosenfelt’s Andy Carpenter Series. I’ll be listening along, since I love Grover Gardner’s narration, caught up in the drama when Andy will say something that forces a laugh out. It is so much fun I could listen to his books over and over. I did with this one, as a matter of fact. Since I read the books in order after my first Rosenfelt book, I went back to...
Book Review: The Fold, by Peter Clines
Peter Clines Has Done It Again If you are looking for an exciting book, give this one a try. If it isn’t already, The Fold is bound to be a bestseller. I got the audiobook through Audible and finished it in two days. That reinforces once again the benefit of audiobooks, since there is no way I would have had that much time to sit down and read. The Fold encouraged me to clean, run errands, and stay up late, as long as I could...
Florida Mystery Authors, A Challenge
When asked to write an article about Florida crime writers I was instantly enthused. First it sounded interesting to choose a specific area, such as a single state. Secondly, Florida has has a reputation for an unusual collection of people and locales, each very distinctive, each with their own troubles and benefits. You will find the influence of nearby islands, such as Cuba and Puerto Rico. You will find crime and crime lords in...
Book Review: Body Language, by James W. Hall
Welcome to Miami Miami is the setting at the beginning of this novel from James W. Hall. Body Language is a strange tale of a crime scene photographer, working nights, trying to find a serial killer. Sort of. On the other hand, it’s an odd tale of her not-very-nice husband hoping to pull off the perfect crime. Both are putting Alexandra Rafferty in grave danger. Both involve twists and turns, and that includes the position of the...
Great News for Adam Mitzner Fans
I just received notice that Adam Mitzner’s latest novel, Losing Faith, is now available, recorded by a new narrator, David Marantz. Mr. Mitzner was a huge hit on Audible with his first two novels, A Conflict of Interest and A Case of Redemption. When Losing Faith was released on audio, many fans were disappointed in the narration. The newest novel is an exciting legal thriller you won’t want to miss. I read the actual book this...
Book Review: The Lady who Cried Murder, by Lauren Carr
The Mac Faraday Series Lauren Carr has captured my loyalty with her Mac Faraday series. With her newest release today, Open Season for Murder, she has ten novels in the Mac Faraday series. With every book I finish, I find myself anxious to get to the next. A solid, often complicated, mystery, lovable and laughable characters, a little romance, and seriously bad, bad guys. As a matter of fact, her stories usually include several...
Book Review: Unintended Consequences, by Marti Green
A Suspenseful Surprise. Unintended Consequences may turn out to be the surprise of the summer. A debut novel, a new name, to me at least, and a captivating plot that drew me right in. Marti Green has written an edge-of-seat legal thriller with her first novel, published in 2013. I picked up my copy at Audible. The summary sounded interesting, so I thought I’d give it a try. Book two is already in my cart now. What an enjoyable,...
Coming In June! New Mystery Suspense Novels
If you are looking for a good summer read, June will bring you a delightful selection of mystery suspense thrillers. With names like Stephen King with Finders Keepers, Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan Jr series by Grant Blackwood, and Joseph Finder with The Fixer, it’s clear June will be an outstanding month for Mystery Suspense and Thriller fans. Lots of big names, many sure to be bestsellers. James Patterson, Lauren Carr, Brad Meltzer,...
Who’s new in Romantic Suspense
Since Mysteries and Suspense Thrillers are among my favorite genres–and the reason behind my website mysterysuspensereviews.com, I’ve been trying a delightful group of new authors to see who is out there. I’ve run across some wonderful ‘newish’ writers (or at least new to me) in the thriller category. Excellent additions to names like Vince Flynn, Tom Clancy, Lee Childs, and David Thor. You can read about some of my new...
An Interview with Author, Eric J. Gates
Author Eric J Gates was a new name to me when I was asked to review the book, Outsourced. As a fan of suspense thrillers, I was very pleased to do so. What I found was a fast paced and well crafted novel, filled with suspense, that included something more. One small piece of fantasy. Perhaps a better word would be ‘paranormal.’ This historically based detail added so much intrigue—and fun—to the plot, that I’m already looking...
Book Review – ‘Nobody Lives Forever’ by Edna Buchanan
You’ve booked a week long vacation on Miami Beach. You packed the sunscreen, swimwear, that outfit that you’d never wear at home (that Tommy Bahama Hawaiian shirt is a must). All you need is a good beachy paperback. Some Miami Noir potboiler that talks about the old Scarface days, maybe? If you’re looking for snarky and funny, check Carl Hiassen. If you want salty beach bums, John D. McDonald or James Hall. You want...
Book Review: The Liar, by Nora Roberts
Nora Roberts’ newest novel, The Liar, was released April 14th, 2015. It was worth the wait! There was something about this particular novel that really struck a cord with me. I loved it, start to finish. As an author of romantic suspense, Ms. Roberts is very able to balance both the mystery and the relationships in her books. This one many readers have felt tended to be more romance. Personally I thought more time was spent on...
Book Review: Surface Tension, by Christine Kling
Meet Seychelle Sullivan What the great start to the Seychelle Sullivan series! The first book, Surface Tension, was excellent. I was pleasantly surprised as I read (listened in my case) to this story of murder and adventure. I’ve been reading a variety of Florida authors. Most of us are aware Florida has a rather unique reputation. We’ve heard of so many unusual “situations” there from the media. Between the variety of the...
Book Review: Outsourced, by Eric J. Gates
Here is an exciting novel from a new author to me. The book, Outsourced, is written by Eric J. Gates, and a thrilling story it was. I enjoyed reading it very much! A solid suspense thriller, with a dash of fantasy or supernatural, that takes the reader on a race to escape both a serial killer and the government at the same time. A writer named Nic Stiles is working at an isolated cabin, feeling burnt out after constant competition...
Double Fudge Brownie Murder: Review
Double Fudge Brownie Murder by Joanne Fluke. This was my first introduction to the books by Joanne Fluke and I’m pretty sure that I’ll be reading more in her series. This book is delicious in more ways than one. Delightfully, this is more than just a murder mystery because there are almost thirty excellent and thorough recipes within the pages of this novel. You see, the book features and amateur investigator who also...
Book Review: Dying to Tell, by Rita Herron
Suspense runs high is this solid mystery/romance from Rita Herron. Dying to Tell is the first I’ve read by Rita Herron, but it won’t be the last. It’s a complicated story with several intersecting plots. Ten years ago, Sadie Nettleton left home suddenly, leaving behind the boy she loved, Jake Blackwood, and her family. Her reasons have kept her away. Now Sadie is grown up, used to taking care of herself, with a career as a...
May’s New Mystery Suspense Novels
It’s already nearly May, so it is time for an update of new mystery suspense thrillers due for release next month. May brings lots of new additions to popular series. You’ll find James Patterson’s Murder Club, Jeffrey Deaver with another Kathryn Dance novel, Tom Clancy’s Op Center series, and many more. Check out the article on Mystery Suspense Reviews for a more complete list. I seem to like mystery and suspense in any form, but...
‘Sacred Hearts’ by Sarah Dunant – A book review
‘Sacred Hearts’ is a novel set in the Benedictine convent of Santa Caterina, Ferrara, in mid 16th century Italy at the time of the Reformation. At that time young women were either sent, willingly or unwillingly, to convents, who required a dowry for their entry to the religious order. The admittance of these young women into nunneries often solved a problem for families: of what to do with a single woman unwilling or...
Book Review: Shark Skin Suite, by Tim Dorsey
Hilarious may best describe this novel. Shark Skin Suite is book eighteen in Tim Dorsey’s bestselling series. I’m still laughing, partly from the humor found within its pages, partly because it turned out to be so entertaining. Tim Dorsey was a new author to me. The author was recommended to me as one of the more popular Florida authors. It’s said that he portrays Florida as it really is, that he writes ‘real life.’...
Book Review: Midnight Guardians by Jonathan King
After being challenged by Jackie Jackson here at Jaquo Lifestyle Magazine to write a few reviews of Florida writers, it was a pleasure to go book searching online for suitable candidates. Thankfully she provided me with some authors names. Most of them were new to me, so that is where I started. Over the next few months, watch for some random ordered reviews. The first selection I’ve made is a mystery by Jonathan King: Midnight...
A Review of Adam Mitzner’s New Novel: Losing Faith
Adam Mitzner’s newest novel, Losing Faith, was released today. An apt title for the new courtroom thriller that gives us an all too realistic view of how quickly someone at the top of his game can fall with one wrong decision. There is something about any legal thriller that takes the tension up a notch for me. You too? For all the murder mysteries I’ve read, stepping into a courtroom never fails to make me pause….and gulp....
Book Review: Murders at Astaire Castle, by Lauren Carr
The word ‘murders’ is right! You will find even more than usual in this exciting tale by Lauren Carr. But then it does span decades between the past and the present. The fifth novel in her Mac Faraday series, The Murders at Astaire Castle was published in July of 2013, in time to get in the spirit of Halloween. Of course, spooky can be fun any time of year. I enjoyed being back with Mac, Archie, David, and Gnarly once...
April’s Fantastic New Books: Mystery & Suspense
April and May are filled with so many new titles from favorite authors! What fun it would be if every month would be so well represented. Some wonderful authors are on the list with their latest–many today on April 7th. Several continue their existing series, some perhaps are beginning new ones. I thought I would share a few here on Jaquo from the more extensive list on Mystery Suspense Reviews. The Buried Starting with...
Book Review: Birthright, by Nora Roberts
Bring together an archeological dig, kidnapping, romance and murder and you have another hit from Nora Roberts—Birthright. This novel is one of my top five favorites by Ms. Roberts. I enjoyed every part of it. Published in 2004, it has aged well, so that it could have been written last year. The author has such a talent for combining a developing relationship with a solid mystery. Her books are usually very well balanced...
Book Review: Fatal Affair, by Marie Force
I was pleasantly surprised by Fatal Affair by Marie Force. Released as an ebook in 2010, it appears to be her first venture into romantic suspense. She did a fine job of it too. The book began the “Fatal” series featuring Samantha (Sam) Holland and Nick Cappuano. The ninth in the series is scheduled for release in late summer, 2015. Near as I can see most of her other books are romances. The Mystery The story was...
Reviewing the Scumble River Series, by Denise Swanson
The Scumble River Mysteries look like they will be another favorite series of cozy mysteries for me. This one authored by Denise Swanson. Since I began reading books considered “cozies,” by several authors I decided to expand my knowledge base. The premise is a good one. Violence, but not harshly depicted, romance but no sexual scenes, recurring characters usually living in a small or quaint town. You will often find them...
A Review of The “Rock Chick” Series, by Kristen Ashley
If you are looking for a very contemporary, funny, yet suspenseful book series, give the Rock Chick series a try. I did and was so glad I did. The series is written by Kristen Ashley, who has written many other books to her credit, mostly in the romance genre. This was the first I’ve read by her, but it won’t be the last. I laughed through a lot of the story, the humor and dialogue were well done. It had enough mystery, suspense...
Book Review: Trust No One, By Jayne Ann Krentz
When Grace Elland find the body of her boss-and a vodka bottle at his side–she knows her nightmares will be back. The murder, as well as the end of her job, take her home again while she decides what to do next. She doesn’t expect the mystery to follow her there. Meeting Julius Arkwright on an arranged date doesn’t improve anything either. The two don’t seem to have much in common. She’s worked a variety of jobs without any...
Book Review: Blast from the Past, by Lauren Carr
A woman is killed when she falls down the stairs. Men die writhing, in a little coffee shop. Death may not be that unusual these days in Deep Creek Lake, but then someone tries to kill Archie, the woman Mac Faraday loves. When she tells Mac the reason behind it and her secret is exposed, Mac and the entire police department will go to extremes to keep Archie safe. That raises rather a lot of questions: Who exactly are they...
Book Review: Shades of Murder, by Lauren Carr
Shades of Murder, book three in the Mac Faraday series, is an exciting story of two murders. Strangely, both appear to be same victim! Intriguing it is. Mac Faraday We first met Mac Faraday in It’s Murder, My Son, when Mac inherits over two hundred million dollars from his birth mother. Retiring from his position as a homicide detective, he moves to her estate on Deep Creek Lake in Maryland. Though he may be retired, when a murder...
The Travels of Daniel Ascher: Review
The Travels of Daniel Ascher: Review I have so much enjoyed my review copy of this wonderful book and I’m delighted to share it with you. Hélène, the main character,introduces us to a selection of fascinating characters as she gets drawn into resolving the mystery of The Black Insignia series of adventure books – and her own family history. Hélène is studying archeology in Paris and she has just moved into new lodgings...
Agatha Christie: The Secret Adversary
Agatha Christie: The Secret Adversary This book opens aboard the Lusitania on May 7th, 1915. Yes, that’s the day the ship was torpedoed and sank. As the passengers gather on deck, a young American girl is approached by a stranger. He too is American and,knowing that the tradition on a sinking ship is ‘women and children first’ entrusts her with a sealed package to carry with her to England. He tells her that this is...
Nightmares & Dreamscapes: Stephen King
Nightmares & Dreamscapes: Stephen King Here’s another change to read this compendium of Stephen King short stories that was first published in 1993. Even if the book is new to you, you might have read some of these stories before because they have been in various other collections and in some cases,published in magazines. It contains several of my own personal favourites, three in particular. (I think my absolute favourite...
Book Review; Hounded, by David Rosenfelt
Book Review; Hounded, by David Rosenfelt Andy Carpenter is back in the twelfth book in David Rosenfelt’s series. As always, it is great to spend time with him. In Hounded Andy’s friend, police detective Pete Stanton, asks him to come to a murder scene. By the time he leaves the scene, he has a basset hound named Sebastian with him. Not so unusual for Andy to take in a dog, but this time along with the dog is the...
Book Review: Kill Decision, by Daniel Suarez
How much do you think a drone is capable of doing? We see drones handling surveillance, cameras at work. We hear of drones being used for delivery of packages. You can see them filming ballgames. Isn’t that just the beginning? If you go with the premise that often in society inventions used for good are also used for bad, think how many more uses drones might have. That is the well demonstrated within the book Kill Decision, written...
Book Review: The Search, by Nora Roberts
Book Review: The Search, by Nora Roberts This romantic suspense novel was the first book I read by Nora Roberts. Sure, I had heard of her, but I think I expected her stories to be more romance and less mystery. I was delighted to find that was wrong. The Search was an exciting and suspenseful book, made even more interesting with the inclusion of the search and rescue dogs. It was great fun to read about dog training (something I...
A Murder of Magpies by Judith Flanders
A Murder of Magpies by Judith Flanders: Review I enjoyed every minute of this mystery novel. It features Samantha, an middle-aged editor working for a London publishing house. Single and living alone, she hardly has an exciting life but is nevertheless dragged into a mystery by one of the author’s whose work she edits, Kit Lowell. The first sign that something is about to happen is when a police inspector calls on Samantha (Sam...
Everlasting Lane by Andrew Lovett: Book Review
Everlasting Lane by Andrew Lovett: Book Review Author Andrew Lovett admits that he had problems with his relationship with his mother when he was in his twenties.In part, that sparked the idea of his novel. Set in the 1970s, the book tells of Peter, a ten year old, whose life is turned upside down when his father dies. His mother – much younger than his father had been – decided that they will move to a country village....
Audiobooks: Listen While You Work
Audiobooks: Listen While You Work Audiobooks are becoming increasingly popular these days. With smart phones able to hold a large number of ebooks and audiobooks, it’s gotten easier and more desirable. It wasn’t that long ago that CD’s were the first choice for listening to books. How much easier downloads have made it. Right now I have around fifteen books on my phone. That isn’t said to impress, only to show you how...
Books, Books and More Books!
Books, Books and More Books! Did you know that there is a place to go and find all those wonderful old books that you never thought you would see again? One place where you can search for that book or movie, that you were sure had gone out of print or that never really made it to the “A” List, and was sure to be forgotten….. Alibris is a company that searches out those rare forgotten or lost books! Just looking at their Book...
Book Review: Irreparable Harm, by Melissa F. Miller
First in the Series The book, Irreparable Harm, was a pleasant surprise for me! I’d never heard of this author or series until it was offered as a free Kindle book. Since I love a good mystery, I snapped it up. When I checked it today, September 18th, 2014, it was still showing free. Who can resist a free book? What a great way to try out a new author. Since a good mystery is a favorite, it was soon on my iPad, ready to read....
A Touch of Stardust: Kate Alcott
A Touch of Stardust: Kate Alcott Julie is what used to be known as a ‘small town girl’ but like so many others during the Golden Era of Hollywood, she is attracted there by the movie industry. But unlike the others, Julie doesn’t have ambitions to be a movie star – she wants to be a writer. She finds herself a job in a studio working as a lowly office girl for the David O.Selznick organisation. At the time she...
‘Dark Matter. A Ghost Story’ by Michelle Paver
What makes a good ghost story? For me, it is not the appearance of the ghost, spirit or demon, but the build-up of tension, reactions by the haunted to the apparition, and evocative description of location. I like too, a sense of ambiguity about the ‘ghost’ – is there one? Or is it the imaginations of the haunted playing dark tricks on them? Michelle Paver’s novel, ‘Dark Matter. A Ghost Story‘ , has...
Book Review: Hounded, by Kevin Hearne
Hounded, First in the Series of The Iron Druid Chronicles I just finished listening to the audio version of Hounded by Kevin Hearne. I was smiling through most of the book. It was quite enjoyable. I’m not a fan of science fiction, fantasy or paranormal. Vampires, werewolves, etc., have become so overdone. Still when this audiobook came on sale the huge number of reviews made me take a second look. Over 10,000 reviews on...
Book Review: The Killing Floor, by Lee Child
Book Review: The Killing Floor, by Lee Child After reviewing several of Lee Child’s novels featuring Jack Reacher, it seemed fitting to go back to the beginning. Especially since I personally recommend reading most series in order. In Jack’s case, it really isn’t necessary. A few of them may contain information that overlaps from the prior book, but not so much that it would affect your enjoyment. Still I do suggest you read at...
Mobile Library by David Whitehead: Review
Mobile Library by David Whitehead: Review I would fully understand if you read a precis of this book and thought that it wasn’t for you. That’s what I did. Reading the outline of the book on the back cover I had absolutely no idea just what a fabulous book this is. The list of characters sounds uninspiring. The plot hardly seems fascinating. And yet this is a terrific book that I recommend highly. Bobby is twelve years...
Book Review: Old Loves Die Hard, by Lauren Carr
Book Review: Old Loves Die Hard, by Lauren Carr Mac Faraday is back, front and center, in Old Loves Die Hard. Such an appropriate title too. There he is, settling happily into the life of a wealthy playboy in Deep Creek Lake, Maryland. Since he inherited 270 million dollars on the day his divorce was decreed final, he’s been doing his best to adjust. Just his luck that his inheritance also brought him a new half...
Book Review: Worth Dying For, by Lee Child
Book Review: Worth Dying For, by Lee Child Every time I read a new Lee Child novel featuring Jack Reacher it seems to be my favorite of the series. It makes me think I will have to re-listen to each of them to choose the all time favorite once I’m caught up with all nineteen books. Worth Dying For definitely fits in there. It was excellent! Apparently some of the Jack Reacher fan base had been disappointed in a few of the books,...
Book Review: Tears of the Jaguar, by A.J.Hartley
An Archeological Dig Leads to Murder After reading the book, The Dig, by Michael Siemsen, I was in the mood for another novel of archeological fiction. When I ran across Tears of the Jaguar, by A. J. Hartley, I knew I’d found it. It combines a bit of history with mystery and suspense, all while digging for ancient knowledge. Archeology is fascinating to me; the plotting of the site, the extreme care taken in uncovering any...
Etta and Otto and Russell and James
Etta and Otto and Russell and James: By Emma Hooper Otto is an old man now. He gets up early one morning in his windswept Saskatchewan farm to discover a note from his wife, Etta. In the note she explains that she has never seen the ocean so is on her way there. She hasn’t taken the truck, she explains, she’ll walk. The ocean is over three thousand kilometres away …and Etta is eighty three years old. She writes that...
Open and Shut, The First in David Rosenfelt’s Series
Open and Shut, The First in David Rosenfelt’s Series Open and Shut begins the Andy Carpenter series. It is one of my all time favorite series. It’s one I have already listened to more than once, because I am hooked on the narrator, Grover Gardner, and because of the pure entertainment found in David Rosenfelt’s characters. Click here to read the companion review. That isn’t enough. I’ve decided to review each individually because...
Book review: The Shadow of Betrayal
BOOK REVIEW: AN EXCITING THRILLER CALLED “THE SHADOW OF BETRAYAL” I just finished listening to The Shadow of Betrayal by Brett Battles. It is the third book in the Jonathan Quinn “Cleaner” series. In you aren’t familiar with the series, you can read my review of the first book of this exciting series here. It’s a different twist on a thriller, with the main character being the one who cleans up after an operation. The...
Book Review: The Collector, By Nora Roberts
Book Review: The Collector, By Nora Roberts Nearly every year, Nora Roberts publishes a new stand alone romantic suspense novel. In 2014, the book was The Collector. It was an exciting story that I enjoyed so much. With Nora Roberts’ new stand alone novel due out in a couple of more months, it seems a good time to refresh my review of The Collector. It’s a book anyone would enjoy, male of female. Usually any romance included in Mr....
What Makes a Cozy Mystery?
What’s So Cozy About Murder? Recently reading a mystery I found in the reviews it was considered a “Cozy” mystery. I’ve read quite a few cozies. Often they are easy to spot. You’ll find a quilter’s club, bookstore owners, library cozies. They cover all types of topics that way. But the one I was reading didn’t seem to necessarily belong in that category. It roused my curiosity, so I decided to look into what constitutes a cozy....
Trust your Eyes, Another Hit for Linwood Barclay
Trust your Eyes, Another Hit for Linwood Barclay Recently Linwood Barclay has become one of my favorite new authors. New to me, that is. The book, Trust your Eyes, is the one that started it all. The description of the book caught my eye. “a map obsessed schizophrenic” who rarely leaves his bedroom witnesses what he thinks is a murder. Naturally, with that twist, I had to read it. I enjoyed it so much! Part of the fun of Mr. Barclay’s...
It’s Murder, My Son, by Lauren Carr
It’s Murder, My Son, by Lauren Carr It’s always a pleasure to find a new author you enjoy, and that is exactly what I have done with Lauren Carr. She has a series, considered by some to be ‘cozy’ mysteries. I think I would agree they are cozies. The word that comes to mind is “gentle.” This book was easy to read, light, with likable characters. Mr. Carr has managed to write an exciting mystery without explicit violence, sex, or bad...
Book Review: The Accident, by Linwood Barclay
BOOK REVIEW: THE ACCIDENT, BY LINWOOD BARCLAY Linwood Barclay is another new author to me, and a very pleasant surprise. Since mysteries and suspense/thrillers are my favorites, I get to read of lot of detective or police procedural novels. It’s perfect. I do love the genre. Because of that, it’s fun to happen on an author who has a different twist to begin with. Linwood Barclay does. This was the second book I’d read by him. I’ve now...
Book Review: The Cleaner, by Brett Battles
Book Review: The Cleaner, by Brett Battles What a great start to a series. The book, The Cleaner, by Brett Battles, is another exciting suspense thriller with a unique twist. The main character, Quinn, is an independent contractor who will step in after a ‘situation’ and clean up the scene. Do you want the bodies to disappear? Should there be an accident? Or perhaps simply nothing that shows anything happened at all. Mind you, he...
Book review: Eye for an Eye, by Ben Coes
Book review: Eye for an Eye, by Ben Coes Ben Coes has become another of my favorite new authors. When I say new, I mean in the last five years or so. His first novel was a wonderful find. Power Down was an amazing book, and will soon be the subject of another review. Eye for an Eye continues the tradition or suspense and excitement. Featuring recurring character, Dewey Andreas, in all his talented glory, the novel is a roller...
Jim Butcher’s Dresden Files book 15 called “Skin Game.”
“Skin Game: The Dresden Files” Book 15 I started to read the Dresden files at the recommendation of my 30 year old son. My son loves the books so much that after he read the first four books he ordered an outfit so that he would look like Dresden. The outfit consists of the all important Black Oilskin ‘Western Duster’ overcoat. To top off the coat is a Western Stetson felt hat complete with a silver band. I have repaired the coats for...
Jack Reacher is Back Again in “Gone Tomorrow”
Jack Reacher is Back Again in “Gone Tomorrow” Gone Tomorrow is the thirteenth in the very popular Jack Reacher series by Lee Child. It’s very well done, and one of my favorites…so far… Jack Reacher is riding on a NY Subway at two in the morning. If you are familiar with Reacher, you will know it is natural for him, with his skills, to analyze his surroundings wherever he happens to be. You come to expect that. His...
War Brides by Helen Bryan: Review
War Brides by Helen Bryan: Review Four quite elderly ladies held a reunion in an English country village. One was American, two are English and the other, an Austrian Jew. They had met when they were all staying in the tiny, sleepy village as young women during the Second World War – fifty years previously. Originally there had been five of them. What had happened to the missing girl? Even though the wartime village had been...
Review: My Man Jeeves by P.G. Wodehouse
Review: My Man Jeeves by P.G. Wodehouse Jeeves is recommending the novels of Rosie M. Banks to the young master and describes them as ‘light, attractive reading’. If you’re on the lookout for ‘light, attractive reading’ and something that will invariably make you chuckle,then I recommend My Man Jeeves by P.G Wodehouse;one of the famed Jeeves and Wooster series. Each chapter is a short story in itself so...
Review: The Blood of an Englishman: An Agatha Raisin Mystery
Review: The Blood of an Englishman: An Agatha Raisin Mystery This is the first M.C. Beaton book I have read and I’m completely hooked. Agatha Raisin is the unlikely name of a private detective who is sure to make you chuckle. A modern day Miss Marple, she lives in a thatched cottage in a Cotswolds village but detecting and village life are the only things that these two female detectives have in common. Agatha is younger than...
What Might Britain Have Been Like Under Nazi Rule?
What might Britain have been like under Nazis rule? What might Britain have been like under Nazis rule if they had surrendered to Germany in 1942? This is the central point of the thriller, ‘Dominion’ set in the early 1950s. The author, C.J. Sansom, author of the ‘Shardlake’ Medieval detective series, imagines a post-war nation divided against itself, with many accepting or turning blind eyes to the excesses of Nazi rule...
Book Review: The Dig
Book Review: The Dig. A good book can take you anywhere it wants, which is only one of the reasons I so enjoyed The Dig by Michael Siemsen. In this book that begins a new series, we escape into far the past. One hundred and fifty million years into the past, give or take a few centuries. The story is intriguing to begin with when a small piece of metallic fabric is discovered during an archeological dig. The dating process takes it...
Ten things you didn’t know about Jeeves
Ten things you might not know about Jeeves Jeeves who? There is no Jeeves who. You know who I’m talking about – the character in the P.G. Wodehouse books who keeps his young master, Bertie Wooster, out of trouble. (Mostly). Here are few few things you might now know -or have possibly forgotten – about this wonderful literary character. Although the young master, Bertie Wooster, didn’t realise it for many...
Book Review: Deceived, by Brett Battles
Book Review: Deceived, by Brett Battles Have you read The Cleaner, by Brett Battles? The very successful first novel written by Mr. Battles introduced Jonathan Quinn as the “cleaner.” He isn’t into violence. He simply comes in afterward to clean the scene of the body and other evidence. You can read a review of that first novel here. In the second book of this fast moving series, Quinn is once again hired to make a body...
The Demon under the Microscope: Review
The Demon under the Microscope When I first shared the title of this wonderful non-fiction book, one of my acquaintances couldn’t wait to read it because she loves science fiction. She was disappointed when I told her it was not. The Demon under the Microscope is certainly dramatic. I could easily see it made into a wonderful historical fiction movie. But it is true science, one of the best I’ve read. The demon is this...
A Fight For Survival: Antarctica
A FIGHT FOR SURVIVAL: ANTARCTICA Once in awhile you run across a book of fiction that seems so unrealistic you scoff, thinking that’s impossible. The events seem like something embellished for a major movie production. Then you remember the story is true. Endurance is a book like that. It is the story of Ernest Shackleton and the crew of the ship called appropriately, ”Endurance,” written by Robert Lansing in 1959. Because it is part...
The Young Guns in Political Thriller Novels: New authors you won’t want to miss
If you are a fan of suspense thrillers, chances are you have read Vince Flynn, Tom Clancy, and Brad Thor. They have been stars of the genre for a decade or more with dozens of exciting novels between them. Once you’ve read their books, where do you go from there? That question brought me to several newer authors who I have found to be great authors. Ben Coes, Andrew Peterson, Mark Greaney and John Gilstrap are four I would highly...
Mysteries That Leave You Wanting More
Once in awhile you run across an author that suits your taste perfectly. David Rosenfelt is one of mine. He’s written numerous novels, my favorites the mystery series featuring Andy Carpenter, Attorney at Law. The series appeals in many ways. First it’s a mystery, a genre I love. Second is the author’s humor. Andy has a sarcastic wit that I relate to, a wit that is often directed at himself. Lastly, the supporting characters—including...