Never Romance a Rake
Liz Carlyle
Pocket, Aug 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9781416527169
Comte de Valigny and Baron Rothewell play cards with the stake being the former’s beautiful daughter Camille Marchand. However, neither rake factored in the reaction of the stakes. Camille loathes her father who had no use for a female offspring until she turned into a rare beauty he could peddle amidst the Ton. She knows the Baron’s reputation as a scoundrel who prefers spending time with his mistress than any Ton social event. However, he is shocked when his winning comes willingly as she sees the rogue as the lesser of two evils.
As they spend time together, Camille finds herself attracted to the tender caring Kieran. She is able to somehow see past his façade into his soul yearning for more but expecting less. Kiernan is shocked how much he cares for Camille as he sees inside her heart to find the identical darkness covering a yearning for love. However, her father ruthlessly plans to use her as a tool to harm Kieran with a secret about his daughter that she is unaware of; but dear old dad placed his bets against love.
This is an engaging Regency romance starring two likable protagonists who readers will bet against them forging a permanent relationship; he is a true blood rake and she distrusts aristocratic males as her father taught her well. Sub-genre fans will enjoy their battles as love has left both bewildered and frightened while her opportunistic vile daddy dearest sees a chance to win a pot with this pair. Liz Carlyle deals three of kind with this fine NEVER ROMANCE A RAKE (see NEVER DECEIVE A DUKE and NEVER LIE TO A LADY).
Harriet Klausner
Monday, June 30, 2008
The Midnight Man-Charlotte Mede
The Midnight Man
Charlotte Mede
Kensington Brava, Aug 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0758223676
In 1860, recently widowed Helena Hartford is infamous for her scandalous paintings. However, it is not her art that has her in trouble; it is her wealth she inherited that others covet and plan to use her paintings as proof she needs to be committed to an asylum. Bedlam would kill this young woman who relishes freedom.
Even more affluent than her, Nicholas Ramsay orders Helena to trust him as he will keep her safe and free. However, he hides from her his real agenda as she is his pawn to reap revenge. Instead he finds himself falling in love and takes her to South America on a science expedition and to keep her truly safe; however, those after her money follow as she must be removed either into an asylum or a coffin.
This EXPLOSIVE historical romantic suspense grips the audience from the moment the suspicious Helena (and readers) distrusts Nicholas when he says trust me. The story line is fast-paced with Darwinism used to anchor the era. The lead couple is a fabulous pairing as love supersedes hate in Nicholas’ case. Fans will appreciate Charlotte Mede’s strong thriller as the tension continually mounts until the final confrontation with a fascinating low key villain.
Harriet Klausner
Charlotte Mede
Kensington Brava, Aug 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0758223676
In 1860, recently widowed Helena Hartford is infamous for her scandalous paintings. However, it is not her art that has her in trouble; it is her wealth she inherited that others covet and plan to use her paintings as proof she needs to be committed to an asylum. Bedlam would kill this young woman who relishes freedom.
Even more affluent than her, Nicholas Ramsay orders Helena to trust him as he will keep her safe and free. However, he hides from her his real agenda as she is his pawn to reap revenge. Instead he finds himself falling in love and takes her to South America on a science expedition and to keep her truly safe; however, those after her money follow as she must be removed either into an asylum or a coffin.
This EXPLOSIVE historical romantic suspense grips the audience from the moment the suspicious Helena (and readers) distrusts Nicholas when he says trust me. The story line is fast-paced with Darwinism used to anchor the era. The lead couple is a fabulous pairing as love supersedes hate in Nicholas’ case. Fans will appreciate Charlotte Mede’s strong thriller as the tension continually mounts until the final confrontation with a fascinating low key villain.
Harriet Klausner
The Black Sheep and the English Rose-Donna Kaufman
The Black Sheep and the English Rose
Donna Kaufman
Kensington Brava, Aug 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0758217293
In New York City, Finn Dalton sneaks into a hotel suite only to find jewel thief Felicity Jane Trent tied naked to the bed. They have a history competing for precious jewels, but have not seen one another since Prague two years ago. Finn offers to team up with Felicity Jane to retrieve the Byzantium gem that both want; she asks how to split one stone and he says he is not sure, but there are other things he desires. She explains that artifact dealer John Reese caught her looking into his things. He tied her up and left with the stone. He is meeting his buyer’s contact. Finn asks Felicity Jane why steal when she is wealthy and runs a renowned charity. She will not respond, but he assumes it is the thrill.
Finn and Felicity Jane join Reese and his client Andreev, who is buying the gem for octogenarian collector Chesnokov. Andreev leaves followed by Reese. Finn and Felicity Jane go to Reese’s hotel room where they know an unknown woman had been there. They take a glass that might have her fingerprints on it. At his Manhattan sanctuary he learns the prints belong to Julia Forsythe, a San Francisco art dealer; they find her itinerary on the net. They believe Reese went to California with her so they follow them. Finn and Felicity Jane want one another, but he insists she stop stealing; she refuses.
The lead couple is terrific as they share an odd confrontational loving history filled with sexual innuendos while the return of the lead characters from the previous “Black Sheep” tales adds depth as they perform critical but minimized support roles. The mystery of what is truly going on is cleverly disguised; however, the “villain” never makes a first person appearance leaving the audience somewhat dissatisfied. Still this is a fine romantic suspense.
Harriet Klausner
Donna Kaufman
Kensington Brava, Aug 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0758217293
In New York City, Finn Dalton sneaks into a hotel suite only to find jewel thief Felicity Jane Trent tied naked to the bed. They have a history competing for precious jewels, but have not seen one another since Prague two years ago. Finn offers to team up with Felicity Jane to retrieve the Byzantium gem that both want; she asks how to split one stone and he says he is not sure, but there are other things he desires. She explains that artifact dealer John Reese caught her looking into his things. He tied her up and left with the stone. He is meeting his buyer’s contact. Finn asks Felicity Jane why steal when she is wealthy and runs a renowned charity. She will not respond, but he assumes it is the thrill.
Finn and Felicity Jane join Reese and his client Andreev, who is buying the gem for octogenarian collector Chesnokov. Andreev leaves followed by Reese. Finn and Felicity Jane go to Reese’s hotel room where they know an unknown woman had been there. They take a glass that might have her fingerprints on it. At his Manhattan sanctuary he learns the prints belong to Julia Forsythe, a San Francisco art dealer; they find her itinerary on the net. They believe Reese went to California with her so they follow them. Finn and Felicity Jane want one another, but he insists she stop stealing; she refuses.
The lead couple is terrific as they share an odd confrontational loving history filled with sexual innuendos while the return of the lead characters from the previous “Black Sheep” tales adds depth as they perform critical but minimized support roles. The mystery of what is truly going on is cleverly disguised; however, the “villain” never makes a first person appearance leaving the audience somewhat dissatisfied. Still this is a fine romantic suspense.
Harriet Klausner
Southern Poison-T. Lynn Ocean
Southern Poison
T. Lynn Ocean
St. Martin’s, Sep 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780312383466
Jersey Barnes left the military SWEET (Special Worldwide Unit for Entertaining and Exterminating Terrorists) to open up the Barnes Agency, a personal security firm. She still owns the security firm, but never does field work anymore. Instead she focuses on a bar she owns in Wilmington, North Carolina with her hunk of a partner Duke “Ox” Oxendine, whose former wife and teenage daughter have arrived.
However, Jersey becomes irate when her former military handler Ashton informs her that he invoked her retirement contract clause of calling her back to active duty. Internet chatter evidence points towards a terrorist plot to disrupt the Military Ocean Terminal at Sunny Point, North Carolina, the largest Ammo plant. She will go undercover working at the roach coach selling sandwiches in an attempt to uncover who is behind the planned attack, when and how.
When the military drafts former soldier Jersey as a temporary part of the “all” volunteer army, the brass did not understand the SWEET deal they got; instead of just Jersey, they get her and her eccentric crew. Readers will enjoy their antics as they struggle to prevent a terrorist incident at strategic Sunny Point port. However, as with SOUTHERN FATALITY, the key to this amusing yet serious regional thriller is the crew. Fans will appreciate Jersey's personal moralist Ox, his even deeper moralist daughter, former Federal IT guru Soup, and the heroine's bluffing dad Spud in this fast-paced Carolina caper; just don’t eat from the roach coach when Jersey makes the sandwiches.
Harriet Klausner
T. Lynn Ocean
St. Martin’s, Sep 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780312383466
Jersey Barnes left the military SWEET (Special Worldwide Unit for Entertaining and Exterminating Terrorists) to open up the Barnes Agency, a personal security firm. She still owns the security firm, but never does field work anymore. Instead she focuses on a bar she owns in Wilmington, North Carolina with her hunk of a partner Duke “Ox” Oxendine, whose former wife and teenage daughter have arrived.
However, Jersey becomes irate when her former military handler Ashton informs her that he invoked her retirement contract clause of calling her back to active duty. Internet chatter evidence points towards a terrorist plot to disrupt the Military Ocean Terminal at Sunny Point, North Carolina, the largest Ammo plant. She will go undercover working at the roach coach selling sandwiches in an attempt to uncover who is behind the planned attack, when and how.
When the military drafts former soldier Jersey as a temporary part of the “all” volunteer army, the brass did not understand the SWEET deal they got; instead of just Jersey, they get her and her eccentric crew. Readers will enjoy their antics as they struggle to prevent a terrorist incident at strategic Sunny Point port. However, as with SOUTHERN FATALITY, the key to this amusing yet serious regional thriller is the crew. Fans will appreciate Jersey's personal moralist Ox, his even deeper moralist daughter, former Federal IT guru Soup, and the heroine's bluffing dad Spud in this fast-paced Carolina caper; just don’t eat from the roach coach when Jersey makes the sandwiches.
Harriet Klausner
Crosscut-Meg Gardiner
Crosscut
Meg Gardiner
Obsidian, Sep 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780451225221
In high school, Evan Delaney and her class go on a field trip to the Naval Base in China Lake to do some sketches of drawings on a canyon. Evan and three other girls slip away and go where a project is being blown up, which they witness. Various Federal agents interview the four high school females, but eventually they return to school. Evan goes on with her life assuming the incident was nothing.
Evan accompanied by her lover Jesse attends her high school class’ fifteenth year anniversary gala. Those who died are commemorated, but no one notices that the people who died are way higher than average in this grouping. Someone killed one of the high school witnesses before the reunion and a second one just after the event. Evan soon learns that a black ops experiment being blown up was what they actually observed fifteen years ago. Now anyone remotely associated with Project South Star is being killed; Evan will not sit idly by waiting her turn.
This is the fourth Meg Gardiner thriller I read and as with the others this super author hooks the reader with plenty of action and a heroine who is a woman in peril, but takes care of herself although that drives the men in her life crazy especially Jesse who loves her. The story line is fast-paced and a bit over the Sierras, but fun to read as Jessie will do anything to keep his beloved Evan safe even when she, in his mind, foolishly risks her life to stop the Captain America replica.
Harriet Klausner
Meg Gardiner
Obsidian, Sep 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780451225221
In high school, Evan Delaney and her class go on a field trip to the Naval Base in China Lake to do some sketches of drawings on a canyon. Evan and three other girls slip away and go where a project is being blown up, which they witness. Various Federal agents interview the four high school females, but eventually they return to school. Evan goes on with her life assuming the incident was nothing.
Evan accompanied by her lover Jesse attends her high school class’ fifteenth year anniversary gala. Those who died are commemorated, but no one notices that the people who died are way higher than average in this grouping. Someone killed one of the high school witnesses before the reunion and a second one just after the event. Evan soon learns that a black ops experiment being blown up was what they actually observed fifteen years ago. Now anyone remotely associated with Project South Star is being killed; Evan will not sit idly by waiting her turn.
This is the fourth Meg Gardiner thriller I read and as with the others this super author hooks the reader with plenty of action and a heroine who is a woman in peril, but takes care of herself although that drives the men in her life crazy especially Jesse who loves her. The story line is fast-paced and a bit over the Sierras, but fun to read as Jessie will do anything to keep his beloved Evan safe even when she, in his mind, foolishly risks her life to stop the Captain America replica.
Harriet Klausner
Wanton-Noelle Mack
Wanton
Noelle Mack
Kensington Brava, Aug 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0758222769
In 1816 London, the members of the Pack of St. James are concerned with the recent murders of two women who were seen with the Pack’s men. The Pack also received a heinous message warning them more fallen women who are seen with them will die. Since leader Kyril Taruskin and his be loved Vivienne are in the WILD of the Russian port of Archangel, his brother Marko investigates.
His inquiries lead Marko to Severin, whose half-sister was a victim. She seems to know too much intricate details to satisfy Marko of her innocence. However he knows immediately she is clever and brilliant, and her allure is overpowering. Still he is not a Pack leader, who succumbs easily to a siren. When he tries to use his sensual skills to gain the upper hand and learn the truth, she turns up the heat. Soon he realizes to keep her safe he must not be seen with this scandalous woman whom he loves
This WANTON tale starts off WILD, hot and sexy as Marko and Severin are in instant heat for one another. However, the whodunit takes over the story line rather quickly; as it should with lives at stake including that of Severin. Thus fans will appreciate this fine historical mystery with the right amount of romance enhancing Marko’s desperate inquiry to catch a serial killer so that he and his soulmate can love one another for a long lifetime.
Harriet Klausner
Noelle Mack
Kensington Brava, Aug 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0758222769
In 1816 London, the members of the Pack of St. James are concerned with the recent murders of two women who were seen with the Pack’s men. The Pack also received a heinous message warning them more fallen women who are seen with them will die. Since leader Kyril Taruskin and his be loved Vivienne are in the WILD of the Russian port of Archangel, his brother Marko investigates.
His inquiries lead Marko to Severin, whose half-sister was a victim. She seems to know too much intricate details to satisfy Marko of her innocence. However he knows immediately she is clever and brilliant, and her allure is overpowering. Still he is not a Pack leader, who succumbs easily to a siren. When he tries to use his sensual skills to gain the upper hand and learn the truth, she turns up the heat. Soon he realizes to keep her safe he must not be seen with this scandalous woman whom he loves
This WANTON tale starts off WILD, hot and sexy as Marko and Severin are in instant heat for one another. However, the whodunit takes over the story line rather quickly; as it should with lives at stake including that of Severin. Thus fans will appreciate this fine historical mystery with the right amount of romance enhancing Marko’s desperate inquiry to catch a serial killer so that he and his soulmate can love one another for a long lifetime.
Harriet Klausner
The Bride of Time-Dawn Thompson
The Bride of Time
Dawn Thompson
Love Spell, Aug 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0505527286
In 1903, London scullery maid Tessa La Prelle lives a hard life as her job is not an easy one. However, adding to her drudgery is the shock that everyone recognizes her as the model who posed in Giles Longworth's portrait, THE BRIDE OF TIME. The only problem with the assumption that she sat for the artist is that the painting is a century old.
While walking in a pea soup thick fog in London, Tessa suddenly finds herself at the Longworth's home in Cornwall with no idea how she got there and quickly hired as governess to his nephew; as no one except desperate people accept employment there. Almost everyone fears Longworth, who is rumored to be a shapeshifter who mutilates humans. Tessa knows Giles would never kill anyone; she is not quite as sure about his strange behaving nephew. As Tessa falls in love, she wonders if her heart is coloring her mind from evil.
As she has consistently done over the years, the late great Dawn Thompson provides an entertaining paranormal historical “bridal” romance in which she combines elements she has used before into an exciting tale. The author employs time travel (see THE FALCON'S BRIDE) with a werewolf saga (see THE RAVENCLIFF BRIDE) to provide her fans with a delightful gothic romance in which the suspense and the comparative historical eras enhance a fitting tribute.
Harriet Klausner
Dawn Thompson
Love Spell, Aug 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0505527286
In 1903, London scullery maid Tessa La Prelle lives a hard life as her job is not an easy one. However, adding to her drudgery is the shock that everyone recognizes her as the model who posed in Giles Longworth's portrait, THE BRIDE OF TIME. The only problem with the assumption that she sat for the artist is that the painting is a century old.
While walking in a pea soup thick fog in London, Tessa suddenly finds herself at the Longworth's home in Cornwall with no idea how she got there and quickly hired as governess to his nephew; as no one except desperate people accept employment there. Almost everyone fears Longworth, who is rumored to be a shapeshifter who mutilates humans. Tessa knows Giles would never kill anyone; she is not quite as sure about his strange behaving nephew. As Tessa falls in love, she wonders if her heart is coloring her mind from evil.
As she has consistently done over the years, the late great Dawn Thompson provides an entertaining paranormal historical “bridal” romance in which she combines elements she has used before into an exciting tale. The author employs time travel (see THE FALCON'S BRIDE) with a werewolf saga (see THE RAVENCLIFF BRIDE) to provide her fans with a delightful gothic romance in which the suspense and the comparative historical eras enhance a fitting tribute.
Harriet Klausner
The Druid Made Me Do It-Natalie Stenzel
The Druid Made Me Do It
Natalie Stenzel
Love Spell, Aug 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0505527774
Eight years ago Dr. Janelle Corrington met Kane. They had a heated one night stand and she suddenly believed in love at first sight as she thought she finally met her soulmate until he suddenly vanished in the morning.
However, Kane recently committed a bad error in judgment; for that misdeed Faerie King Oberon punishes his once favorite son who he knows as Robin Goodfellow, magical seducer of women. He names Janelle as his guardian while she is also granted special mental healing skills to compensate for her time. Kane’s punishment besides having to bow to a woman is to atone for his sins with all his victims. To his shock, Kane, who has always been a 4F kind of guy falls in love with Janelle; but he sadly knows they have no future together.
The sequel to PANDORA'S BOX is as wacky as that tale was as Robin makes a return engagement, which means Janelle is in for plenty of “Pandemina”. The amusing story line is fun to follow as the lead couple has plenty of tsuris especially with their apparent no future together. Fans of romantic fantasy will appreciate THE DRUID MADE ME DO IT as Robin Goodfellow learns a lesson about the real magic of love.
Harriet Klausner
Natalie Stenzel
Love Spell, Aug 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0505527774
Eight years ago Dr. Janelle Corrington met Kane. They had a heated one night stand and she suddenly believed in love at first sight as she thought she finally met her soulmate until he suddenly vanished in the morning.
However, Kane recently committed a bad error in judgment; for that misdeed Faerie King Oberon punishes his once favorite son who he knows as Robin Goodfellow, magical seducer of women. He names Janelle as his guardian while she is also granted special mental healing skills to compensate for her time. Kane’s punishment besides having to bow to a woman is to atone for his sins with all his victims. To his shock, Kane, who has always been a 4F kind of guy falls in love with Janelle; but he sadly knows they have no future together.
The sequel to PANDORA'S BOX is as wacky as that tale was as Robin makes a return engagement, which means Janelle is in for plenty of “Pandemina”. The amusing story line is fun to follow as the lead couple has plenty of tsuris especially with their apparent no future together. Fans of romantic fantasy will appreciate THE DRUID MADE ME DO IT as Robin Goodfellow learns a lesson about the real magic of love.
Harriet Klausner
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Belle Weather: Mostly Sunny with a Chance of Scattered Hissy Fits
Belle Weather: Mostly Sunny with a Chance of Scattered Hissy Fits
Celia Rivenbark
St. Martin’s, Aug 2008, $21.95
ISBN: 9780312362997
These are 30 humorous observations about life that can be read over a period of time as each is an exclusive entry. However, the commentaries are actually divided into four sections: On the House, Just Kid-ding, It’s Raining Men (Must be Why My Joints Ache, and (I’m So Totally) Randomly Thoughts. The entries are all fun, but especially the first two segments. Readers will empathize with the insanity that goes on with purchasing a house and the social expectations of having kids at school. The very first essay sets the bar of excellence for this hilarious tome as Celia and her husband buy a house that they crazily say “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change!” as they renovate what they bought. It remains zany from that onset as Celia understands the significant other in her life is the renovator. Readers will be in stitches as each contribution will hit home even if you do not own a house or have a kid own you. Although the six commentaries that make up the last section are aptly titled Random Thoughts, they are unfocused especially following the previous classified trio, yet they too are jocular and will leave fans laughing, wanting more insight into hissy living, and appreciate Celia Rivenbark, “a Beauty Queen At Last”.
Harriet Klausner
Celia Rivenbark
St. Martin’s, Aug 2008, $21.95
ISBN: 9780312362997
These are 30 humorous observations about life that can be read over a period of time as each is an exclusive entry. However, the commentaries are actually divided into four sections: On the House, Just Kid-ding, It’s Raining Men (Must be Why My Joints Ache, and (I’m So Totally) Randomly Thoughts. The entries are all fun, but especially the first two segments. Readers will empathize with the insanity that goes on with purchasing a house and the social expectations of having kids at school. The very first essay sets the bar of excellence for this hilarious tome as Celia and her husband buy a house that they crazily say “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change!” as they renovate what they bought. It remains zany from that onset as Celia understands the significant other in her life is the renovator. Readers will be in stitches as each contribution will hit home even if you do not own a house or have a kid own you. Although the six commentaries that make up the last section are aptly titled Random Thoughts, they are unfocused especially following the previous classified trio, yet they too are jocular and will leave fans laughing, wanting more insight into hissy living, and appreciate Celia Rivenbark, “a Beauty Queen At Last”.
Harriet Klausner
Apart from the Crowd- Anna McPartlin
Apart from the Crowd
Anna McPartlin
Downtown, Aug 2008, $15.00
ISBN: 1416569723
Life to Mary is an archipelago of tragedy as one island of loss leads to the next island of loss. Usually this means the death of a loved one like her child, but she muses that it can be less final for instance when she was twelve, her new puppy Mr. Monkels lost a part of an ear in a freaky fishing accident.
However as Mary needs to move past the latest trauma, her cousin Ivan's wife dumped him and took their kids with her. Her best friend Penny loves married alcoholic Adam, who happens to love his wife and Penny; and plans to keep both women in his life. Then there is her new neighbor Sam, a former music world VIP until drugs destroyed his career and his life. He is trying to remain clean, but like the other people in Mary’s life and even herself, hide their indiscretions from one another.
Although with five you get the entire buffet not just an egg roll; this well written character study is overwhelmed at times with too much angst oozing from each player. The story line engages the audience who empathizes with each key character; however also the weight of the collective quintet feels overwhelming. Still Anna McPartlin makes a strong case that Dean Martin was right that “Everybody Needs Somebody Sometime” to share the joy and sorrow of life.
Harriet Klausner
Anna McPartlin
Downtown, Aug 2008, $15.00
ISBN: 1416569723
Life to Mary is an archipelago of tragedy as one island of loss leads to the next island of loss. Usually this means the death of a loved one like her child, but she muses that it can be less final for instance when she was twelve, her new puppy Mr. Monkels lost a part of an ear in a freaky fishing accident.
However as Mary needs to move past the latest trauma, her cousin Ivan's wife dumped him and took their kids with her. Her best friend Penny loves married alcoholic Adam, who happens to love his wife and Penny; and plans to keep both women in his life. Then there is her new neighbor Sam, a former music world VIP until drugs destroyed his career and his life. He is trying to remain clean, but like the other people in Mary’s life and even herself, hide their indiscretions from one another.
Although with five you get the entire buffet not just an egg roll; this well written character study is overwhelmed at times with too much angst oozing from each player. The story line engages the audience who empathizes with each key character; however also the weight of the collective quintet feels overwhelming. Still Anna McPartlin makes a strong case that Dean Martin was right that “Everybody Needs Somebody Sometime” to share the joy and sorrow of life.
Harriet Klausner
Still Waters-Nigel McCrery
Still Waters
Nigel McCrery
Pantheon, Aug 2008, $23.95
ISBN: 9780307377036
Essex Detective Sergeant Emma Bradbury asks Detective Chief Inspector Mark Lapslie, who is one medical leave, to come to a car crash scene where the rotted body of an elderly woman wrapped in plastic has been found. Apparently the vehicle dug the corpse out of a shallow grave.
Dealing with synthesia Mark, who tastes sound such as his mobile ringing tasting like chocolate, reluctantly arrives at the scene to look around; his first case in almost a year. The two cops conclude that the killer left little behind except cutting the fingers off the victim’s right hand. They later learn the deceased is Violet Chambers who was killed with a garden plant poison and the fingers nipped by a garden shears. They tie her death to abductions of other senior citizens and begin to fear a serial killer who is planting the elderly into the ground.
This is an opening tale of a new English police procedural starring a unique detective. The strength and weakness of STILL WATERS is Lapslie. His sensual issues caused by synthesia makes him a fascinating protagonist with little hints at how he perceives the world like his tasting his phone ringing. However, how complex and convoluted that makes his life and how he successfully overcame his different outlook to become a DCI is not dug deep enough to satisfy the audience; instead he seems totally adapted with just asides to remind the reader his senses work differently. Still this is an enjoyable first tale with hopefully more synthesia caused issues surfacing in which Lapslie’s observations are prevalent to the case.
Harriet Klausner
Nigel McCrery
Pantheon, Aug 2008, $23.95
ISBN: 9780307377036
Essex Detective Sergeant Emma Bradbury asks Detective Chief Inspector Mark Lapslie, who is one medical leave, to come to a car crash scene where the rotted body of an elderly woman wrapped in plastic has been found. Apparently the vehicle dug the corpse out of a shallow grave.
Dealing with synthesia Mark, who tastes sound such as his mobile ringing tasting like chocolate, reluctantly arrives at the scene to look around; his first case in almost a year. The two cops conclude that the killer left little behind except cutting the fingers off the victim’s right hand. They later learn the deceased is Violet Chambers who was killed with a garden plant poison and the fingers nipped by a garden shears. They tie her death to abductions of other senior citizens and begin to fear a serial killer who is planting the elderly into the ground.
This is an opening tale of a new English police procedural starring a unique detective. The strength and weakness of STILL WATERS is Lapslie. His sensual issues caused by synthesia makes him a fascinating protagonist with little hints at how he perceives the world like his tasting his phone ringing. However, how complex and convoluted that makes his life and how he successfully overcame his different outlook to become a DCI is not dug deep enough to satisfy the audience; instead he seems totally adapted with just asides to remind the reader his senses work differently. Still this is an enjoyable first tale with hopefully more synthesia caused issues surfacing in which Lapslie’s observations are prevalent to the case.
Harriet Klausner
The Last Centurion-John Ringo
The Last Centurion
John Ringo
Baen, Aug 2008, $25.00
ISBN: 9781416555537
The Hell Times confirmed what most thought about a Democrat in the White House, especially the “Bitch”, as this time when they got it wrong the cost was the planet. These idiots focused on preventing global warming only it was the Freeze that led to the pandemic environmental disaster and the bird flu global Plague in which the Bitch’s socialized medicine failed everyone. By 2021 worldwide famine has become the acceptable norm.
These leaders failed the military they deployed to the Middle East by abandoning the soldiers in Iraq after widening the mission to Turkey, Iran, and Kuwait. Survival means stealing from the locals who are also struggling for sustenance and looting artifacts to sell on the black market. On our side of the Holy War, few are willing to die for the cause; our adversaries have most of those who sacrifice their lives. Only in America will a TV show surface to showcase THE LAST CENTURION unit as propaganda to patriotically bury the embarrassing defeats behind disinformation fog. While the Fat DC Cats talk of hundred year wars, weary soldiers write blogs so the truth may one day be known before the victors rewrite the history books.
Though well written the difficulty for the audience will be to accept the premises that the Liberal Democrats are at fault for the third decade of the desert war, avian flu and global freezing; as if the Bush years did not exist. However, if the audience accepts the shocking prejudicial strong beliefs of THE LAST CENTURION who tells the story in his blog from his perspective as gospel “historical facts”, the tale provides a compelling austere near future thriller. Those early sections provide the deep understanding of the military officer’s mind through his blog writing. Though the ending is even more implausible, fans of Mr. Ringo and the Neocons busy rewriting the history books (at least their roles) will appreciate this cautionary tale in which the author implores bloggers to expose the lies of the power structure.
Harriet Klausner
John Ringo
Baen, Aug 2008, $25.00
ISBN: 9781416555537
The Hell Times confirmed what most thought about a Democrat in the White House, especially the “Bitch”, as this time when they got it wrong the cost was the planet. These idiots focused on preventing global warming only it was the Freeze that led to the pandemic environmental disaster and the bird flu global Plague in which the Bitch’s socialized medicine failed everyone. By 2021 worldwide famine has become the acceptable norm.
These leaders failed the military they deployed to the Middle East by abandoning the soldiers in Iraq after widening the mission to Turkey, Iran, and Kuwait. Survival means stealing from the locals who are also struggling for sustenance and looting artifacts to sell on the black market. On our side of the Holy War, few are willing to die for the cause; our adversaries have most of those who sacrifice their lives. Only in America will a TV show surface to showcase THE LAST CENTURION unit as propaganda to patriotically bury the embarrassing defeats behind disinformation fog. While the Fat DC Cats talk of hundred year wars, weary soldiers write blogs so the truth may one day be known before the victors rewrite the history books.
Though well written the difficulty for the audience will be to accept the premises that the Liberal Democrats are at fault for the third decade of the desert war, avian flu and global freezing; as if the Bush years did not exist. However, if the audience accepts the shocking prejudicial strong beliefs of THE LAST CENTURION who tells the story in his blog from his perspective as gospel “historical facts”, the tale provides a compelling austere near future thriller. Those early sections provide the deep understanding of the military officer’s mind through his blog writing. Though the ending is even more implausible, fans of Mr. Ringo and the Neocons busy rewriting the history books (at least their roles) will appreciate this cautionary tale in which the author implores bloggers to expose the lies of the power structure.
Harriet Klausner
Orson Scott Card's InterGalactic Medicine Show
Orson Scott Card's InterGalactic Medicine Show
Edmund R. Schubert and Orson Scott Card
Tor, Aug 2008, $16.95
ISBN: 9780765320001
The eighteen stories selected for this anthology were first published in the online magazine Intergalactic Medicine Show in 2006 and were considered the best from the four IGMS issues. Mr. Card provides four fine Enderverse short stories not seen in printed form before. Although some of the contributors are acclaimed talents like David Lubar and David Farland (Camelot never looked so fresh) fans will also appreciate the entries by less famous authors as Mr. Card and Mr. Schubert introduce Enders readers to endless possibility of meeting talented writers. There are no losers as all the tales are entertaining. Especially fascinating are the Rapture tale "To Know All Things That Are in the Earth" by James Maxey, a pair by Eric James Stone, and Tom Barlow's satirical Pollyanna "Call Me Mr. Positive". Also adding to the freshness is Aaron Johnston’s comic book style “Fat Farm” based on a story by Mr. Card. This compilation is superb and should send the audience to the OSCIGMS website.
Harriet Klausner
Edmund R. Schubert and Orson Scott Card
Tor, Aug 2008, $16.95
ISBN: 9780765320001
The eighteen stories selected for this anthology were first published in the online magazine Intergalactic Medicine Show in 2006 and were considered the best from the four IGMS issues. Mr. Card provides four fine Enderverse short stories not seen in printed form before. Although some of the contributors are acclaimed talents like David Lubar and David Farland (Camelot never looked so fresh) fans will also appreciate the entries by less famous authors as Mr. Card and Mr. Schubert introduce Enders readers to endless possibility of meeting talented writers. There are no losers as all the tales are entertaining. Especially fascinating are the Rapture tale "To Know All Things That Are in the Earth" by James Maxey, a pair by Eric James Stone, and Tom Barlow's satirical Pollyanna "Call Me Mr. Positive". Also adding to the freshness is Aaron Johnston’s comic book style “Fat Farm” based on a story by Mr. Card. This compilation is superb and should send the audience to the OSCIGMS website.
Harriet Klausner
Hotter Than Hell-Jackie Kessler
Hotter Than Hell
Jackie Kessler
Zebra, Aug 2008, $15.00
ISBN: 9780821781043
Daun the Incubus is superb at seducing evil women; they cannot help but sleep with him and lose their soul that he brings to the King of Lust in Hell. However, he is stunned by his former Succubus Jezebel leaving Hell and seduction behind her for an appalling wretched human (see HELLS BELLES and THE ROAD TO HELL). Jezebel demands her former Incubus Daun stay away from her and her Paul. Feeling like a dog in heat, Daun obsesses with lust for his Jezebel.
The King of Lust assigns Daun with bringing the soul of Virginia Reed to Hell, if he succeeds, which the literally cocky Daun knows is a foregone conclusion, he will become The First Principal of Lust, second in line to the Lust monarch. However when Daun sees his victim, he is shocked. She is Jezebel’s doppelganger and worse heaven bound as she is a kind hearted innocent who deserves to go on that path. Still Daun tries to charm her though to his consternation for the first time he meets failure. Virginia wants him, but she refuses her need as she knows men leave and she cannot deal with Daun leaving so why start.
With demons exposing him while trying to kill Daun and his victim thwarting him, fans will enjoy this amusing third erotic member from hell’s struggle with love and job security. Daun goes from demon war to demon lust as he has met his match in pure Virginia (right name for this woman). The story line is lighthearted and thin, but so much fun from start to finish as Daun has to choose between earthly mortal love and hellish royal rule.
Harriet Klausner
Jackie Kessler
Zebra, Aug 2008, $15.00
ISBN: 9780821781043
Daun the Incubus is superb at seducing evil women; they cannot help but sleep with him and lose their soul that he brings to the King of Lust in Hell. However, he is stunned by his former Succubus Jezebel leaving Hell and seduction behind her for an appalling wretched human (see HELLS BELLES and THE ROAD TO HELL). Jezebel demands her former Incubus Daun stay away from her and her Paul. Feeling like a dog in heat, Daun obsesses with lust for his Jezebel.
The King of Lust assigns Daun with bringing the soul of Virginia Reed to Hell, if he succeeds, which the literally cocky Daun knows is a foregone conclusion, he will become The First Principal of Lust, second in line to the Lust monarch. However when Daun sees his victim, he is shocked. She is Jezebel’s doppelganger and worse heaven bound as she is a kind hearted innocent who deserves to go on that path. Still Daun tries to charm her though to his consternation for the first time he meets failure. Virginia wants him, but she refuses her need as she knows men leave and she cannot deal with Daun leaving so why start.
With demons exposing him while trying to kill Daun and his victim thwarting him, fans will enjoy this amusing third erotic member from hell’s struggle with love and job security. Daun goes from demon war to demon lust as he has met his match in pure Virginia (right name for this woman). The story line is lighthearted and thin, but so much fun from start to finish as Daun has to choose between earthly mortal love and hellish royal rule.
Harriet Klausner
Hotter Than Hell-Jackie Kessler
Hotter Than Hell
Jackie Kessler
Zebra, Aug 2008, $15.00
ISBN: 9780821781043
Daun the Incubus is superb at seducing evil women; they cannot help but sleep with him and lose their soul that he brings to the King of Lust in Hell. However, he is stunned by his former Succubus Jezebel leaving Hell and seduction behind her for an appalling wretched human (see HELLS BELLES and THE ROAD TO HELL). Jezebel demands her former Incubus Daun stay away from her and her Paul. Feeling like a dog in heat, Daun obsesses with lust for his Jezebel.
The King of Lust assigns Daun with bringing the soul of Virginia Reed to Hell, if he succeeds, which the literally cocky Daun knows is a foregone conclusion, he will become The First Principal of Lust, second in line to the Lust monarch. However when Daun sees his victim, he is shocked. She is Jezebel’s doppelganger and worse heaven bound as she is a kind hearted innocent who deserves to go on that path. Still Daun tries to charm her though to his consternation for the first time he meets failure. Virginia wants him, but she refuses her need as she knows men leave and she cannot deal with Daun leaving so why start.
With demons exposing him while trying to kill Daun and his victim thwarting him, fans will enjoy this amusing third erotic member from hell’s struggle with love and job security. Daun goes from demon war to demon lust as he has met his match in pure Virginia (right name for this woman). The story line is lighthearted and thin, but so much fun from start to finish as Daun has to choose between earthly mortal love and hellish royal rule.
Harriet Klausner
Jackie Kessler
Zebra, Aug 2008, $15.00
ISBN: 9780821781043
Daun the Incubus is superb at seducing evil women; they cannot help but sleep with him and lose their soul that he brings to the King of Lust in Hell. However, he is stunned by his former Succubus Jezebel leaving Hell and seduction behind her for an appalling wretched human (see HELLS BELLES and THE ROAD TO HELL). Jezebel demands her former Incubus Daun stay away from her and her Paul. Feeling like a dog in heat, Daun obsesses with lust for his Jezebel.
The King of Lust assigns Daun with bringing the soul of Virginia Reed to Hell, if he succeeds, which the literally cocky Daun knows is a foregone conclusion, he will become The First Principal of Lust, second in line to the Lust monarch. However when Daun sees his victim, he is shocked. She is Jezebel’s doppelganger and worse heaven bound as she is a kind hearted innocent who deserves to go on that path. Still Daun tries to charm her though to his consternation for the first time he meets failure. Virginia wants him, but she refuses her need as she knows men leave and she cannot deal with Daun leaving so why start.
With demons exposing him while trying to kill Daun and his victim thwarting him, fans will enjoy this amusing third erotic member from hell’s struggle with love and job security. Daun goes from demon war to demon lust as he has met his match in pure Virginia (right name for this woman). The story line is lighthearted and thin, but so much fun from start to finish as Daun has to choose between earthly mortal love and hellish royal rule.
Harriet Klausner
Dark Vengeance-Ed Greenwood
Dark Vengeance
Ed Greenwood
Tor, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780765317667
In the village of Orlkettle, Orivon Firefist works day and night at the forge because it gave him pleasure to be his own boss at a place where he can see the sky and the grass. When he was six years old, he was stolen from his parents in a Nilfghar (dark elves) raid and brought to the Dark Below where he was a slave for a decade and a half to a wealthy noble family, who tortured him in an attempt to break his spirit; they never did. The daughter helped him escape her parents’ cruelty.
Now the dark elves have raided Orlkettle and kidnapped four children. Orivon knows first hand the fate that awaits these innocents and vows to rescue them or die trying. However, he is entering a world that has radically changed beyond recognition. The realm of Talonnorn that was the rival of Ouvahlor is in rapid decline from without and within; as nobles fight their peers and the Consecrated fight each other. As Orivon makes his way to Talonnorn he fights and kills beasts and dark elves, determined to free the city as he searches for the children.
DARK VENGEANCE is a dark quest fantasy that focuses on a culture that lives below the ground with its own peculiar values and customs (mindful of the Time Machine’s Morlocks) different from humans who live in the Blinding Light. The hero knows torture first hand having lived through the brutal abuse almost daily for years; yet overall he is a well balanced person though he has some issues sleeping and prefers light to night. He loathes killing, but will do so to save the kids from what he faced. Obviously readers know but will not care that Orivon is out of his league as he is not a warrior. That is the beauty of Ed Greenwood’s tale as he makes the blacksmith’s never again obsession the impetus to turn an ordinary person into a superhero “willing to march into hell for that heavenly cause”.
Harriet Klausner
Ed Greenwood
Tor, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780765317667
In the village of Orlkettle, Orivon Firefist works day and night at the forge because it gave him pleasure to be his own boss at a place where he can see the sky and the grass. When he was six years old, he was stolen from his parents in a Nilfghar (dark elves) raid and brought to the Dark Below where he was a slave for a decade and a half to a wealthy noble family, who tortured him in an attempt to break his spirit; they never did. The daughter helped him escape her parents’ cruelty.
Now the dark elves have raided Orlkettle and kidnapped four children. Orivon knows first hand the fate that awaits these innocents and vows to rescue them or die trying. However, he is entering a world that has radically changed beyond recognition. The realm of Talonnorn that was the rival of Ouvahlor is in rapid decline from without and within; as nobles fight their peers and the Consecrated fight each other. As Orivon makes his way to Talonnorn he fights and kills beasts and dark elves, determined to free the city as he searches for the children.
DARK VENGEANCE is a dark quest fantasy that focuses on a culture that lives below the ground with its own peculiar values and customs (mindful of the Time Machine’s Morlocks) different from humans who live in the Blinding Light. The hero knows torture first hand having lived through the brutal abuse almost daily for years; yet overall he is a well balanced person though he has some issues sleeping and prefers light to night. He loathes killing, but will do so to save the kids from what he faced. Obviously readers know but will not care that Orivon is out of his league as he is not a warrior. That is the beauty of Ed Greenwood’s tale as he makes the blacksmith’s never again obsession the impetus to turn an ordinary person into a superhero “willing to march into hell for that heavenly cause”.
Harriet Klausner
The Sirens-William Meikle
The Sirens
William Meikle
KHP, 2008
ISBN: 9780979988127
In Glasgow, after recovering from the events of the AMULET, on the day the Adams Detective Agency doubled in size with the hiring of computer guru Doug, private investigator Derek Adams receives a visit from an elderly person. Recently widowed Jessie Malcolm, who is using her ain name, says she going outside her “Circle” to hire Derek to bring home her missing son. Derek quickly accepts the case because he figures this one is easy and a 180 degrees away from the still emotionally painful Amulet fiasco since his new client insists her son John Mason is on the Isle of Skye so he can attend the funeral of her husband Tommy, his father.
On Skye, Derek visits the Auld Kelpie Inn, but his questions are met with cold angry silence. He soon learns that John’s relatives work and drink here; they resent strangers asking questions about him. However, his inquiry soon leads Derek to John, who is under the enchantment of a Kelpie; fathering her children. John needs to go home for his father’s funeral, but though he cannot fathom why, John’s cousins will not allow this to happen, but Derek helps him to escape. However, in Glasgow, all hell has broken loose, which sends police officers to question Derek; who now must wonder what he wrought when he brought the cursed John home.
The second Midnight Eyes File case is an enjoyable investigative urban fantasy. The story line is fast-paced although somewhat disrupted with flashbacks including post traumatic stress disorder still suffered by the hero from his first book escapades. The Norse mythos that serves as the key fantasy element is cleverly designed so that the cops and the private detective must look into it; though the former are skeptical and the latter still recovering from his previous paranormal sleuthing. Sub-genre readers will relish the SIRENS and like this reviewer will seek a copy of THE AMULET; as William Meikle provides an entertaining paranormal investigative tale.
Harriet Klausner
William Meikle
KHP, 2008
ISBN: 9780979988127
In Glasgow, after recovering from the events of the AMULET, on the day the Adams Detective Agency doubled in size with the hiring of computer guru Doug, private investigator Derek Adams receives a visit from an elderly person. Recently widowed Jessie Malcolm, who is using her ain name, says she going outside her “Circle” to hire Derek to bring home her missing son. Derek quickly accepts the case because he figures this one is easy and a 180 degrees away from the still emotionally painful Amulet fiasco since his new client insists her son John Mason is on the Isle of Skye so he can attend the funeral of her husband Tommy, his father.
On Skye, Derek visits the Auld Kelpie Inn, but his questions are met with cold angry silence. He soon learns that John’s relatives work and drink here; they resent strangers asking questions about him. However, his inquiry soon leads Derek to John, who is under the enchantment of a Kelpie; fathering her children. John needs to go home for his father’s funeral, but though he cannot fathom why, John’s cousins will not allow this to happen, but Derek helps him to escape. However, in Glasgow, all hell has broken loose, which sends police officers to question Derek; who now must wonder what he wrought when he brought the cursed John home.
The second Midnight Eyes File case is an enjoyable investigative urban fantasy. The story line is fast-paced although somewhat disrupted with flashbacks including post traumatic stress disorder still suffered by the hero from his first book escapades. The Norse mythos that serves as the key fantasy element is cleverly designed so that the cops and the private detective must look into it; though the former are skeptical and the latter still recovering from his previous paranormal sleuthing. Sub-genre readers will relish the SIRENS and like this reviewer will seek a copy of THE AMULET; as William Meikle provides an entertaining paranormal investigative tale.
Harriet Klausner
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Watch Me-Brenda Novak
Watch Me
Brenda Novak
Mira, Aug 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780778325260
A dozen years ago in Whiterock, Tennessee teenagers Sheridan Kohl and Jason Wyatt were parked when someone shot both of them. She survived but he died while the culprit was not caught. Most townsfolk including Jason’s dad believe the lad’s stepbrother Cain Granger got away with murder. That tragedy shaped Sheridan’s life as she became a dedicated caseworker for The Last Stand, a firm that helps crime victims.
When she learns that the rifle used to kill Jason has been found after twelve years, Sheridan reluctantly returns home as the cold case suddenly turns hot. However, her welcome home turns to be someone beats her severely enough that the predator left her for dead. Cain saves her life and helps her heal; taking leave from his job. Attracted to each other, Cain and Sheridan team up to try to uncover the real killer of Jason before the culprit kills Sheridan.
The third Last Stand thriller (see STOP ME and TRUST ME) is a superb regional whodunit starring a powerful cast especially the lead duet. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Sheridan decides to return to her Eastern Tennessee hometown in hopes of real closure by having the killer finally caught. Readers will appreciate Sheridan’s Last Stand as she risks her life to be able to truly close that tragic chapter of her life and if she survives that need perhaps move on with her hero Cain.
Harriet Klausner
Brenda Novak
Mira, Aug 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780778325260
A dozen years ago in Whiterock, Tennessee teenagers Sheridan Kohl and Jason Wyatt were parked when someone shot both of them. She survived but he died while the culprit was not caught. Most townsfolk including Jason’s dad believe the lad’s stepbrother Cain Granger got away with murder. That tragedy shaped Sheridan’s life as she became a dedicated caseworker for The Last Stand, a firm that helps crime victims.
When she learns that the rifle used to kill Jason has been found after twelve years, Sheridan reluctantly returns home as the cold case suddenly turns hot. However, her welcome home turns to be someone beats her severely enough that the predator left her for dead. Cain saves her life and helps her heal; taking leave from his job. Attracted to each other, Cain and Sheridan team up to try to uncover the real killer of Jason before the culprit kills Sheridan.
The third Last Stand thriller (see STOP ME and TRUST ME) is a superb regional whodunit starring a powerful cast especially the lead duet. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Sheridan decides to return to her Eastern Tennessee hometown in hopes of real closure by having the killer finally caught. Readers will appreciate Sheridan’s Last Stand as she risks her life to be able to truly close that tragic chapter of her life and if she survives that need perhaps move on with her hero Cain.
Harriet Klausner
Cypress Nights-Stella Cameron
Cypress Nights
Stella Cameron
Mira, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780778325406
The residents of Toussaint, Louisiana are rightfully upset and frightened to learn someone was murdered in St. Cecil's Church. Soon afterward the fear factor turns stratospheric, as more people die. The divided community knows the homicides are connected to the new school and teacher Bleu Labeau.
Over the edge over the deaths, Bleu also realizes she must be the target too of this serial killer. However, it is her feelings for her self anointed protector Dr. Roche Savage that frightens her most and not just because she mistrusts herself when it comes to men; she has learned that everyone who has been killed was his patient.
Fans will enjoy the return to Toussaint (see A MARKED MAN and A GRAVE MISTAKE) with this fast-paced serial killer thriller. The key to CYPRESS NIGHTS is the lead couple as she has to decide whether to trust her heart or the circumstantial evidence; a wrong choice by Bleu probably means death. However, Stella Cameron never takes her eyes off the ball as she uses the romantic subplot as support to the prime murder mystery. Ms. Cameron’s fans will enjoy the steamy nights in the bayou where either love or murder occur.
Harriet Klausner
Stella Cameron
Mira, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780778325406
The residents of Toussaint, Louisiana are rightfully upset and frightened to learn someone was murdered in St. Cecil's Church. Soon afterward the fear factor turns stratospheric, as more people die. The divided community knows the homicides are connected to the new school and teacher Bleu Labeau.
Over the edge over the deaths, Bleu also realizes she must be the target too of this serial killer. However, it is her feelings for her self anointed protector Dr. Roche Savage that frightens her most and not just because she mistrusts herself when it comes to men; she has learned that everyone who has been killed was his patient.
Fans will enjoy the return to Toussaint (see A MARKED MAN and A GRAVE MISTAKE) with this fast-paced serial killer thriller. The key to CYPRESS NIGHTS is the lead couple as she has to decide whether to trust her heart or the circumstantial evidence; a wrong choice by Bleu probably means death. However, Stella Cameron never takes her eyes off the ball as she uses the romantic subplot as support to the prime murder mystery. Ms. Cameron’s fans will enjoy the steamy nights in the bayou where either love or murder occur.
Harriet Klausner
Cold Case-Kate Wilhelm
Cold Case
Kate Wilhelm
Mira, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780778325284
Over two decades ago in Eugene, Oregon, someone murdered teenager Jill Storey. The police and much of the small town believed that either teens David Etheridge or Robert McCrutchen killed her. However, no evidence was found and the case went cold.
Twenty-two years later, David an author returns to his hometown and ends up staying with Robert who is a senator and his wife. Soon afterward, someone murders Robert. The police once again suspect David, believing they have motive, means and definitely opportunity. He, knowing that he is a person of interest, hires attorney Barbara Holloway to represent him. She and her team begin to investigate the two homicides with each clue making the case stronger against her client.
The latest Holloway investigative thriller is an enjoyable regional whodunit starring an eccentric Oregonian cast, but not quite as powerful as most of the previous tales (see SLEIGHT OF HAND and A WRONGFUL DEATH). With humor to somewhat abating the tension, fans will appreciate Barbara’s efforts to find proof that someone else committed the recent homicide although she and the audience begin to believe David is guilty until a beating occurs. Her digging means no time to mount a defense and takes away from the overall story line as she gets nowhere for much of the novel. Still COLD CASE is a fine Holloway tale.
Harriet Klausner
Kate Wilhelm
Mira, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780778325284
Over two decades ago in Eugene, Oregon, someone murdered teenager Jill Storey. The police and much of the small town believed that either teens David Etheridge or Robert McCrutchen killed her. However, no evidence was found and the case went cold.
Twenty-two years later, David an author returns to his hometown and ends up staying with Robert who is a senator and his wife. Soon afterward, someone murders Robert. The police once again suspect David, believing they have motive, means and definitely opportunity. He, knowing that he is a person of interest, hires attorney Barbara Holloway to represent him. She and her team begin to investigate the two homicides with each clue making the case stronger against her client.
The latest Holloway investigative thriller is an enjoyable regional whodunit starring an eccentric Oregonian cast, but not quite as powerful as most of the previous tales (see SLEIGHT OF HAND and A WRONGFUL DEATH). With humor to somewhat abating the tension, fans will appreciate Barbara’s efforts to find proof that someone else committed the recent homicide although she and the audience begin to believe David is guilty until a beating occurs. Her digging means no time to mount a defense and takes away from the overall story line as she gets nowhere for much of the novel. Still COLD CASE is a fine Holloway tale.
Harriet Klausner
The Stolen-Jason Pinter
The Stolen
Jason Pinter
Mira, Aug 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780778325727
Six months has passed since New York Legal Aid attorney Amanda Davies ended her relationship with New York Gazette reporter Henry Parker because he chose work over her. Since getting a job on the newspaper, his life turned hectic and dangerous but not just for him; anyone close to him including Amanda (see THE MARK).
However, the investigative reporter puts his personal life on hold again when he is given an incredible exclusive. Five years ago, then six year old Daniel Linwood was kidnapped; the case went cold until now. Suddenly eleven years old Daniel has come home. He remembers nothing as to where he has been, what happened to him, or even how he ended up back at his family’s house. Henry interviews the child, but learns nothing about the mystery from the kid. He and Amanda soon learn that other children have been abducted and ultimately returned. As they dig deeper, an unknown adversary is willing to kill the nosy journalist and his former girlfriend to prevent the truth from surfacing.
The latest Henry Parker investigative tale is an exciting whodunit as the hero and his ex girlfriend team up on the case. Henry is terrific as his inquiries leave him confused with more unanswered questions; his first hand account enhances his bewilderment and that of the audience as the motive is just out of reach. However, it is his sort of schizoid personality that makes him a superb character as he is a classic New York City cynic on the job and a closet romantic in his home. Fans will appreciate this entertaining suspense thriller with the right touch of sexual tension to augment a fine read.
Harriet Klausner
Jason Pinter
Mira, Aug 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780778325727
Six months has passed since New York Legal Aid attorney Amanda Davies ended her relationship with New York Gazette reporter Henry Parker because he chose work over her. Since getting a job on the newspaper, his life turned hectic and dangerous but not just for him; anyone close to him including Amanda (see THE MARK).
However, the investigative reporter puts his personal life on hold again when he is given an incredible exclusive. Five years ago, then six year old Daniel Linwood was kidnapped; the case went cold until now. Suddenly eleven years old Daniel has come home. He remembers nothing as to where he has been, what happened to him, or even how he ended up back at his family’s house. Henry interviews the child, but learns nothing about the mystery from the kid. He and Amanda soon learn that other children have been abducted and ultimately returned. As they dig deeper, an unknown adversary is willing to kill the nosy journalist and his former girlfriend to prevent the truth from surfacing.
The latest Henry Parker investigative tale is an exciting whodunit as the hero and his ex girlfriend team up on the case. Henry is terrific as his inquiries leave him confused with more unanswered questions; his first hand account enhances his bewilderment and that of the audience as the motive is just out of reach. However, it is his sort of schizoid personality that makes him a superb character as he is a classic New York City cynic on the job and a closet romantic in his home. Fans will appreciate this entertaining suspense thriller with the right touch of sexual tension to augment a fine read.
Harriet Klausner
3 Men and a Body-Stephanie Bond
3 Men and a Body
Stephanie Bond
Mira, Aug 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780778326076
Stressed to the max due to the three men in her life and her being placed on work suspension giving her time to think about testosterone overload, Carlotta Wren needs getaway time from the three men who want in her life. She decides to flee from her former fiancée Peter Ashford who dumped her a decade ago (see BODY MOVERS) and Atlanta Police Detective Jack Terry who accused her of murder (see BODY MOVERS) and later both thought she was dead (see 2 BODIES FOR THE PRICE OF ONE); as to the latter even her younger brother Wesley and his boss Cooper Craft believed she was murdered.
When Cooper asks her to accompany him to Florida to pick up the corpse of heiress Kiki Deerling, she agrees. Besides escaping from Atlanta and the three men in her life, she can decide whether to allow Copper to join the Carlotta sweepstake. Besides she has heard her parents, who escaped prosecution by deserting their children ten yeas ago have been seen in Florida; she wants to confront the pair. However, even before they leave Atlanta, things turn chaotic when Wesley stows away in Cooper’s car to avoid a loan shark, who wants to break his knuckles; Florida proves worse as it seems everyone wants to take Kiki’s body and Carlotta being hurt is insignificant to the celebrity stalking community.
The latest Body Mover mystery is an amusing satirical tale that skewers the obsession people have with the famous; in this case even a dead semi-celebrity. The story line is fast-paced using hyperbole to provide the audience with a wacky funny Florida frolic. Although the plot is limited, the cast is strong; as with the previous madcap entries it is Carlotta and her merry men plus vicious star hunters who make this an entertaining read.
Harriet Klausner
Stephanie Bond
Mira, Aug 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780778326076
Stressed to the max due to the three men in her life and her being placed on work suspension giving her time to think about testosterone overload, Carlotta Wren needs getaway time from the three men who want in her life. She decides to flee from her former fiancée Peter Ashford who dumped her a decade ago (see BODY MOVERS) and Atlanta Police Detective Jack Terry who accused her of murder (see BODY MOVERS) and later both thought she was dead (see 2 BODIES FOR THE PRICE OF ONE); as to the latter even her younger brother Wesley and his boss Cooper Craft believed she was murdered.
When Cooper asks her to accompany him to Florida to pick up the corpse of heiress Kiki Deerling, she agrees. Besides escaping from Atlanta and the three men in her life, she can decide whether to allow Copper to join the Carlotta sweepstake. Besides she has heard her parents, who escaped prosecution by deserting their children ten yeas ago have been seen in Florida; she wants to confront the pair. However, even before they leave Atlanta, things turn chaotic when Wesley stows away in Cooper’s car to avoid a loan shark, who wants to break his knuckles; Florida proves worse as it seems everyone wants to take Kiki’s body and Carlotta being hurt is insignificant to the celebrity stalking community.
The latest Body Mover mystery is an amusing satirical tale that skewers the obsession people have with the famous; in this case even a dead semi-celebrity. The story line is fast-paced using hyperbole to provide the audience with a wacky funny Florida frolic. Although the plot is limited, the cast is strong; as with the previous madcap entries it is Carlotta and her merry men plus vicious star hunters who make this an entertaining read.
Harriet Klausner
The Year's Best Science Fiction: Twenty-Fifth Annual Collection
The Year's Best Science Fiction: Twenty-Fifth Annual Collection
Gardner Dozois (Editor)
St. Martin's, Jul 2008, $21.95
ISBN: 0312378602
This anthology consistently lives up to its billing as the best with the usual strong Introduction by editor Garner Dozois providing an overview of the year especially in short stories with the emphasis on magazine survivability. In the 25th edition, Mr. Dozois praises the Internet for the rapid growth of on-line magazines that showcase famous and unknown authors; especially those with no previous credentials. He also provides accolades to the big publishing firms for supporting anthologies and small presses who provide opportunities to new writers. Finally he gives credit to the Sci Fi channel as well. The stories as always are top rate coming from the vast sources now available. Incredulous as it seems Mr. Dozois improved the tome by finding remote tales and brings them to the attention of mainstream fans although most of the selected entries are by name authors. Especially poignant is “Last Contact by Stephen Baxter in which a mother and her astrophysicist daughter wait together for the Big Crunch to occur, “Finisterra” by David Moles with its warning to watch out for predators even living on an island in the sky, and “An Ocean is a Snowflake, Four Billion Miles away’ by John Barnes where earthlings terraform Mars. With a wide gamut of selections spanning the genre, Mr. Dozois does 2007 proud; a year that he insists will be remembered for its series of retrospect collections of great authors and the widening of sources beyond the print magazine.
Harriet Klausner
Gardner Dozois (Editor)
St. Martin's, Jul 2008, $21.95
ISBN: 0312378602
This anthology consistently lives up to its billing as the best with the usual strong Introduction by editor Garner Dozois providing an overview of the year especially in short stories with the emphasis on magazine survivability. In the 25th edition, Mr. Dozois praises the Internet for the rapid growth of on-line magazines that showcase famous and unknown authors; especially those with no previous credentials. He also provides accolades to the big publishing firms for supporting anthologies and small presses who provide opportunities to new writers. Finally he gives credit to the Sci Fi channel as well. The stories as always are top rate coming from the vast sources now available. Incredulous as it seems Mr. Dozois improved the tome by finding remote tales and brings them to the attention of mainstream fans although most of the selected entries are by name authors. Especially poignant is “Last Contact by Stephen Baxter in which a mother and her astrophysicist daughter wait together for the Big Crunch to occur, “Finisterra” by David Moles with its warning to watch out for predators even living on an island in the sky, and “An Ocean is a Snowflake, Four Billion Miles away’ by John Barnes where earthlings terraform Mars. With a wide gamut of selections spanning the genre, Mr. Dozois does 2007 proud; a year that he insists will be remembered for its series of retrospect collections of great authors and the widening of sources beyond the print magazine.
Harriet Klausner
Plague War-Jeff Carlson
Plague War
Jeff Carlson
Ace, Aug 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780441016174
Just over a year has past since the catastrophe began with a rather rapid wipeout of 5,000,000,000 souls in a blink. The nano-plague was released into the human population bring the world to the edge of extinction.. To survive this organic eating plague one must reside above the elevation of 10,000 feet as the machines freeze at that altitude.
In the Colorado Rocky Mountains the United States government plots to take over the world by using the vaccine developed by Ruth Goldman as a tool to choose who lives. The scientist and her friend Cam just want to inoculate everyone. Meanwhile the feds arrange for select Russians to fly to the States, but are betrayed when the plane explodes a nuclear bomb into the area. The Russian both combat and civilian and the Chinese are coming in full fighter force as they want a less ravaged place to live. Ruth believes she can bring the war to a halt and prevent any more fighting if he idea and new creation works
The sequel to the exciting PLAGUE YEAR, PLAGUE WAR is an exhilarating high octane science fiction thriller that hooks the audience from the opening sequence and never stops until the climax. While the story line focuses on non-stop action, the desolate frozen backdrop is in some ways the prime character as even in near extinction some in power will make a grab for more control while others prefer to simply save the world. Whereas Jeff Carlson cautions his audience to keep a close eye on the government-science-technological complex, fans, especially those who read the first book, will enjoy this electrifying over the Rockies dark futuristic tale
Harriet Klausner
Jeff Carlson
Ace, Aug 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780441016174
Just over a year has past since the catastrophe began with a rather rapid wipeout of 5,000,000,000 souls in a blink. The nano-plague was released into the human population bring the world to the edge of extinction.. To survive this organic eating plague one must reside above the elevation of 10,000 feet as the machines freeze at that altitude.
In the Colorado Rocky Mountains the United States government plots to take over the world by using the vaccine developed by Ruth Goldman as a tool to choose who lives. The scientist and her friend Cam just want to inoculate everyone. Meanwhile the feds arrange for select Russians to fly to the States, but are betrayed when the plane explodes a nuclear bomb into the area. The Russian both combat and civilian and the Chinese are coming in full fighter force as they want a less ravaged place to live. Ruth believes she can bring the war to a halt and prevent any more fighting if he idea and new creation works
The sequel to the exciting PLAGUE YEAR, PLAGUE WAR is an exhilarating high octane science fiction thriller that hooks the audience from the opening sequence and never stops until the climax. While the story line focuses on non-stop action, the desolate frozen backdrop is in some ways the prime character as even in near extinction some in power will make a grab for more control while others prefer to simply save the world. Whereas Jeff Carlson cautions his audience to keep a close eye on the government-science-technological complex, fans, especially those who read the first book, will enjoy this electrifying over the Rockies dark futuristic tale
Harriet Klausner
Friday, June 27, 2008
The Eaves of Heaven: A Life in Three Wars-Andrew X. Pham
The Eaves of Heaven: A Life in Three Wars
Andrew X. Pham
Harmony, Jun 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 030738120X
From 1940 to1976, Viet Nam was in a constant state of war that impacted the people. Andrew X. Pham provides the biography of his father Thong Van Pham, who lived through the three plus decades of war starting with the Japanese invasion of the French occupied region during WW II through the fight for independent from the French and finally the war over the South against the United States. As a child Thong lived an upper crust life being born to a wealthy family. Over the years of war, famine and abuse, the family fortune vanished and consequently the life style.
This is a fascinating biography that also serves as a deep look at the history of Viet Nam. The author rotates his father’s life with recent events that brings a harrowing feel as the reader gains a sense of the outcome resulting from the years of turbulence. Well written, readers will marvel at Mr. Pham’s capture of the impact of power struggles on everyday people.
Harriet Klausner
Andrew X. Pham
Harmony, Jun 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 030738120X
From 1940 to1976, Viet Nam was in a constant state of war that impacted the people. Andrew X. Pham provides the biography of his father Thong Van Pham, who lived through the three plus decades of war starting with the Japanese invasion of the French occupied region during WW II through the fight for independent from the French and finally the war over the South against the United States. As a child Thong lived an upper crust life being born to a wealthy family. Over the years of war, famine and abuse, the family fortune vanished and consequently the life style.
This is a fascinating biography that also serves as a deep look at the history of Viet Nam. The author rotates his father’s life with recent events that brings a harrowing feel as the reader gains a sense of the outcome resulting from the years of turbulence. Well written, readers will marvel at Mr. Pham’s capture of the impact of power struggles on everyday people.
Harriet Klausner
The Gargoyle-Andrew Davidson
The Gargoyle
Andrew Davidson
Doubleday, Aug 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 0385524943
The porno actor with the scar on his heart is driving on a curving mountainous road when he loses control and crashes; probably because of his coke drenched brain. He suffers third degree burns that are so painful he decides that the recovery is not worth it as he believes even coke will fail him especially since he accidentally poured bourbon on his crotch just before the crash; thus turning the alcohol into an accelerant that made his penis into a candle that the nurse has since disposed of as medical waste. As he plans his suicide once out of the hospital especially the burn ward, insane patient Marianne Engel visits him.
She claims to be seven centuries old and his lover hundreds of years ago in Germany. The burn victim assumes the woman is a nut, but as she keeps seeing him, he wonders about himself as he is attracted to this kook he assumes is a mad woman suffering from schizophrenia. He learns she is a highly regarded sculptress whose gargoyles are in demand and soon has the man she claims was her lover wanting a life with her once he leaves the hospital.
This is a strange second chance at love novel that hooks the audience once Marianne informs the unnamed narrator what she was to him in another time and place. Her details of a long time ago convince the former porn star she is genuine although he wonders if losing his penis cost him his head. Fans who prefer something different will relish Andrew Davidson’s fascinating odd tale of love.
Harriet Klausner
Andrew Davidson
Doubleday, Aug 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 0385524943
The porno actor with the scar on his heart is driving on a curving mountainous road when he loses control and crashes; probably because of his coke drenched brain. He suffers third degree burns that are so painful he decides that the recovery is not worth it as he believes even coke will fail him especially since he accidentally poured bourbon on his crotch just before the crash; thus turning the alcohol into an accelerant that made his penis into a candle that the nurse has since disposed of as medical waste. As he plans his suicide once out of the hospital especially the burn ward, insane patient Marianne Engel visits him.
She claims to be seven centuries old and his lover hundreds of years ago in Germany. The burn victim assumes the woman is a nut, but as she keeps seeing him, he wonders about himself as he is attracted to this kook he assumes is a mad woman suffering from schizophrenia. He learns she is a highly regarded sculptress whose gargoyles are in demand and soon has the man she claims was her lover wanting a life with her once he leaves the hospital.
This is a strange second chance at love novel that hooks the audience once Marianne informs the unnamed narrator what she was to him in another time and place. Her details of a long time ago convince the former porn star she is genuine although he wonders if losing his penis cost him his head. Fans who prefer something different will relish Andrew Davidson’s fascinating odd tale of love.
Harriet Klausner
Tan Lines-J.J. Salem and Kylie Adams
Tan Lines
J.J. Salem and Kylie Adams
St. Martin’s, Jul 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0312374151
In the Hamptons, the three women arrive for a summer of renewal as none are happy at the moment. Political expert Liza Pike is thinking of divorcing her post 9/11 firefighting spouse Justin, but is thinking of future children with or without him. Depressed former actress Kellyanne Downey is tired of being the mistress of affluent businessman Walter Isherwood, who treats her with possessive scorn. Finally indie rocker Billie Shelton thinks her career is over and perhaps her life with it.
This trio meets at a rental they share for the summer. However, whether their TAN LINES predict a happy ending seems unlikely as the most wonderful summer of their lives includes a fifteen stabbing killing, a premature baby, and a public humiliation; just another day at the beach in Long island.
TAN LINES is a delightful contemporary fiction tale starring three wonderful females who “bond” suddenly last summer at the Hamptons. Each comes out there for renewal and escape from the testosterone scum in their lives, but sometimes you get what you wish for. The descriptions by the lead trio make the tale as verbal slicing and dicing especially of their respective significant other is fun to follow while everything goes wrong.
Harriet Klausner
J.J. Salem and Kylie Adams
St. Martin’s, Jul 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0312374151
In the Hamptons, the three women arrive for a summer of renewal as none are happy at the moment. Political expert Liza Pike is thinking of divorcing her post 9/11 firefighting spouse Justin, but is thinking of future children with or without him. Depressed former actress Kellyanne Downey is tired of being the mistress of affluent businessman Walter Isherwood, who treats her with possessive scorn. Finally indie rocker Billie Shelton thinks her career is over and perhaps her life with it.
This trio meets at a rental they share for the summer. However, whether their TAN LINES predict a happy ending seems unlikely as the most wonderful summer of their lives includes a fifteen stabbing killing, a premature baby, and a public humiliation; just another day at the beach in Long island.
TAN LINES is a delightful contemporary fiction tale starring three wonderful females who “bond” suddenly last summer at the Hamptons. Each comes out there for renewal and escape from the testosterone scum in their lives, but sometimes you get what you wish for. The descriptions by the lead trio make the tale as verbal slicing and dicing especially of their respective significant other is fun to follow while everything goes wrong.
Harriet Klausner
Prodigal Son-Thomas B. Cavanagh
Prodigal Son
Thomas B. Cavanagh
Dunne, Jul 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780312377076
Former police officer Mike Garrity plans to recover from surgery to remove a brain tumor (see HEAD GAMES). However, he considers the advice of his friend Jimmy Hungerford of A-Plus Investigators to become a private investigator as the cases are simple yet will keep him occupied.
Before he can decide whether he feels ready, Mile attends the funeral of teenage suicide Victor Madrigas, a classmate of his daughter Jennifer; the late teen’s grieving father Ben believes his son was murdered and after pleading with Mike that he will pay him to investigate, Mike agrees. Mike and fellow cancer survivor support group participant Debbie Watson are attracted to one another. They spend a night together. Her prognosis is very serious so in the morning she begs Mike to find her son she gave up years ago for adoption. Mike agrees. Finally his former wife Cam informs him she is carrying his child. Meanwhile after absorbing the shocker of being a father again, Mike finds Debbie’s son, Jonathan Dennis, but his roommate Steven Schumacher keeps Mike from meeting him. When Mike breaks into their apartment, he is greeted by Jonathan’s corpse and soon afterward jailed on suspicion of murder. Out on bail, Mike is shocked as Debbie is missing.
Mike has enough on his plate with the cancer, but in some ways he agrees with Jimmy to get back to work soonest so as to avoid a self pity party; all those who care about him will drown him enough with their misguided sympathy. Thus by taking on the two cases, he becomes a role model while the audience obtains a hectic incredibly fast-paced investigative tale as Mike not so gaily and readers quite happily wonder what’s going on.
Harriet Klausner
Thomas B. Cavanagh
Dunne, Jul 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780312377076
Former police officer Mike Garrity plans to recover from surgery to remove a brain tumor (see HEAD GAMES). However, he considers the advice of his friend Jimmy Hungerford of A-Plus Investigators to become a private investigator as the cases are simple yet will keep him occupied.
Before he can decide whether he feels ready, Mile attends the funeral of teenage suicide Victor Madrigas, a classmate of his daughter Jennifer; the late teen’s grieving father Ben believes his son was murdered and after pleading with Mike that he will pay him to investigate, Mike agrees. Mike and fellow cancer survivor support group participant Debbie Watson are attracted to one another. They spend a night together. Her prognosis is very serious so in the morning she begs Mike to find her son she gave up years ago for adoption. Mike agrees. Finally his former wife Cam informs him she is carrying his child. Meanwhile after absorbing the shocker of being a father again, Mike finds Debbie’s son, Jonathan Dennis, but his roommate Steven Schumacher keeps Mike from meeting him. When Mike breaks into their apartment, he is greeted by Jonathan’s corpse and soon afterward jailed on suspicion of murder. Out on bail, Mike is shocked as Debbie is missing.
Mike has enough on his plate with the cancer, but in some ways he agrees with Jimmy to get back to work soonest so as to avoid a self pity party; all those who care about him will drown him enough with their misguided sympathy. Thus by taking on the two cases, he becomes a role model while the audience obtains a hectic incredibly fast-paced investigative tale as Mike not so gaily and readers quite happily wonder what’s going on.
Harriet Klausner
Cockatiels at Seven-Donna Andrews
Cockatiels at Seven
Donna Andrews
St. Martin’s, Jul 2008, $23.95
ISBN: 0312377150
Recently married to Michael, Meg Langslow makes her Dad and Grandpa swear her baby sitting of their reptiles is short and temporary as she fears she will soon be bailing them and Dr. Blake out of some jail. Reluctantly she agrees to host the reptilians on her Caerphilly, Virginia farm though her guests give her the creeps.
At the same time her friend Karen leaves her toddler Timmy with Meg to baby-sit the child; a bit concerned as the boa dad left eats squirrels while Meg compares mentally little Timmy to the rodent. However, Karen fails to return to pick up her two years old infant. Not sure if Karen is in trouble or deserted Timmy, Meg, having solved cases before like THE PENGUIN WHO KNEW TOO MUCH, investigates. She soon learns that Karen's sleazy former husband Jasper was a computer programmer at the same college where Karen works and Michael teaches. As Meg digs deeper, she uncovers Jasper's corpse and much more.
This is a zany amusing amateur sleuth as Meg’s family, the snakes, and Tom the terrible two bring much humor to the heroine’s frantic inquiry. What happened to Karen and why provides the suspense. Readers will appreciate the latest Langslow tale as snakes on the farm is a fun lighthearted frolic.
Harriet Klausner
Donna Andrews
St. Martin’s, Jul 2008, $23.95
ISBN: 0312377150
Recently married to Michael, Meg Langslow makes her Dad and Grandpa swear her baby sitting of their reptiles is short and temporary as she fears she will soon be bailing them and Dr. Blake out of some jail. Reluctantly she agrees to host the reptilians on her Caerphilly, Virginia farm though her guests give her the creeps.
At the same time her friend Karen leaves her toddler Timmy with Meg to baby-sit the child; a bit concerned as the boa dad left eats squirrels while Meg compares mentally little Timmy to the rodent. However, Karen fails to return to pick up her two years old infant. Not sure if Karen is in trouble or deserted Timmy, Meg, having solved cases before like THE PENGUIN WHO KNEW TOO MUCH, investigates. She soon learns that Karen's sleazy former husband Jasper was a computer programmer at the same college where Karen works and Michael teaches. As Meg digs deeper, she uncovers Jasper's corpse and much more.
This is a zany amusing amateur sleuth as Meg’s family, the snakes, and Tom the terrible two bring much humor to the heroine’s frantic inquiry. What happened to Karen and why provides the suspense. Readers will appreciate the latest Langslow tale as snakes on the farm is a fun lighthearted frolic.
Harriet Klausner
First Blood-Susan Sizemore, Erin McCarthy, Chris Marie Green, and Meljean Brook
First Blood
Susan Sizemore, Erin McCarthy, Chris Marie Green, and Meljean Brook
Berkley, Aug 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425224007
"Cave Cane" by Susan Sizemore. In the Laws of the Blood universe, vampire law enforcer Dan Conover and werewolf Tess Sirella form a reluctant team seeking to rescue kidnapped pups.
"Russian Roulette" by Erin McCarthy. After losing her “day” job, former vampire slayer born again vampire Sasha Checkikov flees Vegas for New Orleans in order to jump start her undead life, but needs rescuing by vampire Alistair Kirk.
"Double the Bite," by Chris Marie Green. In the Vampire Babylon world, twin vampires stalk mortal Ben Tyree until one of the siblings Ginny falls in love while her sister claims ownership of the human.
"Thicker Than Blood" by Meljean Brook. When Annie Gallagher was human she loved FBI Agent Jack Harrington; but when she became a vampire she gave him up though she still loves him. Now they team up to rescue an abducted young girl.
Vampire romantic suspense fans will enjoy biting into these four well written novellas; with the added treat of the return visits by fans of Ms. Sizemore and Ms. Green to their renowned realms.
Harriet Klausner
Susan Sizemore, Erin McCarthy, Chris Marie Green, and Meljean Brook
Berkley, Aug 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425224007
"Cave Cane" by Susan Sizemore. In the Laws of the Blood universe, vampire law enforcer Dan Conover and werewolf Tess Sirella form a reluctant team seeking to rescue kidnapped pups.
"Russian Roulette" by Erin McCarthy. After losing her “day” job, former vampire slayer born again vampire Sasha Checkikov flees Vegas for New Orleans in order to jump start her undead life, but needs rescuing by vampire Alistair Kirk.
"Double the Bite," by Chris Marie Green. In the Vampire Babylon world, twin vampires stalk mortal Ben Tyree until one of the siblings Ginny falls in love while her sister claims ownership of the human.
"Thicker Than Blood" by Meljean Brook. When Annie Gallagher was human she loved FBI Agent Jack Harrington; but when she became a vampire she gave him up though she still loves him. Now they team up to rescue an abducted young girl.
Vampire romantic suspense fans will enjoy biting into these four well written novellas; with the added treat of the return visits by fans of Ms. Sizemore and Ms. Green to their renowned realms.
Harriet Klausner
Zoe's Tale-John Scalzi
Zoe's Tale
John Scalzi
Tor, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0765316986
Jane Sagan and John Perry have been recruited to establish Roanoke, a new human colony. When they agreed to help, neither Jane nor John expected interference or hostility from the scheming amoral home-world government. They were also taken aback by local shapeshifters and under alien assault by a federation violently opposed to human expansion into their sector.
While they struggle with those threatening to demolish the colony, their adopted teenage child Zoe ignores the big picture; instead she has fun with her boyfriend Enzo and her sarcastic best friend Gretchen while flirting with her Obin bodyguards. The Obin pair keeps Zoe on a pedestal due to her late biological father, a God to that species because of an incredible scientific discovery he made.
THE LAST COLONY contains much of the same events that occur in ZOE’S TALE but with a differing perspective as that novel was through the eyes of Jane and John. Thus, though ZOE’S TALE is well written and entertaining, to those who read THE LAST COLONY, it has a déjà vu feel. Still comparing the viewpoints is fun as interpretations of what is going on differ between the teen and the adults enhancing the intriguing read as the devil is in the details and that is where Zoe sees things radically diverse from her adoptive parents.
Harriet Klausner
John Scalzi
Tor, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0765316986
Jane Sagan and John Perry have been recruited to establish Roanoke, a new human colony. When they agreed to help, neither Jane nor John expected interference or hostility from the scheming amoral home-world government. They were also taken aback by local shapeshifters and under alien assault by a federation violently opposed to human expansion into their sector.
While they struggle with those threatening to demolish the colony, their adopted teenage child Zoe ignores the big picture; instead she has fun with her boyfriend Enzo and her sarcastic best friend Gretchen while flirting with her Obin bodyguards. The Obin pair keeps Zoe on a pedestal due to her late biological father, a God to that species because of an incredible scientific discovery he made.
THE LAST COLONY contains much of the same events that occur in ZOE’S TALE but with a differing perspective as that novel was through the eyes of Jane and John. Thus, though ZOE’S TALE is well written and entertaining, to those who read THE LAST COLONY, it has a déjà vu feel. Still comparing the viewpoints is fun as interpretations of what is going on differ between the teen and the adults enhancing the intriguing read as the devil is in the details and that is where Zoe sees things radically diverse from her adoptive parents.
Harriet Klausner
Thursday, June 26, 2008
The Child Comes First-Elizabeth Ashtree
The Child Comes First
Elizabeth Ashtree
Harlequin SuperRomance, Jul 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715039
In Baltimore, the state accuses eleven-year-old Tiffany Thompson of willfully killing three-year-old Derek Baldridge. The Third Circuit Court judge ruled that the preadolescent will be tried as an adult because of the shocking homicide and the accused documented history of violence. Attorney Simon Montgomery is assigned the pro bono case in which a public defender failed to get the venue changed back to Juvenile Court. Other court rulings handled poorly by his predecessor further hampers his ability to mount a strong defense
Meanwhile social worker Jayda Kavanagh totally believes Tiffany did not kill the younger child. She demands the new lawyer do a better job than the previous one did. As Jayda and Simon begin to fall in love, both are also charmed by the young girl on trial. However, besides understanding THE CHILD COMES FIRST, all three have issues to overcome if relationships are to forge permanently.
This entertaining romantic legal thriller works because the lead couple of this aptly titled tale focuses on defending the child over their attraction. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Derek picks up the pro bono defense of Tiffany and never slows down as he struggles with issues left by the previous lawyer, his client’s history and brooding reluctance to speak, and his desire for Jayda. Her idealism matches his skepticism as fans will enjoy this fine contemporary.
Harriet Klausner
Elizabeth Ashtree
Harlequin SuperRomance, Jul 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715039
In Baltimore, the state accuses eleven-year-old Tiffany Thompson of willfully killing three-year-old Derek Baldridge. The Third Circuit Court judge ruled that the preadolescent will be tried as an adult because of the shocking homicide and the accused documented history of violence. Attorney Simon Montgomery is assigned the pro bono case in which a public defender failed to get the venue changed back to Juvenile Court. Other court rulings handled poorly by his predecessor further hampers his ability to mount a strong defense
Meanwhile social worker Jayda Kavanagh totally believes Tiffany did not kill the younger child. She demands the new lawyer do a better job than the previous one did. As Jayda and Simon begin to fall in love, both are also charmed by the young girl on trial. However, besides understanding THE CHILD COMES FIRST, all three have issues to overcome if relationships are to forge permanently.
This entertaining romantic legal thriller works because the lead couple of this aptly titled tale focuses on defending the child over their attraction. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Derek picks up the pro bono defense of Tiffany and never slows down as he struggles with issues left by the previous lawyer, his client’s history and brooding reluctance to speak, and his desire for Jayda. Her idealism matches his skepticism as fans will enjoy this fine contemporary.
Harriet Klausner
Trusting Ryan-Tara Taylor Quinn
Trusting Ryan
Tara Taylor Quinn
Harlequin SuperRomance, Jul 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715008
Columbus Special Victims Bureau Police Detective Ryan Mercedes and thirty-five year old lawyer Audrey Lincoln are attracted to one another from the first moment they met six months ago while both were working. They go out on non-dates, watch videos like Almighty Bruce and the Reds play, and have fun together. They begin baring their souls to each other and soon made love. However, Audrey has deep concerns when she learns her boyfriend is still in his twenties.
Besides the age gap that has started a rift between them, the pair finds themselves on opposite sides of a controversial case. With their relationship seemingly barely on life support, love may not be enough between the younger man and the older woman who cherish each other, but also have trust issues from their respective salad days.
This is an enjoyable contemporary romance due to the relationship between the lead couple as their vocations, their histories, and their thirteen year gap come between them while the case especially the child that divides the duet adds poignancy to the fine story line. Trusting Tara Taylor Quinn to provide a strong tale, fans will appreciate this older woman-younger man tale of love and doubt.
Harriet Klausner
Tara Taylor Quinn
Harlequin SuperRomance, Jul 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715008
Columbus Special Victims Bureau Police Detective Ryan Mercedes and thirty-five year old lawyer Audrey Lincoln are attracted to one another from the first moment they met six months ago while both were working. They go out on non-dates, watch videos like Almighty Bruce and the Reds play, and have fun together. They begin baring their souls to each other and soon made love. However, Audrey has deep concerns when she learns her boyfriend is still in his twenties.
Besides the age gap that has started a rift between them, the pair finds themselves on opposite sides of a controversial case. With their relationship seemingly barely on life support, love may not be enough between the younger man and the older woman who cherish each other, but also have trust issues from their respective salad days.
This is an enjoyable contemporary romance due to the relationship between the lead couple as their vocations, their histories, and their thirteen year gap come between them while the case especially the child that divides the duet adds poignancy to the fine story line. Trusting Tara Taylor Quinn to provide a strong tale, fans will appreciate this older woman-younger man tale of love and doubt.
Harriet Klausner
The Way Home-Jean Brashear
The Way Home
Jean Brashear
Harlequin SuperRomance, Jul 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715053
Isabella “Bella” Parker wakes up in Lucky Drawn, Colorado suffering from amnesia while her fifty-eight year old spouse and their children worry over where she is. In Parker’s Ridge, Alabama James worries over whether his beloved wife of over three decades is safe as she is missing; he blames himself for her leaving. He and their adult kids are relieved to learn where Bella is due to a newspaper article revealing her story and location, but is concerned about her memory loss.
James wants her to come home, but in spite of her lack of memory her instincts tell her she was running from him. James knows why she was thinking of leaving him; they had lost their ability to play and have fun with each other until he cheated on her. Now a desperate James hopes to convince his spouse that if she gives him a second chance he will never wander and they will enjoy life to the fullest instead of just all business all the time.
THE WAY HOME is a touching second chance at love tale refreshingly starring two people in their fifties. Character driven, fans will relish Jean Brashear's heartfelt contemporary as the flawed lead couple makes the spat real enough to threaten to end a thirty-five years old relationship while the support cast ensure her amnesia is not a gimmick used to wipe the slate clean like an Etchosketch..
Harriet Klausner
Jean Brashear
Harlequin SuperRomance, Jul 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715053
Isabella “Bella” Parker wakes up in Lucky Drawn, Colorado suffering from amnesia while her fifty-eight year old spouse and their children worry over where she is. In Parker’s Ridge, Alabama James worries over whether his beloved wife of over three decades is safe as she is missing; he blames himself for her leaving. He and their adult kids are relieved to learn where Bella is due to a newspaper article revealing her story and location, but is concerned about her memory loss.
James wants her to come home, but in spite of her lack of memory her instincts tell her she was running from him. James knows why she was thinking of leaving him; they had lost their ability to play and have fun with each other until he cheated on her. Now a desperate James hopes to convince his spouse that if she gives him a second chance he will never wander and they will enjoy life to the fullest instead of just all business all the time.
THE WAY HOME is a touching second chance at love tale refreshingly starring two people in their fifties. Character driven, fans will relish Jean Brashear's heartfelt contemporary as the flawed lead couple makes the spat real enough to threaten to end a thirty-five years old relationship while the support cast ensure her amnesia is not a gimmick used to wipe the slate clean like an Etchosketch..
Harriet Klausner
Bitten to Death-Jennifer Rardin
Bitten to Death
Jennifer Rardin
Orbit, Aug 2008, $12.99
ISBN: 9780316022088
They believe the opportunity to destroy malevolent vampire Samos and his minion is near; so assassin Jaz Parks and her vampiric supervisor Vayl plan on the hit. However, when they return to the Trust to finalize their strategy, they walk into a shocker. Vayl is no longer in charge; instead the only vampire he created Disa is now running the show.
Disa has been a nuisance to Vayl since he changed the alien. This time with her as the boss, Disa refuses to allow Vayl to work the field operation to take out Samos. On the other hand, Jaz will not sit idly by allowing Disa to own her Vayl as her relationship with him was just turning to a new more exciting level. Her missions are to kill Samos permanently and keep Vayl at her side not that of Disa, who now gives the orders.
In her fourth CIA chick lit urban fantasy (see BITING THE BULLET, ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST and ONCE BITTEN, TWICE SHY) Jaz Parks is at her cheeky amusing yet exhilarating best. The story line told from her cynical perspective is fast-paced as she insures the paranormal species seem genuine and her mission essential especially winning the tug of war with Disa over Vayl. Thus the series is refreshed with a weird triangle in which the relationship between top CIA operative Vayl the vampire and his best subordinate has been evolving towards something personal but now with the return of Disa as their superior all bets are off. Jaz is at her mocking best in this engaging entry.
Harriet Klausner
Jennifer Rardin
Orbit, Aug 2008, $12.99
ISBN: 9780316022088
They believe the opportunity to destroy malevolent vampire Samos and his minion is near; so assassin Jaz Parks and her vampiric supervisor Vayl plan on the hit. However, when they return to the Trust to finalize their strategy, they walk into a shocker. Vayl is no longer in charge; instead the only vampire he created Disa is now running the show.
Disa has been a nuisance to Vayl since he changed the alien. This time with her as the boss, Disa refuses to allow Vayl to work the field operation to take out Samos. On the other hand, Jaz will not sit idly by allowing Disa to own her Vayl as her relationship with him was just turning to a new more exciting level. Her missions are to kill Samos permanently and keep Vayl at her side not that of Disa, who now gives the orders.
In her fourth CIA chick lit urban fantasy (see BITING THE BULLET, ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST and ONCE BITTEN, TWICE SHY) Jaz Parks is at her cheeky amusing yet exhilarating best. The story line told from her cynical perspective is fast-paced as she insures the paranormal species seem genuine and her mission essential especially winning the tug of war with Disa over Vayl. Thus the series is refreshed with a weird triangle in which the relationship between top CIA operative Vayl the vampire and his best subordinate has been evolving towards something personal but now with the return of Disa as their superior all bets are off. Jaz is at her mocking best in this engaging entry.
Harriet Klausner
Gone-Michael Grant
Gone
Michael Grant
Harper, Jun 2008, $17.99
ISBN: 9780061448768
Abracadabra anyone over thirteen years old simply vanished. Preadolescent kids are stunned when they realize there is no one ordering them about. Soon that shock turns to fear as a tough mentality begins to create a social Darwinist environs.
With the help of his kinetic power, Coates Academy charming delinquent Caine takes control of Perdido Beach with an iron rule. Sam also has power but he is reluctant to use it as he blames himself for the disappearance. Whereas some of the children look to townie Sam to take charge, Caine tightens his hold through his academy Freaks minion. War in Fallout Alley Youth Zone between the two sides is imminent; though turning fourteen next week means Sam is GONE.
The obvious immediate perception is that of the Lord of the Flies in a Left Behind world that turns Wild in the Streets. The story line explores the reactions of the young when the older generations are suddenly GONE. Michael Grant targets teens, but does not dumb down his apocalyptic thriller, which will delight his audience especially with knowing what Sam knows will happen to him shortly; as he has one week left before he vanishes. Although he prefers not to get involved, he is a natural leader; as is Caine although their values differ. Thus good neighbor Sam expects an OK Corral like battle against Caine that he believes will determine the future, which he hopes is his legacy once he is GONE while his adversary’s bully mentality is based on maximize your pleasure at the expense of others in order to live for today.
Harriet Klausner
Michael Grant
Harper, Jun 2008, $17.99
ISBN: 9780061448768
Abracadabra anyone over thirteen years old simply vanished. Preadolescent kids are stunned when they realize there is no one ordering them about. Soon that shock turns to fear as a tough mentality begins to create a social Darwinist environs.
With the help of his kinetic power, Coates Academy charming delinquent Caine takes control of Perdido Beach with an iron rule. Sam also has power but he is reluctant to use it as he blames himself for the disappearance. Whereas some of the children look to townie Sam to take charge, Caine tightens his hold through his academy Freaks minion. War in Fallout Alley Youth Zone between the two sides is imminent; though turning fourteen next week means Sam is GONE.
The obvious immediate perception is that of the Lord of the Flies in a Left Behind world that turns Wild in the Streets. The story line explores the reactions of the young when the older generations are suddenly GONE. Michael Grant targets teens, but does not dumb down his apocalyptic thriller, which will delight his audience especially with knowing what Sam knows will happen to him shortly; as he has one week left before he vanishes. Although he prefers not to get involved, he is a natural leader; as is Caine although their values differ. Thus good neighbor Sam expects an OK Corral like battle against Caine that he believes will determine the future, which he hopes is his legacy once he is GONE while his adversary’s bully mentality is based on maximize your pleasure at the expense of others in order to live for today.
Harriet Klausner
Gale Force-Rachel Caine
Gale Force
Rachel Caine
Roc, Aug 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780451462237
They have been together for quite while through some nasty situations and some pleasant times. However, When Djinn David proposes marriage to his beloved Weather Warden Joanne Baldwin ecstatically accepts; she has never been happier although both understands the hardships and prejudice they will face from both their species; as they have felt some of the loathing just because they have been together.
Still they never expected the degree so called sentient beings will go to prevent their nuptials. Disregarding collateral deaths, for instance, an earthquake is sent to destroy Joanne as she shops for her wedding dress. Soon after the quake, the Sentinels are formed with their mission to eradicate the Djinn population using an unknown weapon that apparently her David and his Djinn brethren cannot detect leaving it to Joanne to uncover the truth if she should live long enough as the Sentinel operatives know she must die.
The latest Weather Warden (see THIN AIR) romantic fantasy is a wonderful tale as the happiness of getting married is trampled by the Sentinel genocidal movement and to a lesser degree the obvious racism of the lead couple’s respective species. The story line is fast-paced as the Sentinel horde knows fundamentally they can succeed in their lethal ethnic cleansing if they kill Joanne. Fans of the series will appreciate this one sitter while newcomers will be in back list frenzy mode as Rachel Caine provides an entertaining yet deep relevant (in today’s world) entry in a strong saga.
Harriet Klausner
Rachel Caine
Roc, Aug 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780451462237
They have been together for quite while through some nasty situations and some pleasant times. However, When Djinn David proposes marriage to his beloved Weather Warden Joanne Baldwin ecstatically accepts; she has never been happier although both understands the hardships and prejudice they will face from both their species; as they have felt some of the loathing just because they have been together.
Still they never expected the degree so called sentient beings will go to prevent their nuptials. Disregarding collateral deaths, for instance, an earthquake is sent to destroy Joanne as she shops for her wedding dress. Soon after the quake, the Sentinels are formed with their mission to eradicate the Djinn population using an unknown weapon that apparently her David and his Djinn brethren cannot detect leaving it to Joanne to uncover the truth if she should live long enough as the Sentinel operatives know she must die.
The latest Weather Warden (see THIN AIR) romantic fantasy is a wonderful tale as the happiness of getting married is trampled by the Sentinel genocidal movement and to a lesser degree the obvious racism of the lead couple’s respective species. The story line is fast-paced as the Sentinel horde knows fundamentally they can succeed in their lethal ethnic cleansing if they kill Joanne. Fans of the series will appreciate this one sitter while newcomers will be in back list frenzy mode as Rachel Caine provides an entertaining yet deep relevant (in today’s world) entry in a strong saga.
Harriet Klausner
City at the End of Time-Greg Bear
City at the End of Time
Greg Bear
Del Rey, Aug 2008, $27I
ISBN 9780345448392
In Seattle, three people (Ginny, Jack, and Max) separately and with no seeming connection see a newspaper ad that stuns them. The advertisement states: “Do you dream of a city at the end of time?” Each can answer in the affirmative as they have had visions of a dark desolate landscape of a devastated wasteland; they also share in common a form of amnesia in which none of them know anything important from their respective pasts. They only have just flashes of urban desolation.
They respond and soon learn they are the Protectors of time. An enigmatic, at one time seemingly omnipotent race has created a million-year sentient species experiment. Now after a hundred trillion years the ancient Kalpa is the last vestige of true knowledge and is rapidly deteriorating as the universe dies. The insanity of chaos fills the vacuum. The trio understands their mission is to save any form of awareness of being to pass on to the rebirth and know the danger they face in attempting this, but consider the alternative nothingness.
THE CITY AT THE END OF TIME is not an easy or fast-paced read but worth the time for those science fiction fans who appreciate a very complex story line that increasingly turns even more complicated as Greg Bear explores an ontological theme. The key characters especially the threesome, the ad taker, and those at the Kalpa discussing the end of times seem real enough to have the audience feel the countdown to the big crunch has begun. The hope is that the trio will save a flicker of light that survives into the universe reincarnation that the Kalpa inhabitants believe will occur. Mr. Bear provides a well written cerebral sci fi tale.
Harriet Klausner
Greg Bear
Del Rey, Aug 2008, $27I
ISBN 9780345448392
In Seattle, three people (Ginny, Jack, and Max) separately and with no seeming connection see a newspaper ad that stuns them. The advertisement states: “Do you dream of a city at the end of time?” Each can answer in the affirmative as they have had visions of a dark desolate landscape of a devastated wasteland; they also share in common a form of amnesia in which none of them know anything important from their respective pasts. They only have just flashes of urban desolation.
They respond and soon learn they are the Protectors of time. An enigmatic, at one time seemingly omnipotent race has created a million-year sentient species experiment. Now after a hundred trillion years the ancient Kalpa is the last vestige of true knowledge and is rapidly deteriorating as the universe dies. The insanity of chaos fills the vacuum. The trio understands their mission is to save any form of awareness of being to pass on to the rebirth and know the danger they face in attempting this, but consider the alternative nothingness.
THE CITY AT THE END OF TIME is not an easy or fast-paced read but worth the time for those science fiction fans who appreciate a very complex story line that increasingly turns even more complicated as Greg Bear explores an ontological theme. The key characters especially the threesome, the ad taker, and those at the Kalpa discussing the end of times seem real enough to have the audience feel the countdown to the big crunch has begun. The hope is that the trio will save a flicker of light that survives into the universe reincarnation that the Kalpa inhabitants believe will occur. Mr. Bear provides a well written cerebral sci fi tale.
Harriet Klausner
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
When the Guillotine Fell: The Bloody Beginning and Horrifying End to France's River of Blood, 1791—1977
When the Guillotine Fell: The Bloody Beginning and Horrifying End to France's River of Blood, 1791—1977
Jeremy Mercer
St. Martin's Press, Jul 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0312357915
This is a fascinating look at one of the most notariouss execution devices made infamous in A Tale of two Cities. However, the best passages are the stories of those who danced with Madame Guillotine, but these are disjointed with sudden switches to other poignant segues. Interestingly, the inventor Dr. Joseph-Ignace Guillotin created the device during the French Revolution as a cleaner way to conduct an execution (much faster than conventional methods so less pain for the mob of observers - think of Dickens’ Madam DeFarge; and as a humanitarian reason to those who are being killed – think of the Supreme Court’s lethal injection decision). The last victim was Tunisian expatriate Hamida Djandoubi who with the help of two underage girlfriends killed one of his Marseille prostitutes in 1974 and was dispatched in 1977 just before France outlawed capital punishment. A section on the history of state legal executions adds depth to an overall fascinating in a macabre way historical account of WHEN THE GUILLOTINE FELL, but overall the tome suffers from a disjointed execution.
Harriet Klausner
Jeremy Mercer
St. Martin's Press, Jul 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0312357915
This is a fascinating look at one of the most notariouss execution devices made infamous in A Tale of two Cities. However, the best passages are the stories of those who danced with Madame Guillotine, but these are disjointed with sudden switches to other poignant segues. Interestingly, the inventor Dr. Joseph-Ignace Guillotin created the device during the French Revolution as a cleaner way to conduct an execution (much faster than conventional methods so less pain for the mob of observers - think of Dickens’ Madam DeFarge; and as a humanitarian reason to those who are being killed – think of the Supreme Court’s lethal injection decision). The last victim was Tunisian expatriate Hamida Djandoubi who with the help of two underage girlfriends killed one of his Marseille prostitutes in 1974 and was dispatched in 1977 just before France outlawed capital punishment. A section on the history of state legal executions adds depth to an overall fascinating in a macabre way historical account of WHEN THE GUILLOTINE FELL, but overall the tome suffers from a disjointed execution.
Harriet Klausner
Erotomania-Francis Levy
Erotomania
Francis Levy
Two Dollar Radio, Aug 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780976389576
James Moran would not have said he was addicted to sex before he bed her, but now he lives for the out of control trysts with a woman whose name he does not even know. He gives up on gourmet meals to be with her before her boyfriend comes home. After each mind boggling incredibly physical session, James wanders the streets in a sex induced fog unable to tell anyone even his name while all he could think of is ye who enter will never go back.
However, increasingly James begins to think of a wider relationship with his Jane Doe. He even learns her name is Monica and they begin trying other things besides sexual nirvana. However, although they have fun together, their camaraderie pales next to the sex. Both begins to worry is that all there is in their relationship and in life in general and how shallow they are as they grow tighter yet find no common ground outside of their erotic mania. They are so out of control sexually they use a bomb shelter in order to avoid being labeled dangerous weapons of destruction by neighbors.
When the audience meets James he has kept his greatest sex partner nameless so that he can limit the relationship; Monica does likewise. As each obsesses over the incredible uninhibited carnality, they eventually need more as they begin to become real people with other needs. Thus EROTOMANIA turns into a superb well written character study that will have the audience compare the changing needs of James and Monica to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. The pair starts off ecstatic as they linger contentedly at the Physiological and Safey lowest levels of the Pyramid, but over time begin to want much more as each seeks growth in their relationship seeking Belonging, Esteem and Self Actualization. Francis Levy provides a wonderfully poignant character driven relationship drama.
Harriet Klausner
Francis Levy
Two Dollar Radio, Aug 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780976389576
James Moran would not have said he was addicted to sex before he bed her, but now he lives for the out of control trysts with a woman whose name he does not even know. He gives up on gourmet meals to be with her before her boyfriend comes home. After each mind boggling incredibly physical session, James wanders the streets in a sex induced fog unable to tell anyone even his name while all he could think of is ye who enter will never go back.
However, increasingly James begins to think of a wider relationship with his Jane Doe. He even learns her name is Monica and they begin trying other things besides sexual nirvana. However, although they have fun together, their camaraderie pales next to the sex. Both begins to worry is that all there is in their relationship and in life in general and how shallow they are as they grow tighter yet find no common ground outside of their erotic mania. They are so out of control sexually they use a bomb shelter in order to avoid being labeled dangerous weapons of destruction by neighbors.
When the audience meets James he has kept his greatest sex partner nameless so that he can limit the relationship; Monica does likewise. As each obsesses over the incredible uninhibited carnality, they eventually need more as they begin to become real people with other needs. Thus EROTOMANIA turns into a superb well written character study that will have the audience compare the changing needs of James and Monica to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. The pair starts off ecstatic as they linger contentedly at the Physiological and Safey lowest levels of the Pyramid, but over time begin to want much more as each seeks growth in their relationship seeking Belonging, Esteem and Self Actualization. Francis Levy provides a wonderfully poignant character driven relationship drama.
Harriet Klausner
Daughter of Egypt- Constance O'Banyon
Daughter of Egypt
Constance O'Banyon
Leisure, Jul 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780843960068
In 44 BC at a Roman marketplace, Thalia tries to steal food, but is seen. She flees hiding behind a noble woman who says nothing to her pursuers. The wealthy Egyptian Lady Adhania takes the street urchin home with her to raise her as her daughter. Over time she forgot her beggar existence across the Mediterranean until in 36 BC a one-eyed man, who had stalked her years earlier in Rome, kidnaps her. Frightened, she becomes further shocked when warrior Count Ashtyn kidnaps her.
Thalia cannot fathom why the sudden interest in her. She soon learns the answer to her question when Ashtyn takes her to the island kingdom Bal Forea where she is Princess Thalia and soon to be Queen and Ashtyn her husband the king.
Almost a decade since the events of LORD OF THE NILE and SWORD OF ROME, DAUGHTER OF EGYPT is a terrific ancient historical romance that starts in Rome, moves to Egypt, and ends up on an island. Thalia is a brave person who learned to adapt to the situation as a beggar while the courageous Ashyny proves her equal willing to die to keep her safe. As with the previous two historical tales, this excellent entry that uses real persona like Antony and Cleopatra bring to life the Mediterranean in the first century BC.
Harriet Klausner
Constance O'Banyon
Leisure, Jul 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780843960068
In 44 BC at a Roman marketplace, Thalia tries to steal food, but is seen. She flees hiding behind a noble woman who says nothing to her pursuers. The wealthy Egyptian Lady Adhania takes the street urchin home with her to raise her as her daughter. Over time she forgot her beggar existence across the Mediterranean until in 36 BC a one-eyed man, who had stalked her years earlier in Rome, kidnaps her. Frightened, she becomes further shocked when warrior Count Ashtyn kidnaps her.
Thalia cannot fathom why the sudden interest in her. She soon learns the answer to her question when Ashtyn takes her to the island kingdom Bal Forea where she is Princess Thalia and soon to be Queen and Ashtyn her husband the king.
Almost a decade since the events of LORD OF THE NILE and SWORD OF ROME, DAUGHTER OF EGYPT is a terrific ancient historical romance that starts in Rome, moves to Egypt, and ends up on an island. Thalia is a brave person who learned to adapt to the situation as a beggar while the courageous Ashyny proves her equal willing to die to keep her safe. As with the previous two historical tales, this excellent entry that uses real persona like Antony and Cleopatra bring to life the Mediterranean in the first century BC.
Harriet Klausner
Siren's Song-Trish Albright
Siren's Song
Trish Albright
Leisure, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0843960868
Alexandra Stafford loves sailing the high seas especially as the captain of her ship. Although danger can come from pirates, slave traders, official navies, the weather, or in her case her stalking enemy Paxton nothing fazes the courageous sailor. Even when she captured and sold into slavery in Monaco, Alex remains optimistic as she assumes this is another adventure for her.
That is until the Duke of Worthington, Joshua rescues Alex from slavery. Afterward he meets her at galas hosted by the Ton in London. He already admired her spirit and has a desire to help her learn the meaning of a prophecy involving the SIREN’S SONG although he fears for her life. She feels fear for the first time in her life as she prays her obsession will not lead to the death of her beloved Joshua or her family
This an exiting late eighteenth century action-packed pirate romance in which Captain Trish Albert and her crew of readers sail the seven seas. The plot is a bit over the top, but no one will care because of Alex who sets the tone with her courage and need to know; which proves infectious as the admiring audience will want to know also.
Harriet Klausner
Trish Albright
Leisure, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0843960868
Alexandra Stafford loves sailing the high seas especially as the captain of her ship. Although danger can come from pirates, slave traders, official navies, the weather, or in her case her stalking enemy Paxton nothing fazes the courageous sailor. Even when she captured and sold into slavery in Monaco, Alex remains optimistic as she assumes this is another adventure for her.
That is until the Duke of Worthington, Joshua rescues Alex from slavery. Afterward he meets her at galas hosted by the Ton in London. He already admired her spirit and has a desire to help her learn the meaning of a prophecy involving the SIREN’S SONG although he fears for her life. She feels fear for the first time in her life as she prays her obsession will not lead to the death of her beloved Joshua or her family
This an exiting late eighteenth century action-packed pirate romance in which Captain Trish Albert and her crew of readers sail the seven seas. The plot is a bit over the top, but no one will care because of Alex who sets the tone with her courage and need to know; which proves infectious as the admiring audience will want to know also.
Harriet Klausner
Electra Galaxy's Mr. Interstellar Feller-Candace Sams
Electra Galaxy's Mr. Interstellar Feller
Candace Sams
Love Spell, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: ISBN: 0505527626
If the assignment was anything but illegal intergalactic weapons dealers Earth Protectorate Force Captain Sagan Carter would have pleaded with her superior to find some other agent. However, the earth cop knows how dangerous weapons of mass destruction in the wrong hands can be; so she grimaces as she must work with arrogant Oceanun Enforcer Keir Trask to prevent the deal. To enable them to go undercover, Keir enters Mr. Interstellar Feller competition where the exchange is expected to occur.
Keir assumes he will be paired with an idiot as he stereotypes earth dwellers as being stupid and uncivilized. However, he finds his new partner has beauty and brains as she handles their assignment with finesse except when he stares at her eyes and sees the heat he feels there. However, he also feels guilt as he has hidden from Sagan his other mission.
Gender bending Sandra Bullock’s version of the Miss America contest and placing it inside a romantic science fiction police procedural thriller, Candace Sams provides readers with an engaging lighthearted frolic. The lead couple is a fun pairing as each comes to the police teaming with major biases about the other’s species. In an interesting galaxy and starring two strong lead characters, the plot is enjoyable and filled with peril but it is not deep tale. Still fans will appreciate this entertaining creative tale while demanding Pluto Pillow Mints.
Harriet Klausner
Candace Sams
Love Spell, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: ISBN: 0505527626
If the assignment was anything but illegal intergalactic weapons dealers Earth Protectorate Force Captain Sagan Carter would have pleaded with her superior to find some other agent. However, the earth cop knows how dangerous weapons of mass destruction in the wrong hands can be; so she grimaces as she must work with arrogant Oceanun Enforcer Keir Trask to prevent the deal. To enable them to go undercover, Keir enters Mr. Interstellar Feller competition where the exchange is expected to occur.
Keir assumes he will be paired with an idiot as he stereotypes earth dwellers as being stupid and uncivilized. However, he finds his new partner has beauty and brains as she handles their assignment with finesse except when he stares at her eyes and sees the heat he feels there. However, he also feels guilt as he has hidden from Sagan his other mission.
Gender bending Sandra Bullock’s version of the Miss America contest and placing it inside a romantic science fiction police procedural thriller, Candace Sams provides readers with an engaging lighthearted frolic. The lead couple is a fun pairing as each comes to the police teaming with major biases about the other’s species. In an interesting galaxy and starring two strong lead characters, the plot is enjoyable and filled with peril but it is not deep tale. Still fans will appreciate this entertaining creative tale while demanding Pluto Pillow Mints.
Harriet Klausner
Nightwalker-Jocelynn Drake
Nightwalker
Jocelynn Drake
Harper, Aug 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061542770
Although the NIGHTWALKERS are a formidable almost invincible breed, Mira is unique as the only master of the element fire. The Fire Starter has lived for six hundred and three years quietly patrolling and stalking the night in her sector to rid the earth of the evil Naturi, but the ability to kill her adversaries with fire keeps her apart from even the Ancient Ones.
Danaus the vampire hunter is unique also as he does not wear the protective silver cross; he has killed several vampires over the past month in her zone as Mira has observed him in action while her tongue erotically massages her fangs. He knows she has seen him and begins stalking Mira. She must choose between fight and flight so she challenges him. He proves more than human with his skills, but neither goes for the final kill at this time. However, a seemingly deadlier foe for both of them has emerged.
This is an engaging urban fantasy as the audience will appreciate the tense gender battles between the Fire Starter and the more than human Vampire Hunter even if their physical fight is over the top with too much bravado and neither goes for the final kill. The story line is fast-paced with mounting tension from the onset that never abates. Sub-genre fans will enjoy entering Drake’s world as this is a fun paranormal thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Jocelynn Drake
Harper, Aug 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061542770
Although the NIGHTWALKERS are a formidable almost invincible breed, Mira is unique as the only master of the element fire. The Fire Starter has lived for six hundred and three years quietly patrolling and stalking the night in her sector to rid the earth of the evil Naturi, but the ability to kill her adversaries with fire keeps her apart from even the Ancient Ones.
Danaus the vampire hunter is unique also as he does not wear the protective silver cross; he has killed several vampires over the past month in her zone as Mira has observed him in action while her tongue erotically massages her fangs. He knows she has seen him and begins stalking Mira. She must choose between fight and flight so she challenges him. He proves more than human with his skills, but neither goes for the final kill at this time. However, a seemingly deadlier foe for both of them has emerged.
This is an engaging urban fantasy as the audience will appreciate the tense gender battles between the Fire Starter and the more than human Vampire Hunter even if their physical fight is over the top with too much bravado and neither goes for the final kill. The story line is fast-paced with mounting tension from the onset that never abates. Sub-genre fans will enjoy entering Drake’s world as this is a fun paranormal thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Storm Born-Richelle Mead
Storm Born
Richelle Mead
Zebra, Aug 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9781420100969
Her stepfather trained shaman Eugenie “Odile” Markham in how to send back creatures who cross over from the Otherworld. Eugenie is excellent at her vocation, but now has a much more complex issue confronting her after she exorcised the lost soul from the sole of the sneaker. Wil Delaney asks Odile to rescue his sister Jasmine, who he says fairies abducted her; taking the girl back to their realm, which Odile knows is Otherworld. Although her beloved stepfather warned her never to cross over, Eugenie knows she must try to rescue the child.
When she crosses over Eugenie finds herself the target of almost every male in Otherworld for they know she is the Dark Swan; the focus of a key prophesy involving a child she will birth. She also meets her biological father the Storm King who will sell her to the highest bidder while two men, Kiyo the spirit fox and King Dorian offer to help her retrieve the female and take her back to the mortal side; however Eugenie trusts no one but herself on this side.
The tale begins as an amusing urban fantasy, but once Eugenie leaves behind the world of “Nike” to cross over it turns into a humorous investigative “quest” fantasy. The story line is fast-paced from the opening sneaker ploy and filled with non-stop action and characters who bring Otherworld to life. However, though the plot is obviously the introduction to the Black Swan saga, the sarcastic self deprecating heroine who is the focus of every Y chromosome bearer makes STORM BORN a fine fun fantasy.
Harriet Klausner
Richelle Mead
Zebra, Aug 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9781420100969
Her stepfather trained shaman Eugenie “Odile” Markham in how to send back creatures who cross over from the Otherworld. Eugenie is excellent at her vocation, but now has a much more complex issue confronting her after she exorcised the lost soul from the sole of the sneaker. Wil Delaney asks Odile to rescue his sister Jasmine, who he says fairies abducted her; taking the girl back to their realm, which Odile knows is Otherworld. Although her beloved stepfather warned her never to cross over, Eugenie knows she must try to rescue the child.
When she crosses over Eugenie finds herself the target of almost every male in Otherworld for they know she is the Dark Swan; the focus of a key prophesy involving a child she will birth. She also meets her biological father the Storm King who will sell her to the highest bidder while two men, Kiyo the spirit fox and King Dorian offer to help her retrieve the female and take her back to the mortal side; however Eugenie trusts no one but herself on this side.
The tale begins as an amusing urban fantasy, but once Eugenie leaves behind the world of “Nike” to cross over it turns into a humorous investigative “quest” fantasy. The story line is fast-paced from the opening sneaker ploy and filled with non-stop action and characters who bring Otherworld to life. However, though the plot is obviously the introduction to the Black Swan saga, the sarcastic self deprecating heroine who is the focus of every Y chromosome bearer makes STORM BORN a fine fun fantasy.
Harriet Klausner
The Last Theorem-Arthur C. Clarke and Frederik Pohl
The Last Theorem
Arthur C. Clarke and Frederik Pohl
Del Rey, Aug 2008, $27.00
ISBN: 9780345470218
In the middle of the twentieth century, atomic bomb testing was conducted on the land, at sea and in the air; eventually the radiation traveled into outer space, which brought the planet to the attention of the Grand Galactics who ordered the destruction of Earth before the barbarians devastated the universe. They sent their client races, the Machine Stored, a sentient species who left their bodies behind and become inhabitants of cyber pace. Also on assignment to destroy Earth is The Nine Limbed, the civilized race that speaks on behalf of the Grand Galactics and the one point five, the race that destroyed their world and needs prosthetics to survive.
Brilliant Sri Lankan mathematician Ranjit Subramanian is obsessed with Fermat’s Last Theorem. While he is in a prison, he works out the proof in his head and soon becomes an international sensation. He is privy to the non lethal weapon mankind has developed to bring peace to the world, but when the Grand Galactics learn there is no more need to destroy this orb, will they cease the eradication order or bureaucratically wipe out the planet.
THE LAST THEOREM is an interesting work that occurs on two levels. One plot focuses on Ranjit’s life from the time he is sixteen; while the other centers on alien invaders sent by their overlords to destroy the warmongering earthlings. Both subplots are fascinating as readers follow the progress made by earthlings to attain Pax through a special non-killing weapon. As fans wait for the macro and micro plots to merge, first contact could prove lethal.
Harriet Klausner
Arthur C. Clarke and Frederik Pohl
Del Rey, Aug 2008, $27.00
ISBN: 9780345470218
In the middle of the twentieth century, atomic bomb testing was conducted on the land, at sea and in the air; eventually the radiation traveled into outer space, which brought the planet to the attention of the Grand Galactics who ordered the destruction of Earth before the barbarians devastated the universe. They sent their client races, the Machine Stored, a sentient species who left their bodies behind and become inhabitants of cyber pace. Also on assignment to destroy Earth is The Nine Limbed, the civilized race that speaks on behalf of the Grand Galactics and the one point five, the race that destroyed their world and needs prosthetics to survive.
Brilliant Sri Lankan mathematician Ranjit Subramanian is obsessed with Fermat’s Last Theorem. While he is in a prison, he works out the proof in his head and soon becomes an international sensation. He is privy to the non lethal weapon mankind has developed to bring peace to the world, but when the Grand Galactics learn there is no more need to destroy this orb, will they cease the eradication order or bureaucratically wipe out the planet.
THE LAST THEOREM is an interesting work that occurs on two levels. One plot focuses on Ranjit’s life from the time he is sixteen; while the other centers on alien invaders sent by their overlords to destroy the warmongering earthlings. Both subplots are fascinating as readers follow the progress made by earthlings to attain Pax through a special non-killing weapon. As fans wait for the macro and micro plots to merge, first contact could prove lethal.
Harriet Klausner
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Finding Stefanie-Susan May Warren
Finding Stefanie
Susan May Warren
Tyndale, Jul 2008, $12.99
ISBN: 9781414310190
Stefanie Noble is tired of being the responsible one while her two brothers (see RECLAIMING NICK and TAMING RAFE) got to do what they wanted. Unlike her siblings, who have seen a lot of the United States searching for their respective selves, she ventured off the family Silver Buckle Ranch for one term at college. Worse she has no dreams anymore wondering what happened to that little girl who wanted so much.
Action movie star Lincoln Cash has come a long way from his youth when everyone frightened him and picked on him. Although he puts on the tough guy facade, inside he remains the same scared little kid. When he meets Stefanie, he feels a deep attraction that she shares with him. However, neither can make that first move besides the neighbors are natural enemies as he wants to open an annual film festival nearby she opposes Hollywood trampling her beloved Big Sky Country.
The third Noble Legacy tale is a wonderful contemporary Montana romantic suspense with an arsonist wrecking Lincoln’s dreams. The two likable stars each bring tons of baggage to their relationship with no place to store it except internally making no room for love unless they clean out some of their fears. The story line belongs to the lead couple as Hollywood is his façade to hide his misgivings and flaws while ranching is her façade hiding her uncertainties and faults. With much more going on, fans will enjoy Susan may Warren’s latest Big Sky Noble saga.
Harriet Klausner
Susan May Warren
Tyndale, Jul 2008, $12.99
ISBN: 9781414310190
Stefanie Noble is tired of being the responsible one while her two brothers (see RECLAIMING NICK and TAMING RAFE) got to do what they wanted. Unlike her siblings, who have seen a lot of the United States searching for their respective selves, she ventured off the family Silver Buckle Ranch for one term at college. Worse she has no dreams anymore wondering what happened to that little girl who wanted so much.
Action movie star Lincoln Cash has come a long way from his youth when everyone frightened him and picked on him. Although he puts on the tough guy facade, inside he remains the same scared little kid. When he meets Stefanie, he feels a deep attraction that she shares with him. However, neither can make that first move besides the neighbors are natural enemies as he wants to open an annual film festival nearby she opposes Hollywood trampling her beloved Big Sky Country.
The third Noble Legacy tale is a wonderful contemporary Montana romantic suspense with an arsonist wrecking Lincoln’s dreams. The two likable stars each bring tons of baggage to their relationship with no place to store it except internally making no room for love unless they clean out some of their fears. The story line belongs to the lead couple as Hollywood is his façade to hide his misgivings and flaws while ranching is her façade hiding her uncertainties and faults. With much more going on, fans will enjoy Susan may Warren’s latest Big Sky Noble saga.
Harriet Klausner
Finding Stefanie-Susan May Warren
Finding Stefanie
Susan May Warren
Tyndale, Jul 2008, $12.99
ISBN: 9781414310190
Stefanie Noble is tired of being the responsible one while her two brothers (see RECLAIMING NICK and TAMING RAFE) got to do what they wanted. Unlike her siblings, who have seen a lot of the United States searching for their respective selves, she ventured off the family Silver Buckle Ranch for one term at college. Worse she has no dreams anymore wondering what happened to that little girl who wanted so much.
Action movie star Lincoln Cash has come a long way from his youth when everyone frightened him and picked on him. Although he puts on the tough guy facade, inside he remains the same scared little kid. When he meets Stefanie, he feels a deep attraction that she shares with him. However, neither can make that first move besides the neighbors are natural enemies as he wants to open an annual film festival nearby she opposes Hollywood trampling her beloved Big Sky Country.
The third Noble Legacy tale is a wonderful contemporary Montana romantic suspense with an arsonist wrecking Lincoln’s dreams. The two likable stars each bring tons of baggage to their relationship with no place to store it except internally making no room for love unless they clean out some of their fears. The story line belongs to the lead couple as Hollywood is his façade to hide his misgivings and flaws while ranching is her façade hiding her uncertainties and faults. With much more going on, fans will enjoy Susan may Warren’s latest Big Sky Noble saga.
Harriet Klausner
Susan May Warren
Tyndale, Jul 2008, $12.99
ISBN: 9781414310190
Stefanie Noble is tired of being the responsible one while her two brothers (see RECLAIMING NICK and TAMING RAFE) got to do what they wanted. Unlike her siblings, who have seen a lot of the United States searching for their respective selves, she ventured off the family Silver Buckle Ranch for one term at college. Worse she has no dreams anymore wondering what happened to that little girl who wanted so much.
Action movie star Lincoln Cash has come a long way from his youth when everyone frightened him and picked on him. Although he puts on the tough guy facade, inside he remains the same scared little kid. When he meets Stefanie, he feels a deep attraction that she shares with him. However, neither can make that first move besides the neighbors are natural enemies as he wants to open an annual film festival nearby she opposes Hollywood trampling her beloved Big Sky Country.
The third Noble Legacy tale is a wonderful contemporary Montana romantic suspense with an arsonist wrecking Lincoln’s dreams. The two likable stars each bring tons of baggage to their relationship with no place to store it except internally making no room for love unless they clean out some of their fears. The story line belongs to the lead couple as Hollywood is his façade to hide his misgivings and flaws while ranching is her façade hiding her uncertainties and faults. With much more going on, fans will enjoy Susan may Warren’s latest Big Sky Noble saga.
Harriet Klausner
Rites of Spring (Break)-Diana Peterfreund
Rites of Spring (Break)
Diana Peterfreund
Delta, Jul 2008, $10.00
ISBN: 9780385341936
Eli University senior Amy Haskel belongs to the Rose and Grave secret society where her moniker is Bugaboo. The R&G diggers try to break into the building hosting their rival secret society the Dragon’s Head. However, the Dragonheads identify one person in the break-in, Amy. They assault her with a vengeance using childish pranks while destroying her property without any regard to the harm they cause her.
Amy’s former boyfriend Brandon asks her to help him with fellowship packages, which shocks her as he is the math whiz and she avoided numbers at all cost. Even more surprising he begins to hang out again with her when she knows his girlfriend belongs to DH. During spring break, Amy joins the diggers on an R& G owned island, but on the boat trip, she as a non-swimmer falls overboard and her life jacket fails her falling off instead. If she makes it to the island, more danger awaits her and the other Diggers.
With a cast of quadrillion, young adult readers will need an access database to keep track of who is doing what and why to whom; yet somehow author Diana Peterfreund insures her myriad of secondary players, including a family and another group not mentioned above, have differing traits. Still this is Amy’s tale as she finds her senior year RITES OF SPRING (BREAK) initially prank-filled but soon dangerously deadly. Over the top absolutely, but fun as Amy and the teen audience will wonder what’s going on.
Harriet Klausner
Diana Peterfreund
Delta, Jul 2008, $10.00
ISBN: 9780385341936
Eli University senior Amy Haskel belongs to the Rose and Grave secret society where her moniker is Bugaboo. The R&G diggers try to break into the building hosting their rival secret society the Dragon’s Head. However, the Dragonheads identify one person in the break-in, Amy. They assault her with a vengeance using childish pranks while destroying her property without any regard to the harm they cause her.
Amy’s former boyfriend Brandon asks her to help him with fellowship packages, which shocks her as he is the math whiz and she avoided numbers at all cost. Even more surprising he begins to hang out again with her when she knows his girlfriend belongs to DH. During spring break, Amy joins the diggers on an R& G owned island, but on the boat trip, she as a non-swimmer falls overboard and her life jacket fails her falling off instead. If she makes it to the island, more danger awaits her and the other Diggers.
With a cast of quadrillion, young adult readers will need an access database to keep track of who is doing what and why to whom; yet somehow author Diana Peterfreund insures her myriad of secondary players, including a family and another group not mentioned above, have differing traits. Still this is Amy’s tale as she finds her senior year RITES OF SPRING (BREAK) initially prank-filled but soon dangerously deadly. Over the top absolutely, but fun as Amy and the teen audience will wonder what’s going on.
Harriet Klausner
White Tombs-Christopher Valen
White Tombs
Christopher Valen
Conquill Press, 2008
ISBN 9780980001723
St. Paul Police Detective John Santana left Columbia knowing assassins will come one day to Minnesota to kill him; his regret and guilt for leaving his homeland is his sister who is left behind to perhaps face the wrath of his enemies. He and his partner Rick Anderson currently investigate the murder of Julio Perez, owner of the monthly Hispanic newspaper El Dia, in his home. After searching the crime scene, the two cops visit Rafael Mendoza because the victim’s rolodex is open to the card of the immigration attorney.
They arrive to witness Mendoza fall off his balcony with a man running from the scene. Anderson shoots and kills the fleeing person Ruben Cordova, who turns out to have worked for El Dia. They search Mendoza’s loft finding evidence of fake visa applications and the photo of two John Does in a sexually explicit pose. Meanwhile Internal Review investigates the shooting pulling Anderson and Santana off the investigation as they were getting closer to solving the case. Santana’s boss decides Cordova killed the other two men so has no qualms with reassigning the official investigation to Detective James Kehoe for final cleanup. Santana disagrees with the conclusion and also knows Kehoe will not dig any deeper than he has already done so he keeps investigating on his own time and at his own expense.
WHITE TOMBS is a superb police procedural starring a fascinating lead detective who has a history in his homeland. Santana is a wonderful new addition to the sub-genre as he cares about victims, even dead ones, but especially their grieving loved ones; in this case he pledges justice to Julio’s widow. Alcoholic Anderson is as dedicated in his own way. Readers will appreciate this strong whodunit with a stunning late twist that no one will see coming as Christopher Valen argues that a person’s collective past makes the person’s present as experiences lead to current actions and reactions.
Harriet Klausner
Christopher Valen
Conquill Press, 2008
ISBN 9780980001723
St. Paul Police Detective John Santana left Columbia knowing assassins will come one day to Minnesota to kill him; his regret and guilt for leaving his homeland is his sister who is left behind to perhaps face the wrath of his enemies. He and his partner Rick Anderson currently investigate the murder of Julio Perez, owner of the monthly Hispanic newspaper El Dia, in his home. After searching the crime scene, the two cops visit Rafael Mendoza because the victim’s rolodex is open to the card of the immigration attorney.
They arrive to witness Mendoza fall off his balcony with a man running from the scene. Anderson shoots and kills the fleeing person Ruben Cordova, who turns out to have worked for El Dia. They search Mendoza’s loft finding evidence of fake visa applications and the photo of two John Does in a sexually explicit pose. Meanwhile Internal Review investigates the shooting pulling Anderson and Santana off the investigation as they were getting closer to solving the case. Santana’s boss decides Cordova killed the other two men so has no qualms with reassigning the official investigation to Detective James Kehoe for final cleanup. Santana disagrees with the conclusion and also knows Kehoe will not dig any deeper than he has already done so he keeps investigating on his own time and at his own expense.
WHITE TOMBS is a superb police procedural starring a fascinating lead detective who has a history in his homeland. Santana is a wonderful new addition to the sub-genre as he cares about victims, even dead ones, but especially their grieving loved ones; in this case he pledges justice to Julio’s widow. Alcoholic Anderson is as dedicated in his own way. Readers will appreciate this strong whodunit with a stunning late twist that no one will see coming as Christopher Valen argues that a person’s collective past makes the person’s present as experiences lead to current actions and reactions.
Harriet Klausner
Blood Sport-Judith E. French
Blood Sport
Judith E. French
Love Spell, Jul 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780505527578
FBI Agent Jillian Maxwell is leading the investigation into a serial killer who has murdered at least twenty-three times in two years. The psychopath slices the victim’s throat and leaves behind the body by the Atlantic Ocean. Taunting the Fed, the culprit sends her post cards. Her current card leads her to believe the next death is to occur shortly in Ocean City, Maryland.
To assist her, the Feds assign Agent Reed “Cowboy” Donovan, a single father with two kids, to her team. When she mentions Ocean City, he makes it clear that her theory is stupid. She ignores his rant and goes undercover to draw the killer to her in Ocean City. However, even with Reed at her side (and her bed), she miscalculates as she learns the deadly way that she is the goal of a BLOOD SPORT contest between predators.
This is an exciting serial killer romantic suspense with the twist of a lethal club of sorts playing deadly games. The story line is fast-paced and filled with action as Jillian offers herself up as cheese in a cat and mouse ploy; unaware that there are more than one feline preying. Although the romance seems inappropriate and detracts from a great thriller, fans will enjoy Judith E. French’s latest Blood coastal police procedural (see BLOOD TIES and BLOOD KIN) and want more tales starring the lethal sports club.
Harriet Klausner
Judith E. French
Love Spell, Jul 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780505527578
FBI Agent Jillian Maxwell is leading the investigation into a serial killer who has murdered at least twenty-three times in two years. The psychopath slices the victim’s throat and leaves behind the body by the Atlantic Ocean. Taunting the Fed, the culprit sends her post cards. Her current card leads her to believe the next death is to occur shortly in Ocean City, Maryland.
To assist her, the Feds assign Agent Reed “Cowboy” Donovan, a single father with two kids, to her team. When she mentions Ocean City, he makes it clear that her theory is stupid. She ignores his rant and goes undercover to draw the killer to her in Ocean City. However, even with Reed at her side (and her bed), she miscalculates as she learns the deadly way that she is the goal of a BLOOD SPORT contest between predators.
This is an exciting serial killer romantic suspense with the twist of a lethal club of sorts playing deadly games. The story line is fast-paced and filled with action as Jillian offers herself up as cheese in a cat and mouse ploy; unaware that there are more than one feline preying. Although the romance seems inappropriate and detracts from a great thriller, fans will enjoy Judith E. French’s latest Blood coastal police procedural (see BLOOD TIES and BLOOD KIN) and want more tales starring the lethal sports club.
Harriet Klausner
The Apocalypse Directive-Douglas MacKinnon
The Apocalypse Directive
Douglas MacKinnon
Leisure, Aug 2008, $7.99
ISBN:9780843960884
In the very near future, the American people elect an evangelical Christian president Shelby Robertson, who is now in the third year of his second term. He appointed true believers to his cabinet posts, but none except his most inner circle of trusted advisers realize he is a pure fundamentalist who believes that the Word of his version of the bible and his messages from God supersede that of the Constitution. He strongly feels that Jews, Muslims, other religions, and non Fundamentalist Christians need to be eradicated so that heaven can come to earth.
The president accepts that his dreams come from God instructing him what to do. He has built an underwater complex Neptune that will house 5000 disciples when he dispatches the total military arsenal on an unsuspecting world including those Americans he leaves behind. Hos followers,The Christian Ambassadors, have infiltrated every aspect of the government even the military; they wait for the Word while the Judas Group including the Vice President seek a Hail Mary to prevent a man-made pandemic hell on earth.
Before the current administration no one would believe that the premise behind THE APOCALYPSE DIRECTIVE is plausible, but few would doubt that now; with a few nuances much of this exciting cautionary tale could have happened. There is no question of secret governmental groups with no oversight or any accountability making policy whether it is Iraq or energy (remember Cheney’s Energy Initiative) while the White House has the leader who admits he goes with his feelings rather than all the facts. Douglas MacKinnon extrapolates somewhat the Bush Imperial presidency's pampering of the Fundamental Right into a frightening chilling tale that will scare readers to their souls because it suddenly seems possible. Fast-paced while the clock ticks away as Armageddon seems certain, the Supreme Court would probably have deliberated 5 to4 (with the five holding session inside Neptune that THE APOCALYPSE DIRECTIVE is constitutionally legal because they would say In God the Founding Fathers trusted.
Harriet Klausner
Douglas MacKinnon
Leisure, Aug 2008, $7.99
ISBN:9780843960884
In the very near future, the American people elect an evangelical Christian president Shelby Robertson, who is now in the third year of his second term. He appointed true believers to his cabinet posts, but none except his most inner circle of trusted advisers realize he is a pure fundamentalist who believes that the Word of his version of the bible and his messages from God supersede that of the Constitution. He strongly feels that Jews, Muslims, other religions, and non Fundamentalist Christians need to be eradicated so that heaven can come to earth.
The president accepts that his dreams come from God instructing him what to do. He has built an underwater complex Neptune that will house 5000 disciples when he dispatches the total military arsenal on an unsuspecting world including those Americans he leaves behind. Hos followers,The Christian Ambassadors, have infiltrated every aspect of the government even the military; they wait for the Word while the Judas Group including the Vice President seek a Hail Mary to prevent a man-made pandemic hell on earth.
Before the current administration no one would believe that the premise behind THE APOCALYPSE DIRECTIVE is plausible, but few would doubt that now; with a few nuances much of this exciting cautionary tale could have happened. There is no question of secret governmental groups with no oversight or any accountability making policy whether it is Iraq or energy (remember Cheney’s Energy Initiative) while the White House has the leader who admits he goes with his feelings rather than all the facts. Douglas MacKinnon extrapolates somewhat the Bush Imperial presidency's pampering of the Fundamental Right into a frightening chilling tale that will scare readers to their souls because it suddenly seems possible. Fast-paced while the clock ticks away as Armageddon seems certain, the Supreme Court would probably have deliberated 5 to4 (with the five holding session inside Neptune that THE APOCALYPSE DIRECTIVE is constitutionally legal because they would say In God the Founding Fathers trusted.
Harriet Klausner
The Magicians and Mrs. Quent-Galen Beckett
The Magicians and Mrs. Quent
Galen Beckett
Bantam, Aug 2008, $23.00
ISBN 9780553589825
The Lockwell family went from reasonably well off to poverty when the patriarch, a talented magickian, went insane; a prisoner in his own home. As a result of his decline, the family never hosted parties and the three Miss Lockwells rarely socialize with their former equals. Instead suddenly poor, unmarried oldest daughter Ivy the bookworm leaves her home in Invarel and her beloved sisters Rose and Lily to become a governess at a country estate of Heathcrest.
Being female, Ivy is unable to practice the science of magick as that is against the law. As such, she has turned her interest into the history of magic. When she comes across a frightening ancient tome she turns to Mr. Quent for guidance. Apparently a spell from a long forgotten distant past is slowly but successfully performing magic to take control of the world.
This is a fascinating “Regency” fantasy that pays homage to the great female authors of the nineteenth century like Austen and the Bronte sisters. The tale is especially super when the plot focuses on Invarel and the magick malady of Mr. Lockwell with its impact on his family. At Heathcrest on the other hand the story line is filled with much more action as schemes abound but loses some of its freshness as the story crosses to deep into Charlotte Bronte territory. Still Ivy makes for a fine fantasy as she tries to save the world from a deadly spell but magickians and the law ban her from using magick to prevent the disaster from happening.
Harriet Klausner
Galen Beckett
Bantam, Aug 2008, $23.00
ISBN 9780553589825
The Lockwell family went from reasonably well off to poverty when the patriarch, a talented magickian, went insane; a prisoner in his own home. As a result of his decline, the family never hosted parties and the three Miss Lockwells rarely socialize with their former equals. Instead suddenly poor, unmarried oldest daughter Ivy the bookworm leaves her home in Invarel and her beloved sisters Rose and Lily to become a governess at a country estate of Heathcrest.
Being female, Ivy is unable to practice the science of magick as that is against the law. As such, she has turned her interest into the history of magic. When she comes across a frightening ancient tome she turns to Mr. Quent for guidance. Apparently a spell from a long forgotten distant past is slowly but successfully performing magic to take control of the world.
This is a fascinating “Regency” fantasy that pays homage to the great female authors of the nineteenth century like Austen and the Bronte sisters. The tale is especially super when the plot focuses on Invarel and the magick malady of Mr. Lockwell with its impact on his family. At Heathcrest on the other hand the story line is filled with much more action as schemes abound but loses some of its freshness as the story crosses to deep into Charlotte Bronte territory. Still Ivy makes for a fine fantasy as she tries to save the world from a deadly spell but magickians and the law ban her from using magick to prevent the disaster from happening.
Harriet Klausner
Marsbound-Joe Haldeman
Marsbound
Joe Haldeman
Ace, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN 9780441015955
Carmen Dula could just as easily be growing up on earth with her teen angst. She avoids her parents like they are the plague or when she feels kind towards them she treats them like they are just stupid; and her younger pain in the butt sibling drives her to want to run away. However, as a lottery pick family sent to live on the first human colony on Mars she knows there are not a lot places for a runaway to go to especially with the great dictator colony manager Dargo Solingen looking over everyone’s shoulder.
During one of her forays away from her family, Carmen finds previously undetected Martians living in an underground city in the bleak “wilderness”. She tries unsuccessfully to convince Solingen what she found, but he writes her off as teenage mutant with no brains inside her head. When she and her friends learn what the Martians plan for the colonists, Carmen and company know not to waste any time with the manager; they make the effort to save the earthlings.
This is an engaging coming of age Martian thriller due to Carmen who tells the story with a combination of young adult intelligence and teenage impatient angst at the stupidity of adults. The story line is action-packed though told mostly by Carmen as she learns first hand personal agendas as she deals with officious oppressors (parents and government are included), the enemy who wants her dead, and her guardian angel who she does not what Mr. Potatohead wants from her.
Harriet Klausner
Joe Haldeman
Ace, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN 9780441015955
Carmen Dula could just as easily be growing up on earth with her teen angst. She avoids her parents like they are the plague or when she feels kind towards them she treats them like they are just stupid; and her younger pain in the butt sibling drives her to want to run away. However, as a lottery pick family sent to live on the first human colony on Mars she knows there are not a lot places for a runaway to go to especially with the great dictator colony manager Dargo Solingen looking over everyone’s shoulder.
During one of her forays away from her family, Carmen finds previously undetected Martians living in an underground city in the bleak “wilderness”. She tries unsuccessfully to convince Solingen what she found, but he writes her off as teenage mutant with no brains inside her head. When she and her friends learn what the Martians plan for the colonists, Carmen and company know not to waste any time with the manager; they make the effort to save the earthlings.
This is an engaging coming of age Martian thriller due to Carmen who tells the story with a combination of young adult intelligence and teenage impatient angst at the stupidity of adults. The story line is action-packed though told mostly by Carmen as she learns first hand personal agendas as she deals with officious oppressors (parents and government are included), the enemy who wants her dead, and her guardian angel who she does not what Mr. Potatohead wants from her.
Harriet Klausner
The Vampire Julian-Ann B. Morris
The Vampire Julian
Ann B. Morris
ImaJinn, Jun 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9781933417202
Not long after the destruction Hurricane Katrina caused, Simone LeClerc comes to New Orleans to find her missing step-sister Dottie, who went to the Big Easy seeking a missing woman only to drop out of sight. Determined to find her sibling, Simone obtains work and an apartment at Mike’s After Dark bar; the owner Julian Whitcombe is a hundred and fifty years old vampire; there she meets the bartender who is a shapeshifter.
Julian believes Simone is the woman the Goddess Lilith prophesized would come to him when the need is great. Lilith knows that if Simone loves Julian deep enough, she will convert him back from vampire to mortal as only humans can; and he will fulfill his destiny to save the world. Simone remains skeptical that vampires exist and that Zurik and his clan drink human blood until their victims die and the news is all over the media. Julian and his clan fight them depending on synthetic blood for sustenance. As she sees the truth, she knows she loves Julian and if he needs her to do something prophesized by the Goddess Lilith, she will do it for him.
The first Whitcombe Legacies tale stars one of triplets who in times of catastrophe must find the respective women who will allow each to achieve their destiny. This vampiric romance is refreshing due to an original plot that uses the Katrina destruction as a horrific backdrop. Ann B. Morris leaves her audience anxiously waiting for the next two bites led by the other two triplets.
Harriet Klausner
Ann B. Morris
ImaJinn, Jun 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9781933417202
Not long after the destruction Hurricane Katrina caused, Simone LeClerc comes to New Orleans to find her missing step-sister Dottie, who went to the Big Easy seeking a missing woman only to drop out of sight. Determined to find her sibling, Simone obtains work and an apartment at Mike’s After Dark bar; the owner Julian Whitcombe is a hundred and fifty years old vampire; there she meets the bartender who is a shapeshifter.
Julian believes Simone is the woman the Goddess Lilith prophesized would come to him when the need is great. Lilith knows that if Simone loves Julian deep enough, she will convert him back from vampire to mortal as only humans can; and he will fulfill his destiny to save the world. Simone remains skeptical that vampires exist and that Zurik and his clan drink human blood until their victims die and the news is all over the media. Julian and his clan fight them depending on synthetic blood for sustenance. As she sees the truth, she knows she loves Julian and if he needs her to do something prophesized by the Goddess Lilith, she will do it for him.
The first Whitcombe Legacies tale stars one of triplets who in times of catastrophe must find the respective women who will allow each to achieve their destiny. This vampiric romance is refreshing due to an original plot that uses the Katrina destruction as a horrific backdrop. Ann B. Morris leaves her audience anxiously waiting for the next two bites led by the other two triplets.
Harriet Klausner
Monday, June 23, 2008
Lessons from a Courtesan-Jenna Peterson
Lessons from a Courtesan
Jenna Peterson
Avon, Jul 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780061138140
In 1812 Justin Talbot and Victoria Reed marry although they do not know one another. The Earl and his new bride share a passionate night together as he explores every inch of her delightful body. The next morning she wakes up to learn her husband left without a word. For the next three years, she runs his estate, but he never returns from London and she never goes there.
In 1815 Victoria learns of the disappearance of a close friend widow Chloe Hillsborough in London. Thus she decides to go to the big city to see if she can find Chloe. She masquerades as Ria, the sexy courtesan, who has the Ton in a titter; the men want her while the women want her to leave. Justin knows who she is, but is outraged when he hears men claim they took her. As he makes his bid to regain the trust of his wife, they fall in love, but he knows finding her friend is the only way she will believe he is sincere this time.
LESSONS FROM A COURTESAN is an exciting Regency romance starring two stubborn lead characters who refuse to admit their love for one another. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Justin realizes the talk of the Ton is his wife and Ria realizes the only touch she desires is that of her husband. Jenna Peterson provides an enjoyable early nineteenth century romp starring the battling Talbots.
Harriet Klausner
Jenna Peterson
Avon, Jul 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780061138140
In 1812 Justin Talbot and Victoria Reed marry although they do not know one another. The Earl and his new bride share a passionate night together as he explores every inch of her delightful body. The next morning she wakes up to learn her husband left without a word. For the next three years, she runs his estate, but he never returns from London and she never goes there.
In 1815 Victoria learns of the disappearance of a close friend widow Chloe Hillsborough in London. Thus she decides to go to the big city to see if she can find Chloe. She masquerades as Ria, the sexy courtesan, who has the Ton in a titter; the men want her while the women want her to leave. Justin knows who she is, but is outraged when he hears men claim they took her. As he makes his bid to regain the trust of his wife, they fall in love, but he knows finding her friend is the only way she will believe he is sincere this time.
LESSONS FROM A COURTESAN is an exciting Regency romance starring two stubborn lead characters who refuse to admit their love for one another. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Justin realizes the talk of the Ton is his wife and Ria realizes the only touch she desires is that of her husband. Jenna Peterson provides an enjoyable early nineteenth century romp starring the battling Talbots.
Harriet Klausner
Reckless-Selena Montgomery
Reckless
Selena Montgomery
Avon, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061376030
Atlanta attorney Kell Jameson left her hometown Hallden and the orphanage she grew up in behind; vowing never to return. However, the only person she would go back to help needs her and she is summoned back to her hometown after years of running away since the fiery incident back in 1991 broke up the Three Musketeers (Kell, Fin and Julia). Mrs. Faraday, the kind head of the orphanage where she lived, is accused of murder.
Sheriff Luke Calder investigates the homicide of a local drug dealer. He stops Kell for a traffic violation, but she flees the scene. Luke follows Kell to the diner where he hands her the tickets and asks her out. As they work the case and related matters, they fall in love. However besides the commute, Kell fears telling him the truth because she needs to protect Fin Borders and Julia Warner and believes he will not just reject her when he learns her darkest secrets from 1991 he will expose them.
RECKLESS is an action-packed romantic suspense thriller that sets the tone of the story line with its 1991 prologue and never slows down afterward. The cast is strong as it brings to life small town Georgia even some players from the past and from beyond. However, the tale is owned by the feisty courageous yet vulnerable heroine who finds love with the one person who can destroy her. Selena Montgomery allows her recovery specialists to rest (see SECRETS AND LIES, and HIDDEN SINS) with an entertaining regional thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Selena Montgomery
Avon, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061376030
Atlanta attorney Kell Jameson left her hometown Hallden and the orphanage she grew up in behind; vowing never to return. However, the only person she would go back to help needs her and she is summoned back to her hometown after years of running away since the fiery incident back in 1991 broke up the Three Musketeers (Kell, Fin and Julia). Mrs. Faraday, the kind head of the orphanage where she lived, is accused of murder.
Sheriff Luke Calder investigates the homicide of a local drug dealer. He stops Kell for a traffic violation, but she flees the scene. Luke follows Kell to the diner where he hands her the tickets and asks her out. As they work the case and related matters, they fall in love. However besides the commute, Kell fears telling him the truth because she needs to protect Fin Borders and Julia Warner and believes he will not just reject her when he learns her darkest secrets from 1991 he will expose them.
RECKLESS is an action-packed romantic suspense thriller that sets the tone of the story line with its 1991 prologue and never slows down afterward. The cast is strong as it brings to life small town Georgia even some players from the past and from beyond. However, the tale is owned by the feisty courageous yet vulnerable heroine who finds love with the one person who can destroy her. Selena Montgomery allows her recovery specialists to rest (see SECRETS AND LIES, and HIDDEN SINS) with an entertaining regional thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Then You Hide-Roxanne St. Claire
Then You Hide
Roxanne St. Claire
Pocket, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9781416552437
Vanessa Porter goes on vacation in the Caribbean. However, she is actually seeking her missing friend Clive Easterbrook, who vanished. Bullet Catcher’s CEO Lucy Sharpe tries to persuade consultant Wade Cordell to fully join the team; he refuses as he says he is no longer a legally paid assassin as he was for the marines and CIA. Disappointed, Lucy asks him to do a small favor; find Vanessa. Apparently she was one of three babies taken from their biological mother Eileen Stafford in 1978 Charleston and sold on the black market; Eileen needs a compatible bone marrow transplant.
Wade finds Vanessa rather easily, but she persuades him to help her find Clive. In return she will meet her mom, take the compatibility test, and decide whether to donate or not; she hides from Wade the fact that she made up her mind to refuse. However, as they work together and fall in love, the effort to save Clive may prove deadly to the wannabee rescuers.
The second tale in this Bullet Catcher’s trilogy (see FIRST YOU RUN) is an exhilarating romantic suspense thriller as Wade and Vanessa run into one nasty scenario after another trying to locate Clive. Although Vanessa’s actions seem too unnecessarily risky, she makes the story line hum with her obstinacy and courage. Fans of the saga will appreciate this strong action-packed entry as the lead couple learns that love is a strong impetus to live for.
Harriet Klausner
Roxanne St. Claire
Pocket, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9781416552437
Vanessa Porter goes on vacation in the Caribbean. However, she is actually seeking her missing friend Clive Easterbrook, who vanished. Bullet Catcher’s CEO Lucy Sharpe tries to persuade consultant Wade Cordell to fully join the team; he refuses as he says he is no longer a legally paid assassin as he was for the marines and CIA. Disappointed, Lucy asks him to do a small favor; find Vanessa. Apparently she was one of three babies taken from their biological mother Eileen Stafford in 1978 Charleston and sold on the black market; Eileen needs a compatible bone marrow transplant.
Wade finds Vanessa rather easily, but she persuades him to help her find Clive. In return she will meet her mom, take the compatibility test, and decide whether to donate or not; she hides from Wade the fact that she made up her mind to refuse. However, as they work together and fall in love, the effort to save Clive may prove deadly to the wannabee rescuers.
The second tale in this Bullet Catcher’s trilogy (see FIRST YOU RUN) is an exhilarating romantic suspense thriller as Wade and Vanessa run into one nasty scenario after another trying to locate Clive. Although Vanessa’s actions seem too unnecessarily risky, she makes the story line hum with her obstinacy and courage. Fans of the saga will appreciate this strong action-packed entry as the lead couple learns that love is a strong impetus to live for.
Harriet Klausner
Fast Track-Fern Michaels
Fast Track
Fern Michaels
Zebra, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9781420101867
After their return from luxurious exile in Barcelona (see HOKUS POKUS) the Sisterhood sets up their newest headquarters on Big Pine Mountain, North Carolina. The new digs for the vigilante team is more of a military compound with access by cable car or helicopter only. Soon afterward, their mentor Charles Martin introduces the magnificent seven to their new employers, who have flown in during a stormy night by helicopter for more than just welcome to the team greetings.
The visitors give the Sisterhood seven a blank check from their own pockets to find two billion dollars targeted for poor countries apparently embezzled from the World Bank. They accept the assignment though each knows the danger, but besides trying to return the 2B loot so the needy can have it, the blank check for them to fill in the amount will also help those in need.
This is a refreshing albeit over the top of Big Pine Mountain (duh – it is the Sisterhood) thriller in which the magnificent Seven’s significant others participate in active support roles to the modern day female Robin Hoods. The tale is engaging as the Seven and their cohorts show how a team working cohesively can achieve mission impossible.
Harriet Klausner
Fern Michaels
Zebra, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9781420101867
After their return from luxurious exile in Barcelona (see HOKUS POKUS) the Sisterhood sets up their newest headquarters on Big Pine Mountain, North Carolina. The new digs for the vigilante team is more of a military compound with access by cable car or helicopter only. Soon afterward, their mentor Charles Martin introduces the magnificent seven to their new employers, who have flown in during a stormy night by helicopter for more than just welcome to the team greetings.
The visitors give the Sisterhood seven a blank check from their own pockets to find two billion dollars targeted for poor countries apparently embezzled from the World Bank. They accept the assignment though each knows the danger, but besides trying to return the 2B loot so the needy can have it, the blank check for them to fill in the amount will also help those in need.
This is a refreshing albeit over the top of Big Pine Mountain (duh – it is the Sisterhood) thriller in which the magnificent Seven’s significant others participate in active support roles to the modern day female Robin Hoods. The tale is engaging as the Seven and their cohorts show how a team working cohesively can achieve mission impossible.
Harriet Klausner
Double Dog Dare-Linda O. Johnston
Double Dog Dare
Linda O. Johnston
Berkley, Jun 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780425222324
Kendra Ballantyne is a person with many talents as she holds down two jobs and enjoys both of them. First she is a pet sitter and second she is an attorney. She also has time to forge a relationship with private detective Jeff Hubbard, who she met when she pet sat his Aikida. Jeff recently asked Kendra to move in with him; after much soul searching and doubting, she agrees only to have Jeff go MIA while working a case. Already fearing something bad has happened to him, she panics when the police inform her they found his car in the water with blood inside the vehicle.
Kendra soon learns that Lois Terrone, who is a surrogate mom to Jeff, had asked him to look into the practices of the Clone Arranger, a firm that clones cats and dogs because her died shortly after she brought it in to be cloned.. She wonders if perhaps Jeff learned something that made it imperative for someone to insure he died. Unable to not know the truth, Kendra snoops until she learns what is going on at the Clone Arranger only now she is caught in the crosshairs.
This fabulous series stars a kind hearted animal lover who though an amateur sleuth is strong willed; Kendra is opinionated and unforgiving especially at those who harm animals as she is an animal rights advocate. Thus two passions merge as she goes from one clue to another to learn what someone will kill to conceal at the Clone Arranger. Linda O. Johnston writes a strong tale that fans will enjoy as the mystery is difficult to solve though the clues are there.
Harriet Klausner
Linda O. Johnston
Berkley, Jun 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780425222324
Kendra Ballantyne is a person with many talents as she holds down two jobs and enjoys both of them. First she is a pet sitter and second she is an attorney. She also has time to forge a relationship with private detective Jeff Hubbard, who she met when she pet sat his Aikida. Jeff recently asked Kendra to move in with him; after much soul searching and doubting, she agrees only to have Jeff go MIA while working a case. Already fearing something bad has happened to him, she panics when the police inform her they found his car in the water with blood inside the vehicle.
Kendra soon learns that Lois Terrone, who is a surrogate mom to Jeff, had asked him to look into the practices of the Clone Arranger, a firm that clones cats and dogs because her died shortly after she brought it in to be cloned.. She wonders if perhaps Jeff learned something that made it imperative for someone to insure he died. Unable to not know the truth, Kendra snoops until she learns what is going on at the Clone Arranger only now she is caught in the crosshairs.
This fabulous series stars a kind hearted animal lover who though an amateur sleuth is strong willed; Kendra is opinionated and unforgiving especially at those who harm animals as she is an animal rights advocate. Thus two passions merge as she goes from one clue to another to learn what someone will kill to conceal at the Clone Arranger. Linda O. Johnston writes a strong tale that fans will enjoy as the mystery is difficult to solve though the clues are there.
Harriet Klausner
A Match Made in Hell-Terri Garey
A Match Made in Hell
Terri Garey
Avon, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061136160
In Atlanta, Nicki Styx is grateful to her new boyfriend, ER Dr. Joe Bascombe whom she met when he saved her life though lacking exact change for ferryman to escort her across her surname river also proved a factor (see DEAD GIRLS ARE EASY). Returning to the living she dedicates her life to helping the dearly departed cross over to the other side.
However, life takes a wacky spin for Nicki when Joe’s soon to be former wife Kelly suddenly reappears in his life and hers as a car accident victim rushed to the hospital. She is Nikki's identical twin. Helping them with the awkward reunion is their biological mother who happens to a ghost. Finally a devil of a hunk wants Nikki as his girlfriend.
The second Nikki Styx romantic fantasy is a lighthearted romp as the heroine’s family adds to the fun. Readers who appreciate the adventures of the “Ghoulfriend” working Little Five Points in downtown Atlanta as Nicki adapts from shoes in the closet to literally skeletons in the closet. Although the story line is a bit fluffy, the amusing A MATCH MADE IN HELL is an entertaining frolic.
Harriet Klausner
Terri Garey
Avon, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061136160
In Atlanta, Nicki Styx is grateful to her new boyfriend, ER Dr. Joe Bascombe whom she met when he saved her life though lacking exact change for ferryman to escort her across her surname river also proved a factor (see DEAD GIRLS ARE EASY). Returning to the living she dedicates her life to helping the dearly departed cross over to the other side.
However, life takes a wacky spin for Nicki when Joe’s soon to be former wife Kelly suddenly reappears in his life and hers as a car accident victim rushed to the hospital. She is Nikki's identical twin. Helping them with the awkward reunion is their biological mother who happens to a ghost. Finally a devil of a hunk wants Nikki as his girlfriend.
The second Nikki Styx romantic fantasy is a lighthearted romp as the heroine’s family adds to the fun. Readers who appreciate the adventures of the “Ghoulfriend” working Little Five Points in downtown Atlanta as Nicki adapts from shoes in the closet to literally skeletons in the closet. Although the story line is a bit fluffy, the amusing A MATCH MADE IN HELL is an entertaining frolic.
Harriet Klausner
Hell and Earth-Elizabeth Bear
Hell and Earth
Elizabeth Bear
Roc, Aug 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780451462183
Two kingdoms in two different worlds but tied together as both ruled by queens bound by magic but each in jeopardy of seeing their regime end. For England’s Queen Elizbath I, Prometheus Club playwrights Will Shakespeare and Kit Marley risk their lives to keep her safe and on the throne; Faerie Queen Mab’s only wordsmith is Kit who crosses the veil between the two realms, but has other supporters too.
However, now even the prominent Prometheus Club members feel the curtain is closing on their Queen. Fearing for England, they argue over whether it is time for a regime change rather than wait for nature to do the inevitable. Kit believes both worlds need their queens to remain in power and seeks allies from both sides to insure this happens as dark magic has surfaced; Will is beginning to show his age as he enters the fourth act of life. Humans, faeries, and malevolent monsters want to end the Promethean Age and begin a new eon of darkness.
The latest Promethean Age historical fantasy thriller continues the exciting The Stratford Man saga, but series fans need to read INK AND STEEL before HELL AND EARTH to learn how events got to where they are. The story line is fast-paced from the onset yet also contains intriguing references to the real Marlowe and Shakespeare, which in turn makes the magic of their words seem even more genuine as well as their relationship. Elizabeth Bear’s terrific two-book entry is the Promethean Age at its seditious best with treachery threatening to destroy the reigns Queens Mab and Elizabeth.
Harriet Klausner
Elizabeth Bear
Roc, Aug 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780451462183
Two kingdoms in two different worlds but tied together as both ruled by queens bound by magic but each in jeopardy of seeing their regime end. For England’s Queen Elizbath I, Prometheus Club playwrights Will Shakespeare and Kit Marley risk their lives to keep her safe and on the throne; Faerie Queen Mab’s only wordsmith is Kit who crosses the veil between the two realms, but has other supporters too.
However, now even the prominent Prometheus Club members feel the curtain is closing on their Queen. Fearing for England, they argue over whether it is time for a regime change rather than wait for nature to do the inevitable. Kit believes both worlds need their queens to remain in power and seeks allies from both sides to insure this happens as dark magic has surfaced; Will is beginning to show his age as he enters the fourth act of life. Humans, faeries, and malevolent monsters want to end the Promethean Age and begin a new eon of darkness.
The latest Promethean Age historical fantasy thriller continues the exciting The Stratford Man saga, but series fans need to read INK AND STEEL before HELL AND EARTH to learn how events got to where they are. The story line is fast-paced from the onset yet also contains intriguing references to the real Marlowe and Shakespeare, which in turn makes the magic of their words seem even more genuine as well as their relationship. Elizabeth Bear’s terrific two-book entry is the Promethean Age at its seditious best with treachery threatening to destroy the reigns Queens Mab and Elizabeth.
Harriet Klausner
Multireal-David Louis Edelman
Multireal
David Louis Edelman
PYR, Jul 2008, $15.00
ISBN: 1591026474
MULTIREAL seems unreal as a mind altering reality changing technology. The tool merges biology with the infinitive of quantum physics in a way that no one ever dreamed of before. Natch has plans for Margaret Surina’s creation, but knows that the Defense and Wellness Council, whom he just recently defeated (see INFOQUAKE), will return to make his life miserable because they want to control the technology.
However Natch’s efforts to bring his concept to the market place proves more complex and difficult than the tool he created. DWC sends Lieutenant Executive Magan Kai Lee to deal with Natch. After analyzing infinite possibilities and evaluation how her employers failed at destroying Natch’s company, she decides to be a virus and work from within. Meanwhile Natch pleads with the Melbourne legislature to no avail and dodges the DWC who see his tool as more enforcement of their black codes of tyranny imbedded as enhancements in bodies like that of an unknowing Natch. The enemy is within.
Except for Natch, the cast including his assistant Jara and even Lee seem two dimensional yet no one will care as MultiReal continues the fascinating look at the future possibilities of nano-technical human bio-logics. Natch is still the same ambitious rogue he was in INFOQUAKE; as he will try anything and risk everything to be number one in his field. Other just as unethical executives act likewise as business and political values are actually singular: the end of being numero uno justifies any mean especially if the cost is paid by others.
Harriet Klausner
David Louis Edelman
PYR, Jul 2008, $15.00
ISBN: 1591026474
MULTIREAL seems unreal as a mind altering reality changing technology. The tool merges biology with the infinitive of quantum physics in a way that no one ever dreamed of before. Natch has plans for Margaret Surina’s creation, but knows that the Defense and Wellness Council, whom he just recently defeated (see INFOQUAKE), will return to make his life miserable because they want to control the technology.
However Natch’s efforts to bring his concept to the market place proves more complex and difficult than the tool he created. DWC sends Lieutenant Executive Magan Kai Lee to deal with Natch. After analyzing infinite possibilities and evaluation how her employers failed at destroying Natch’s company, she decides to be a virus and work from within. Meanwhile Natch pleads with the Melbourne legislature to no avail and dodges the DWC who see his tool as more enforcement of their black codes of tyranny imbedded as enhancements in bodies like that of an unknowing Natch. The enemy is within.
Except for Natch, the cast including his assistant Jara and even Lee seem two dimensional yet no one will care as MultiReal continues the fascinating look at the future possibilities of nano-technical human bio-logics. Natch is still the same ambitious rogue he was in INFOQUAKE; as he will try anything and risk everything to be number one in his field. Other just as unethical executives act likewise as business and political values are actually singular: the end of being numero uno justifies any mean especially if the cost is paid by others.
Harriet Klausner
Sunday, June 22, 2008
La Petite Four-Regina Scott
La Petite Four
Regina Scott
Razorbill, Jul 2008, $8.99
ISBN: 9781595142085
La Petite Four met at the Bardsley School and became close friends for life. Lady Emily Southwell, Miss Priscilla Tate, Miss Ariadne Courdebas and Miss Daphne Courdebas are one for all and all for one even as they look forward to graduating and taking London by storm in their first season.
However, Emily is stunned to learn that her father’s arranged betrothal to Lord Robert Townsend has been announced and she will marry him before her season. She refuses as she has dreams of becoming an artist asked to join the Royal Society for the Beaux Arts. Emily and her Petite Four friends seek to find a blemish that would prove Lord Robert is unworthy to be her mate. She alos finds herself attracted to Mr. James Cropper whose loathing of Lord Robert should make him an ally, but she fears he is using her as a pawn in his feud. This LA PETITE FOUR begin the quest.
This first of four tales is a terrific young adult Regency romantic suspense tales starring fully developed characters. Each of the female quartet is physically and emotionally different, which enhances a strong historical tale. The two antagonists who compete for Lady Emily’s affection augment the fine story line further. Regency fans of all ages will appreciate the opening salvo with three petite females storming high society to follow.
Harriet Klausner
Regina Scott
Razorbill, Jul 2008, $8.99
ISBN: 9781595142085
La Petite Four met at the Bardsley School and became close friends for life. Lady Emily Southwell, Miss Priscilla Tate, Miss Ariadne Courdebas and Miss Daphne Courdebas are one for all and all for one even as they look forward to graduating and taking London by storm in their first season.
However, Emily is stunned to learn that her father’s arranged betrothal to Lord Robert Townsend has been announced and she will marry him before her season. She refuses as she has dreams of becoming an artist asked to join the Royal Society for the Beaux Arts. Emily and her Petite Four friends seek to find a blemish that would prove Lord Robert is unworthy to be her mate. She alos finds herself attracted to Mr. James Cropper whose loathing of Lord Robert should make him an ally, but she fears he is using her as a pawn in his feud. This LA PETITE FOUR begin the quest.
This first of four tales is a terrific young adult Regency romantic suspense tales starring fully developed characters. Each of the female quartet is physically and emotionally different, which enhances a strong historical tale. The two antagonists who compete for Lady Emily’s affection augment the fine story line further. Regency fans of all ages will appreciate the opening salvo with three petite females storming high society to follow.
Harriet Klausner
Game for Anything-Bella Andre
Game for Anything
Bella Andre
Pocket, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9781416558415
NFL superstar San Francisco Outlaws quarterback Ty Calhoun won the Super Bowl on the last play with an incredible run. While the accolades pour in especially for his amazing final play, public relations specialist Julie Spencer watched the game and its final play on TV and expected Ty to score the winning points. She never forgot his scoring with her when he took her virginity and heart without a look back ten years ago.
Behind his impish demeanor, Ty hides the fact he never forgot that high school graduation night that shook him to the core and made him flee like a coward. Now he would give away every trophy and his throwing arm for one more night of uninhibited sex with Julie; even the thought makes him hard.
The new owner of the San Francisco Outlaws believes professional athletes are role models and wants them to behave accordingly in public. For his star quarterback that means a PR remake starting with nuking his current image. Julie, known for her spin skills, is hired to the delight of Ty. Whereas she tries to avoid his efforts to sack her, she knows even mentally thinking about his touch leaves her feeling tackled; he has a game plan to win back her heart starting with her trust as he has a chance to make up the one errant pass of his life by blitzkrieging her heart.
Even no football fans will appreciate this fun second chance at love sports romance as the two stars are likeable characters. Ty knows he must gain his beloved’s trust which is off the board for taking bets as he has to overcome his desertion and ignoring her afterward. Fans will appreciate this fun lighthearted romp with the only quibble being a team named the Outlaws probably belongs in Oakland ( at least at one time that is).
Harriet Klausner
Bella Andre
Pocket, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9781416558415
NFL superstar San Francisco Outlaws quarterback Ty Calhoun won the Super Bowl on the last play with an incredible run. While the accolades pour in especially for his amazing final play, public relations specialist Julie Spencer watched the game and its final play on TV and expected Ty to score the winning points. She never forgot his scoring with her when he took her virginity and heart without a look back ten years ago.
Behind his impish demeanor, Ty hides the fact he never forgot that high school graduation night that shook him to the core and made him flee like a coward. Now he would give away every trophy and his throwing arm for one more night of uninhibited sex with Julie; even the thought makes him hard.
The new owner of the San Francisco Outlaws believes professional athletes are role models and wants them to behave accordingly in public. For his star quarterback that means a PR remake starting with nuking his current image. Julie, known for her spin skills, is hired to the delight of Ty. Whereas she tries to avoid his efforts to sack her, she knows even mentally thinking about his touch leaves her feeling tackled; he has a game plan to win back her heart starting with her trust as he has a chance to make up the one errant pass of his life by blitzkrieging her heart.
Even no football fans will appreciate this fun second chance at love sports romance as the two stars are likeable characters. Ty knows he must gain his beloved’s trust which is off the board for taking bets as he has to overcome his desertion and ignoring her afterward. Fans will appreciate this fun lighthearted romp with the only quibble being a team named the Outlaws probably belongs in Oakland ( at least at one time that is).
Harriet Klausner
Calico Canyon-Mary Connealy
Calico Canyon
Mary Connealy
Barbour, Jul 2008, $10.97
ISBN: 9781597899383
In 1867 Mosqueros, Texas, new schoolteacher Grace Calhoun dreads the arrival of the “Five Horsemen of the Apocalypse”. As always her class of seven girls and eight boys consist of ten angels and the five Reeves’ demons; ten years old twins Abraham and Isaac, and five years old triplets Mark, Luke and John. The rowdy rascals have Grace questioning her teaching skills while their widow father Daniel writes off their pranks as boys being boys. Deciding on peace the school board Solomon-like fires Grace and expels Daniel’s children.
Grave is heartbroken as she feels justice was not served and besides she needs the money to bring her ragtag family Hannah and the other children from Chicago. Worse, she knows her insane daddy Parrish, who has stalked her and ruined her life everywhere she flees to escape him, has physically arrived. In heavy rain with a ripped nightgown torn by Parrish, Grave flees through the window into the night cutting herself as she falls. Seeing a wagon, she jumps inside the back although she feels that God has forsaken her like everyone else has. In the wintry mix, Daniel goes home unaware of the stowaway. When he discovers her she is cut up badly and fevered. He takes her home, but the Reverend catches them and demands they marry; reluctantly they do as she fears he will be another Parrish who still stalks her expecting payment in full.
This engaging return to post Civil War Texas (see PETTICOAT RANCH) is an enjoyable western romantic suspense. The cast is strong especially the lead pairing, the impish quintet, and the villain. Readers will wonder if Grace survives her daddy, will she survive the rowdy rascally Reeves sextet as she feels she has gone from the frying pan into the fire.
Harriet Klausner
Mary Connealy
Barbour, Jul 2008, $10.97
ISBN: 9781597899383
In 1867 Mosqueros, Texas, new schoolteacher Grace Calhoun dreads the arrival of the “Five Horsemen of the Apocalypse”. As always her class of seven girls and eight boys consist of ten angels and the five Reeves’ demons; ten years old twins Abraham and Isaac, and five years old triplets Mark, Luke and John. The rowdy rascals have Grace questioning her teaching skills while their widow father Daniel writes off their pranks as boys being boys. Deciding on peace the school board Solomon-like fires Grace and expels Daniel’s children.
Grave is heartbroken as she feels justice was not served and besides she needs the money to bring her ragtag family Hannah and the other children from Chicago. Worse, she knows her insane daddy Parrish, who has stalked her and ruined her life everywhere she flees to escape him, has physically arrived. In heavy rain with a ripped nightgown torn by Parrish, Grave flees through the window into the night cutting herself as she falls. Seeing a wagon, she jumps inside the back although she feels that God has forsaken her like everyone else has. In the wintry mix, Daniel goes home unaware of the stowaway. When he discovers her she is cut up badly and fevered. He takes her home, but the Reverend catches them and demands they marry; reluctantly they do as she fears he will be another Parrish who still stalks her expecting payment in full.
This engaging return to post Civil War Texas (see PETTICOAT RANCH) is an enjoyable western romantic suspense. The cast is strong especially the lead pairing, the impish quintet, and the villain. Readers will wonder if Grace survives her daddy, will she survive the rowdy rascally Reeves sextet as she feels she has gone from the frying pan into the fire.
Harriet Klausner
Gentlemen Behaving Badly-Michelle Marcos
Gentlemen Behaving Badly
Michelle Marcos
St. Martin’s, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0312948506
Her father was arrested for a crime that Mina Halliday knows he did not commit; his jewelry shop taken from him and his family. While he lingers in ruin in prison, Mina went to the Pleasure Emporium seeking employment although she lacked the beauty and skills of the ladies. However, Madam Finch, the tall owner, hires her to serve drinks and to lure men with her sensual letters. Mina also hops to find the aristocratic miscreant who framed her father.
Chief Constable Salter Lambrick investigates a homicide of a government official. His only clue is the sexy letter he found inside the victim’s pocket. Salter goes to the Pleasure Emporium to interrogate the authoress, but finds a strange intriguing mystery there. The writer is obvious a woman of innocence serving drinks at the brothel’s bar. He finds her pretty and intelligent; a lethal combo for the detective who agrees to help her uncover the villain who destroyed her family.
The second Regency Pleasure Emporium brothel tale (see WHEN A LADY MISBEHAVES) stars a charming "bad girl" whose wickedness is to write sensual letters enticing the male Ton to come to the bordello. The story line is fast-paced and filled with mystery, suspense and romance. Fans will relish the strong lead couple pairing and the antics of the support cast especially those inside the brothel. Although somewhat similar in tone to the first unique entry, sub-genre readers will enjoy this engaging tale of love inside a house of ill repute.
Harriet Klausner
Michelle Marcos
St. Martin’s, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0312948506
Her father was arrested for a crime that Mina Halliday knows he did not commit; his jewelry shop taken from him and his family. While he lingers in ruin in prison, Mina went to the Pleasure Emporium seeking employment although she lacked the beauty and skills of the ladies. However, Madam Finch, the tall owner, hires her to serve drinks and to lure men with her sensual letters. Mina also hops to find the aristocratic miscreant who framed her father.
Chief Constable Salter Lambrick investigates a homicide of a government official. His only clue is the sexy letter he found inside the victim’s pocket. Salter goes to the Pleasure Emporium to interrogate the authoress, but finds a strange intriguing mystery there. The writer is obvious a woman of innocence serving drinks at the brothel’s bar. He finds her pretty and intelligent; a lethal combo for the detective who agrees to help her uncover the villain who destroyed her family.
The second Regency Pleasure Emporium brothel tale (see WHEN A LADY MISBEHAVES) stars a charming "bad girl" whose wickedness is to write sensual letters enticing the male Ton to come to the bordello. The story line is fast-paced and filled with mystery, suspense and romance. Fans will relish the strong lead couple pairing and the antics of the support cast especially those inside the brothel. Although somewhat similar in tone to the first unique entry, sub-genre readers will enjoy this engaging tale of love inside a house of ill repute.
Harriet Klausner
Into the Fire-Suzanne Brockmann
Into the Fire
Suzanne Brockmann
Ballantine, Jul 2008, $25.00
ISBN: 9780345501530
Vinh Murphy lived the Marine value of never leaving behind a brother or sister in arms. He took that ethic with him when he left the military and joined Troubleshooters Incorporated as a top gun operative. However, on what was an alleged simple and safe mission, his beloved wife Angelina died in a crossfire. Filled with grief and guilt over her death, he simply vanishes, but holds culpable the neo-Nazi Freedom Network especially its leader Tim Ebersole; everyone who knows him knows he deeply blames Ebersole.
When someone cleverly kills Ebersole, the FBI and even his associates at Troubleshooters assume Murphy is the prime suspect as he has a gut wrenching motive and his skills give him means and opportunities few could achieve to murder the highly protected Ebersole. Fearing a lethal shootout his Troubleshooter friends search for Murphy to persuade him to come in peacefully. Angelina’s best friend former police officer Hannah Whitfield has always loved Vinh, but hid her deep regard from him and from Angelina when she was alive. He seeks her help as he is unsure whether he pulled the trigger or not as he was in an alcoholic stupor; they seek the truth by going INTO THE FIRE of the Freedom Network.
Hannah and Vinh are an interesting pairing because both grieve the loss of Angelina and the guilt of one night of solace together after the woman died. In some ways Hannah is the more complete character as she was forced to retire due to an on the job injury leading to deafness and has hid her love for Vinh; whereas Murphy remains grief stricken although the murder has awakened him from his drunken stupor. With other subplots also in the fire, fans will appreciate this action-packed romantic suspense thriller starring two walking wounded and the rest of the troubleshooters willingly going INTO THE FIRE to prove the innocence of one of them; for once you join this team you remain part of them even after you leave.
Harriet Klausner
Suzanne Brockmann
Ballantine, Jul 2008, $25.00
ISBN: 9780345501530
Vinh Murphy lived the Marine value of never leaving behind a brother or sister in arms. He took that ethic with him when he left the military and joined Troubleshooters Incorporated as a top gun operative. However, on what was an alleged simple and safe mission, his beloved wife Angelina died in a crossfire. Filled with grief and guilt over her death, he simply vanishes, but holds culpable the neo-Nazi Freedom Network especially its leader Tim Ebersole; everyone who knows him knows he deeply blames Ebersole.
When someone cleverly kills Ebersole, the FBI and even his associates at Troubleshooters assume Murphy is the prime suspect as he has a gut wrenching motive and his skills give him means and opportunities few could achieve to murder the highly protected Ebersole. Fearing a lethal shootout his Troubleshooter friends search for Murphy to persuade him to come in peacefully. Angelina’s best friend former police officer Hannah Whitfield has always loved Vinh, but hid her deep regard from him and from Angelina when she was alive. He seeks her help as he is unsure whether he pulled the trigger or not as he was in an alcoholic stupor; they seek the truth by going INTO THE FIRE of the Freedom Network.
Hannah and Vinh are an interesting pairing because both grieve the loss of Angelina and the guilt of one night of solace together after the woman died. In some ways Hannah is the more complete character as she was forced to retire due to an on the job injury leading to deafness and has hid her love for Vinh; whereas Murphy remains grief stricken although the murder has awakened him from his drunken stupor. With other subplots also in the fire, fans will appreciate this action-packed romantic suspense thriller starring two walking wounded and the rest of the troubleshooters willingly going INTO THE FIRE to prove the innocence of one of them; for once you join this team you remain part of them even after you leave.
Harriet Klausner
Juggler Of Worlds-Larry Niven and Edward M. Lerner
Juggler Of Worlds
Larry Niven and Edward M. Lerner
Tor, Aug 2008,
ISBN: 9780765318268
Amalgamated Regional Militia Intel Agent Sigmund Ausfaller works extremely hard to keep aliens from harming the Earth and its colonies. However, the brilliant but obsessed ARM operative determines that the top hazard at the moment comes from the sheep like obsessive Puppeteers. They herd to protect their species from the remotest of threats.
The Puppeteers General Products sector sells items deemed safe to their species to the highest bidder. Recently they sold spaceship hulls that are guaranteed to protect anyone inside from any form of radiation. However, a scientific expedition using a General Products anti-radiation hull arrives with the outside husk in perfect order, but inside everything including the crew has been gutted and mutilated. Sigmund needs to know why while the Puppeteers begin the sale of specialty technology to chosen ones in order to increase their espionage activity until they learn that in several millenniums the galactic core will explode. Reacting to this future threat, the Puppeteers sheepishly vanish leaving behind selected scouts to keep watch on the others pulling strings along the way.
A Ringworld prequel like FLEET OF WORLDS, JUGGLER OF WORLDS is an engaging science fiction thriller intended to and succeeding in thrilling long time fans of the series. Much of the novel repeats action from the saga although refreshes it to a degree by using someone else’s interpretation of known events at least to the Ringworld audience. More so than usual the similarities between Sigmund and the Puppeteers are obvious as both are obsessed on preventing external real or perceived threats from harming their species by pulling the strings of others. This is a solid entry though a bit slow as readers know what occurred already.
Harriet Klausner
Larry Niven and Edward M. Lerner
Tor, Aug 2008,
ISBN: 9780765318268
Amalgamated Regional Militia Intel Agent Sigmund Ausfaller works extremely hard to keep aliens from harming the Earth and its colonies. However, the brilliant but obsessed ARM operative determines that the top hazard at the moment comes from the sheep like obsessive Puppeteers. They herd to protect their species from the remotest of threats.
The Puppeteers General Products sector sells items deemed safe to their species to the highest bidder. Recently they sold spaceship hulls that are guaranteed to protect anyone inside from any form of radiation. However, a scientific expedition using a General Products anti-radiation hull arrives with the outside husk in perfect order, but inside everything including the crew has been gutted and mutilated. Sigmund needs to know why while the Puppeteers begin the sale of specialty technology to chosen ones in order to increase their espionage activity until they learn that in several millenniums the galactic core will explode. Reacting to this future threat, the Puppeteers sheepishly vanish leaving behind selected scouts to keep watch on the others pulling strings along the way.
A Ringworld prequel like FLEET OF WORLDS, JUGGLER OF WORLDS is an engaging science fiction thriller intended to and succeeding in thrilling long time fans of the series. Much of the novel repeats action from the saga although refreshes it to a degree by using someone else’s interpretation of known events at least to the Ringworld audience. More so than usual the similarities between Sigmund and the Puppeteers are obvious as both are obsessed on preventing external real or perceived threats from harming their species by pulling the strings of others. This is a solid entry though a bit slow as readers know what occurred already.
Harriet Klausner
Slanted Jack-Mark L Van Name
Slanted Jack
Mark L Van Name
Baen, Jul 2008, $24.00
ISBN: 9781416555490
Jon Moore hates being the best combatant in the galaxy as that means missions he does not want to take. The nanotechnology enhanced soldier wants to live the rest of his life in peace and quiet on his home planet accompanied by his only friend, Lobo, an artificially intelligent Predator-Class Assault Vehicle. However, Jon knows that he and Lobo are expendable pawns always sent to the next impossible mission.
As Jon seeks a bit of R&R, he and Lobo meet his old crony con artist and petty thief Slanted Jack, who needs a slight favor. In spite of being the deadliest kick-butt person known in the galaxy, the kindhearted sucker, ignoring the sarcastic commentary of Lobo who encourages him to just say no, Jon agrees to help in what seems rather easy. He should have known that Slanted Jack set him up to take the fall from an angry arms dealing religious fundamentalist and his rabid followers, an enraged gang leader and his rabid mobsters, and a fuming high-ranking government councilor and his rabid supporters. They agree to kill Jon when Jack vanished taking a psychically gifted child and invaluable relics with him. However, in spite of the beautiful woman who insists she wants to help him and the assaults from the assorted rabid minions, Jon and Lobo agree rescuing the child is the mission.
The second Jon and Lobo space thriller (see ONE JUMP AHEAD) is an entertaining futuristic crime caper as everyone converges initially on Jack who pulls a sleight of the hand with his disappearing act that leaves Jon and Lobo holding a dead rabbit. The story line is fast-paced and filled with non stop action as each step that Jon takes to expedite himself from the growing mess complicates his escape as more enemies surface. Although none of the cast except the heroic lead duo goes beyond comic book status, readers will enjoy the escapades in space of Jon and Lobo who will keep saying I told you so as the hero knows he didn’t know Jack.
Harriet Klausner
Mark L Van Name
Baen, Jul 2008, $24.00
ISBN: 9781416555490
Jon Moore hates being the best combatant in the galaxy as that means missions he does not want to take. The nanotechnology enhanced soldier wants to live the rest of his life in peace and quiet on his home planet accompanied by his only friend, Lobo, an artificially intelligent Predator-Class Assault Vehicle. However, Jon knows that he and Lobo are expendable pawns always sent to the next impossible mission.
As Jon seeks a bit of R&R, he and Lobo meet his old crony con artist and petty thief Slanted Jack, who needs a slight favor. In spite of being the deadliest kick-butt person known in the galaxy, the kindhearted sucker, ignoring the sarcastic commentary of Lobo who encourages him to just say no, Jon agrees to help in what seems rather easy. He should have known that Slanted Jack set him up to take the fall from an angry arms dealing religious fundamentalist and his rabid followers, an enraged gang leader and his rabid mobsters, and a fuming high-ranking government councilor and his rabid supporters. They agree to kill Jon when Jack vanished taking a psychically gifted child and invaluable relics with him. However, in spite of the beautiful woman who insists she wants to help him and the assaults from the assorted rabid minions, Jon and Lobo agree rescuing the child is the mission.
The second Jon and Lobo space thriller (see ONE JUMP AHEAD) is an entertaining futuristic crime caper as everyone converges initially on Jack who pulls a sleight of the hand with his disappearing act that leaves Jon and Lobo holding a dead rabbit. The story line is fast-paced and filled with non stop action as each step that Jon takes to expedite himself from the growing mess complicates his escape as more enemies surface. Although none of the cast except the heroic lead duo goes beyond comic book status, readers will enjoy the escapades in space of Jon and Lobo who will keep saying I told you so as the hero knows he didn’t know Jack.
Harriet Klausner
Harmony-C.F. Bentley
Harmony
C.F. Bentley
Daw, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780756404857
Chaos is the operative word in outer space in the distant future. The Human Confederate Star System (CSS) is at war with the Marillon Empire, which controls numerous avian based inhabitants. Harmony and its colony plants have closed itself from the rest of the universe; refusing to allow their orbs to be polluted. However the two confrontational empires will not allow the Harmony Empire to remain neutral because both hostile sides need Badger Metal only produced on Harmony; that metal makes navigating and communicating much easier in hyperspace.
When a quake hits a Harmony factory, worker Sissy sings to the core of the planet to stop the tremors from reoccurring. She gives voice to the prophecy and comes to the attention of the High Priest Gregor, who seeks a new High Priestess since the incumbent just died in the quake. The people adore Sissy for the changes she is bringing to a world that thrives on status quo to a dangerous fault. Jake, a CSS agent, hopes to exploit her and steal the Badger Metal formula. Instead he finds himself in love risking his life and mission to protect Sissy from assassins who might be local traitors supporting the Maril he anticipates will soon invade. However, when Sissy learns the true history of her planet, she vows to break the strangling caste system in order to save her people by retuning to what the founders hoped for their future.
This stand alone space opera is exciting and filled with action, but caste (pun intended) driven. Readers obtain a full spectrum of the political, economic, cultural and social engines that run the harmonic Empire. Sissy is the glue who holds the story line together as a lowly Worker caste becomes the Temple High Priestess; she and readers learn on the job what she is supposed to perform and as important what to do regarding the future threat to and the ancient history of the planet. A bright star in the outer space galaxy of science fiction, C.F. Bentley provides a strong tale.
Harriet Klausner
C.F. Bentley
Daw, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780756404857
Chaos is the operative word in outer space in the distant future. The Human Confederate Star System (CSS) is at war with the Marillon Empire, which controls numerous avian based inhabitants. Harmony and its colony plants have closed itself from the rest of the universe; refusing to allow their orbs to be polluted. However the two confrontational empires will not allow the Harmony Empire to remain neutral because both hostile sides need Badger Metal only produced on Harmony; that metal makes navigating and communicating much easier in hyperspace.
When a quake hits a Harmony factory, worker Sissy sings to the core of the planet to stop the tremors from reoccurring. She gives voice to the prophecy and comes to the attention of the High Priest Gregor, who seeks a new High Priestess since the incumbent just died in the quake. The people adore Sissy for the changes she is bringing to a world that thrives on status quo to a dangerous fault. Jake, a CSS agent, hopes to exploit her and steal the Badger Metal formula. Instead he finds himself in love risking his life and mission to protect Sissy from assassins who might be local traitors supporting the Maril he anticipates will soon invade. However, when Sissy learns the true history of her planet, she vows to break the strangling caste system in order to save her people by retuning to what the founders hoped for their future.
This stand alone space opera is exciting and filled with action, but caste (pun intended) driven. Readers obtain a full spectrum of the political, economic, cultural and social engines that run the harmonic Empire. Sissy is the glue who holds the story line together as a lowly Worker caste becomes the Temple High Priestess; she and readers learn on the job what she is supposed to perform and as important what to do regarding the future threat to and the ancient history of the planet. A bright star in the outer space galaxy of science fiction, C.F. Bentley provides a strong tale.
Harriet Klausner
Saturday, June 21, 2008
The Black Tower-Louis Bayard
The Black Tower
Louis Bayard
Morrow, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780061687310
In 1818 Paris, Surete Detective Eugene Francois Vidocq investigates the murder of Monsieur Chrétien Leblanc found dead on the street. Searching the victim’s pocket, Vidocq finds a note inside with the name and address of Professor Hector Charpentier of Ecole de Medecine. The sleuth visits Hector to ask why Leblanc wanted to see him. The Doctor offers nothing insisting he does not know the victim and why he needed to see him; or anything in his own defense as an alibi as he has no family and few friends although he swears he is innocent.
As Vidocq keeps digging deeper into the murder, he begins to find a strange thread that goes back to the Revolution. Somehow the deceased is tied back to Prince Louis-Charles, the heir to the French throne, who was allegedly executed in THE BLACK TOWER in Thermidor Year II; or did the Lost Dauphin, who would have been King Louis XVII with the current Bourbon Restoration, somehow survive and is one of these royal pretenders.
In some ways THE BLACK TOWER is a historical fiction novel that delves into whether any of the seemingly scoundrels claiming the throne could be the Lost Dolphin who allegedly was executed as a ten year old child. The murder mystery ties back to the heir, but also takes a back seat to 1818 France as the Bourbons are back on the throne following the defeat of Napoleon. Vidocq is a terrific sleuth (he is a real person who created the Surete) as his homicide investigation in which Charpentier is the prime suspect turns into much more in Louis Bayard’s superb early nineteenth century French thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Louis Bayard
Morrow, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780061687310
In 1818 Paris, Surete Detective Eugene Francois Vidocq investigates the murder of Monsieur Chrétien Leblanc found dead on the street. Searching the victim’s pocket, Vidocq finds a note inside with the name and address of Professor Hector Charpentier of Ecole de Medecine. The sleuth visits Hector to ask why Leblanc wanted to see him. The Doctor offers nothing insisting he does not know the victim and why he needed to see him; or anything in his own defense as an alibi as he has no family and few friends although he swears he is innocent.
As Vidocq keeps digging deeper into the murder, he begins to find a strange thread that goes back to the Revolution. Somehow the deceased is tied back to Prince Louis-Charles, the heir to the French throne, who was allegedly executed in THE BLACK TOWER in Thermidor Year II; or did the Lost Dauphin, who would have been King Louis XVII with the current Bourbon Restoration, somehow survive and is one of these royal pretenders.
In some ways THE BLACK TOWER is a historical fiction novel that delves into whether any of the seemingly scoundrels claiming the throne could be the Lost Dolphin who allegedly was executed as a ten year old child. The murder mystery ties back to the heir, but also takes a back seat to 1818 France as the Bourbons are back on the throne following the defeat of Napoleon. Vidocq is a terrific sleuth (he is a real person who created the Surete) as his homicide investigation in which Charpentier is the prime suspect turns into much more in Louis Bayard’s superb early nineteenth century French thriller.
Harriet Klausner
The Wednesday Sisters-Meg Waite Clayton
The Wednesday Sisters
Meg Waite Clayton
Ballantine, Jun 2008, $23.00
ISBN: 0345502825
In the late 1960s the five young mothers meet in Palo Alto at a park. They have plenty in common as they dream of being much more than just a wife and mother while hearing tales of the counter culture and the Summer of Love. The quintet love books especially those they can escape into so they can forget their somewhat tedious lives especially the household chores, but each sees a different role for the lead female characters based on what they dream they wanted.
Linda loves to run with the Olympics her fantasy goal. Brett literally wants to walk on the moon. Kath insists marriage is all she ever desired, but her four new pals with their aspirations make her wonder if there might be something in addition to being wife and mother. Ally, the only one without a child, wants a kid or three. The leader Midwesterner Frankie, who came to California as her husband came here to work at the fledgling computer business, hopes to be come a writer. THE WEDNESDAY SISTERS inspire each other to go after their aspirations and much more even when they seem impossible in a man’s only world by writing and sharing their tales.
This historical sisterhood tale is an engaging look at the beginning of the “You’ve come a long way baby” feminist movement that brought women into many fields previously taboo epitomized by Hilary’s run (the next one will go all the way). Each of the five women seems real due to their dreams to be more than identified through their husband and kids. Although their individual writings are too sweet even if they read valid for their place in late 1960s society, fans will enjoy this fine tale as before Sally Ride there was a real Brett out there trying to break out of the box.
Harriet Klausner
Meg Waite Clayton
Ballantine, Jun 2008, $23.00
ISBN: 0345502825
In the late 1960s the five young mothers meet in Palo Alto at a park. They have plenty in common as they dream of being much more than just a wife and mother while hearing tales of the counter culture and the Summer of Love. The quintet love books especially those they can escape into so they can forget their somewhat tedious lives especially the household chores, but each sees a different role for the lead female characters based on what they dream they wanted.
Linda loves to run with the Olympics her fantasy goal. Brett literally wants to walk on the moon. Kath insists marriage is all she ever desired, but her four new pals with their aspirations make her wonder if there might be something in addition to being wife and mother. Ally, the only one without a child, wants a kid or three. The leader Midwesterner Frankie, who came to California as her husband came here to work at the fledgling computer business, hopes to be come a writer. THE WEDNESDAY SISTERS inspire each other to go after their aspirations and much more even when they seem impossible in a man’s only world by writing and sharing their tales.
This historical sisterhood tale is an engaging look at the beginning of the “You’ve come a long way baby” feminist movement that brought women into many fields previously taboo epitomized by Hilary’s run (the next one will go all the way). Each of the five women seems real due to their dreams to be more than identified through their husband and kids. Although their individual writings are too sweet even if they read valid for their place in late 1960s society, fans will enjoy this fine tale as before Sally Ride there was a real Brett out there trying to break out of the box.
Harriet Klausner
Burial of the Dead -Michael Hogan
Burial of the Dead
Michael Hogan
St. Martin’s, Aug 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780312367299
Just before she died, wealthy Emma Kost O'Neal sent a note to her grand-niece Manny informing her that she was leaving her large estate to her; she also warns Manny to avoid troubled Matt Wyman.
Sometime after the elderly woman dies, Manny and Matt living together argue over Emma’s alleged suicide. Matt believes Emma odious avaricious lawyer Sullivan killed her. He demands Manny assist him in proving his assertion.
Later Matt using the name Levon resides in an asylum where he plans to escape and return to Manny. Meanwhile she feels she has found her soulmate paralegal Ann Dillon; ironically she is as obsessed as Matt is to prove Sullivan killed Emma. Even the police who first investigated the case, detectives Mark Moraski and David Talmadge argue over Emma’s death, but they look at Matt as a possible killer if a homicide occurred.
This is a complicated somewhat convoluted mystery as the audience wonders whether Emma was murdered or committed suicide. Throughout the superb but Byzantine story line are legal depositions and other evidence that may be facts, interpretations to fit assumptions or red herrings. Fans who want a straightforward investigative thriller need to pass, but those who appreciate a multifaceted thriller will enjoy BURIAL OF THE DEAD because Michael Hogan’s powerful support characters make this tale work.
Harriet Klausner
Michael Hogan
St. Martin’s, Aug 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780312367299
Just before she died, wealthy Emma Kost O'Neal sent a note to her grand-niece Manny informing her that she was leaving her large estate to her; she also warns Manny to avoid troubled Matt Wyman.
Sometime after the elderly woman dies, Manny and Matt living together argue over Emma’s alleged suicide. Matt believes Emma odious avaricious lawyer Sullivan killed her. He demands Manny assist him in proving his assertion.
Later Matt using the name Levon resides in an asylum where he plans to escape and return to Manny. Meanwhile she feels she has found her soulmate paralegal Ann Dillon; ironically she is as obsessed as Matt is to prove Sullivan killed Emma. Even the police who first investigated the case, detectives Mark Moraski and David Talmadge argue over Emma’s death, but they look at Matt as a possible killer if a homicide occurred.
This is a complicated somewhat convoluted mystery as the audience wonders whether Emma was murdered or committed suicide. Throughout the superb but Byzantine story line are legal depositions and other evidence that may be facts, interpretations to fit assumptions or red herrings. Fans who want a straightforward investigative thriller need to pass, but those who appreciate a multifaceted thriller will enjoy BURIAL OF THE DEAD because Michael Hogan’s powerful support characters make this tale work.
Harriet Klausner
Rigged For Murder-Jenifer Leclair
Rigged For Murder
Jenifer Leclair
Durban House, 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 1930754884
Still suffering from PTSD following the death of her police partner Phil and blaming herself, Minneapolis homicide detective Brie Beaumont takes a needed leave of absence. Brie recalls her favorite childhood activity was sailing with her dad in command of their vessel until he died from a heart attack at only forty-eight years old. Realizing being away from the job is not enough as Phil haunts her every step, she leaves town booking a sailing tour starting in Camden Harbor, Maine on the schooner Maine Wind captained by John DuLac.
However, a storm forces the captain and crew to seek haven in Granite Island Harbor. At dinner, Pete McAllister flirts outrageously with Alyssa Lindstrom, whose husband Rob angrily threatens to kill the womanizer and his wife. At 3:15 AM, a screaming hysterical Alyssa wakes up everyone having discovered the murdered corpse of Pete. Detective Beaumont offers her investigative skills and DuLac accepts. Thus the cop and the captain try to uncover the identity of a killer although the jealous spouse is the prime suspect.
Admiration of each other’s talent turns into an attraction between Brie and John that is used to enhance an engaging New Englander whodunit. Readers will believe they are sailing on the schooner and waiting out the storm at Granite Harbor as Jenifer LeClair vividly captures the Maine background in the Windjammer mystery. With a strong support cast including the capable crew, the battling passengers, and the eccentric islanders to add depth, fans will enjoy RIGGED FOR MURDER.
Harriet Klausner
Jenifer Leclair
Durban House, 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 1930754884
Still suffering from PTSD following the death of her police partner Phil and blaming herself, Minneapolis homicide detective Brie Beaumont takes a needed leave of absence. Brie recalls her favorite childhood activity was sailing with her dad in command of their vessel until he died from a heart attack at only forty-eight years old. Realizing being away from the job is not enough as Phil haunts her every step, she leaves town booking a sailing tour starting in Camden Harbor, Maine on the schooner Maine Wind captained by John DuLac.
However, a storm forces the captain and crew to seek haven in Granite Island Harbor. At dinner, Pete McAllister flirts outrageously with Alyssa Lindstrom, whose husband Rob angrily threatens to kill the womanizer and his wife. At 3:15 AM, a screaming hysterical Alyssa wakes up everyone having discovered the murdered corpse of Pete. Detective Beaumont offers her investigative skills and DuLac accepts. Thus the cop and the captain try to uncover the identity of a killer although the jealous spouse is the prime suspect.
Admiration of each other’s talent turns into an attraction between Brie and John that is used to enhance an engaging New Englander whodunit. Readers will believe they are sailing on the schooner and waiting out the storm at Granite Harbor as Jenifer LeClair vividly captures the Maine background in the Windjammer mystery. With a strong support cast including the capable crew, the battling passengers, and the eccentric islanders to add depth, fans will enjoy RIGGED FOR MURDER.
Harriet Klausner
Exile Trust-Vincent O’Neil
Exile Trust
Vincent O’Neil
Dunne, Jul 2008, $23.95
ISBN 9780312380649
In Exile, Florida, bank manager Ollie Morton is concerned that the auditors will find discrepancies especially with the safe deposit boxes as the owners have vanished and payments not received. Police Chief Denny Dannon recommends Ollie hire Frank Cole, who needs work due to REDUCED CIRCUMSTANCES, to find the missing clients. The bank’s safe-deposit manager Susan Wilmington also informs Frank how a strange person with proper identity claimed to be the husband of Dorothea Freehoffer and emptied her box; soon afterward, they learned Dorothea just died in an accident and her spouse was buried two years ago.
Frank investigates the Freehoffer scam that leads him to a real-estate swindle and a two decade old cold case homicide. He begins digging deeper angering those who want illegal activities including fraud and murder to remain a concealed scam.
Frank is terrific as he always is (see MURDER IN EXILE) although the plot is so linear, a reader can see the ending almost from the beginning; on a cloudy day you can see forever (or at least the ending) as there are no twists or red herrings. Still Frank is at his best as his simple tracking job turns into an investigation into fraud and murder. Fans of the series will enjoy his latest efforts in Exile.
Harriet Klausner
Vincent O’Neil
Dunne, Jul 2008, $23.95
ISBN 9780312380649
In Exile, Florida, bank manager Ollie Morton is concerned that the auditors will find discrepancies especially with the safe deposit boxes as the owners have vanished and payments not received. Police Chief Denny Dannon recommends Ollie hire Frank Cole, who needs work due to REDUCED CIRCUMSTANCES, to find the missing clients. The bank’s safe-deposit manager Susan Wilmington also informs Frank how a strange person with proper identity claimed to be the husband of Dorothea Freehoffer and emptied her box; soon afterward, they learned Dorothea just died in an accident and her spouse was buried two years ago.
Frank investigates the Freehoffer scam that leads him to a real-estate swindle and a two decade old cold case homicide. He begins digging deeper angering those who want illegal activities including fraud and murder to remain a concealed scam.
Frank is terrific as he always is (see MURDER IN EXILE) although the plot is so linear, a reader can see the ending almost from the beginning; on a cloudy day you can see forever (or at least the ending) as there are no twists or red herrings. Still Frank is at his best as his simple tracking job turns into an investigation into fraud and murder. Fans of the series will enjoy his latest efforts in Exile.
Harriet Klausner
Fuzzy Navel- J.A. Konrath
Fuzzy Navel
J.A. Konrath
Hyperion. Jul. 2008, $23.95
ISBN 9781401302801
Not long after learning that the most dangerous maniacal criminal Alex Kork committed suicide, that same crazy female arrives at Jacqueline "Jack" Daniels’ house she shares with her mom in the Chicago burbs. The maniac quickly take control tying up with duct tale the homicide cop, her boyfriend Latham, her mom, her police partner Herb; and her wannabe partner Harry. She euphorically begins torturing her prisoners.
Everything abruptly changes for the worse when Jack’s latest enemies, a gang of vigilante snipers, surround the house with the intent of killing everyone inside the abode so they can claim the scalp of a cop or two. At about the same time petty thief Phin joins the festivities by entering Jack’s dwelling. However, Alex and the snipers don’t know Jack if you think she is going to sit idly by taped.
The action is non-stop when someone entering the back of Jack’s house and fails to answer her mom’s question is that you Jack and instead asks where is Jack as the torture begins. The key to the tale is the underlying humor throughout in spite of the growing tension and seriousness of the situation; one more person after another enters the fiasco sort of like the classic Groucho cabin scene on the ship in A Night at the Opera. Yet make no mistake humorous to a degree, FUZZY NAVEL is a serious taut thriller starring a strong cast of fully developed people including that “Korker” of a psychopath.
Harriet Klausner
J.A. Konrath
Hyperion. Jul. 2008, $23.95
ISBN 9781401302801
Not long after learning that the most dangerous maniacal criminal Alex Kork committed suicide, that same crazy female arrives at Jacqueline "Jack" Daniels’ house she shares with her mom in the Chicago burbs. The maniac quickly take control tying up with duct tale the homicide cop, her boyfriend Latham, her mom, her police partner Herb; and her wannabe partner Harry. She euphorically begins torturing her prisoners.
Everything abruptly changes for the worse when Jack’s latest enemies, a gang of vigilante snipers, surround the house with the intent of killing everyone inside the abode so they can claim the scalp of a cop or two. At about the same time petty thief Phin joins the festivities by entering Jack’s dwelling. However, Alex and the snipers don’t know Jack if you think she is going to sit idly by taped.
The action is non-stop when someone entering the back of Jack’s house and fails to answer her mom’s question is that you Jack and instead asks where is Jack as the torture begins. The key to the tale is the underlying humor throughout in spite of the growing tension and seriousness of the situation; one more person after another enters the fiasco sort of like the classic Groucho cabin scene on the ship in A Night at the Opera. Yet make no mistake humorous to a degree, FUZZY NAVEL is a serious taut thriller starring a strong cast of fully developed people including that “Korker” of a psychopath.
Harriet Klausner
Rough Justice-Jack Higgins
Rough Justice
Jack Higgins
Putnam, Aug 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780399155130
On the surface Harry Miller is an ordinary person; an MP who is in realty the counterpart to Blake Johnson, the American President’s top security man. Blake runs the black ops group the Basement, a unit that works outside the law to administer justice and protect the country and its people. Blake and Harry met in Banu, Kosovo; each was there to inspect the country’s leaders and to prevent a Russian Officer Igor Zorin from torching a mosque that would have reignited the fighting.
President Putin and his right hand man Ivan Volkov decide Miller should be taken out and assign the mysterious the Broker, who has never been seen, to contact former IPPI agent Michael Quin. Quinn contacts one of his agents to take out the MP. Miller knows he is under surveillance and being stalked, but takes out the contact killer. He also insures that a plutonium shipment by boat is carefully monitored and tracked all the way. Putin knows that Miller with Major Ferguson’s’s people were responsible (the British version of the Basement) and wants him dead. The plan works only the wrong person dies; Miller with Ferguson’s help will not rest until all those involved in the assassination plot are dead.
Suspense grandmaster Jack Higgins writes another fascinating tense thriller that is loaded with action. Yet with all the non--stop action, the story line also contains the political realties of the world today with insight into Muslim fundamentalists, Russia’s efforts to return to superpower status, the NATO response, and the fragile peace in several places like Northern Ireland. However, as always is the case in a Mr. Higgins’ thriller, his key characters seem real even when they perform seemingly surreal stunts; and yes cold blooded killer Sean Dillon is in the middle of the maelstrom.
Harriet Klausner
Jack Higgins
Putnam, Aug 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780399155130
On the surface Harry Miller is an ordinary person; an MP who is in realty the counterpart to Blake Johnson, the American President’s top security man. Blake runs the black ops group the Basement, a unit that works outside the law to administer justice and protect the country and its people. Blake and Harry met in Banu, Kosovo; each was there to inspect the country’s leaders and to prevent a Russian Officer Igor Zorin from torching a mosque that would have reignited the fighting.
President Putin and his right hand man Ivan Volkov decide Miller should be taken out and assign the mysterious the Broker, who has never been seen, to contact former IPPI agent Michael Quin. Quinn contacts one of his agents to take out the MP. Miller knows he is under surveillance and being stalked, but takes out the contact killer. He also insures that a plutonium shipment by boat is carefully monitored and tracked all the way. Putin knows that Miller with Major Ferguson’s’s people were responsible (the British version of the Basement) and wants him dead. The plan works only the wrong person dies; Miller with Ferguson’s help will not rest until all those involved in the assassination plot are dead.
Suspense grandmaster Jack Higgins writes another fascinating tense thriller that is loaded with action. Yet with all the non--stop action, the story line also contains the political realties of the world today with insight into Muslim fundamentalists, Russia’s efforts to return to superpower status, the NATO response, and the fragile peace in several places like Northern Ireland. However, as always is the case in a Mr. Higgins’ thriller, his key characters seem real even when they perform seemingly surreal stunts; and yes cold blooded killer Sean Dillon is in the middle of the maelstrom.
Harriet Klausner
Sisters of Misery-Megan Kelley Hall
Sisters of Misery
Megan Kelley Hall
Kensington, Aug 2008, $9.95
ISBN: 9780758226792
Hawthorne is right next door to Salem; and at the times of the witch hunts three women were killed on Misery Island. Now Hawthorne is a conservative town that on the surface seems to belong on a postcard. Maddie Crane belongs to the Sisters of Misery, which is led by vicious Kate Endicott. Maddie knows she will never leave the club because she fears what the members will do to her.
She is excited that her coaunt Rebecca, a free spirit and her daughter Cordelia have returned to live in Hawthorne. After a rough start, the Sisters of Misery and Cordelia go to Misery Island. Kate has plans for Cordelia and Maddie passes out when it is her turn to be part of Cordelia’s initiation. When she wakes up the next morning at her home, she does not remember what happened including how she got home. When the Sisters return to Misery Island to free Cordelia, she cannot be found. Afraid of what she and the others might have done, Maddie searches for clues to learn what did occur; unaware that her inquiry will lead to more tragedy.
This young adult fantasy will appeal to older readers as well. The character driven tale contains a gothic tone and atmosphere as the main characters are interesting people who have kept secrets for decades. Maddie is a follower; afraid to lead or leave a group she loathes until the Cordelia incident serves as a catalyst to challenge the power of the Sisters of Misery. There are a crop of new girls to replace their mothers as Sisters who control Hawthorne. Fans will find it difficult at first to accept a young girl like Kate is evil because of her age, but will accept the truth as Megan Kelley Halls makes her malevolence seem genuine. She and Maddie are fascinating antagonists who turn the SISTERS OF MISERY into an enjoyable read.
Harriet Klausner
Megan Kelley Hall
Kensington, Aug 2008, $9.95
ISBN: 9780758226792
Hawthorne is right next door to Salem; and at the times of the witch hunts three women were killed on Misery Island. Now Hawthorne is a conservative town that on the surface seems to belong on a postcard. Maddie Crane belongs to the Sisters of Misery, which is led by vicious Kate Endicott. Maddie knows she will never leave the club because she fears what the members will do to her.
She is excited that her coaunt Rebecca, a free spirit and her daughter Cordelia have returned to live in Hawthorne. After a rough start, the Sisters of Misery and Cordelia go to Misery Island. Kate has plans for Cordelia and Maddie passes out when it is her turn to be part of Cordelia’s initiation. When she wakes up the next morning at her home, she does not remember what happened including how she got home. When the Sisters return to Misery Island to free Cordelia, she cannot be found. Afraid of what she and the others might have done, Maddie searches for clues to learn what did occur; unaware that her inquiry will lead to more tragedy.
This young adult fantasy will appeal to older readers as well. The character driven tale contains a gothic tone and atmosphere as the main characters are interesting people who have kept secrets for decades. Maddie is a follower; afraid to lead or leave a group she loathes until the Cordelia incident serves as a catalyst to challenge the power of the Sisters of Misery. There are a crop of new girls to replace their mothers as Sisters who control Hawthorne. Fans will find it difficult at first to accept a young girl like Kate is evil because of her age, but will accept the truth as Megan Kelley Halls makes her malevolence seem genuine. She and Maddie are fascinating antagonists who turn the SISTERS OF MISERY into an enjoyable read.
Harriet Klausner
Friday, June 20, 2008
Without a Backward Glance-Kate Veitch
Without a Backward Glance
Kate Veitch
Plume, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780452289475
On Christmas Eve 1967 in Melbourne Rosemarie McDonald tells her four preadolescent children (Deborah, Robert, James, and Meredith) she is stepping out to buy lights for the family yuletide tree. She never came home to the dismay of her four children. Instead, she flew to England; her kids were raised by their father, who from that night forward pretended his wife was dead; while Rosemarie never apparently took a backward glance to those she left behind who needed her.
Four decades later, James meets his mother. Rosemarie who has always felt guilty about deserting her children know she must either flee into the night again or try to make amends as best as she can. Her adult children though they have families of their own never recovered from her vanishing as they learned loved ones leave and how to conceal any hurts.
This family drama works because of the four adult children whose personalities differ as they coped with the abandonment in varying ways; four decades later each has big relationship issues as they never recovered from their mom leaving. Rosemarie is terrific as she tries to hide her guilt and remorse from James, but fails. Although her spouse suffering from elderly dementia is somewhat removed from a confrontation with his kids and Rosemarie over welcoming back the person who betrayed them, Kate Veitch provides a strong relationship tale of a shattered family who may find it is too late to reconcile as defense mechanisms have become forty year habits.
Harriet Klausner
Kate Veitch
Plume, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780452289475
On Christmas Eve 1967 in Melbourne Rosemarie McDonald tells her four preadolescent children (Deborah, Robert, James, and Meredith) she is stepping out to buy lights for the family yuletide tree. She never came home to the dismay of her four children. Instead, she flew to England; her kids were raised by their father, who from that night forward pretended his wife was dead; while Rosemarie never apparently took a backward glance to those she left behind who needed her.
Four decades later, James meets his mother. Rosemarie who has always felt guilty about deserting her children know she must either flee into the night again or try to make amends as best as she can. Her adult children though they have families of their own never recovered from her vanishing as they learned loved ones leave and how to conceal any hurts.
This family drama works because of the four adult children whose personalities differ as they coped with the abandonment in varying ways; four decades later each has big relationship issues as they never recovered from their mom leaving. Rosemarie is terrific as she tries to hide her guilt and remorse from James, but fails. Although her spouse suffering from elderly dementia is somewhat removed from a confrontation with his kids and Rosemarie over welcoming back the person who betrayed them, Kate Veitch provides a strong relationship tale of a shattered family who may find it is too late to reconcile as defense mechanisms have become forty year habits.
Harriet Klausner
Seduction Becomes Her-Shirlee Busbee
Seduction Becomes Her
Shirlee Busbee
Zebra, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780821780268
Daphne Beaumont has always been there for her family as she loves them. When her brother inherits a title and estate in Cornwall, she expects a rise in their standard of living. She hopes the new affluence will enable her to find happiness.
Charles Weston has come to Cornwall looking for closure; he wants to know more about the death of his odious younger half-brother Raoul. When he and Daphne are trapped inside a cave by an avalanche, he knows they must marry to avoid a scandal. Daphne is attracted to Charles, but has doubts about marrying him as she just wants time to take care of herself following years of family responsibility. However, someone else has caused problems for Charles and Daphne that makes a scandal seem like a Hyde Park picnic; he assumes his sibling the “Monster” who allegedly died two years ago somehow survived his lethal wounds and still lives.
SEDUCTION BECOMES HER is an engaging historical romance starring two likable protagonists who fall in love, but the potential scandal, their family histories, and an unknown villain make it seem that they will never be together. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Charles, obsessing with a need to know, arrives in Cornwall; the locale adds freshness to this fine Regency romantic suspense that fans will want to read Shirlee Busbee’s fine tale of love and danger.
Harriet Klausner
Shirlee Busbee
Zebra, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780821780268
Daphne Beaumont has always been there for her family as she loves them. When her brother inherits a title and estate in Cornwall, she expects a rise in their standard of living. She hopes the new affluence will enable her to find happiness.
Charles Weston has come to Cornwall looking for closure; he wants to know more about the death of his odious younger half-brother Raoul. When he and Daphne are trapped inside a cave by an avalanche, he knows they must marry to avoid a scandal. Daphne is attracted to Charles, but has doubts about marrying him as she just wants time to take care of herself following years of family responsibility. However, someone else has caused problems for Charles and Daphne that makes a scandal seem like a Hyde Park picnic; he assumes his sibling the “Monster” who allegedly died two years ago somehow survived his lethal wounds and still lives.
SEDUCTION BECOMES HER is an engaging historical romance starring two likable protagonists who fall in love, but the potential scandal, their family histories, and an unknown villain make it seem that they will never be together. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Charles, obsessing with a need to know, arrives in Cornwall; the locale adds freshness to this fine Regency romantic suspense that fans will want to read Shirlee Busbee’s fine tale of love and danger.
Harriet Klausner
Wind River-Tom Morrisey
Wind River
Tom Morrisey
Bethany House, Jul 2008, $13.99
ISBN: 9780764203473
His time in combat in Iraq still haunts Tyler Perkins; just ask his beleaguered wife Angela. Thus he has a second reason to take his octogenarian friend Soren Andeman fly fishing; the first being he promised to do so. The pair travels to WIND RIVER, Idaho for some getaway time.
However, the R&R that Tyler expected is nuked when Soren reveals the real reason he wanted to come to Wind River, a place he has been to before. His dark secret frightens Tyler and if revealed could hurt those nearby including someone special to the eighty-six years old man. However, before he can come to grips with what Soren told him, the weather turns ugly making this respite into a battle of survival.
This is an excellent buddy tale as an elderly honorable man with a troubling secret, a just as honorable vet with post traumatic stress disorder and the weather make for a deep character driven thriller. The story line is driven by the duel fuels of doing the right thing and surviving. Readers will relish this compelling tale as two men decades apart in age seek forgiveness and redemption in the wilderness, but as they battle to survive realize where they must truly go to achieve atonement. WIND RIVER is an excellent inspirational thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Tom Morrisey
Bethany House, Jul 2008, $13.99
ISBN: 9780764203473
His time in combat in Iraq still haunts Tyler Perkins; just ask his beleaguered wife Angela. Thus he has a second reason to take his octogenarian friend Soren Andeman fly fishing; the first being he promised to do so. The pair travels to WIND RIVER, Idaho for some getaway time.
However, the R&R that Tyler expected is nuked when Soren reveals the real reason he wanted to come to Wind River, a place he has been to before. His dark secret frightens Tyler and if revealed could hurt those nearby including someone special to the eighty-six years old man. However, before he can come to grips with what Soren told him, the weather turns ugly making this respite into a battle of survival.
This is an excellent buddy tale as an elderly honorable man with a troubling secret, a just as honorable vet with post traumatic stress disorder and the weather make for a deep character driven thriller. The story line is driven by the duel fuels of doing the right thing and surviving. Readers will relish this compelling tale as two men decades apart in age seek forgiveness and redemption in the wilderness, but as they battle to survive realize where they must truly go to achieve atonement. WIND RIVER is an excellent inspirational thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Nailed-Amie Stuart
Nailed
Amie Stuart
Kensington Aphrodisia, Jul 2008, $12.95
ISBN: 9780758218933
In Cielo, Texas, Bonnie James pays her bills by repairing the other apartments in the complex where she lives. She also relishes peeping at the other residents especially when they are into something erotic; she forges sexual fantasies about many of them from her erotic distance.
On a late night, setting up surveillance at an apartment complex in Cielo where he seeks Julie Burt or her sister Karen Lyons at where he thinks is the end of the world, bounty hunter Wynn Collier notices the beautiful Peeping Thomasina. He knows to ignore her and stick with the stakeout, but she makes the torrid evening sweltering. He decides to pay the voyeur a visit to see if he can teach her a sexual encounter of the first kind is much more gratifying than that of the third kind.
This is an exciting erotic romantic suspense that grips the audience the first time the bounty hunter sees the voyeur and never slows down even with a few obvious but delightful twists. Bonnie and Wynn are a delightful pair as he detours from the mission that his dad sent him on. Amie Stuart NAILED this fine tale due to the lead coupling.
Harriet Klausner
Amie Stuart
Kensington Aphrodisia, Jul 2008, $12.95
ISBN: 9780758218933
In Cielo, Texas, Bonnie James pays her bills by repairing the other apartments in the complex where she lives. She also relishes peeping at the other residents especially when they are into something erotic; she forges sexual fantasies about many of them from her erotic distance.
On a late night, setting up surveillance at an apartment complex in Cielo where he seeks Julie Burt or her sister Karen Lyons at where he thinks is the end of the world, bounty hunter Wynn Collier notices the beautiful Peeping Thomasina. He knows to ignore her and stick with the stakeout, but she makes the torrid evening sweltering. He decides to pay the voyeur a visit to see if he can teach her a sexual encounter of the first kind is much more gratifying than that of the third kind.
This is an exciting erotic romantic suspense that grips the audience the first time the bounty hunter sees the voyeur and never slows down even with a few obvious but delightful twists. Bonnie and Wynn are a delightful pair as he detours from the mission that his dad sent him on. Amie Stuart NAILED this fine tale due to the lead coupling.
Harriet Klausner
Always a Mother-Linda Warren
Always a Mother
Linda Warren
Harlequin SuperRomance, Jun 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373782444
They were high school sweethearts, who had kids as teens. Dean became a football star while Claire stayed home to raise their children. Now the kids are grown and Claire looks forward to finally completing her college degree and obtaining a full time job outside the home that she put on hold.
There is only one problem confronting Claire; she is pregnant for the first time in two decades. Stunned she is not sure she wants to raise another child and give up her plans. Needing to be by herself, Claire leaves Dean to think. Accompanied by their love letters, she slowly rereads how much her spouse loved her then and that is true now.
Linda Warren provides an entertaining contemporary family crisis tale that stars a wonderful nurturing woman who needs to find herself beyond being a loving mother and wife. This is clearly Claire’s tale as she loves her family, but is not sure she can raise a late life child, but in isolation begins to conclude she will always be a mother and always love her husband and kids including the unborn one. Although the need to leave seems off kilter for Claire even if she feels over the edge; fans will appreciate ALWAYS A MOTHER as Claire ponders whether she can handle raising a child again, remain a loving devoted wife, and work at obtaining her degree.
Harriet Klausner
Linda Warren
Harlequin SuperRomance, Jun 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373782444
They were high school sweethearts, who had kids as teens. Dean became a football star while Claire stayed home to raise their children. Now the kids are grown and Claire looks forward to finally completing her college degree and obtaining a full time job outside the home that she put on hold.
There is only one problem confronting Claire; she is pregnant for the first time in two decades. Stunned she is not sure she wants to raise another child and give up her plans. Needing to be by herself, Claire leaves Dean to think. Accompanied by their love letters, she slowly rereads how much her spouse loved her then and that is true now.
Linda Warren provides an entertaining contemporary family crisis tale that stars a wonderful nurturing woman who needs to find herself beyond being a loving mother and wife. This is clearly Claire’s tale as she loves her family, but is not sure she can raise a late life child, but in isolation begins to conclude she will always be a mother and always love her husband and kids including the unborn one. Although the need to leave seems off kilter for Claire even if she feels over the edge; fans will appreciate ALWAYS A MOTHER as Claire ponders whether she can handle raising a child again, remain a loving devoted wife, and work at obtaining her degree.
Harriet Klausner
The Black Path-Asa Larsson
The Black Path
Asa Larsson
Delta, Aug 2008, $12.00
ISBN: 9780385341011
In Kiruna, Sweden, the corpse of the woman found on the frozen lake did not require an autopsy to see she was tortured. Police Inspectors Anna-Maria Mella and Sven-Erik Stainacke lead the investigation into identifying who the Jane Doe is and why she was so brutally battered.
Anna-Maria learns who the deceased is and her connections as a superstar employee at Kallis Mining, an international company with incredible connections at the top of Sweden, Europe and beyond. Chief Prosecutor Alf Bjornfot knows if they are to make a case against politically connected Mauri Kallis, he needs a special top gun at the scene. He asks attorney Rebecka Martinsson to assist them as they make inquiries into the CEO of the firm whose assistant was found murdered on that frozen lake. Rebecka agrees as she needs work to move past her last harrowing case (see THE BLOOD SPLIT) in which she was physically injured and hospitalized and still emotionally traumatized. None of the participants yet realize how convoluted and complex the motive for the homicide is and how dangerous trying to prove it will be.
This is an exhilarating Swedish police procedural legal thriller. The investigation is enhanced by insight into the lead females especially Rebecka who has not moved past the beating she took on her previous case and though she puts up a strong front still has qualms and doubts. The whodunit is well written with red herrings and plausible twists starting with brainstorming to identify who the victim is. The motive is especially fascinating as it seems just out of reach of the prosecution, the cops and the reader yet all the clues are laid out for the audience to know why. Asa Larsson provides a deep entertaining but icy Northern Swedish homicide thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Asa Larsson
Delta, Aug 2008, $12.00
ISBN: 9780385341011
In Kiruna, Sweden, the corpse of the woman found on the frozen lake did not require an autopsy to see she was tortured. Police Inspectors Anna-Maria Mella and Sven-Erik Stainacke lead the investigation into identifying who the Jane Doe is and why she was so brutally battered.
Anna-Maria learns who the deceased is and her connections as a superstar employee at Kallis Mining, an international company with incredible connections at the top of Sweden, Europe and beyond. Chief Prosecutor Alf Bjornfot knows if they are to make a case against politically connected Mauri Kallis, he needs a special top gun at the scene. He asks attorney Rebecka Martinsson to assist them as they make inquiries into the CEO of the firm whose assistant was found murdered on that frozen lake. Rebecka agrees as she needs work to move past her last harrowing case (see THE BLOOD SPLIT) in which she was physically injured and hospitalized and still emotionally traumatized. None of the participants yet realize how convoluted and complex the motive for the homicide is and how dangerous trying to prove it will be.
This is an exhilarating Swedish police procedural legal thriller. The investigation is enhanced by insight into the lead females especially Rebecka who has not moved past the beating she took on her previous case and though she puts up a strong front still has qualms and doubts. The whodunit is well written with red herrings and plausible twists starting with brainstorming to identify who the victim is. The motive is especially fascinating as it seems just out of reach of the prosecution, the cops and the reader yet all the clues are laid out for the audience to know why. Asa Larsson provides a deep entertaining but icy Northern Swedish homicide thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Fisherman's Bend-Linda Greenlaw
Fisherman's Bend
Linda Greenlaw
Hyperion, Jul 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9781401322359
In Green Haven, Maine Marine Safety Consultants hire Florida transplant Jane Bunker to investigate accidents and vandalism reported on the research vessel Quest authorized to explore the floor bed of Cobscook Bay. The Knox County Assistant Sheriff and her sexagenarian friend Cal visit the vessel to evaluate the damaged equipment.
After finishing her assessment, the pair head back to shore only to see a floating unmanned lobster boat, the Eva B. They search for survivors as they assume anyone alive needs assistance; instead they find a corpse in the nets, who is a Guatemalan crewmember and wonder where Captain Parker is. Jane keeps searching not realizing the danger she is in until the mishaps begin or the other illegal work Parker performed.
The second Jane Bunker Maine mystery (see SLIPKNOT – not read by me) is a fabulous police procedural especially when the heroine is at sea; as readers will feel they are with her to guide the audience with little nautical things like climbing in and out of a moving lobster boat. The story line is fast-paced and the battle between environmentalists and competing economic interests over the use of the sea make for a wonderful whodunit as many people have strong green motives. Maritime mystery fans will appreciate this well written regional cozy especially when Jane takes us on the water.
Harriet Klausner
Linda Greenlaw
Hyperion, Jul 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9781401322359
In Green Haven, Maine Marine Safety Consultants hire Florida transplant Jane Bunker to investigate accidents and vandalism reported on the research vessel Quest authorized to explore the floor bed of Cobscook Bay. The Knox County Assistant Sheriff and her sexagenarian friend Cal visit the vessel to evaluate the damaged equipment.
After finishing her assessment, the pair head back to shore only to see a floating unmanned lobster boat, the Eva B. They search for survivors as they assume anyone alive needs assistance; instead they find a corpse in the nets, who is a Guatemalan crewmember and wonder where Captain Parker is. Jane keeps searching not realizing the danger she is in until the mishaps begin or the other illegal work Parker performed.
The second Jane Bunker Maine mystery (see SLIPKNOT – not read by me) is a fabulous police procedural especially when the heroine is at sea; as readers will feel they are with her to guide the audience with little nautical things like climbing in and out of a moving lobster boat. The story line is fast-paced and the battle between environmentalists and competing economic interests over the use of the sea make for a wonderful whodunit as many people have strong green motives. Maritime mystery fans will appreciate this well written regional cozy especially when Jane takes us on the water.
Harriet Klausner
The Last Patriot-Brad Thor
The Last Patriot
Brad Thor
Atria, Jul 2008, $26.00
ISBN: 141654383X
Former Navy SEAL thirty-seven year old Scot Horvath has left Homeland Security to get out of the covert operations business and start a fresh new life away from mass murdering terrorists who claim their ideology is blessed by God. He wants a normal life and feels as he closes in on forty undercover operations is a younger persons game. He also remains shook up that his significant other former Naval Explosive Ordinance Technician Tracy Hastings lost an eye and almost her life and almost died at the hands of some rabid avenging assassin.
They talk at a Paris café when Scot notices an Arab setting off an IED that targets University of Virginia Professor Anthony Nichols, who as he vanishes turns out to be a lot more than a highly regarded history teacher. The two retirees soon learn of the discovery of a seventh century version of the Koran in which the Prophet Mohammed informed his disciples of a radically different vision than that found in the Koran of today; if the lost revelation is published the Jihad extremists would lose much of their religious claims. Clues lead to President Jefferson’s war on the Tripoli pirates and the third president’s notes in an original copy of Don Quixote. Although they expect to learn more investigating Monticello, the American in Paris and President Jack Rutledge must end their estrangement caused by the incidents in his last assignment (see THE FIRST COMMANDMENT) while the Muslim extremists want the two Americans stopped.
This is an exhilarating thriller mindful of the Da Vinci Code but different that will hook the audience from the moment that Scot and Tracy learn of the lost revelation and never slows down until the final incredible spin. A critical key to this engaging tale is that the romantic relationship between the lead couple is limited as the inquiry and safety supersede everything. Brad Thor provides a strong insightful tale that links seemingly unconnected historical dots leading to the contemporary sleuthing by Scot and Tracy; accompanied by enthralled fans of the series.
Harriet Klausner
Brad Thor
Atria, Jul 2008, $26.00
ISBN: 141654383X
Former Navy SEAL thirty-seven year old Scot Horvath has left Homeland Security to get out of the covert operations business and start a fresh new life away from mass murdering terrorists who claim their ideology is blessed by God. He wants a normal life and feels as he closes in on forty undercover operations is a younger persons game. He also remains shook up that his significant other former Naval Explosive Ordinance Technician Tracy Hastings lost an eye and almost her life and almost died at the hands of some rabid avenging assassin.
They talk at a Paris café when Scot notices an Arab setting off an IED that targets University of Virginia Professor Anthony Nichols, who as he vanishes turns out to be a lot more than a highly regarded history teacher. The two retirees soon learn of the discovery of a seventh century version of the Koran in which the Prophet Mohammed informed his disciples of a radically different vision than that found in the Koran of today; if the lost revelation is published the Jihad extremists would lose much of their religious claims. Clues lead to President Jefferson’s war on the Tripoli pirates and the third president’s notes in an original copy of Don Quixote. Although they expect to learn more investigating Monticello, the American in Paris and President Jack Rutledge must end their estrangement caused by the incidents in his last assignment (see THE FIRST COMMANDMENT) while the Muslim extremists want the two Americans stopped.
This is an exhilarating thriller mindful of the Da Vinci Code but different that will hook the audience from the moment that Scot and Tracy learn of the lost revelation and never slows down until the final incredible spin. A critical key to this engaging tale is that the romantic relationship between the lead couple is limited as the inquiry and safety supersede everything. Brad Thor provides a strong insightful tale that links seemingly unconnected historical dots leading to the contemporary sleuthing by Scot and Tracy; accompanied by enthralled fans of the series.
Harriet Klausner
Thursday, June 19, 2008
The Queen's Lady- Barbara Kyle
The Queen's Lady
Barbara Kyle
Kensington, Jul 2008, $15.00
ISBN: 9780758225443
In 1527 London, women have few choices they can make. To Honor Larke she can select between a marriage that sounds like incarceration or serving Her Majesty, Queen Catherine of Aragon. She chooses the latter as the court will be exciting while marriage will be boring; in either case she knows she must obey.
After informing her guardian, Sir Thomas More, Honor joins the court of Henry VIII. However, she quickly is appalled at how poorly the monarch and his supplicants scorn the queen while kissing the king’s butt. Honor becomes outraged when the King humiliates his wife by demanding Rome grant him a divorce while he plays around with Anne Boleyn. Loyal to her Queen and her friend, Honor carries letters to her Majesty’s Queen's allies that if caught will behead her for seditious acts. All is well until that foppish cavalier whom she desires, Richard Thornleigh, catches her.
Intrigue, betrayal and avarice are the fuels of King Henry’s court as THE QUEEN’S LADY quickly learns. Honor lives up to her name as she feels a strong loyalty to the tossed aside Queen and acts on her fidelity at the risk to her life. Thornleigh is actually a more interesting character than the title protagonist as the audience is not sure whether he is an early sixteenth century Pimpernel, a genuine fop, a traitor or a “secret agent”. Fans of historical fiction with a romantic subplot enhancing the era will enjoy Barbara Kyle’s deep look at King Henry’s first marriage that had ramifications across Europe.
Harriet Klausner
Barbara Kyle
Kensington, Jul 2008, $15.00
ISBN: 9780758225443
In 1527 London, women have few choices they can make. To Honor Larke she can select between a marriage that sounds like incarceration or serving Her Majesty, Queen Catherine of Aragon. She chooses the latter as the court will be exciting while marriage will be boring; in either case she knows she must obey.
After informing her guardian, Sir Thomas More, Honor joins the court of Henry VIII. However, she quickly is appalled at how poorly the monarch and his supplicants scorn the queen while kissing the king’s butt. Honor becomes outraged when the King humiliates his wife by demanding Rome grant him a divorce while he plays around with Anne Boleyn. Loyal to her Queen and her friend, Honor carries letters to her Majesty’s Queen's allies that if caught will behead her for seditious acts. All is well until that foppish cavalier whom she desires, Richard Thornleigh, catches her.
Intrigue, betrayal and avarice are the fuels of King Henry’s court as THE QUEEN’S LADY quickly learns. Honor lives up to her name as she feels a strong loyalty to the tossed aside Queen and acts on her fidelity at the risk to her life. Thornleigh is actually a more interesting character than the title protagonist as the audience is not sure whether he is an early sixteenth century Pimpernel, a genuine fop, a traitor or a “secret agent”. Fans of historical fiction with a romantic subplot enhancing the era will enjoy Barbara Kyle’s deep look at King Henry’s first marriage that had ramifications across Europe.
Harriet Klausner
By Appointment Only-Janice Maynard
By Appointment Only
Janice Maynard
Signet, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780451224071
In downtown Orlando, Hannah Quarles races out of a church almost knocking over passerby Morgan Webber, who thinks she is a runaway bride as she apologizes and races across the street while car horns explode. However, he reappraises his first impression when no one races out of the church. She takes something from her car and runs back into the church. He follows only to see the elderly bride Miss Beverly needing her pills due to angina. Unable to resist, Morgan is in love although two minutes earlier he would have scorned the notion of at first sight.
Morgan begins to court Hannah, but though she seems to like him too, she hides her feelings behind a veneer of cynical acerbic humor. Eventually he gets her to admit she loves him too. They become engaged, but she suffers from commitment phobia so they go for premarital counseling, but will that and his love be enough to persuade Hannah not to become a runaway bride.
Tying heat with jocularity, Janice Maynard provides an engaging contemporary romance in which the hero knows what he wants from their first nudging encounter while the heroine fears what she wants. These two protagonists, supported by a strong secondary cast mostly the energetic geriatric generation, make for a fun time in Orlando.
Harriet Klausner
Janice Maynard
Signet, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780451224071
In downtown Orlando, Hannah Quarles races out of a church almost knocking over passerby Morgan Webber, who thinks she is a runaway bride as she apologizes and races across the street while car horns explode. However, he reappraises his first impression when no one races out of the church. She takes something from her car and runs back into the church. He follows only to see the elderly bride Miss Beverly needing her pills due to angina. Unable to resist, Morgan is in love although two minutes earlier he would have scorned the notion of at first sight.
Morgan begins to court Hannah, but though she seems to like him too, she hides her feelings behind a veneer of cynical acerbic humor. Eventually he gets her to admit she loves him too. They become engaged, but she suffers from commitment phobia so they go for premarital counseling, but will that and his love be enough to persuade Hannah not to become a runaway bride.
Tying heat with jocularity, Janice Maynard provides an engaging contemporary romance in which the hero knows what he wants from their first nudging encounter while the heroine fears what she wants. These two protagonists, supported by a strong secondary cast mostly the energetic geriatric generation, make for a fun time in Orlando.
Harriet Klausner
The King's Favorite-Susan Holloway Scott
The King's Favorite
Susan Holloway Scott
NAL, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780451224064
After two decades at the top of her profession Nell Gwynn “never claimed to be a lady”. However, the royal mistress was proud how far she climbed from being a young teen in 1661 London working at Madam Ross’ bawdy house. In 1662 at thirteen she obtains her first “guardian” Mr. Duncan who protects her. A year later, Nell obtains works as an orange seller at the Royal Theater where the recently returned to the throne King Charles Stuart likes what he sees. She goes on stage and soon leaves the theater to perform her greatest and longest running role, two decades at Whitehall; where lying backstabbers invoke the name of God, country and other babble to claim the moral high ground. However, she is the only one who lightens the load of King Charles II.
This is an entertaining raunchy fictionalized memoir that brings alive from an “insider’s” perspective a transformation period in English history as Cromwell is out and the Stuarts are back in. Nell comes across as intelligent and witty as she uses double entendres to get the better of hypocrites who claim to know what is morally best for others (sounds so contemporarily familiar). Genre fans will appreciate the life and times of THE KING’S FAVORITE, as the “DUCHESS” of biographical fiction Susan Holloway Scott provides an insightful seventeenth century tale.
Harriet Klausner
Susan Holloway Scott
NAL, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780451224064
After two decades at the top of her profession Nell Gwynn “never claimed to be a lady”. However, the royal mistress was proud how far she climbed from being a young teen in 1661 London working at Madam Ross’ bawdy house. In 1662 at thirteen she obtains her first “guardian” Mr. Duncan who protects her. A year later, Nell obtains works as an orange seller at the Royal Theater where the recently returned to the throne King Charles Stuart likes what he sees. She goes on stage and soon leaves the theater to perform her greatest and longest running role, two decades at Whitehall; where lying backstabbers invoke the name of God, country and other babble to claim the moral high ground. However, she is the only one who lightens the load of King Charles II.
This is an entertaining raunchy fictionalized memoir that brings alive from an “insider’s” perspective a transformation period in English history as Cromwell is out and the Stuarts are back in. Nell comes across as intelligent and witty as she uses double entendres to get the better of hypocrites who claim to know what is morally best for others (sounds so contemporarily familiar). Genre fans will appreciate the life and times of THE KING’S FAVORITE, as the “DUCHESS” of biographical fiction Susan Holloway Scott provides an insightful seventeenth century tale.
Harriet Klausner
The Blackstone Key-Rose Melikan
The Blackstone Key
Rose Melikan
Touchstone, Aug 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9781416560807
In 1795, young Mary Finch realizes she has no prospects and with her family poor must take the only job she can as a teacher at Mrs. Bunbury’s School for Young Ladies. The thought of a future in hell makes Mary ill, but she has no other option.
When she receives an invitation from her estranged wealthy Uncle Edward to visit him, Mary jumps at the chance as she hopes he will help her improve her financial status though the rift between her parents and him has been over two decades long. Thus she rushes immediately from Cambridge to Ipswich and ultimately near Lindham in Suffolk, but from the onset the trip is not carefree or tedious. Even before leaving town a highly anticipated horse race in Newmarket interferes with the beginning of her journey. Along the way she meets a dying man who warns her to be careful as nothing is quite like it seems as freetrader smugglers, English operatives and the French work coastal Suffolk while the two countries are at war. Two brave men offer her protection; military expert Captain Holland and social charmer Mr. Déprez, but she wonders can she trust either of them?
This terrific historical fiction in some ways is a coming of age tale as naive sweet Mary receives quite an education from the start to the finish. The story line is fast-paced and vivid as 1795 England is brought to life. However, it is the support characters who Mary meets in her travels who turn THE BLACKSTONE KEY into a strong thriller. None are quite what Mary and the readers first believe they are as Rose Melikan provides a fully developed cast yet uses sleight of the hand to shrewdly fool the audience and heroine; this adds suspense as Mary begins to wonder who you trust if anyone. Fans will appreciate this deep late eighteenth century tale of intrigue.
Harriet Klausner
Rose Melikan
Touchstone, Aug 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9781416560807
In 1795, young Mary Finch realizes she has no prospects and with her family poor must take the only job she can as a teacher at Mrs. Bunbury’s School for Young Ladies. The thought of a future in hell makes Mary ill, but she has no other option.
When she receives an invitation from her estranged wealthy Uncle Edward to visit him, Mary jumps at the chance as she hopes he will help her improve her financial status though the rift between her parents and him has been over two decades long. Thus she rushes immediately from Cambridge to Ipswich and ultimately near Lindham in Suffolk, but from the onset the trip is not carefree or tedious. Even before leaving town a highly anticipated horse race in Newmarket interferes with the beginning of her journey. Along the way she meets a dying man who warns her to be careful as nothing is quite like it seems as freetrader smugglers, English operatives and the French work coastal Suffolk while the two countries are at war. Two brave men offer her protection; military expert Captain Holland and social charmer Mr. Déprez, but she wonders can she trust either of them?
This terrific historical fiction in some ways is a coming of age tale as naive sweet Mary receives quite an education from the start to the finish. The story line is fast-paced and vivid as 1795 England is brought to life. However, it is the support characters who Mary meets in her travels who turn THE BLACKSTONE KEY into a strong thriller. None are quite what Mary and the readers first believe they are as Rose Melikan provides a fully developed cast yet uses sleight of the hand to shrewdly fool the audience and heroine; this adds suspense as Mary begins to wonder who you trust if anyone. Fans will appreciate this deep late eighteenth century tale of intrigue.
Harriet Klausner
Dancing with Fire-Susan Kearney
Dancing with Fire
Susan Kearney
Tor, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780765358455
When her mom died four years ago, the oldest daughter Kaylin Danner gave up her dream of dancing on Broadway to help her dad Dr. Henry Danner raise her younger sisters in Tampa, Florida. Now twenty-four years old and a bit old to be starting on stage, the ballet dance instructor plans to take a chance. However fate intervenes when her dad’s lab explodes with him inside.
Soon afterward, someone breaks and enters into the family home vandalizing the place in search of something. Kaylin assumes it is her father’s scientific work involving bio-diesel fuel. She turns to her father’s business partner, Sawyer Scott to help her keep her siblings safe. However, though ruthless adversaries want the formula so they kidnap Kaylin’s sister.
Even before the lab explosion and subsequent inferno, readers will feel the heat between Kaylin and her father’s younger partner Sawyer, which sets the tempo for an exciting timely romantic suspense thriller. The fast-paced story line never slows down as ruthless people want to possess at any human cost the bio-diesel fuel formula the late Dr. Danner and Dr. Scott were working on. The support cast enhances the strong romantic thriller as Susan Kearney turns up the Florida summer heat with this exhilarating fiery tale.
Harriet Klausner
Susan Kearney
Tor, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780765358455
When her mom died four years ago, the oldest daughter Kaylin Danner gave up her dream of dancing on Broadway to help her dad Dr. Henry Danner raise her younger sisters in Tampa, Florida. Now twenty-four years old and a bit old to be starting on stage, the ballet dance instructor plans to take a chance. However fate intervenes when her dad’s lab explodes with him inside.
Soon afterward, someone breaks and enters into the family home vandalizing the place in search of something. Kaylin assumes it is her father’s scientific work involving bio-diesel fuel. She turns to her father’s business partner, Sawyer Scott to help her keep her siblings safe. However, though ruthless adversaries want the formula so they kidnap Kaylin’s sister.
Even before the lab explosion and subsequent inferno, readers will feel the heat between Kaylin and her father’s younger partner Sawyer, which sets the tempo for an exciting timely romantic suspense thriller. The fast-paced story line never slows down as ruthless people want to possess at any human cost the bio-diesel fuel formula the late Dr. Danner and Dr. Scott were working on. The support cast enhances the strong romantic thriller as Susan Kearney turns up the Florida summer heat with this exhilarating fiery tale.
Harriet Klausner
Disclosure-Nancy Holder
Disclosure
Nancy Holder
Silhouette Athena Force, Jul 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373389834
NSA operative and Athena graduate Allison Gracelyn code name Delphi is stunned when she realizes she has been framed as a traitor. Only a superior could have accomplished this deed that is so perfectly set up that anyone who did not know Allison would believe she did the deed; she considers perhaps her new boss might be involved while Agent Selena Shaw Jones warns her that an FBI operative is at the center of the frame.
Besides needing to clear her name, Allison knows that a brilliant but insane daughter of the late Arachne is planning a major terrorist attack on the United States. While on the run, she must find a way to prevent the aerial bombings. Her only hope is with her NSA contact Morgan Rush, who has been told to bring her in dead or alive. However, he thinks someone high up in the NSA has set her up so instead of securing her, he joins forces with her to prevent a disaster on American soil and exposing the traitor.
This strong entry in a powerfully exciting romantic suspense series hooks the readers from the onset as Allison knows immediately (from the SSJ text message she is “compromised”) the exorbitant cost to her mom and the Athena Academy. Thus the heroine feels some guilt as she ponders what she could have done to keep the school she cherishes and the mom she loves and admires from harm. When she and Morgan hook up, readers will be in for quite a ride as the tension from the pending attack is exponentially raised by the tension between them. Nancy Holder writes a fabulous Athena Force romantic suspense thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Nancy Holder
Silhouette Athena Force, Jul 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373389834
NSA operative and Athena graduate Allison Gracelyn code name Delphi is stunned when she realizes she has been framed as a traitor. Only a superior could have accomplished this deed that is so perfectly set up that anyone who did not know Allison would believe she did the deed; she considers perhaps her new boss might be involved while Agent Selena Shaw Jones warns her that an FBI operative is at the center of the frame.
Besides needing to clear her name, Allison knows that a brilliant but insane daughter of the late Arachne is planning a major terrorist attack on the United States. While on the run, she must find a way to prevent the aerial bombings. Her only hope is with her NSA contact Morgan Rush, who has been told to bring her in dead or alive. However, he thinks someone high up in the NSA has set her up so instead of securing her, he joins forces with her to prevent a disaster on American soil and exposing the traitor.
This strong entry in a powerfully exciting romantic suspense series hooks the readers from the onset as Allison knows immediately (from the SSJ text message she is “compromised”) the exorbitant cost to her mom and the Athena Academy. Thus the heroine feels some guilt as she ponders what she could have done to keep the school she cherishes and the mom she loves and admires from harm. When she and Morgan hook up, readers will be in for quite a ride as the tension from the pending attack is exponentially raised by the tension between them. Nancy Holder writes a fabulous Athena Force romantic suspense thriller.
Harriet Klausner
If It’s Not One Thing, It’s a Murder-Liz Wolfe
If It’s Not One Thing, It’s a Murder
Liz Wolfe
Medallion, Aug 2008, $7.95
ISBN: 9781933836393
Skye Williams believes her marriage of over two decades to Craig is fine until she finds an amazon woman’s lingerie under his side of their mattress. She confronts Craig who denies he has a mistress, but confesses he is a cross dresser. Skye is not happy with his confession, but believes him until she finds him naked in bed with a man.
With no place to go except the mini-mansion of her friend Bobbie Jo, Skye moves there. When Bobbie Jo’s husband collapses during sex, he is rushed to the hospital where he dies. An autopsy reveals he was given an overdose of beta blockers. His wife is the obvious prime suspect, but other people had motives too especially his son who contests his late dad’s will. At the same time Skye’s married friend Lily has had an affair with two men for over a decade and is thinking of adding a third trophy to her male collection. Skye finds a new job, a place to live and starts dating while mulling over how to explain all that has happened to her eighteen years old daughter. However, she also feels she and her friends are unsafe until the real killer is caught so she begins eliminating suspects one at a time hoping to prove the last one standing is the culprit.
This tale is more a relationship drama than it is an amateur sleuth. The mystery scenes take place in between the friends discussing their male woes and dealing with the men in their lives and the life in their men (paraphrasing Mae West). The whodunit is well plotted though expected, but the three amigas make IF IT’S NOT ONE THING, IT’S A MURDER into a special contemporary tale.
Harriet Klausner
Liz Wolfe
Medallion, Aug 2008, $7.95
ISBN: 9781933836393
Skye Williams believes her marriage of over two decades to Craig is fine until she finds an amazon woman’s lingerie under his side of their mattress. She confronts Craig who denies he has a mistress, but confesses he is a cross dresser. Skye is not happy with his confession, but believes him until she finds him naked in bed with a man.
With no place to go except the mini-mansion of her friend Bobbie Jo, Skye moves there. When Bobbie Jo’s husband collapses during sex, he is rushed to the hospital where he dies. An autopsy reveals he was given an overdose of beta blockers. His wife is the obvious prime suspect, but other people had motives too especially his son who contests his late dad’s will. At the same time Skye’s married friend Lily has had an affair with two men for over a decade and is thinking of adding a third trophy to her male collection. Skye finds a new job, a place to live and starts dating while mulling over how to explain all that has happened to her eighteen years old daughter. However, she also feels she and her friends are unsafe until the real killer is caught so she begins eliminating suspects one at a time hoping to prove the last one standing is the culprit.
This tale is more a relationship drama than it is an amateur sleuth. The mystery scenes take place in between the friends discussing their male woes and dealing with the men in their lives and the life in their men (paraphrasing Mae West). The whodunit is well plotted though expected, but the three amigas make IF IT’S NOT ONE THING, IT’S A MURDER into a special contemporary tale.
Harriet Klausner
Necking-Chris Salvatore
Necking
Chris Salvatore
Pocket, Aug 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 1416560203
Book publicist Gia Felice struggles with keeping in line her horde of supernatural fiction authors. The problem she deals with is that she must keep top secret from the buying human public that her stable consists of writers who not only write novels about the paranormal, they do it from first hand experience. Her clients are mostly vampires or werewolves; though she has an occasional ET to take care of.
Gia vows to remain mortal although some of her stable have offered to change her. She has no problem rejecting their advances except for Johnny the vampire whose intense desire makes her reconsider her position of remaining mortal. Meanwhile as he turns up the heat, another vampiric writer Bella demands she find the vampire who turned her and she believes killed her husband.
Taking an amusing bite out of the urban paranormal trend of vampires, werewolves and other supernatural species, Chris Salvatore provides an entertaining satire that lampoons the underworld occupation of New York. The story line is fast-paced, filled with action and stars a full blooded heroine and an anemic hero who ironically wants to serve her (thank you Twilight Zone). Fans will enjoy this lighthearted satirizing of the latest publishing rage as Ms. Salvatore slices and dices the urban vampiric society affirming that even the undead want to make it in Manhattan by taking a bite of the Big Apple.
Harriet Klausner
Chris Salvatore
Pocket, Aug 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 1416560203
Book publicist Gia Felice struggles with keeping in line her horde of supernatural fiction authors. The problem she deals with is that she must keep top secret from the buying human public that her stable consists of writers who not only write novels about the paranormal, they do it from first hand experience. Her clients are mostly vampires or werewolves; though she has an occasional ET to take care of.
Gia vows to remain mortal although some of her stable have offered to change her. She has no problem rejecting their advances except for Johnny the vampire whose intense desire makes her reconsider her position of remaining mortal. Meanwhile as he turns up the heat, another vampiric writer Bella demands she find the vampire who turned her and she believes killed her husband.
Taking an amusing bite out of the urban paranormal trend of vampires, werewolves and other supernatural species, Chris Salvatore provides an entertaining satire that lampoons the underworld occupation of New York. The story line is fast-paced, filled with action and stars a full blooded heroine and an anemic hero who ironically wants to serve her (thank you Twilight Zone). Fans will enjoy this lighthearted satirizing of the latest publishing rage as Ms. Salvatore slices and dices the urban vampiric society affirming that even the undead want to make it in Manhattan by taking a bite of the Big Apple.
Harriet Klausner
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
The White Mary-Kira Salak
The White Mary
Kira Salak
Holt, Aug 2008, $25.00
ISBN: 978085088472
Globetrotting reporter Marika Vecera adored renowned war correspondent Robert Lewis, who has reported on some of the most heinous genocides humanity has done. Thus she has problems accepting the repot that her hero committed suicide as that is so out of character for a man who would courageously go to the next hot spot to expose atrocities.
When Marika reads a letter from a missionary she holds out hope that Robert is alive somewhere in remote Papua, New Guinea though she wonders why he is there. She decides to learn the truth as to whether he lives and if so why New Guinea.
Marika’s quest is well written and harrowing as she deals with horrific third world conditions including deadly sanitation, unclean water, disease, torture that even Cheney could not redefine otherwise and ceremonial rites of passage murders. However, though obviously a thriller, the insightful look at Marika as she witnesses first hand the horrendous gruesome mistreatment of humans towards other humans is horrific. To mentally survive she has to go numb because if she personalizes the incidents she sees and been embroiled in she would break down due to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Readers will marvel as she keeps a flicker of hope that mankind will learn and redeem itself even as she trots off to the next atrocity.
Harriet Klausner
Kira Salak
Holt, Aug 2008, $25.00
ISBN: 978085088472
Globetrotting reporter Marika Vecera adored renowned war correspondent Robert Lewis, who has reported on some of the most heinous genocides humanity has done. Thus she has problems accepting the repot that her hero committed suicide as that is so out of character for a man who would courageously go to the next hot spot to expose atrocities.
When Marika reads a letter from a missionary she holds out hope that Robert is alive somewhere in remote Papua, New Guinea though she wonders why he is there. She decides to learn the truth as to whether he lives and if so why New Guinea.
Marika’s quest is well written and harrowing as she deals with horrific third world conditions including deadly sanitation, unclean water, disease, torture that even Cheney could not redefine otherwise and ceremonial rites of passage murders. However, though obviously a thriller, the insightful look at Marika as she witnesses first hand the horrendous gruesome mistreatment of humans towards other humans is horrific. To mentally survive she has to go numb because if she personalizes the incidents she sees and been embroiled in she would break down due to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Readers will marvel as she keeps a flicker of hope that mankind will learn and redeem itself even as she trots off to the next atrocity.
Harriet Klausner
No Human Enemy-John Gardner
No Human Enemy
John Gardner
Dunne, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN 9780312376703
In the summer of 1944 a V-1 rocket lands in a London monastery killing several nuns. Reserve Squad police officers Tommy Livermore and Suzie Mountford investigate the tragedy. The two lovers quickly conclude that one of the victims was murdered before the assault occurred while another turns out to be a man.
Mountford and Livermore struggle to identify the victims while wondering if the rocket attack was a ploy to hide the earlier homicide. As they keep digging deeper, they soon begin to believe a plot much wider than a murder case with a diabolical coverup exists, but proof remains elusive.
The fifth Suzie Mountford WWII police procedural (see TROUBLED MIDNIGHT and DAY OF ABSOLUTION) is a terrific entry in a strong historical mystery series that with the recent death of the author may prove to be the last tale. The support cast is a bit more steroetyped than usual (I expected Peter Lorre to appear at any moment), but no one will care as the audience obtains a deep look at 1940s Londoners sacrificing for the war cause while the two cops work a case in which every clue they uncover seems to complicate and convolute the investigation. Try solving a puzzle with many pieces, none of them shaped like the outer rim and no picture. However, as good as the mystery is, 1944 London owns John Gardner’s fine WWII thriller.
Harriet Klausner
John Gardner
Dunne, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN 9780312376703
In the summer of 1944 a V-1 rocket lands in a London monastery killing several nuns. Reserve Squad police officers Tommy Livermore and Suzie Mountford investigate the tragedy. The two lovers quickly conclude that one of the victims was murdered before the assault occurred while another turns out to be a man.
Mountford and Livermore struggle to identify the victims while wondering if the rocket attack was a ploy to hide the earlier homicide. As they keep digging deeper, they soon begin to believe a plot much wider than a murder case with a diabolical coverup exists, but proof remains elusive.
The fifth Suzie Mountford WWII police procedural (see TROUBLED MIDNIGHT and DAY OF ABSOLUTION) is a terrific entry in a strong historical mystery series that with the recent death of the author may prove to be the last tale. The support cast is a bit more steroetyped than usual (I expected Peter Lorre to appear at any moment), but no one will care as the audience obtains a deep look at 1940s Londoners sacrificing for the war cause while the two cops work a case in which every clue they uncover seems to complicate and convolute the investigation. Try solving a puzzle with many pieces, none of them shaped like the outer rim and no picture. However, as good as the mystery is, 1944 London owns John Gardner’s fine WWII thriller.
Harriet Klausner
No Human Enemy-John Gardner
No Human Enemy
John Gardner
Dunne, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN 9780312376703
In the summer of 1944 a V-1 rocket lands in a London monastery killing several nuns. Reserve Squad police officers Tommy Livermore and Suzie Mountford investigate the tragedy. The two lovers quickly conclude that one of the victims was murdered before the assault occurred while another turns out to be a man.
Mountford and Livermore struggle to identify the victims while wondering if the rocket attack was a ploy to hide the earlier homicide. As they keep digging deeper, they soon begin to believe a plot much wider than a murder case with a diabolical coverup exists, but proof remains elusive.
The fifth Suzie Mountford WWII police procedural (see TROUBLED MIDNIGHT and DAY OF ABSOLUTION) is a terrific entry in a strong historical mystery series that with the recent death of the author may prove to be the last tale. The support cast is a bit more steroetyped than usual (I expected Peter Lorre to appear at any moment), but no one will care as the audience obtains a deep look at 1940s Londoners sacrificing for the war cause while the two cops work a case in which every clue they uncover seems to complicate and convolute the investigation. Try solving a puzzle with many pieces, none of them shaped like the outer rim and no picture. However, as good as the mystery is, 1944 London owns John Gardner’s fine WWII thriller.
Harriet Klausner
John Gardner
Dunne, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN 9780312376703
In the summer of 1944 a V-1 rocket lands in a London monastery killing several nuns. Reserve Squad police officers Tommy Livermore and Suzie Mountford investigate the tragedy. The two lovers quickly conclude that one of the victims was murdered before the assault occurred while another turns out to be a man.
Mountford and Livermore struggle to identify the victims while wondering if the rocket attack was a ploy to hide the earlier homicide. As they keep digging deeper, they soon begin to believe a plot much wider than a murder case with a diabolical coverup exists, but proof remains elusive.
The fifth Suzie Mountford WWII police procedural (see TROUBLED MIDNIGHT and DAY OF ABSOLUTION) is a terrific entry in a strong historical mystery series that with the recent death of the author may prove to be the last tale. The support cast is a bit more steroetyped than usual (I expected Peter Lorre to appear at any moment), but no one will care as the audience obtains a deep look at 1940s Londoners sacrificing for the war cause while the two cops work a case in which every clue they uncover seems to complicate and convolute the investigation. Try solving a puzzle with many pieces, none of them shaped like the outer rim and no picture. However, as good as the mystery is, 1944 London owns John Gardner’s fine WWII thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Legally Dead-Edna Buchanan
Legally Dead
Edna Buchanan
Simon & Schuster, Aug 2008, $25.00
ISBN 9780743294775
U.S. Marshal Michael Venturi oversees aspects of the Federal Witness Protection Program. He knows some of his patrons are monsters, but evidence surfaces that one of his clients, mobster Gino Salvi is sexually attacking young girls before he kills them in Flemington, New Hampshire.
When Salvi participates in an armored car robbery, Venturi is fired for not watching the gangster closer. Venturi, accompanied by an old dog, head to Florida to open up an agency that stages phony deaths and new identities. Business is booming as many people seek a LEGALLY DEAD solution to their woes.
While Britt Montero takes a well deserved breather, Edna Buchanan provides a delightful opening act of what looks like will be a wonderful unique series. The clients are a variety of folks with differing motives to employ Michael’s services; they make the tale and his profession seem genuine as not all of them have dire straits to escape from. Venturi proves capable of holding the exciting refreshing story line together. Readers will relish how the clever lead protagonist turns the trick of changing his customers from the living to the LEGALLY DEAD in a fun suspense filled thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Edna Buchanan
Simon & Schuster, Aug 2008, $25.00
ISBN 9780743294775
U.S. Marshal Michael Venturi oversees aspects of the Federal Witness Protection Program. He knows some of his patrons are monsters, but evidence surfaces that one of his clients, mobster Gino Salvi is sexually attacking young girls before he kills them in Flemington, New Hampshire.
When Salvi participates in an armored car robbery, Venturi is fired for not watching the gangster closer. Venturi, accompanied by an old dog, head to Florida to open up an agency that stages phony deaths and new identities. Business is booming as many people seek a LEGALLY DEAD solution to their woes.
While Britt Montero takes a well deserved breather, Edna Buchanan provides a delightful opening act of what looks like will be a wonderful unique series. The clients are a variety of folks with differing motives to employ Michael’s services; they make the tale and his profession seem genuine as not all of them have dire straits to escape from. Venturi proves capable of holding the exciting refreshing story line together. Readers will relish how the clever lead protagonist turns the trick of changing his customers from the living to the LEGALLY DEAD in a fun suspense filled thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Last Kiss-Luanne Rice
Last Kiss
Luanne Rice
Bantam, Jul 29 2008, $25.00
ISBN: 9780553805123
One year may have past since Charlie died in what the New York police determined was a random act; however, his mother singer/songwriter Sheridan still grieves her loss, numbing her pain with Wild Turkey. Joining her in mourning is Charlie’s girlfriend Nell who has worn a ragged anklet cloth he gave her 35- plus days ago just prior to the lethal mugging. Both women who adored Charlie visit his gravesite in Hubbard's Point, Connecticut regularly.
Nell has doubts about the NYPD rush to judgment that her beloved was in the wrong place at the wrong time due to a bad luck occurrence. She needs to prove the cops wrong, but understands this is real life not fiction so an amateur is not successfully sleuthing. Instead she hires private investigator former Hubbard’s Point native son Gavin Dawson to uncover the truth of what happened to Charlie. Gavin has an extra incentive as his beloved Sheridan tossed him to the curb for his youthful out of control lifestyle; he prays maturity and solving the case will give him a second chance with Sheridan.
The return to Hubbard’s Point (see THE PERFECT SUMMER, SUMMER’S CHILD and SUMMER OF ROSES) is an exciting investigative romance with a touch of the paranormal and a feel of homecoming (appearances by former stars) although mourning is everywhere. The inquiry raises some intriguing questions related to Charlie’s death, but though driven by a personal cause Gavin struggles to affirm premeditated. However, the key to the tale is Sheridan whose grief is so strong that her melancholy seems to be overwhelming Gavin’s attempts for a second chance at love. LAST KISS is a deep character driven thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Luanne Rice
Bantam, Jul 29 2008, $25.00
ISBN: 9780553805123
One year may have past since Charlie died in what the New York police determined was a random act; however, his mother singer/songwriter Sheridan still grieves her loss, numbing her pain with Wild Turkey. Joining her in mourning is Charlie’s girlfriend Nell who has worn a ragged anklet cloth he gave her 35- plus days ago just prior to the lethal mugging. Both women who adored Charlie visit his gravesite in Hubbard's Point, Connecticut regularly.
Nell has doubts about the NYPD rush to judgment that her beloved was in the wrong place at the wrong time due to a bad luck occurrence. She needs to prove the cops wrong, but understands this is real life not fiction so an amateur is not successfully sleuthing. Instead she hires private investigator former Hubbard’s Point native son Gavin Dawson to uncover the truth of what happened to Charlie. Gavin has an extra incentive as his beloved Sheridan tossed him to the curb for his youthful out of control lifestyle; he prays maturity and solving the case will give him a second chance with Sheridan.
The return to Hubbard’s Point (see THE PERFECT SUMMER, SUMMER’S CHILD and SUMMER OF ROSES) is an exciting investigative romance with a touch of the paranormal and a feel of homecoming (appearances by former stars) although mourning is everywhere. The inquiry raises some intriguing questions related to Charlie’s death, but though driven by a personal cause Gavin struggles to affirm premeditated. However, the key to the tale is Sheridan whose grief is so strong that her melancholy seems to be overwhelming Gavin’s attempts for a second chance at love. LAST KISS is a deep character driven thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Death Angel-Linda Howard
Death Angel
Linda Howard
Ballantine, Jul 2008, $26.00
ISBN: 9780345486547
Drea Rousseau liked the finer things in life; jewelry, designer clothing, unlimited expense accounts. To obtain these things, she became the mistress of Rafael Salinas, a major supplier of illegal drugs. He believes she is a classic bimbo, but Drea is smart enough to conceal from him how much she truly knows about his operation.
One day he assigns a job to the Assassin who in payment says he wants sex with Drea. Salinas accepts the terms. When Drea learns he “pimped” her she is outraged that he treated her as a street hooker. She takes the jewels he gave her and removes two million dollars from her account before leaving. Irate by what he determines is a betrayal; Salinas hires the Assassin to kill Drea. He doesn’t get to kill her because she was in a car accident, but after being dead for an hour she returns to life. Drea has a new chance, but must change how she lives. She also believes she must get Salinas off the streets. She knows the Assassin who enabled her to live is the ticket; he has a connection to her just like she feels towards him. If they are to explore that attraction, she believes Salinas must go first.
Neither protagonist is a decent person as he is a vicious professional hitman and she is a hedonistic selfish SOB until they meet. Readers will admire them as they do what they must to survive and even somewhat empathize with the duo; an obvious display of Linda Howard’s characterization skills. She has a chance to redeem herself, but he believes for him it is too late but hopes to help her. Ms. Howard has written a terrific tale that is filled with action and two different than usual “heroes” who come from the underbelly of society.
Harriet Klausner
Linda Howard
Ballantine, Jul 2008, $26.00
ISBN: 9780345486547
Drea Rousseau liked the finer things in life; jewelry, designer clothing, unlimited expense accounts. To obtain these things, she became the mistress of Rafael Salinas, a major supplier of illegal drugs. He believes she is a classic bimbo, but Drea is smart enough to conceal from him how much she truly knows about his operation.
One day he assigns a job to the Assassin who in payment says he wants sex with Drea. Salinas accepts the terms. When Drea learns he “pimped” her she is outraged that he treated her as a street hooker. She takes the jewels he gave her and removes two million dollars from her account before leaving. Irate by what he determines is a betrayal; Salinas hires the Assassin to kill Drea. He doesn’t get to kill her because she was in a car accident, but after being dead for an hour she returns to life. Drea has a new chance, but must change how she lives. She also believes she must get Salinas off the streets. She knows the Assassin who enabled her to live is the ticket; he has a connection to her just like she feels towards him. If they are to explore that attraction, she believes Salinas must go first.
Neither protagonist is a decent person as he is a vicious professional hitman and she is a hedonistic selfish SOB until they meet. Readers will admire them as they do what they must to survive and even somewhat empathize with the duo; an obvious display of Linda Howard’s characterization skills. She has a chance to redeem herself, but he believes for him it is too late but hopes to help her. Ms. Howard has written a terrific tale that is filled with action and two different than usual “heroes” who come from the underbelly of society.
Harriet Klausner
Mars Life-Ben Bova
Mars Life
Ben Bova
Tor, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN 9780765317872
In his first trip to Mars, Native American geologist Jamie Waterman discovered proof that life existed on the red planet when he found the ruins of cliff dwellings. He wants to return to continue his anthropological studies of the dead Martians, but so far lacks funding.
On earth, the planet suffers from environmental disaster so the government has doubts about research into a dead race on another orb. At the same time religious leaders demand the end to the Martian exploration expedition; claiming heresy and a waste of money on a fake project. When Waterman shows a fossil from the fourth planet from the sun, he places his wife and him in danger from fanatics. Desperate, the couple returns to Mars to save their project.
Part of the superb Grand Tour exploration of the solar system, Ben Bova's RETURN TO MARS with the star of that title and book three MARS, Jamie Waterman, back tying to continue the exploration into a past civilization on the fourth planet. Mindful of the Planet of the Apes after the archaeological find of a talking human doll, Mr. Bova catches the nuances of the politicking of science as the politicians do not want the facts to interfere with the prime objective of reelection and the religious fundamentalists ignore ethical means as only achieving their end goal matters. Readers will appreciate this fine action-packed tale as a beleaguered Jamie cannot comprehend why his find does not propel funding while Mr. Bova makes it lucid where he stands on support to science.
Harriet Klausner
Ben Bova
Tor, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN 9780765317872
In his first trip to Mars, Native American geologist Jamie Waterman discovered proof that life existed on the red planet when he found the ruins of cliff dwellings. He wants to return to continue his anthropological studies of the dead Martians, but so far lacks funding.
On earth, the planet suffers from environmental disaster so the government has doubts about research into a dead race on another orb. At the same time religious leaders demand the end to the Martian exploration expedition; claiming heresy and a waste of money on a fake project. When Waterman shows a fossil from the fourth planet from the sun, he places his wife and him in danger from fanatics. Desperate, the couple returns to Mars to save their project.
Part of the superb Grand Tour exploration of the solar system, Ben Bova's RETURN TO MARS with the star of that title and book three MARS, Jamie Waterman, back tying to continue the exploration into a past civilization on the fourth planet. Mindful of the Planet of the Apes after the archaeological find of a talking human doll, Mr. Bova catches the nuances of the politicking of science as the politicians do not want the facts to interfere with the prime objective of reelection and the religious fundamentalists ignore ethical means as only achieving their end goal matters. Readers will appreciate this fine action-packed tale as a beleaguered Jamie cannot comprehend why his find does not propel funding while Mr. Bova makes it lucid where he stands on support to science.
Harriet Klausner
The Northwoods Chronicles-Elizabeth Engstrom
The Northwoods Chronicles
Elizabeth Engstrom
Five Star, Aug 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594147050
Residents of isolated White Pines Junction in Vargas County live a prosperous contented life. The town seems normal to the tourists who flock there for fishing in the lakes in the summer. However, the locals know that periodically children under the age of twelve years old disappear without a trace. The townsfolk accept the abductions as a fee from beyond for their wonderful lifestyle.
Not all accept the sudden loss of their child. For instance when adolescent Micah is abducted, his mom Margie needs closure as she obsesses over knowing who and why. Her husband has already adjusted to the inevitable, but though somewhat at peace she pursues what is accepted by the natives as natural.
THE NORTHWOODS CHRONICLES is actually twenty interlocking short stories as each additional entry builds off the previous contributions. Together the entries make a fascinating paranormal novel in which for the most part the local residents live contented quiet evenings, but once in a while a snatch occurs. Surprisingly the novel in stories works because the differing characters enable Elizabeth Engstrom to look deep at what makes a human as she explores various types of love especially sacrificial and its symbiotic partners guilt and grief.
Harriet Klausner
Elizabeth Engstrom
Five Star, Aug 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594147050
Residents of isolated White Pines Junction in Vargas County live a prosperous contented life. The town seems normal to the tourists who flock there for fishing in the lakes in the summer. However, the locals know that periodically children under the age of twelve years old disappear without a trace. The townsfolk accept the abductions as a fee from beyond for their wonderful lifestyle.
Not all accept the sudden loss of their child. For instance when adolescent Micah is abducted, his mom Margie needs closure as she obsesses over knowing who and why. Her husband has already adjusted to the inevitable, but though somewhat at peace she pursues what is accepted by the natives as natural.
THE NORTHWOODS CHRONICLES is actually twenty interlocking short stories as each additional entry builds off the previous contributions. Together the entries make a fascinating paranormal novel in which for the most part the local residents live contented quiet evenings, but once in a while a snatch occurs. Surprisingly the novel in stories works because the differing characters enable Elizabeth Engstrom to look deep at what makes a human as she explores various types of love especially sacrificial and its symbiotic partners guilt and grief.
Harriet Klausner
A Sister's Hope-Wanda E.Brunstetter
A Sister's Hope
Wanda E.Brunstetter
Barbour, Jul 2008, $10.97
ISBN: 9781597892735
The attacks on her family continue unabated. Her father’s business is destroyed due to an arsonist and their cattle gunned down leading to a breakdown by her mother. Upset but resolute Martha Hostettler continues to pray to God for help, but also decides to investigate in order to expose the skunk and hopefully end the assaults.
She hones in on Luke Friesen as the prime suspect, but quickly changes her mind about him because she is attracted to him even as she understands how illogical that is. Still as her belief in the Lord strengthens, she knows she loves Luke and thinks he might love her back, but the increasingly dangerous threat lingers over the Hostettler family. He joins her in an effort to uncover the identity of the culprit destroying his beloved’s family while also framing him.
The latest Sisters of Holmes County tale (see SISTER’S SECRET) is an engaging final tale as the mystery that has impacted the Hostettler family is uncovered at a danger to the amateur sleuths. The story line is fun to follow although there are passive debates over who the assailant is. However with the attraction taking a back seat to the mystery fans will appreciate Wanda E. Brunstetter’s fine tale of finding love amidst the sleuthing.
Harriet Klausner
Wanda E.Brunstetter
Barbour, Jul 2008, $10.97
ISBN: 9781597892735
The attacks on her family continue unabated. Her father’s business is destroyed due to an arsonist and their cattle gunned down leading to a breakdown by her mother. Upset but resolute Martha Hostettler continues to pray to God for help, but also decides to investigate in order to expose the skunk and hopefully end the assaults.
She hones in on Luke Friesen as the prime suspect, but quickly changes her mind about him because she is attracted to him even as she understands how illogical that is. Still as her belief in the Lord strengthens, she knows she loves Luke and thinks he might love her back, but the increasingly dangerous threat lingers over the Hostettler family. He joins her in an effort to uncover the identity of the culprit destroying his beloved’s family while also framing him.
The latest Sisters of Holmes County tale (see SISTER’S SECRET) is an engaging final tale as the mystery that has impacted the Hostettler family is uncovered at a danger to the amateur sleuths. The story line is fun to follow although there are passive debates over who the assailant is. However with the attraction taking a back seat to the mystery fans will appreciate Wanda E. Brunstetter’s fine tale of finding love amidst the sleuthing.
Harriet Klausner
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Hot City Nights-Sandra Marton, Sarah Mayberry and Emilie Rose
Hot City Nights
Sandra Marton, Sarah Mayberry and Emilie Rose
Harlequin, Jul 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373837267
"Summer in the City” by Sandra Marton. Lincoln Aldridge becomes guardian of his niece Jenny after his sister Kathryn and her husband Mark die. He needs to find a proper nanny to take care of the child, but none seem right until Brazilian Ana Marquez, whom he met in one loving night in Rio, takes the position.
"Back to You" by Sarah Mayberry. In Sydney, Becky Taylor decides to attend the ten year reunion based on the assumption that her ex-lover, divorcee Cal MacKenzie will not be there; as he hurt her badly. He is there and still wants her.
"Forgotten Lover” by Emilie Rose. At Grady Memorial, Talia Rivera suffers amnesia from an accident; she gave as her contact information her former lover Jake Larson, whom she has not seen in four years. He assumes she is lying but agrees to take care of her and her son Adam whom he wonders if he is his.
These are three entertaining second chance at love contemporary romances starring likable protagonists in each tale.
Harriet Klausner
Sandra Marton, Sarah Mayberry and Emilie Rose
Harlequin, Jul 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373837267
"Summer in the City” by Sandra Marton. Lincoln Aldridge becomes guardian of his niece Jenny after his sister Kathryn and her husband Mark die. He needs to find a proper nanny to take care of the child, but none seem right until Brazilian Ana Marquez, whom he met in one loving night in Rio, takes the position.
"Back to You" by Sarah Mayberry. In Sydney, Becky Taylor decides to attend the ten year reunion based on the assumption that her ex-lover, divorcee Cal MacKenzie will not be there; as he hurt her badly. He is there and still wants her.
"Forgotten Lover” by Emilie Rose. At Grady Memorial, Talia Rivera suffers amnesia from an accident; she gave as her contact information her former lover Jake Larson, whom she has not seen in four years. He assumes she is lying but agrees to take care of her and her son Adam whom he wonders if he is his.
These are three entertaining second chance at love contemporary romances starring likable protagonists in each tale.
Harriet Klausner
Power Play-DaraGirard
Power Play
Dara Girard
Harlequin Kimani, Jul 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373860746
Mary Reyland is the poster woman for someone to pick on; a victim preferring flight over fight, Mart is used and abused at work and treated even worse in her relationships. Tired of it all, she decides no more crap on the job and no more dates with SOBs who treat her like dirt.
When the Black Stockings Society invites her to join, she initially was going to decline feeling unworthy; but thinking of her vow she decides to wear the power stockings at important business meetings and in her personal life. Edmund Davis decides Mary is perfect to oversee his investment into The New Day Senior Living Community project because he assumes he can pound the mouse into strict adherence to his concept. Instead he is stunned that Mary pushes back and that he likes her pushing back.
Mary is a fabulous lead character as she has a zillion mental issues starting with esteem so low, it can’t be measured. Edmund is somewhat cold with his “arctic” eyes, but he is fully developed and arrogant from start to finish. However the first Black Stockings saga belongs to the heroine whose efforts to find a backbone and show some spunk for a change make for an insightful tale as she is the “Cowardly Lion” seeking courage with the wizard being her peers at the society she joined.
Harriet Klausner
Dara Girard
Harlequin Kimani, Jul 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373860746
Mary Reyland is the poster woman for someone to pick on; a victim preferring flight over fight, Mart is used and abused at work and treated even worse in her relationships. Tired of it all, she decides no more crap on the job and no more dates with SOBs who treat her like dirt.
When the Black Stockings Society invites her to join, she initially was going to decline feeling unworthy; but thinking of her vow she decides to wear the power stockings at important business meetings and in her personal life. Edmund Davis decides Mary is perfect to oversee his investment into The New Day Senior Living Community project because he assumes he can pound the mouse into strict adherence to his concept. Instead he is stunned that Mary pushes back and that he likes her pushing back.
Mary is a fabulous lead character as she has a zillion mental issues starting with esteem so low, it can’t be measured. Edmund is somewhat cold with his “arctic” eyes, but he is fully developed and arrogant from start to finish. However the first Black Stockings saga belongs to the heroine whose efforts to find a backbone and show some spunk for a change make for an insightful tale as she is the “Cowardly Lion” seeking courage with the wizard being her peers at the society she joined.
Harriet Klausner
Magic in His Kiss-Shari Anton
Magic in His Kiss
Shari Anton
Forever, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0446617563
King Stephen has kept his ward Nicole de Leon locked away at Bedloe Abbey for eight years waiting for the right deal to make. In 1153 the monarch decides the time is right for Nicole to marry a Welsh noble in order to tighten his rule.
Frustrated with the king’s misuse of his niece and having his own ambitious plans for her, Nicole's uncle arranges for her kidnapping. He asks Rhodri ap Dafydd to perform the abduction, but the warrior bard looks forward to competing for the Bard of Wales contest and wants no part of being caught between his liege lord and the king. Still he has little choice in the matter. However, Rhodri finds himself attracted to the outspoken brave psychic, but does nothing about his feelings as she is an aristocrat and he a commoner except risking his life to keep her safe.
The third magical medieval romance (see MIDNIGHT MAGIC and TWILIGHT MAGIC) is a strong tale of love. The heroine is a political pawn the King uses to strengthen his rule; she serves no other purpose to the monarch or any of those in power. However, the Bard is the more fascinating protagonist as he is a fighter who hates fighting and would rather write poetic music, play the harp and sing. Although Nicole is the psychic, Rhodi makes the tale sing as the loving magic is in the music and the music is in him (paraphrasing the Lovin’ Spoonful).
Harriet Klausner
Shari Anton
Forever, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0446617563
King Stephen has kept his ward Nicole de Leon locked away at Bedloe Abbey for eight years waiting for the right deal to make. In 1153 the monarch decides the time is right for Nicole to marry a Welsh noble in order to tighten his rule.
Frustrated with the king’s misuse of his niece and having his own ambitious plans for her, Nicole's uncle arranges for her kidnapping. He asks Rhodri ap Dafydd to perform the abduction, but the warrior bard looks forward to competing for the Bard of Wales contest and wants no part of being caught between his liege lord and the king. Still he has little choice in the matter. However, Rhodri finds himself attracted to the outspoken brave psychic, but does nothing about his feelings as she is an aristocrat and he a commoner except risking his life to keep her safe.
The third magical medieval romance (see MIDNIGHT MAGIC and TWILIGHT MAGIC) is a strong tale of love. The heroine is a political pawn the King uses to strengthen his rule; she serves no other purpose to the monarch or any of those in power. However, the Bard is the more fascinating protagonist as he is a fighter who hates fighting and would rather write poetic music, play the harp and sing. Although Nicole is the psychic, Rhodi makes the tale sing as the loving magic is in the music and the music is in him (paraphrasing the Lovin’ Spoonful).
Harriet Klausner
Foreign Body-Robin Cook
Foreign Body
Robin Cook
Putnam, Aug 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780399155024
At the Queen Victoria Hospital in New Delhi, India, nurse Veena Chandra enters the room of sixty-four year old American medical tourist Maria Hernandez, who came here for a hip replacement as the costs are much less than in New York including travel expense. Veena injects a poison killing the woman as part of a deal she made to keep her mom and sisters safe from her abusive father. Afterward, Veena visits Nurses International Chief Cal Morgan to tell him she did the deed, but the patient thanked her before dying. Veena shocks Cal by having sex with him; afterward saying she just wanted to prove her father wrong about someone knowing about her father’s molestation secret and wanting her before she commits suicide.
UCLA medical student Jennifer Hernandez is at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center when CNN reports the death of a Marisa Hernandez of Queens. She calls her malingering dad who says Maria is in India having a hip replacement. Later that day she confirms her beloved grandma died in India. Knowing her dad would use his bad back as an excuse; Jennifer travels to India to bring her beloved grandma home. However, there she begins to learn of other odd deaths of medical tourists; she calls her mentor New York City medical examiner Dr. Laurie Montgomery who along with her spouse Dr. Jack Stapleton come to New Delhi only to learn there is something evil going on at modern Queen Victoria Hospital and if they are not careful they will be the next to die.
This fast-paced medical thriller comes from the headlines as Americans going to India for medical procedures has become a major “tourist” industry. The story line is fast-paced and filled with action while also slapping at the system of high cost of non health care in America. Although why the Astoria sexagenarian had to be murdered is explained late leaving a gap for too long, Robin Cook provides a powerful look at the newest health trend; going overseas for operations and cures.
Harriet Klausner
Robin Cook
Putnam, Aug 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780399155024
At the Queen Victoria Hospital in New Delhi, India, nurse Veena Chandra enters the room of sixty-four year old American medical tourist Maria Hernandez, who came here for a hip replacement as the costs are much less than in New York including travel expense. Veena injects a poison killing the woman as part of a deal she made to keep her mom and sisters safe from her abusive father. Afterward, Veena visits Nurses International Chief Cal Morgan to tell him she did the deed, but the patient thanked her before dying. Veena shocks Cal by having sex with him; afterward saying she just wanted to prove her father wrong about someone knowing about her father’s molestation secret and wanting her before she commits suicide.
UCLA medical student Jennifer Hernandez is at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center when CNN reports the death of a Marisa Hernandez of Queens. She calls her malingering dad who says Maria is in India having a hip replacement. Later that day she confirms her beloved grandma died in India. Knowing her dad would use his bad back as an excuse; Jennifer travels to India to bring her beloved grandma home. However, there she begins to learn of other odd deaths of medical tourists; she calls her mentor New York City medical examiner Dr. Laurie Montgomery who along with her spouse Dr. Jack Stapleton come to New Delhi only to learn there is something evil going on at modern Queen Victoria Hospital and if they are not careful they will be the next to die.
This fast-paced medical thriller comes from the headlines as Americans going to India for medical procedures has become a major “tourist” industry. The story line is fast-paced and filled with action while also slapping at the system of high cost of non health care in America. Although why the Astoria sexagenarian had to be murdered is explained late leaving a gap for too long, Robin Cook provides a powerful look at the newest health trend; going overseas for operations and cures.
Harriet Klausner
The Amnesiac-Sam Taylor
The Amnesiac
Sam Taylor
Penguin, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0143113402
English expatriate James Purdew lives with his Dutch girlfriend Ingrid in Amsterdam. , The day before he turns thirty, James is climbing up the stairs in their apartment worried about a seemingly few seconds blackout he just suffered when he hears the phone shrilling. He rushes up the remaining stairs, but misses a step, trips and breaks his ankle. Soon afterward Ingrid walks out on him as he wears a plaster-cast.
Purdew has had some recall lapses so he keeps a journal and begins to read his last entries. He decides to fill the memory gaps of three years ago by writing his Memoirs of an Amnesiac working from the present back a few years. He also goes home to Great Britain where he obtains work on a house renovation project hoping to remember. There he finds a nineteenth century Confessions of a Killer hidden inside a wall.
THE AMNESIAC is an engaging character study starring a fascinating protagonist whose slowly recalling what he forgot and why his brain “erased” the memory. Readers will want to know what caused Purdew to go blank. The story line is fast-paced overall as James begins to learn the truth about himself and the manuscript he discovered, but when he turns reflective he slows down the proceedings. Still fans who appreciate a character driven thriller will want to read Sam Taylor’s insightful look an amnesia victim trying to remember.
Harriet Klausner
Sam Taylor
Penguin, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0143113402
English expatriate James Purdew lives with his Dutch girlfriend Ingrid in Amsterdam. , The day before he turns thirty, James is climbing up the stairs in their apartment worried about a seemingly few seconds blackout he just suffered when he hears the phone shrilling. He rushes up the remaining stairs, but misses a step, trips and breaks his ankle. Soon afterward Ingrid walks out on him as he wears a plaster-cast.
Purdew has had some recall lapses so he keeps a journal and begins to read his last entries. He decides to fill the memory gaps of three years ago by writing his Memoirs of an Amnesiac working from the present back a few years. He also goes home to Great Britain where he obtains work on a house renovation project hoping to remember. There he finds a nineteenth century Confessions of a Killer hidden inside a wall.
THE AMNESIAC is an engaging character study starring a fascinating protagonist whose slowly recalling what he forgot and why his brain “erased” the memory. Readers will want to know what caused Purdew to go blank. The story line is fast-paced overall as James begins to learn the truth about himself and the manuscript he discovered, but when he turns reflective he slows down the proceedings. Still fans who appreciate a character driven thriller will want to read Sam Taylor’s insightful look an amnesia victim trying to remember.
Harriet Klausner
Murder on Bank Street-Sarah Brandt
Murder on Bank Street
Sarah Brandt
Berkley, Jun 2008, $23.95
ISBN: 9780425221518
In 1893 New York City, widow Sarah Brandt still hopes to learn who murdered her husband Dr. Tom Brandt four years ago although she knows the case is cold as so much time has elapsed. Back when Tom was killed, the police refused to investigate because they only handled cases when they were paid to do so. However, with Police Commissioner Theodore Roosevelt’s approval, Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy has conducted some inquiries mostly because he is attracted to Sarah and admires her courage and intelligence; she has worked with him on his investigations.
Frank visits Sarah to allegedly update her on his investigation, but he knows he just wants to see her even with her two “chaperones”, her “adopted” daughter Catherine and teenage nanny Maeve Smith. He thinks the motive has to do with Dr. Brandt treating young women; but hides the fact that one of their fathers believes the saintly doctor seduced his offspring; he probably killed Tom in a rage. He fears his progress will emotionally hurt Sarah, who has the late Tom standing on a pedestal and devastate his hopes for a romantic relationship with her. However, he also knows if she learns the truth from another source, he will be kicked to the curb.
Fans of the Gaslight Mystery series have waited a long time to learn who killed Dr. Tom and why; MURDER ON BANK STREET answers these questions and much more as readers will agree the wait was worth it. The story line is fast-paced especially the last quarter while also providing insight to 1890s New York. Fascinatingly Maeve plays a much greater role in this novel and brings youthful freshness to the mix. A terrific entry, fans will want to know if Frank solves the case as to who and why and if so will he tell Sarah.
Harriet Klausner
Sarah Brandt
Berkley, Jun 2008, $23.95
ISBN: 9780425221518
In 1893 New York City, widow Sarah Brandt still hopes to learn who murdered her husband Dr. Tom Brandt four years ago although she knows the case is cold as so much time has elapsed. Back when Tom was killed, the police refused to investigate because they only handled cases when they were paid to do so. However, with Police Commissioner Theodore Roosevelt’s approval, Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy has conducted some inquiries mostly because he is attracted to Sarah and admires her courage and intelligence; she has worked with him on his investigations.
Frank visits Sarah to allegedly update her on his investigation, but he knows he just wants to see her even with her two “chaperones”, her “adopted” daughter Catherine and teenage nanny Maeve Smith. He thinks the motive has to do with Dr. Brandt treating young women; but hides the fact that one of their fathers believes the saintly doctor seduced his offspring; he probably killed Tom in a rage. He fears his progress will emotionally hurt Sarah, who has the late Tom standing on a pedestal and devastate his hopes for a romantic relationship with her. However, he also knows if she learns the truth from another source, he will be kicked to the curb.
Fans of the Gaslight Mystery series have waited a long time to learn who killed Dr. Tom and why; MURDER ON BANK STREET answers these questions and much more as readers will agree the wait was worth it. The story line is fast-paced especially the last quarter while also providing insight to 1890s New York. Fascinatingly Maeve plays a much greater role in this novel and brings youthful freshness to the mix. A terrific entry, fans will want to know if Frank solves the case as to who and why and if so will he tell Sarah.
Harriet Klausner
The Drifter's Wheel-Phillip DePoy
The Drifter's Wheel
Phillip DePoy
St. Martin's, Jun 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 031236203X
In Georgia Appalachia, an odd stranger calls on folklorist Fever Devilin. The young man is a ball of nervous passionate energy as he relates his story to Devilin. Unable to sit quietly, he insists he is a century old and fervently begins telling Devilin about his past as he claims to have survived gas warfare in the European trenches during WWI and learning to tango following a murder At Madam Biscoe’s House in the Windy City. Soon after his fervor slows down a bit he pulls out a gun, but falls into a deep sleep in the middle of some rant.
Devilin assumes the sleeping stranger is either on drugs or simply loco so he calls the sheriff, who tells him he has received similar calls; however before Skid reaches Fever’s home, the vagrant vanishes. The next morning the murdered corpse of a drifter, wearing the identical clothes as Fever's visitor, is found. Devilin needs to know if the victim was his strange storyteller so he investigates the homicide.
The latest Devilin regional amateur sleuth is not an easy read as the stranger is so abnormal with his rant, his gun, and his abrupt nap he is frightening yet so real. While totally disturbing the reader, he also absorbs the audience like he did Devilin with a need to know the truth of who he is, how he got to this point in which his sanity is questioned, and is he dead; if not who is. THE DRIFTER’S WHEEL is thought provoking, gripping and well written, but haunting as this tale will stay with readers long afterward.
Harriet Klausner
Phillip DePoy
St. Martin's, Jun 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 031236203X
In Georgia Appalachia, an odd stranger calls on folklorist Fever Devilin. The young man is a ball of nervous passionate energy as he relates his story to Devilin. Unable to sit quietly, he insists he is a century old and fervently begins telling Devilin about his past as he claims to have survived gas warfare in the European trenches during WWI and learning to tango following a murder At Madam Biscoe’s House in the Windy City. Soon after his fervor slows down a bit he pulls out a gun, but falls into a deep sleep in the middle of some rant.
Devilin assumes the sleeping stranger is either on drugs or simply loco so he calls the sheriff, who tells him he has received similar calls; however before Skid reaches Fever’s home, the vagrant vanishes. The next morning the murdered corpse of a drifter, wearing the identical clothes as Fever's visitor, is found. Devilin needs to know if the victim was his strange storyteller so he investigates the homicide.
The latest Devilin regional amateur sleuth is not an easy read as the stranger is so abnormal with his rant, his gun, and his abrupt nap he is frightening yet so real. While totally disturbing the reader, he also absorbs the audience like he did Devilin with a need to know the truth of who he is, how he got to this point in which his sanity is questioned, and is he dead; if not who is. THE DRIFTER’S WHEEL is thought provoking, gripping and well written, but haunting as this tale will stay with readers long afterward.
Harriet Klausner
The Man with the Iron Heart-Harry Turtledove
The Man with the Iron Heart
Harry Turtledove
Del Rey, Jul 2008, $27.00
ISBN: 9780345504340
In 1942 Reinhard Heydrich, the evil designer of the Holocaust, was assassinated in Czechoslovakia by a partisan who hated the Nazis. However, on an alternate earth, Heydrich survived the attempt on his life and received permission from Himmler to create a guerilla army to harass the allies into leaving Germany so the Reich can rebuild. During the next three years, he dropped out of sight and ammo vanished as Heydrich formed the German Freedom Front secretly.
On VE Day, just like Heydrich predicted, the government signed the declaration ending the war in defeat. However, hostilities were not over as Heydrich and his Freedom Front force began their campaign; their efforts killed thousands of occupying allied soldiers. When Mrs. Diana McGuire receives a call that her son died after VE Day, she started a movement that grew rapidly to bring the men home. Meanwhile German POWs are going to go on trial in a courthouse in Nuremburg charged with war crimes, but the facility is destroyed. The trials move to Frankfort, but a suicide bomber blows himself up with a radium bomb that makes the city uninhabitable. They turn to the Russian occupation next, but the guerillas again succeed in disrupting the trials. Germans do not consider the war lost and the allies fear the Nazis like a Phoenix will return to power to continue the fight.
What is happening in Iraq and occurred in Viet names transposed to late 1940s Germany in THE MAN WITH THE IRON HAND. The German people help the Freedom Front because they seek the removal of foreign occupiers from their soil. The treaty is a piece of paper that some ignore as being worthless (President Bush did so with the Nonproliferation treaty so is plausible); the tactics obvious while the allies ponder a surge of more troops and for how long or withdrawal. Heydrich is sinister and brilliant as he will do anything to force the occupation army to leave and return the Reich to power. This alternative historicals showcases Harry Turtledove at his thought provoking best as the question is how long does a surge (by definition temporary) remain in place and what happens afterward if conditions fall back?
Harriet Klausner
Harry Turtledove
Del Rey, Jul 2008, $27.00
ISBN: 9780345504340
In 1942 Reinhard Heydrich, the evil designer of the Holocaust, was assassinated in Czechoslovakia by a partisan who hated the Nazis. However, on an alternate earth, Heydrich survived the attempt on his life and received permission from Himmler to create a guerilla army to harass the allies into leaving Germany so the Reich can rebuild. During the next three years, he dropped out of sight and ammo vanished as Heydrich formed the German Freedom Front secretly.
On VE Day, just like Heydrich predicted, the government signed the declaration ending the war in defeat. However, hostilities were not over as Heydrich and his Freedom Front force began their campaign; their efforts killed thousands of occupying allied soldiers. When Mrs. Diana McGuire receives a call that her son died after VE Day, she started a movement that grew rapidly to bring the men home. Meanwhile German POWs are going to go on trial in a courthouse in Nuremburg charged with war crimes, but the facility is destroyed. The trials move to Frankfort, but a suicide bomber blows himself up with a radium bomb that makes the city uninhabitable. They turn to the Russian occupation next, but the guerillas again succeed in disrupting the trials. Germans do not consider the war lost and the allies fear the Nazis like a Phoenix will return to power to continue the fight.
What is happening in Iraq and occurred in Viet names transposed to late 1940s Germany in THE MAN WITH THE IRON HAND. The German people help the Freedom Front because they seek the removal of foreign occupiers from their soil. The treaty is a piece of paper that some ignore as being worthless (President Bush did so with the Nonproliferation treaty so is plausible); the tactics obvious while the allies ponder a surge of more troops and for how long or withdrawal. Heydrich is sinister and brilliant as he will do anything to force the occupation army to leave and return the Reich to power. This alternative historicals showcases Harry Turtledove at his thought provoking best as the question is how long does a surge (by definition temporary) remain in place and what happens afterward if conditions fall back?
Harriet Klausner
Monday, June 16, 2008
The Fall Of Rome-Beth Ciotta
The Fall Of Rome
Beth Ciotta
Medallion, Jul 2008, $7.95
ISBN: 9781933836041
Rome Garrett was renowned for bringing hardened criminals to justice; his fame made him a legend in dime-store novels. However, the Wells Fargo detective fell from grace over six years ago when he killed a man while overextending the law and was with his pants down and gun un-holstered with a married woman. His beloved Kat Simmons left him and simply vanished.
Rome falls apart, but now in 1878 he has started to regain his equilibrium with a position as a detective for the President Hayes sponsored Peacemaker Alliance (PMA). His assignment is to bring down train robber Bulls-eye Brady and to insure Kat's niece Frankie is safe from him. Kat resurfaces to bait Bulls-eye Brady but will need a totally responsible Rome, not the drunken womanizer she remembers, to help her.
The return of PMA agents and their spouses (see ROMANCING THE WEST) enhances an enjoyable second chance at love western romance. The lead couple is a delightful pairing as she left him when he fell from grace; in her mind due to his cheating; others because he crossed the ethical line when he killed a man; in his mind he let down people especially his beloved. With a chance for redemption and love, the rise of Rome seems precarious as he knows defeating Brady and rescuing Frankie is not enough; winning back Kat is everything, but failure means the freefall of Rome. Beth Ciotta provides another excellent Reconstruction Era tale (see LASSO THE MOON).
Harriet Klausner
Beth Ciotta
Medallion, Jul 2008, $7.95
ISBN: 9781933836041
Rome Garrett was renowned for bringing hardened criminals to justice; his fame made him a legend in dime-store novels. However, the Wells Fargo detective fell from grace over six years ago when he killed a man while overextending the law and was with his pants down and gun un-holstered with a married woman. His beloved Kat Simmons left him and simply vanished.
Rome falls apart, but now in 1878 he has started to regain his equilibrium with a position as a detective for the President Hayes sponsored Peacemaker Alliance (PMA). His assignment is to bring down train robber Bulls-eye Brady and to insure Kat's niece Frankie is safe from him. Kat resurfaces to bait Bulls-eye Brady but will need a totally responsible Rome, not the drunken womanizer she remembers, to help her.
The return of PMA agents and their spouses (see ROMANCING THE WEST) enhances an enjoyable second chance at love western romance. The lead couple is a delightful pairing as she left him when he fell from grace; in her mind due to his cheating; others because he crossed the ethical line when he killed a man; in his mind he let down people especially his beloved. With a chance for redemption and love, the rise of Rome seems precarious as he knows defeating Brady and rescuing Frankie is not enough; winning back Kat is everything, but failure means the freefall of Rome. Beth Ciotta provides another excellent Reconstruction Era tale (see LASSO THE MOON).
Harriet Klausner
After the Kiss-Suzanne Enoch
After the Kiss
Suzanne Enoch
Avon, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780060843090
A year after being shot as an officer serving in the Peninsular War; highly regarded horse breeder Sullivan Waring lives a secret life. During the day the Ton admires his work with horses; at night they treat him with contempt. He does not care how they feel; instead he wants what was stolen from him; so in the evening he sneaks into the homes of the affluent to take back his late mother’s paintings.
However Lady Isabel Chalsey catches the notorious Mayfair Marauder in the act of thieving. He is stunned by her beauty and cannot stop himself from taking a kiss; he is further shocked when she demands he train a horse for her use or she will expose him. As he falls in love, he prepares a mare for Isabel while helping her overcome her fear of horses; but may not be able to overcome his own dark secrets that eat at his soul.
The first Notorious Gentlemen tale (Sully’s Peninsular War buddies to follow) is a terrific Regency romantic mystery that hooks readers when the heroine going for a late snack catches the notorious gentleman removing a portrait from the wall. The story line never slows down as Lady Isabel “blackmails” the thief after a witty exchange. Readers will enjoy their antics AFTER THE KISS as Suzanne Enoch provides a superb opening act.
Harriet Klausner
Suzanne Enoch
Avon, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780060843090
A year after being shot as an officer serving in the Peninsular War; highly regarded horse breeder Sullivan Waring lives a secret life. During the day the Ton admires his work with horses; at night they treat him with contempt. He does not care how they feel; instead he wants what was stolen from him; so in the evening he sneaks into the homes of the affluent to take back his late mother’s paintings.
However Lady Isabel Chalsey catches the notorious Mayfair Marauder in the act of thieving. He is stunned by her beauty and cannot stop himself from taking a kiss; he is further shocked when she demands he train a horse for her use or she will expose him. As he falls in love, he prepares a mare for Isabel while helping her overcome her fear of horses; but may not be able to overcome his own dark secrets that eat at his soul.
The first Notorious Gentlemen tale (Sully’s Peninsular War buddies to follow) is a terrific Regency romantic mystery that hooks readers when the heroine going for a late snack catches the notorious gentleman removing a portrait from the wall. The story line never slows down as Lady Isabel “blackmails” the thief after a witty exchange. Readers will enjoy their antics AFTER THE KISS as Suzanne Enoch provides a superb opening act.
Harriet Klausner
In Bed with the Devil-Lorraine Heath
In Bed with the Devil
Lorraine Heath
Avon, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061355578
In 1851 when Lucian “the Devil Earl” Langdon enters a ballroom, everyone especially the females turn their eyes away from him; society shuns him for allegedly murdering his uncle. However this time when the Earl of Claybourne enters a ballroom uninvited as always, one woman stares right back at him. Lady Catherine Mabry refuses to blink or look away.
Raised on London's mean streets as one of Feagan's den of child thieves and urchin con artists, Lucian and his friends Jack and Frannie were rescued by his grandfather. To Catherine, he is the one man strong enough to save her from her ruthless guardian. But she's playing with fire when she propositions the devil. Others may fear him, but she sees his innate goodness. Catherine will do whatever she must to save him from himself and force him to believe in his right to hold the title and her heart.
This is reminiscent of Oliver Twist as an adult treated by the Ton as a murdering scoundrel except for one courageous woman who sees him as her heroic savior, who she hopes lives up to his reputation and proves deadlier than her cruel guardian; yet she also discovers the caring nature underneath that begs to belong. Lorraine Heath writes an excellent Victorian romantic suspense that hooks audience from the opening journal entry of Lucien to the closing entry.
Harriet Klausner
Lorraine Heath
Avon, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061355578
In 1851 when Lucian “the Devil Earl” Langdon enters a ballroom, everyone especially the females turn their eyes away from him; society shuns him for allegedly murdering his uncle. However this time when the Earl of Claybourne enters a ballroom uninvited as always, one woman stares right back at him. Lady Catherine Mabry refuses to blink or look away.
Raised on London's mean streets as one of Feagan's den of child thieves and urchin con artists, Lucian and his friends Jack and Frannie were rescued by his grandfather. To Catherine, he is the one man strong enough to save her from her ruthless guardian. But she's playing with fire when she propositions the devil. Others may fear him, but she sees his innate goodness. Catherine will do whatever she must to save him from himself and force him to believe in his right to hold the title and her heart.
This is reminiscent of Oliver Twist as an adult treated by the Ton as a murdering scoundrel except for one courageous woman who sees him as her heroic savior, who she hopes lives up to his reputation and proves deadlier than her cruel guardian; yet she also discovers the caring nature underneath that begs to belong. Lorraine Heath writes an excellent Victorian romantic suspense that hooks audience from the opening journal entry of Lucien to the closing entry.
Harriet Klausner
The Flirt-Kathleen Tessaro
The Flirt
Kathleen Tessaro
Avon, Jun 24 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780061125768
Unemployed wannabe actor Hughie Armstrong Venables-Smythe needs to make some quick money so he can continue to seek his big break. He responds to an odd ad and is hired as a flirt; he assumes his acting skills will make hum successful at his new hopefully temporary vocation though he plans to give Oscar winning performances when on the job.
However, Hughie is attracted lingerie boutique owner Leticia Vane, who is much older than him. She shocks him with her belief that trysts should be short, quick and especially with no attachment strings. When the notes and cards containing clues begin to arrive, she is fascinated by her secret admirer. As Hughie continues his campaign, he and Leticia begin to fall in love, but her interest remains with an unknown paramour
This terrific most likely implausible contemporary tale reminds this reader of Deuce Bigelow with its combining humor and the serious issues especially loneliness confronting the female clients. Already confused about his life, Hughie takes the role seriously and gives his best performance, which enables readers to better understand what disturbs the women he flirts with. Readers will appreciate Kathleen Tessaro’s fine London Swings but underneath the swingers face difficult decisions re what they want out of their respective lives.
Harriet Klausner
Kathleen Tessaro
Avon, Jun 24 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780061125768
Unemployed wannabe actor Hughie Armstrong Venables-Smythe needs to make some quick money so he can continue to seek his big break. He responds to an odd ad and is hired as a flirt; he assumes his acting skills will make hum successful at his new hopefully temporary vocation though he plans to give Oscar winning performances when on the job.
However, Hughie is attracted lingerie boutique owner Leticia Vane, who is much older than him. She shocks him with her belief that trysts should be short, quick and especially with no attachment strings. When the notes and cards containing clues begin to arrive, she is fascinated by her secret admirer. As Hughie continues his campaign, he and Leticia begin to fall in love, but her interest remains with an unknown paramour
This terrific most likely implausible contemporary tale reminds this reader of Deuce Bigelow with its combining humor and the serious issues especially loneliness confronting the female clients. Already confused about his life, Hughie takes the role seriously and gives his best performance, which enables readers to better understand what disturbs the women he flirts with. Readers will appreciate Kathleen Tessaro’s fine London Swings but underneath the swingers face difficult decisions re what they want out of their respective lives.
Harriet Klausner
Return to Summerhouse-Jude Deveraux
Return to Summerhouse
Jude Deveraux
Pocket, Jul 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9781416509738
The three women suffer from recent distress that leaves each feeling the anguish and pain. Following a miscarriage, a depressed Amy soul searchingly looks at her marriage with Stephen and their offspring with sadness. Widow Faith feels guilt for not grieving for her husband Eddie, but for another man Ty whom she last saw sixteen years ago. Artist Zoe is a pariah in her hometown, but an accident has left her with amnesia so is unsure why.
Each runs away from their woes ending up as “Jeanne’s Crazies” at a summerhouse in Maine. They meet the enigmatic sisters Madame Zoya and Primrose, who have the talent to transport a person back in time to correct a destiny that has gone off kilter. Amy wants to go back to eighteenth century England, but needs hesitant Zoe and Faith to accompany her. She believes they can rectify the past to find happiness in the future.
The RETURN TO SUMMERHOUSE is an engaging tale built on the same premise as the first trip to the magical Maine location; if you can go back to correct the past would you and what are the consequences in the current present. The three female guests are fully developed nice people while the siblings continue with their aura of mysticism. Although the trips between present and past and back to the present seem abrupt; readers will enjoy this fine time travel character study of three strangers. Each seeks the same goal of rectifying what they respectively consider a big mistake in their lives but though having nothing similar between them forge forever friendships.
Harriet Klausner
Jude Deveraux
Pocket, Jul 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9781416509738
The three women suffer from recent distress that leaves each feeling the anguish and pain. Following a miscarriage, a depressed Amy soul searchingly looks at her marriage with Stephen and their offspring with sadness. Widow Faith feels guilt for not grieving for her husband Eddie, but for another man Ty whom she last saw sixteen years ago. Artist Zoe is a pariah in her hometown, but an accident has left her with amnesia so is unsure why.
Each runs away from their woes ending up as “Jeanne’s Crazies” at a summerhouse in Maine. They meet the enigmatic sisters Madame Zoya and Primrose, who have the talent to transport a person back in time to correct a destiny that has gone off kilter. Amy wants to go back to eighteenth century England, but needs hesitant Zoe and Faith to accompany her. She believes they can rectify the past to find happiness in the future.
The RETURN TO SUMMERHOUSE is an engaging tale built on the same premise as the first trip to the magical Maine location; if you can go back to correct the past would you and what are the consequences in the current present. The three female guests are fully developed nice people while the siblings continue with their aura of mysticism. Although the trips between present and past and back to the present seem abrupt; readers will enjoy this fine time travel character study of three strangers. Each seeks the same goal of rectifying what they respectively consider a big mistake in their lives but though having nothing similar between them forge forever friendships.
Harriet Klausner
That's Amore-Wendy Markham
That's Amore
Wendy Markham
Forever, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780446618441
Psychic rolling stone Daria Marshall has no ties preferring the life of the road to settling anywhere. She feels she is just like her mom who never could stay in one place; especially after a failed marriage. Thus Daria, who literally runs from the ghosts she can see, prefers being the queen of the road. She comes to New York to visit her sister.
On the other hand Ralphie Chickalini has lived in the same Astoria, Queens house his entire life surrounded by his loving Italian-American family. However, when his father dies, his siblings want to sell the house and equally split the profits. Ralphie is the only holdout as he grieves Pops. When Daria and Ralphie meet for the first time, each feels the attraction in the melancholy face of the other, but this pair is polar opposites so love is not enough; or is it. In between and during Italian feasts, his late father plays matchmaker between his son and the woman who can still see him.
This is a warm paranormal contemporary romance starring two nice people who do not relish change, but will need to adapt if they are to make it. The Astoria location is a delight as it provides readers a fascinating side of New York City as this part of Queens is more a suburban town than the typical Big Apple urban high rise environs. Although the constant changing perspective provides insight into key players due to wider perspectives on the same event, that technique also makes some moments difficult to follow; still fans will appreciate THAT’S AMORE expecting any moment the ghost of Dean Martin to sing the title of love in the burbs.
Harriet Klausner
Wendy Markham
Forever, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780446618441
Psychic rolling stone Daria Marshall has no ties preferring the life of the road to settling anywhere. She feels she is just like her mom who never could stay in one place; especially after a failed marriage. Thus Daria, who literally runs from the ghosts she can see, prefers being the queen of the road. She comes to New York to visit her sister.
On the other hand Ralphie Chickalini has lived in the same Astoria, Queens house his entire life surrounded by his loving Italian-American family. However, when his father dies, his siblings want to sell the house and equally split the profits. Ralphie is the only holdout as he grieves Pops. When Daria and Ralphie meet for the first time, each feels the attraction in the melancholy face of the other, but this pair is polar opposites so love is not enough; or is it. In between and during Italian feasts, his late father plays matchmaker between his son and the woman who can still see him.
This is a warm paranormal contemporary romance starring two nice people who do not relish change, but will need to adapt if they are to make it. The Astoria location is a delight as it provides readers a fascinating side of New York City as this part of Queens is more a suburban town than the typical Big Apple urban high rise environs. Although the constant changing perspective provides insight into key players due to wider perspectives on the same event, that technique also makes some moments difficult to follow; still fans will appreciate THAT’S AMORE expecting any moment the ghost of Dean Martin to sing the title of love in the burbs.
Harriet Klausner
Pleasure Unbound-Larissa Ione
Pleasure Unbound
Larissa Ione
Forever, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 044640103X
After overcoming the shock though not the grief of watching a demon murder her mother Tayla Mancuso is fixated into becoming a slayer. She joins the Aegis network of demon slayers as a human Guardian warrior and over time has become one of the best demon killers.
During her last quest, she was brutally injured; ironically ending up in a demon hospital. Incubus Dr. Eidolon treats her over the objections of his brothers, who want the slayer dead; he refuses though he fears she is the avenging angel killing his species without regard. He learns a dark secret about his patient that changes both their outlooks. While she knows she mist kill the demon who saved her life to prove to her Aegis peers she remains true to the mission when all she wants to do is personally passionately pay him her hospital bill.
The Ione world is dark and dangerous except for the flicker of hope caused by the light of forbidden love between the Guardian and the Incubus. The story line is fast-paced from the opening sequence when Eidolon at the hospital wants to kill his patient, but tries to save the ingrate’s life instead. The tale never slows down as pressure mounts from the peers of the lead couple to assassinate their beloved while betrayal stalks and entices them. Romantic fantasy fans will appreciate the first Demonica tale as New York seems so bleak yet hopeful.
Harriet Klausner
Larissa Ione
Forever, Jul 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 044640103X
After overcoming the shock though not the grief of watching a demon murder her mother Tayla Mancuso is fixated into becoming a slayer. She joins the Aegis network of demon slayers as a human Guardian warrior and over time has become one of the best demon killers.
During her last quest, she was brutally injured; ironically ending up in a demon hospital. Incubus Dr. Eidolon treats her over the objections of his brothers, who want the slayer dead; he refuses though he fears she is the avenging angel killing his species without regard. He learns a dark secret about his patient that changes both their outlooks. While she knows she mist kill the demon who saved her life to prove to her Aegis peers she remains true to the mission when all she wants to do is personally passionately pay him her hospital bill.
The Ione world is dark and dangerous except for the flicker of hope caused by the light of forbidden love between the Guardian and the Incubus. The story line is fast-paced from the opening sequence when Eidolon at the hospital wants to kill his patient, but tries to save the ingrate’s life instead. The tale never slows down as pressure mounts from the peers of the lead couple to assassinate their beloved while betrayal stalks and entices them. Romantic fantasy fans will appreciate the first Demonica tale as New York seems so bleak yet hopeful.
Harriet Klausner
Into the Shadow-Christina Dodd
Into the Shadow
Christina Dodd
Signet, Jul 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780451224514
His family believes he died, but they are wrong. Shapeshifting panther Adrik Wilders has succumbed to the family Varinski Curse having turned to his demon side using the name Warlord as he and his mercenaries destroy anything in their path.
Karen Sonnet creates themed adventure hotels. When the Warlord sees her he abducts her as he wants her; she reciprocates his passionate desire. However, when the demonic Varinski cousins attack Adrik and his men, he insures Karen is safe, but vows to find her once his current battle ends. For two years he obsessively hunted for Karen until he finally finds her. They still are attracted to one another, but two years is a long time for anyone to wait even for love though he becomes her secret nocturnal lover. Meanwhile his vicious evil Varinski kin will kill to take an icon they want that Karen possesses.
The third Darkness Chosen romantic urban fantasy is an engaging entry that fans will enjoy in spite of INTO THE SHADOW failing to move forward the saga. The story line is action-packed with a dark fallen lead male protagonist who finds redemption with his love for Karen. Well written filled with passion and suspense, Christina Dodd’s audience will relish Adrik’s efforts to overcome the curse with Karen’s tough love help, but newcomers should read SCENT OF DARKNESS and TOUCH OF DARKNESS first to obtain the full flavor of the series.
Harriet Klausner
Christina Dodd
Signet, Jul 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780451224514
His family believes he died, but they are wrong. Shapeshifting panther Adrik Wilders has succumbed to the family Varinski Curse having turned to his demon side using the name Warlord as he and his mercenaries destroy anything in their path.
Karen Sonnet creates themed adventure hotels. When the Warlord sees her he abducts her as he wants her; she reciprocates his passionate desire. However, when the demonic Varinski cousins attack Adrik and his men, he insures Karen is safe, but vows to find her once his current battle ends. For two years he obsessively hunted for Karen until he finally finds her. They still are attracted to one another, but two years is a long time for anyone to wait even for love though he becomes her secret nocturnal lover. Meanwhile his vicious evil Varinski kin will kill to take an icon they want that Karen possesses.
The third Darkness Chosen romantic urban fantasy is an engaging entry that fans will enjoy in spite of INTO THE SHADOW failing to move forward the saga. The story line is action-packed with a dark fallen lead male protagonist who finds redemption with his love for Karen. Well written filled with passion and suspense, Christina Dodd’s audience will relish Adrik’s efforts to overcome the curse with Karen’s tough love help, but newcomers should read SCENT OF DARKNESS and TOUCH OF DARKNESS first to obtain the full flavor of the series.
Harriet Klausner
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Church of the Dog-Kaya McLaren
Church of the Dog
Kaya McLaren
Penguin, May 2008, $13.00
ISBN: 9780143113423
In rural Northeast Oregon, Edith and Earl McRae have been married for decades, but over time they have drifted apart though they live together on their farm. Edith reflects back that the somewhat reticent Earl may have loved her, but probably never thought of her as a friend. However while shaving seventy-nine years old Earl nicks his neck; he places toilet paper on the cut only to discover a cyst just like his late dog Blue had. He assumes it is cancer.
Assuming the cyst is a warning sign that he will soon meet his maker, he is determined to do two things before he dies; he needs to regain what he believes he let slide; his ties to his wife and his estranged grandson Daniel, an Alaskan fisherman running away from home since his parents died years ago. Earl campaigns in person with Edith and by letter asking Daniel to come home to his grandpa’s “land of success and failure”. Mara O’Shaugnessy arrives in town as the new art teacher. She buys a pet, Harvey the Hog. Tim Grennan allows Mara and Harvey to reside on his family’s ranch next door to the McRae farm Soon Mara’s mischief brings happiness and chaos to all she meets especially her neighbors the McRaes. When Daniel returns, he is worried about his grandpa dying, but instead he finds his grandparents happy; their catalyst Mara; but even she with her whimsy upbeat demeanor fears she will never reach the soul of the stoic sad fisherman.
This engaging inspirational relationship drama is an interesting tale that rotates points of view between Mara, Edith, Earl and Daniel. Thus the story line is obviously character driven starting with Mara who works her optimistic magic bringing joy to all she meets, especially the elderly McRae couple. Although somewhat stereotyped with its New Age wisdom, Kaya McLaren provides an inspiring story that says fills the cup up if you feel it is half empty.
Harriet Klausner
Kaya McLaren
Penguin, May 2008, $13.00
ISBN: 9780143113423
In rural Northeast Oregon, Edith and Earl McRae have been married for decades, but over time they have drifted apart though they live together on their farm. Edith reflects back that the somewhat reticent Earl may have loved her, but probably never thought of her as a friend. However while shaving seventy-nine years old Earl nicks his neck; he places toilet paper on the cut only to discover a cyst just like his late dog Blue had. He assumes it is cancer.
Assuming the cyst is a warning sign that he will soon meet his maker, he is determined to do two things before he dies; he needs to regain what he believes he let slide; his ties to his wife and his estranged grandson Daniel, an Alaskan fisherman running away from home since his parents died years ago. Earl campaigns in person with Edith and by letter asking Daniel to come home to his grandpa’s “land of success and failure”. Mara O’Shaugnessy arrives in town as the new art teacher. She buys a pet, Harvey the Hog. Tim Grennan allows Mara and Harvey to reside on his family’s ranch next door to the McRae farm Soon Mara’s mischief brings happiness and chaos to all she meets especially her neighbors the McRaes. When Daniel returns, he is worried about his grandpa dying, but instead he finds his grandparents happy; their catalyst Mara; but even she with her whimsy upbeat demeanor fears she will never reach the soul of the stoic sad fisherman.
This engaging inspirational relationship drama is an interesting tale that rotates points of view between Mara, Edith, Earl and Daniel. Thus the story line is obviously character driven starting with Mara who works her optimistic magic bringing joy to all she meets, especially the elderly McRae couple. Although somewhat stereotyped with its New Age wisdom, Kaya McLaren provides an inspiring story that says fills the cup up if you feel it is half empty.
Harriet Klausner
The Power of Love-Edited by Lori Foster
The Power of Love
Edited by Lori Foster
Berkley, Jun 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780425221488
Twelve romance authors contributed to this superb anthology in which each donated their proceeds to the YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter of Cincinnati. Besides the worthy cause, each entry is well written and inspiring; focusing on a second chance at love by females previously battered (mentally and or physically) in their relationships. Readers will root for the stars who hesitantly risk their souls for love. The tales run the gamut of the genre with my personal favorites being “Unpredictable” BY Erin McCarthy as no one can resist a French fry eating dog and LuAnn McLane’s home remedy “Chicken Soup for Annie”. Yet the other ten are entertaining as well as there are no let down clinkers as THE POWER OF LOVE is the essence of living.
The authors are a who’s who of the genre as every contributor is acclaimed for their works and more important to THE POWER OF LOVE didn’t skimp in the short story format. Besides editor Foster, Toni Blake, Dianne Castell, Karen Kelley, Rosemary Laurey, Janice Maynard, LuAnn McLane, Lucy Monroe, Patricia Sargeant, Kay Stockholm and J.C. Wilder provide warm uplifting entries; this top grade authors list says it all for this charming compilation.
Harriet Klausner
Edited by Lori Foster
Berkley, Jun 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780425221488
Twelve romance authors contributed to this superb anthology in which each donated their proceeds to the YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter of Cincinnati. Besides the worthy cause, each entry is well written and inspiring; focusing on a second chance at love by females previously battered (mentally and or physically) in their relationships. Readers will root for the stars who hesitantly risk their souls for love. The tales run the gamut of the genre with my personal favorites being “Unpredictable” BY Erin McCarthy as no one can resist a French fry eating dog and LuAnn McLane’s home remedy “Chicken Soup for Annie”. Yet the other ten are entertaining as well as there are no let down clinkers as THE POWER OF LOVE is the essence of living.
The authors are a who’s who of the genre as every contributor is acclaimed for their works and more important to THE POWER OF LOVE didn’t skimp in the short story format. Besides editor Foster, Toni Blake, Dianne Castell, Karen Kelley, Rosemary Laurey, Janice Maynard, LuAnn McLane, Lucy Monroe, Patricia Sargeant, Kay Stockholm and J.C. Wilder provide warm uplifting entries; this top grade authors list says it all for this charming compilation.
Harriet Klausner
Out Backward-Ross Raisin
Out Backward
Ross Raisin
Harper, Jun 24 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780061448751
In Yorkshire lonely teenager Sam Marsdyke was strongly told to drop out of school when he was accused of attempted rape; he left the classroom and no charge, not even assault, was filed against him. He lives and works on the family farm along side his acrimonious angry father and his submissive silent mother. Increasingly the area and the central village are being gentrified by wealthy Southerners to the dismay of generational long timers like Sam’s outraged old man.
Sam sees fifteen years old Josephine Reeves, who has moved with her family from London onto the adjoining farm. Already hearing about Sam’s scandalous incident, her father warns Sam to stay away from his daughter or else. Still the two teens becomes friends even as Sam stalks her sitting for hours on the nearby hill to catch a glimpse of his beloved. Jo encourages him to risk more. Finally she decides to run away and persuades Sam to accompany her; not that it took much. On their trek nothing goes right until Jo insists he let her go home, but he refuses.
This is an astonishing disturbing look at two characters; one might be a sociopath manipulating the other, but who is the deranged one as Sam seems obvious but Jo seemingly has cleverly maneuvered him to her bidding, or has he been the one in control. The stunning stark cover enhances the sense of doom while the local dialect adds to the overall tension of an increasingly creepy feeling that this is not going to end well. Fans need to set aside plenty of time because this one sitting read will grip the audience with the obsess need to know who, if either or both, are left standing.
Harriet Klausner
Ross Raisin
Harper, Jun 24 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780061448751
In Yorkshire lonely teenager Sam Marsdyke was strongly told to drop out of school when he was accused of attempted rape; he left the classroom and no charge, not even assault, was filed against him. He lives and works on the family farm along side his acrimonious angry father and his submissive silent mother. Increasingly the area and the central village are being gentrified by wealthy Southerners to the dismay of generational long timers like Sam’s outraged old man.
Sam sees fifteen years old Josephine Reeves, who has moved with her family from London onto the adjoining farm. Already hearing about Sam’s scandalous incident, her father warns Sam to stay away from his daughter or else. Still the two teens becomes friends even as Sam stalks her sitting for hours on the nearby hill to catch a glimpse of his beloved. Jo encourages him to risk more. Finally she decides to run away and persuades Sam to accompany her; not that it took much. On their trek nothing goes right until Jo insists he let her go home, but he refuses.
This is an astonishing disturbing look at two characters; one might be a sociopath manipulating the other, but who is the deranged one as Sam seems obvious but Jo seemingly has cleverly maneuvered him to her bidding, or has he been the one in control. The stunning stark cover enhances the sense of doom while the local dialect adds to the overall tension of an increasingly creepy feeling that this is not going to end well. Fans need to set aside plenty of time because this one sitting read will grip the audience with the obsess need to know who, if either or both, are left standing.
Harriet Klausner
The King’s Gold-Arturo Perez-Reverte
The King’s Gold
Arturo Perez-Reverte
Putnam, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780399155109
In 1626 Seville, everyone who is anyone waits for the annual treasure ships to begin to arrive at the port. Although a festive feel hangs all over the city as the vessels represent how powerful Spain is and how proud the Spaniards are of their nation, some of the royal inner sanction will steal for their personal use; others will challenge their actions trying to insure the booty makes it into the treasury.
In that gala atmosphere, a bone weary Captain Diego Alatriste and his associate Inigo Balboa arrive exhausted from a recent siege (see THE SUN OVER BREDA). Exhausted they need money as living in the city when the treasure ships arrive is exorbitant; the merchants and shop owners charge two arms and two legs for everything. However when King Phillip IV, concerned with looting when the nation needs the treasury to finance its world domination especially in the Americas, orders Alatriste to seize a cache of gold to place in the royal coffers. Hiring street thugs, Alatriste and his dirty dozen or so masquerade as pirates as they invade the gold ship. There they find waiting is Alatriste's long time enemy Gualterio Malatesta and a horde of mercenaries who beat them to the vessel.
This seventeenth century swashbuckler is an excellent action-packed thriller in which the escapades keep on coming yet the Captain, his prime antagonist and several other key players come across as fully developed. The story line is fast-paced yet provides a fascinating look at Spain at the height of its power as this is the country’s Golden Age and for us fans of this superb series a rebirth of the Dumas golden age.
Harriet Klausner
Arturo Perez-Reverte
Putnam, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780399155109
In 1626 Seville, everyone who is anyone waits for the annual treasure ships to begin to arrive at the port. Although a festive feel hangs all over the city as the vessels represent how powerful Spain is and how proud the Spaniards are of their nation, some of the royal inner sanction will steal for their personal use; others will challenge their actions trying to insure the booty makes it into the treasury.
In that gala atmosphere, a bone weary Captain Diego Alatriste and his associate Inigo Balboa arrive exhausted from a recent siege (see THE SUN OVER BREDA). Exhausted they need money as living in the city when the treasure ships arrive is exorbitant; the merchants and shop owners charge two arms and two legs for everything. However when King Phillip IV, concerned with looting when the nation needs the treasury to finance its world domination especially in the Americas, orders Alatriste to seize a cache of gold to place in the royal coffers. Hiring street thugs, Alatriste and his dirty dozen or so masquerade as pirates as they invade the gold ship. There they find waiting is Alatriste's long time enemy Gualterio Malatesta and a horde of mercenaries who beat them to the vessel.
This seventeenth century swashbuckler is an excellent action-packed thriller in which the escapades keep on coming yet the Captain, his prime antagonist and several other key players come across as fully developed. The story line is fast-paced yet provides a fascinating look at Spain at the height of its power as this is the country’s Golden Age and for us fans of this superb series a rebirth of the Dumas golden age.
Harriet Klausner
It Only Takes a Moment-Mary Jane Clark
It Only Takes a Moment
Mary Jane Clark
Morrow, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780061286094
In Ho-Ho-Kus, New Jersey, successful TV host of KEY to America, widow Eliza Blake loves her seven year old daughter Janie and trusts her Guatemalan housekeeper Carmen Garcia. However, after Janie goes off to day camp, a man masquerading as Popeye and a woman as Olive Oyl invade the Blake home; they inform a distraught Mrs. Garcia that they will harm the child if she fails to obey their demands. Wired, Mrs. Garcia signs out Janie from Camp Musquapsink, but leaves a note “Call Police” on the log.
When Eliza comes home she is surprised that her housekeeper is not there. Soon she becomes worried and calls the police. Because of who she is the FBI send Agent Barbara Gephart to head the investigation in which the prime suspect is Mrs. Garcia, but also focus on crazy fan mail and sex offenders. Her Sunrise Suspense Society cronies decide to activate while a seemingly successful psychic Stephanie Quick offers her services. As each hour ticks away, the chances of saving her daughter slips away exponentially.
The KEY to the latest “musical” New Jersey thriller (see WHEN DAY BREAKS, DANCING IN THE DARK, DO YOU WANT TO KNOW A SECRET and NOWHERE TO RUN) is Eliza as readers will feel her fear and pain. The story line is fast-paced, but clearly character driven by the beleaguered mother, the kidnappers and the snatched pair. The tension mounts as each minute and page that passes makes it unlikely Janie will be found alive while parents will ponder the apropos title that IT ONLY TAKES A MINUTE to have one’s life nuked. Fans will appreciate this strong abduction thriller with a stunning final denouement.
Harriet Klausner
Mary Jane Clark
Morrow, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780061286094
In Ho-Ho-Kus, New Jersey, successful TV host of KEY to America, widow Eliza Blake loves her seven year old daughter Janie and trusts her Guatemalan housekeeper Carmen Garcia. However, after Janie goes off to day camp, a man masquerading as Popeye and a woman as Olive Oyl invade the Blake home; they inform a distraught Mrs. Garcia that they will harm the child if she fails to obey their demands. Wired, Mrs. Garcia signs out Janie from Camp Musquapsink, but leaves a note “Call Police” on the log.
When Eliza comes home she is surprised that her housekeeper is not there. Soon she becomes worried and calls the police. Because of who she is the FBI send Agent Barbara Gephart to head the investigation in which the prime suspect is Mrs. Garcia, but also focus on crazy fan mail and sex offenders. Her Sunrise Suspense Society cronies decide to activate while a seemingly successful psychic Stephanie Quick offers her services. As each hour ticks away, the chances of saving her daughter slips away exponentially.
The KEY to the latest “musical” New Jersey thriller (see WHEN DAY BREAKS, DANCING IN THE DARK, DO YOU WANT TO KNOW A SECRET and NOWHERE TO RUN) is Eliza as readers will feel her fear and pain. The story line is fast-paced, but clearly character driven by the beleaguered mother, the kidnappers and the snatched pair. The tension mounts as each minute and page that passes makes it unlikely Janie will be found alive while parents will ponder the apropos title that IT ONLY TAKES A MINUTE to have one’s life nuked. Fans will appreciate this strong abduction thriller with a stunning final denouement.
Harriet Klausner
Blackout-Luiz Alfredo Garcia-Roza
Blackout
Luiz Alfredo Garcia-Roza
Holt, Aug 2008, $24.00
ISBN: 9780805079609
In Copacabana, Brazil, Detective Welber calls 12th Precinct Chief Inspector Espinosa to inform him an apparent homeless beggar with one leg was shot close up in the heart at the end of an affluent cul-de-sac. Espinosa goes to look at the corpse on Sao Joao Hill, but the murder makes no sense as there seems to be no motive to rob an indigent man incapable it appears to cause any harm with no witnesses since it occurred during a heavy downpour at night. Welber and Inspector Ramiro wonder why such an efficient professional hit on a helpless beggar timed to occur during THE SILENCE OF THE RAIN.
Still Espinosa refuses drop the case because three decades ago when he was thirteen he nicknamed this place Otto Street; the same spot where the murder of “Skinny” as they call the victim occurred. After talking to the night doorman of a nearby complex who found the body, Espinosa hones in on wealthy dinner guests who dined near the murder scene. He knows they are hiding something so he with his two associates exposes their cover-ups, but makes no progress on the homicide even as Espinosa knows the victim is not important to the brass to waste any more manpower on. When another more renowned homicide occurs, Espinoza believes there is a tie to Skinny, but even the Chief inspector concedes both murders seem to lack motives or witnesses.
BLACKOUT is a superb Brazilian police procedural, in which through Espinosa’s dogged PURSUIT, readers obtain an insightful look through a WINDOW IN COPACABANA. The story line is terrific as the Chief Inspector uncovers clues that are either unrelated to his case or muddle the inquiry. Fans of the series will relish this strong entry as Luiz Alfredo Garcia-Roza continues to provide some the of the sub-genre’s best whodunits.
Harriet Klausner
Luiz Alfredo Garcia-Roza
Holt, Aug 2008, $24.00
ISBN: 9780805079609
In Copacabana, Brazil, Detective Welber calls 12th Precinct Chief Inspector Espinosa to inform him an apparent homeless beggar with one leg was shot close up in the heart at the end of an affluent cul-de-sac. Espinosa goes to look at the corpse on Sao Joao Hill, but the murder makes no sense as there seems to be no motive to rob an indigent man incapable it appears to cause any harm with no witnesses since it occurred during a heavy downpour at night. Welber and Inspector Ramiro wonder why such an efficient professional hit on a helpless beggar timed to occur during THE SILENCE OF THE RAIN.
Still Espinosa refuses drop the case because three decades ago when he was thirteen he nicknamed this place Otto Street; the same spot where the murder of “Skinny” as they call the victim occurred. After talking to the night doorman of a nearby complex who found the body, Espinosa hones in on wealthy dinner guests who dined near the murder scene. He knows they are hiding something so he with his two associates exposes their cover-ups, but makes no progress on the homicide even as Espinosa knows the victim is not important to the brass to waste any more manpower on. When another more renowned homicide occurs, Espinoza believes there is a tie to Skinny, but even the Chief inspector concedes both murders seem to lack motives or witnesses.
BLACKOUT is a superb Brazilian police procedural, in which through Espinosa’s dogged PURSUIT, readers obtain an insightful look through a WINDOW IN COPACABANA. The story line is terrific as the Chief Inspector uncovers clues that are either unrelated to his case or muddle the inquiry. Fans of the series will relish this strong entry as Luiz Alfredo Garcia-Roza continues to provide some the of the sub-genre’s best whodunits.
Harriet Klausner
Skeleton Lake-Mike Doogan
Skeleton Lake
Mike Doogan
Putnam, Aug 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780399154928
Nik Kane was an Anchorage police detective until he was convicted of a crime and spent seven years in prison. When he was exonerated he took a job as a security firm investigator. On his latest case, he was shot and almost died; his son, who was pursuing the same murderer, did die. Nik’s wife wants nothing to do with him; so his sister the nun allows him to stay with her while he recuperates.
While healing, Nik flashes back to his youth. In 1967 his father walked out and never came back; his mother never told him why. He thinks of 1985 when he was a rookie and someone assassinated tough police officer Danny Shirtleff with two bullets to his head near Skeleton Lake. Nik and his partner Jackie Dee never learned why Danny was uncover by a make out place; the case went cold without the slightest suspect surfacing. To pass time while recovering, Nik goes over the files he has from the Shirtleff murder.
The story line skips around between the three dates with each representing something critical that happened to Nik; these actually represent three storylines that merge brilliantly though it is somewhat confusing into a strong character driven tale. Readers will learn more about Nik’s past that motivates him in the present as Mike Doogan provides a strong shrewd tale that his fans will appreciate.
Harriet Klausner
Mike Doogan
Putnam, Aug 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780399154928
Nik Kane was an Anchorage police detective until he was convicted of a crime and spent seven years in prison. When he was exonerated he took a job as a security firm investigator. On his latest case, he was shot and almost died; his son, who was pursuing the same murderer, did die. Nik’s wife wants nothing to do with him; so his sister the nun allows him to stay with her while he recuperates.
While healing, Nik flashes back to his youth. In 1967 his father walked out and never came back; his mother never told him why. He thinks of 1985 when he was a rookie and someone assassinated tough police officer Danny Shirtleff with two bullets to his head near Skeleton Lake. Nik and his partner Jackie Dee never learned why Danny was uncover by a make out place; the case went cold without the slightest suspect surfacing. To pass time while recovering, Nik goes over the files he has from the Shirtleff murder.
The story line skips around between the three dates with each representing something critical that happened to Nik; these actually represent three storylines that merge brilliantly though it is somewhat confusing into a strong character driven tale. Readers will learn more about Nik’s past that motivates him in the present as Mike Doogan provides a strong shrewd tale that his fans will appreciate.
Harriet Klausner
Agnes Hahn-Richard Satterlie
Agnes Hahn
Richard Satterlie
Medallion, Aug 2008, $7.95
ISBN: 9781933836454
Three decades ago when she was four years old, Agnes Hahn moved in with her Great-Aunts Gert and Ella. Now years later, six months after placing Ella in an Alzheimer’s home and the next day burying Gert, she heads to work at an animal shelter near Mendocino while thinking about the Voice that has always been with her. At the shelter stood Police officers Steve Wilson and Loreen Didier; Agnes thinks highly of these two cops and other law enforcement as they go after animal abusers. However this time they handcuff her and read her rights to her; the charge is three monstrous murders in the first degree. Detective Bransome drills her, but Agnes insists she was home the nights of the murder as she does not drive in the dark
Newspaper reporter Jason Powers covers the homicides for the Santa Rosa Press Democrat, but also sees a bestselling true crime book. He makes inquiries into the Hahn family, uncovering a stunner; the accused Agnes has an identical twin, Lilin. However, he finds another strange spin, but before he can pursue it with Ella, her brother Eddie murders her only to have someone kill him with the evidence exclusively condemning Agnes. Shocked Jason feels if he can find the answer to the one question that has eluded him, he will have solved the case; why did Gert and Ella only raise Agnes?
Each time Jason and the audience feel they solved the case; Richard Satterlie spins it in another direction with a stunning twist. The story line contains investigative and police procedural elements, but is predominantly a psychological thriller. Agnes will hook readers who get inside her head and learn her value system is structured around good and bad people as she perceives them. Although others like psychologist Dr. Leahy, Detective Bransome and reporter Powers are fully developed characters, the insightful discerning glimpse at the title protagonist makes for a strong tale.
Harriet Klausner
Richard Satterlie
Medallion, Aug 2008, $7.95
ISBN: 9781933836454
Three decades ago when she was four years old, Agnes Hahn moved in with her Great-Aunts Gert and Ella. Now years later, six months after placing Ella in an Alzheimer’s home and the next day burying Gert, she heads to work at an animal shelter near Mendocino while thinking about the Voice that has always been with her. At the shelter stood Police officers Steve Wilson and Loreen Didier; Agnes thinks highly of these two cops and other law enforcement as they go after animal abusers. However this time they handcuff her and read her rights to her; the charge is three monstrous murders in the first degree. Detective Bransome drills her, but Agnes insists she was home the nights of the murder as she does not drive in the dark
Newspaper reporter Jason Powers covers the homicides for the Santa Rosa Press Democrat, but also sees a bestselling true crime book. He makes inquiries into the Hahn family, uncovering a stunner; the accused Agnes has an identical twin, Lilin. However, he finds another strange spin, but before he can pursue it with Ella, her brother Eddie murders her only to have someone kill him with the evidence exclusively condemning Agnes. Shocked Jason feels if he can find the answer to the one question that has eluded him, he will have solved the case; why did Gert and Ella only raise Agnes?
Each time Jason and the audience feel they solved the case; Richard Satterlie spins it in another direction with a stunning twist. The story line contains investigative and police procedural elements, but is predominantly a psychological thriller. Agnes will hook readers who get inside her head and learn her value system is structured around good and bad people as she perceives them. Although others like psychologist Dr. Leahy, Detective Bransome and reporter Powers are fully developed characters, the insightful discerning glimpse at the title protagonist makes for a strong tale.
Harriet Klausner
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Riven-Jerry B. Jenkins
Riven
Jerry B. Jenkins
Tyndale, Jul 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9781414309040
Pastor Thomas Carey was called at an early age to spread the Word and over the course of several years he became a pastor at different places around the United States. His last calling ended in a disaster because a layman wanted to be the power behind the ministry; something Thomas could not accept. He takes the position as chaplain at the SuperMax state penitentiary at Adamsville.
Brody Wayne Darby has spent his whole life committing one crime after another starting when he stole at the Laundromat where he worked. As he grew older, he committed increasingly more serious crimes and did time. When he was released, he vowed to go straight until a woman hurt him and he killed her. He pleaded guilty and was sent to Adamsville.
In the years he ministered at the prison, Thomas met no sincere inmate. He feels empty until he meets Brody; both come away from their encounters feeling as if God is working through them.
Jerry B. Jenkins is one of the best Christian authors writing today. His latest work is a dark complex contemporary fiction tale driven by two seemingly opposite characters; their polar differences make each even more believable and the story line plausible. RIVEN is a memorable tale starring a man who feels he is a failure and another who only has death waiting for him in three years time. They met and both feel the Lord is working through them giving each what they need. This book will move the audience in so many ways and make them feel so many things. This is a masterpiece.
Harriet Klausner
Jerry B. Jenkins
Tyndale, Jul 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9781414309040
Pastor Thomas Carey was called at an early age to spread the Word and over the course of several years he became a pastor at different places around the United States. His last calling ended in a disaster because a layman wanted to be the power behind the ministry; something Thomas could not accept. He takes the position as chaplain at the SuperMax state penitentiary at Adamsville.
Brody Wayne Darby has spent his whole life committing one crime after another starting when he stole at the Laundromat where he worked. As he grew older, he committed increasingly more serious crimes and did time. When he was released, he vowed to go straight until a woman hurt him and he killed her. He pleaded guilty and was sent to Adamsville.
In the years he ministered at the prison, Thomas met no sincere inmate. He feels empty until he meets Brody; both come away from their encounters feeling as if God is working through them.
Jerry B. Jenkins is one of the best Christian authors writing today. His latest work is a dark complex contemporary fiction tale driven by two seemingly opposite characters; their polar differences make each even more believable and the story line plausible. RIVEN is a memorable tale starring a man who feels he is a failure and another who only has death waiting for him in three years time. They met and both feel the Lord is working through them giving each what they need. This book will move the audience in so many ways and make them feel so many things. This is a masterpiece.
Harriet Klausner
The Winter of Her Discontent-Kathryn Miller Haines
The Winter of Her Discontent
Kathryn Miller Haines
Harper, Jun 24 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780061139802
In 1943, wannabe Broadway actress Rosie Winter feels guilt and remorse as she just broke up with her boyfriend, sailor Jack, who is reported missing at sea. She and her roommate at Shaw House Jayne obtain work on the theatrical production of Goin’ South, but Rosie fears the role will kill her career before it begins because she is part of the dance chorus and knows she can’t dance; still it is work.
However, as opening night looms, Rosie feels good she has not been fired (so far). Someone kills one of the stars Paulette; shockingly Rosie’s friend Al, the small time thug who works for Jayne’s boyfriend Tony as an elbow breaker, confesses. Rosie does not believe Al committed the crime, so sets out to prove he is innocent even while dealing with beefless nights and starlets, as broke as she, live lives of luxury.
Although the final dance number seems somewhat anticlimactic, THE WINTER OF HER DISCONTENT is an entertaining WW II era New York tale. The amateur sleuth elements and the danger to Rosie and Jayne come late as the story line focuses on how the war impact people at home who sacrifice (some in strange ways like the black market repast industry that surfaces) to support the cause. Fans will enjoy this period piece in which the tidbits supersede the whodunit (see THE WAR AGAINST MISS WINTER for her previous home front WW II experience).
Harriet Klausner
Kathryn Miller Haines
Harper, Jun 24 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780061139802
In 1943, wannabe Broadway actress Rosie Winter feels guilt and remorse as she just broke up with her boyfriend, sailor Jack, who is reported missing at sea. She and her roommate at Shaw House Jayne obtain work on the theatrical production of Goin’ South, but Rosie fears the role will kill her career before it begins because she is part of the dance chorus and knows she can’t dance; still it is work.
However, as opening night looms, Rosie feels good she has not been fired (so far). Someone kills one of the stars Paulette; shockingly Rosie’s friend Al, the small time thug who works for Jayne’s boyfriend Tony as an elbow breaker, confesses. Rosie does not believe Al committed the crime, so sets out to prove he is innocent even while dealing with beefless nights and starlets, as broke as she, live lives of luxury.
Although the final dance number seems somewhat anticlimactic, THE WINTER OF HER DISCONTENT is an entertaining WW II era New York tale. The amateur sleuth elements and the danger to Rosie and Jayne come late as the story line focuses on how the war impact people at home who sacrifice (some in strange ways like the black market repast industry that surfaces) to support the cause. Fans will enjoy this period piece in which the tidbits supersede the whodunit (see THE WAR AGAINST MISS WINTER for her previous home front WW II experience).
Harriet Klausner
A Mortal Curiosity-Ann Granger
A Mortal Curiosity
Ann Granger
St. Martin’s, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780312363529
In 1864, Aunt Parry obtains a position of temporary companion for her almost thirty year old by marriage niece Elizabeth “Lizzie” Martin. Clipper ship owner Charles Roche is worried about his teenage niece Lucy Craven whose husband is in China on family business while she recovers from having given birth only to have her baby die a couple of days later. Currently Lucy is staying with her much older spinster Aunts Miss Christina and Miss Phoebe. He also sends his friend Dr. Lefebre, an observant alienist, to check on the emotional well being of the distraught Lucy whose aunts insist she is deranged.
At the Shore House in New Forest in Hampshire, Dr, Lefebre is welcomed by the aunts as a special guest while they literally look down their respective noses at Lizzie, who makes it clear she is unafraid to speak her mind though to herself she admits it looks silly as the two aunts are well over a head taller than her. Still she makes it clear that she is there as Lucy’s companion. As a gentleman farmer seems to be courting the married Lucy, someone murders the traveling rat catcher Jethro Brennan. Worried for Lucy’s safety as well as her own, Lizzie sends for her boyfriend, Metropolitan Police Detective Inspector Benjamin Ross; he drops everything to come immediately.
Readers will feel they are in Victorian England mostly by the sea away from London as Ann Granger provides a vivid look into the manners of a bygone era. The murder mystery comes deep into the tale turning the story line smoothly from a historical novel into a police procedural with a superb final twist that reminds the audience it is 1864 Hampshire (though some will insist it could be 2008 DC with the last spin). Mostly told from Elizabeth’s perspective, fans of the period will appreciate this fine mid ninetieth century English whodunit.
Harriet Klausner
Ann Granger
St. Martin’s, Aug 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780312363529
In 1864, Aunt Parry obtains a position of temporary companion for her almost thirty year old by marriage niece Elizabeth “Lizzie” Martin. Clipper ship owner Charles Roche is worried about his teenage niece Lucy Craven whose husband is in China on family business while she recovers from having given birth only to have her baby die a couple of days later. Currently Lucy is staying with her much older spinster Aunts Miss Christina and Miss Phoebe. He also sends his friend Dr. Lefebre, an observant alienist, to check on the emotional well being of the distraught Lucy whose aunts insist she is deranged.
At the Shore House in New Forest in Hampshire, Dr, Lefebre is welcomed by the aunts as a special guest while they literally look down their respective noses at Lizzie, who makes it clear she is unafraid to speak her mind though to herself she admits it looks silly as the two aunts are well over a head taller than her. Still she makes it clear that she is there as Lucy’s companion. As a gentleman farmer seems to be courting the married Lucy, someone murders the traveling rat catcher Jethro Brennan. Worried for Lucy’s safety as well as her own, Lizzie sends for her boyfriend, Metropolitan Police Detective Inspector Benjamin Ross; he drops everything to come immediately.
Readers will feel they are in Victorian England mostly by the sea away from London as Ann Granger provides a vivid look into the manners of a bygone era. The murder mystery comes deep into the tale turning the story line smoothly from a historical novel into a police procedural with a superb final twist that reminds the audience it is 1864 Hampshire (though some will insist it could be 2008 DC with the last spin). Mostly told from Elizabeth’s perspective, fans of the period will appreciate this fine mid ninetieth century English whodunit.
Harriet Klausner
Chain of Evidence-Gary Disher
Chain of Evidence
Gary Disher
Soho, Jul 2008, $13.00
ISBN: 9781569475003
In Australia Police Inspector Hal Challis returns home to Mawson's Bluff in the Australian Outback, as his father is dying. Sergeant Ellen Destry takes over running the Peninsula East's Crime Investigation Unit in Waterloo, Queensland temporarily. At the annual Waterloo Show, ten years old Katie Blasko vanishes; shockingly her mother waits twenty-four hours before reporting her missing to the cops, who know how critical the first few hours are in terms of retrieval. To her shock her superiors want her to close the case though she fears a pedophile ring may be operating in the peninsular.
Meanwhile in Mawson’s Bluff, a corpse is found inside a plastic bag lying on top of a coffin buried four years ago. Inside is Challis' odious brother-n-law who vanished at the same time the coffin was interred. Challis’ sister Meg assumed he was alive as she has been receiving junk mail that she thought came from him since he left her. He unofficially investigates.
There are obviously two major subplots; both are well written and could stand alone as investigative tales. However, rotating back and forth subtracts from the overall impact of each in spite two well written multilayered story lines that come across as rotating novellas. Still Gary Disher provides his audience with an engaging Australian police procedural as Challis is out of town conducting an unsanctioned private investigation re his family while Destry works a police procedural inquiry into a kidnapped child. Putting Destry in charge of dealing with media, the brass, and politicians refreshes this excellent series.
Harriet Klausner
Gary Disher
Soho, Jul 2008, $13.00
ISBN: 9781569475003
In Australia Police Inspector Hal Challis returns home to Mawson's Bluff in the Australian Outback, as his father is dying. Sergeant Ellen Destry takes over running the Peninsula East's Crime Investigation Unit in Waterloo, Queensland temporarily. At the annual Waterloo Show, ten years old Katie Blasko vanishes; shockingly her mother waits twenty-four hours before reporting her missing to the cops, who know how critical the first few hours are in terms of retrieval. To her shock her superiors want her to close the case though she fears a pedophile ring may be operating in the peninsular.
Meanwhile in Mawson’s Bluff, a corpse is found inside a plastic bag lying on top of a coffin buried four years ago. Inside is Challis' odious brother-n-law who vanished at the same time the coffin was interred. Challis’ sister Meg assumed he was alive as she has been receiving junk mail that she thought came from him since he left her. He unofficially investigates.
There are obviously two major subplots; both are well written and could stand alone as investigative tales. However, rotating back and forth subtracts from the overall impact of each in spite two well written multilayered story lines that come across as rotating novellas. Still Gary Disher provides his audience with an engaging Australian police procedural as Challis is out of town conducting an unsanctioned private investigation re his family while Destry works a police procedural inquiry into a kidnapped child. Putting Destry in charge of dealing with media, the brass, and politicians refreshes this excellent series.
Harriet Klausner
The Chorister at the Abbey-Lis Howell
The Chorister at the Abbey
Lis Howell
Soho, Jun 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9781569475089
In Norbridge, England the serial killing Chorister frightens the members of the Abbey Chorus. Norbridge Abbey Chorus singer Tom Firth visits the Norbridge College Music Department after everyone has gone home for the day. He trips over the corpse of unpopular nosy storeowner Morris Little. His hysterical shouts bring Professor Alex Gibson to come over.
The local police arrest several drug addicts who confess to the murder. However, TV producer Suzy Spencer and her boyfriend Robert Clark (see THE FLOWER ARRANGER AT ALL SAINTS for their previous snooping) have problems with the quick arrests as the victim was holding a Psalter that was no longer with him; it seemingly disappeared and they feel is a key clue to the identity of the real culprit. They compare preliminary notes with Alex, who is still struggling with a nervous breakdown after divorcing Music Department deputy Chair Edwin Armstrong. The three amateur sleuths investigate even as several odd near deadly incidents occur as if someone is warning them off.
The cast especially the amateur sleuthing trio is fully developed so that the reader understands the lead threesome and what motivates them to turn into detectives. However, that is a double edge sword as their baggage at times overwhelms the prime whodunit. Still fans will relish their efforts to prove the police are wrong, which angers the cops, as Lis Howell’s latest Norbridge Chronicles Murder Mystery entertains her audience throughout.
Harriet Klausner
Lis Howell
Soho, Jun 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9781569475089
In Norbridge, England the serial killing Chorister frightens the members of the Abbey Chorus. Norbridge Abbey Chorus singer Tom Firth visits the Norbridge College Music Department after everyone has gone home for the day. He trips over the corpse of unpopular nosy storeowner Morris Little. His hysterical shouts bring Professor Alex Gibson to come over.
The local police arrest several drug addicts who confess to the murder. However, TV producer Suzy Spencer and her boyfriend Robert Clark (see THE FLOWER ARRANGER AT ALL SAINTS for their previous snooping) have problems with the quick arrests as the victim was holding a Psalter that was no longer with him; it seemingly disappeared and they feel is a key clue to the identity of the real culprit. They compare preliminary notes with Alex, who is still struggling with a nervous breakdown after divorcing Music Department deputy Chair Edwin Armstrong. The three amateur sleuths investigate even as several odd near deadly incidents occur as if someone is warning them off.
The cast especially the amateur sleuthing trio is fully developed so that the reader understands the lead threesome and what motivates them to turn into detectives. However, that is a double edge sword as their baggage at times overwhelms the prime whodunit. Still fans will relish their efforts to prove the police are wrong, which angers the cops, as Lis Howell’s latest Norbridge Chronicles Murder Mystery entertains her audience throughout.
Harriet Klausner
Smoke Screen-Sandra Brown
Smoke Screen
Sandra Brown
Simon & Schuster, Aug 2008, $26.95
ISBN: 9781416563068
TV reporter Britt Shelby wakes up one morning with her mind a total blank. Lying next to her is her friend Charlotte Police Detective Jay Burgess. She does not remember anything about the previous evening after they left the restaurant together, which makes no sense to her as she did not drink much. He told her he was dying and wanted to give her a confession that would make her a star in the big leagues if she chooses that route. When she realizes he is not moving because he died during the night, a stunned Britt calls the cops; who name her as a prime suspect in Jay’s murder.
Former firefighter Raley Gannon was involved in a scandal that cost him his vocation, his fiancée and the respect of the people close to him. Like Britt, he was caught up in a situation in which he didn’t recall what happened the night before. Hearing bits of her tale, Raley abducts Britt to hear her full story so they can compare notes. They conclude that someone slipped date rape drugs in their respective drinks five years apart. Both think that in her case it is to discredit her if Jay said anything about what the conspirators did. Raley was investigating an arson homicide case that involved cops. Together they may be able to clear their names and restore their reputations; that is if they can live long enough to do so with powerful people out to get hem.
Few authors can consistently keep the high quality level in their novels as Sandra Brown seems to always achieve. The lead pair is obstinate and to a degree obsessed with repairing their damaged reputations; although attracted to one another, both understand the inquiry comes first However, what makes this investigative thriller soar is the fully developed support cast whether they are the enemy or so called friends who turned in disgust against one of the stars. Ms. Brown is at the top of her game with this excellent thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Sandra Brown
Simon & Schuster, Aug 2008, $26.95
ISBN: 9781416563068
TV reporter Britt Shelby wakes up one morning with her mind a total blank. Lying next to her is her friend Charlotte Police Detective Jay Burgess. She does not remember anything about the previous evening after they left the restaurant together, which makes no sense to her as she did not drink much. He told her he was dying and wanted to give her a confession that would make her a star in the big leagues if she chooses that route. When she realizes he is not moving because he died during the night, a stunned Britt calls the cops; who name her as a prime suspect in Jay’s murder.
Former firefighter Raley Gannon was involved in a scandal that cost him his vocation, his fiancée and the respect of the people close to him. Like Britt, he was caught up in a situation in which he didn’t recall what happened the night before. Hearing bits of her tale, Raley abducts Britt to hear her full story so they can compare notes. They conclude that someone slipped date rape drugs in their respective drinks five years apart. Both think that in her case it is to discredit her if Jay said anything about what the conspirators did. Raley was investigating an arson homicide case that involved cops. Together they may be able to clear their names and restore their reputations; that is if they can live long enough to do so with powerful people out to get hem.
Few authors can consistently keep the high quality level in their novels as Sandra Brown seems to always achieve. The lead pair is obstinate and to a degree obsessed with repairing their damaged reputations; although attracted to one another, both understand the inquiry comes first However, what makes this investigative thriller soar is the fully developed support cast whether they are the enemy or so called friends who turned in disgust against one of the stars. Ms. Brown is at the top of her game with this excellent thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Jimmy the Hand-Raymond E. Feist & S.M. Stirling
Jimmy the Hand
Raymond E. Feist & S.M. Stirling
Eos, Aug 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780060792947
The Mockers enable the royals Arutha and Anita to flee Krondor and the assault of Duke Guy du Bas-Ytra. The irate city ruler demands his thugs bring him the head of teen thief Jimmy the Hand and the other Mockers who abetted the Prince in his and Princess Anita’s escape. Not caring to delineate, the ducal’s assassins go after all Mockers demanding they turn over the head of Jimmy the Hand to them or else.
Knowing his allies are turning against him, Jimmy accompanied by Flora, a Mocker seeking her grandfather to start over, flee Krondor heading towards Land's End. Jimmy expects a respite in the Southern city, but instead the thief finds himself in the middle of a dark magic altercation. He tries to con his way out of a confrontation that could prove unhealthy.
This is an entertaining Legends of the Riftwar tale but fans of the saga will need to take a step back to somewhat place the tale in its chronological order as Jimmy is the bravado thief just beginning to show his noble heart in his legendary tale. The story line is fast-paced and filled with plenty of action as the lead rotates; when Jimmy or the royals are front and center, the plot is top rate while when others take center stage it feels off kilter especially since some star one scene players. Enjoyable in spite some descriptive weather and geographical paragraphs repeated seemingly verbatim several times (don’t need a photographic memory to realize this as it is jarring), fans of Midkemia will appreciate the latest entry as Jimmy shows why he is a fascinating protagonist.
Harriet Klausner
Raymond E. Feist & S.M. Stirling
Eos, Aug 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780060792947
The Mockers enable the royals Arutha and Anita to flee Krondor and the assault of Duke Guy du Bas-Ytra. The irate city ruler demands his thugs bring him the head of teen thief Jimmy the Hand and the other Mockers who abetted the Prince in his and Princess Anita’s escape. Not caring to delineate, the ducal’s assassins go after all Mockers demanding they turn over the head of Jimmy the Hand to them or else.
Knowing his allies are turning against him, Jimmy accompanied by Flora, a Mocker seeking her grandfather to start over, flee Krondor heading towards Land's End. Jimmy expects a respite in the Southern city, but instead the thief finds himself in the middle of a dark magic altercation. He tries to con his way out of a confrontation that could prove unhealthy.
This is an entertaining Legends of the Riftwar tale but fans of the saga will need to take a step back to somewhat place the tale in its chronological order as Jimmy is the bravado thief just beginning to show his noble heart in his legendary tale. The story line is fast-paced and filled with plenty of action as the lead rotates; when Jimmy or the royals are front and center, the plot is top rate while when others take center stage it feels off kilter especially since some star one scene players. Enjoyable in spite some descriptive weather and geographical paragraphs repeated seemingly verbatim several times (don’t need a photographic memory to realize this as it is jarring), fans of Midkemia will appreciate the latest entry as Jimmy shows why he is a fascinating protagonist.
Harriet Klausner
Vampyres of Hollywood-Adrienne Barbeau and Michael Scott
Vampyres of Hollywood
Adrienne Barbeau and Michael Scott
Dunne, Jul 2008, $23.95
ISBN: 9780312367220
Hollywood is stunned when three top gun actors are murdered in two weeks. The prime link between the trio besides ghastly deaths at the hands of the Cinema Slayer serial killer is they are employees of powerful horror queen, Ovsanna Moore, head of a studio.
Beverly Hills Police Detective Peter King leads the official investigation into the macabre homicides. What the cop fails to know is Ovsanna is a five century old vampire, who oversees a network of vampires, many of whom are movie stars. Ovsanna feels she must end the real life horror show that she knows targets her before King realizes the dead were undead and she too is a vampire. If she fails, Ovsanna will give up the good life to be reborn as someone else.
This is an amusing, entertaining but somewhat inane paranormal police procedural in which Peter and Ovsanna rotate perspectives in their cat and mouse contest. Peter is an unknowledgeable modern day Van Helsing while Ovsanna is a twenty-first century CEO Dracula tycoon (vampires adapt). Fans will appreciate their witty war as Adrienne Barbeau and Michael Scott take an insider bite out of Hollywood, unscrupulous big business CEOs and dedicated literary cops in a satirical tale that asks who is the real dead one, the breathing cop with no life or the undead movie mogul with a fulfilling life.
Harriet Klausner
Adrienne Barbeau and Michael Scott
Dunne, Jul 2008, $23.95
ISBN: 9780312367220
Hollywood is stunned when three top gun actors are murdered in two weeks. The prime link between the trio besides ghastly deaths at the hands of the Cinema Slayer serial killer is they are employees of powerful horror queen, Ovsanna Moore, head of a studio.
Beverly Hills Police Detective Peter King leads the official investigation into the macabre homicides. What the cop fails to know is Ovsanna is a five century old vampire, who oversees a network of vampires, many of whom are movie stars. Ovsanna feels she must end the real life horror show that she knows targets her before King realizes the dead were undead and she too is a vampire. If she fails, Ovsanna will give up the good life to be reborn as someone else.
This is an amusing, entertaining but somewhat inane paranormal police procedural in which Peter and Ovsanna rotate perspectives in their cat and mouse contest. Peter is an unknowledgeable modern day Van Helsing while Ovsanna is a twenty-first century CEO Dracula tycoon (vampires adapt). Fans will appreciate their witty war as Adrienne Barbeau and Michael Scott take an insider bite out of Hollywood, unscrupulous big business CEOs and dedicated literary cops in a satirical tale that asks who is the real dead one, the breathing cop with no life or the undead movie mogul with a fulfilling life.
Harriet Klausner
Friday, June 13, 2008
Bed on Arrival-Kelley St. John
Bed on Arrival
Kelley St. John
Harlequin Blaze, Jul 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373794133
Like her cousins social worker Jenee Vicknair helps lost spirits reach the other side. Jenee’s forte is assisting deceased children arrive at their destination.
However, her newest lost soul is a sexy adult who is devastating her sleep. Private investigator and fellow psychic Nick Madere is seeking a missing child. His specialty is to use photographs of his target to guide him to the child. However, something strange seems to happen lately as he uses his gift. Instead of the trail of a youngster, his spirit ends up in bed alongside beautiful Jenee. He knows she is real and wants to meet her as he is very attracted to her, but first the case comes before his desire. She, on the other hand is confused as she wants this hunk, but has only seem his spirit, which she assumes is lost.
BED ON ARRIVAL is an enjoyable paranormal romantic suspense starring two likable protagonists who first meet in her dreams. Although Nick obsesses over meeting in the flesh Jenee, he also knows the missing child comes before his desires. Sub-genre fans will appreciate this fine Sixth Sense entry (see FIRE IN THE BLOOD; not read by this reviewer) that stands alone as a delightful tale of love forming in the astral realm between two caring people with special skills used to help children in differing ways.
Harriet Klausner
Kelley St. John
Harlequin Blaze, Jul 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373794133
Like her cousins social worker Jenee Vicknair helps lost spirits reach the other side. Jenee’s forte is assisting deceased children arrive at their destination.
However, her newest lost soul is a sexy adult who is devastating her sleep. Private investigator and fellow psychic Nick Madere is seeking a missing child. His specialty is to use photographs of his target to guide him to the child. However, something strange seems to happen lately as he uses his gift. Instead of the trail of a youngster, his spirit ends up in bed alongside beautiful Jenee. He knows she is real and wants to meet her as he is very attracted to her, but first the case comes before his desire. She, on the other hand is confused as she wants this hunk, but has only seem his spirit, which she assumes is lost.
BED ON ARRIVAL is an enjoyable paranormal romantic suspense starring two likable protagonists who first meet in her dreams. Although Nick obsesses over meeting in the flesh Jenee, he also knows the missing child comes before his desires. Sub-genre fans will appreciate this fine Sixth Sense entry (see FIRE IN THE BLOOD; not read by this reviewer) that stands alone as a delightful tale of love forming in the astral realm between two caring people with special skills used to help children in differing ways.
Harriet Klausner
Bound to Please-Hope Tarr
Bound to Please
Hope Tarr
Harlequin Blaze, Jul 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373794119
In 1460 on the Isle of Skye, the Macleod Laird risks a fighting feud with their neighboring clan the Frasers by kidnapping a high ranking family member. The Laird plans to insure a baby is produced between them so no one can challenge her claim as the Macleod laird.
Ewan Fraser is stunned what has happened to him as he is the brother to the powerful clan Laird. He knows Brianna Macleod, who abducted him, from when them met ten years ago and vowed to one day marry though he scoffed at her belief she will be the laird. She informs him that he will make her pregnant. Irate at himself as much as he is with her he is looking forward to her having her way with him while he is in chains.
BOUND TO PLEASE is a fabulous historical romance in which Hope Tarr uses gender bending in the positions of leadership, captivity, and the boudoir to refresh the Scottish historical theme. The story line is fast-paced; mostly driven by the chained hero and his female capturer who takes him although there is a troublemaking villain trying to use the situation for personal gain. Readers will enjoy this amusing aptly titled novel.
Harriet Klausner
Hope Tarr
Harlequin Blaze, Jul 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373794119
In 1460 on the Isle of Skye, the Macleod Laird risks a fighting feud with their neighboring clan the Frasers by kidnapping a high ranking family member. The Laird plans to insure a baby is produced between them so no one can challenge her claim as the Macleod laird.
Ewan Fraser is stunned what has happened to him as he is the brother to the powerful clan Laird. He knows Brianna Macleod, who abducted him, from when them met ten years ago and vowed to one day marry though he scoffed at her belief she will be the laird. She informs him that he will make her pregnant. Irate at himself as much as he is with her he is looking forward to her having her way with him while he is in chains.
BOUND TO PLEASE is a fabulous historical romance in which Hope Tarr uses gender bending in the positions of leadership, captivity, and the boudoir to refresh the Scottish historical theme. The story line is fast-paced; mostly driven by the chained hero and his female capturer who takes him although there is a troublemaking villain trying to use the situation for personal gain. Readers will enjoy this amusing aptly titled novel.
Harriet Klausner
Trust a Cowboy-Judy Christenberry
Trust a Cowboy
Judy Christenberry
Harlequin American, Jul 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373752249
At the Lazy L cattle and dude ranch just outside Steamboat Springs, Colorado Pete Ledbetter is stunned when his granddad decides Pete needs a wife. Desperate to remain a bachelor, Pete concocts a delaying tactic by having a fake fiancée.
He knows that he and ranch chef Mary Jo Michaels are an ideal pair following a heated summer fling that ended. However, as Pete makes a bid to get her back in his personal life especially his bed, Mary no longer trusts the man who broke her heart. Granddad thinks she is perfect so Pete better watch his step or the old guy will adopt her and dump him.
This is an entertaining ranch romance although one must wonder why Mary Jo just did not quit as the line between courting and sexual harassment seems to have been crossed by Pete. Although she loves him, she rejects his touch, but he keeps on coming because he believes they belong together. Contemporary fans will enjoy this tale but lose respect for the heroine while wondering how strong the story line could have been if Judy Christenberry explored the emotional impact of employer-employee sexual harassment.
Harriet Klausner
Judy Christenberry
Harlequin American, Jul 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373752249
At the Lazy L cattle and dude ranch just outside Steamboat Springs, Colorado Pete Ledbetter is stunned when his granddad decides Pete needs a wife. Desperate to remain a bachelor, Pete concocts a delaying tactic by having a fake fiancée.
He knows that he and ranch chef Mary Jo Michaels are an ideal pair following a heated summer fling that ended. However, as Pete makes a bid to get her back in his personal life especially his bed, Mary no longer trusts the man who broke her heart. Granddad thinks she is perfect so Pete better watch his step or the old guy will adopt her and dump him.
This is an entertaining ranch romance although one must wonder why Mary Jo just did not quit as the line between courting and sexual harassment seems to have been crossed by Pete. Although she loves him, she rejects his touch, but he keeps on coming because he believes they belong together. Contemporary fans will enjoy this tale but lose respect for the heroine while wondering how strong the story line could have been if Judy Christenberry explored the emotional impact of employer-employee sexual harassment.
Harriet Klausner
Hannah’s Baby-Cathy Gillen Thacker
Hannah’s Baby
Cathy Gillen Thacker
Harlequin American, Jul 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373752225
Hannah Callahan is euphoric as her adopted baby Isabelle Zhu Ming has finally arrived in Texas. She looks forward to raising her daughter in her hometown of Summit.
Hannah's friend thirty-five years old Joe Daugherty helped her pick up the ten month old child over from Taiwan. She believes he would make the perfect daddy to her child, but knows the famous world traveling writer would never settle down. Joe on the other hand has fallen in love with mother and child; he begins to wonder if with Hannah and Isabelle he could finally belong to a family; something has not felt he was part of in a long time.
This is a superb contemporary drama as Hannah fulfills her dream with the adoption (over the opposition of her dad who insists marriage before the baby carriage); but now that her wish has been granted, she must adapt to raising an infant. Her falling in love with rolling stone Joe just complicates her suddenly complex life as she learns that babies nuke lifestyles. Fans will enjoy this strong tale of love as baby makes two and Joe might make three.
Harriet Klausner
Cathy Gillen Thacker
Harlequin American, Jul 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373752225
Hannah Callahan is euphoric as her adopted baby Isabelle Zhu Ming has finally arrived in Texas. She looks forward to raising her daughter in her hometown of Summit.
Hannah's friend thirty-five years old Joe Daugherty helped her pick up the ten month old child over from Taiwan. She believes he would make the perfect daddy to her child, but knows the famous world traveling writer would never settle down. Joe on the other hand has fallen in love with mother and child; he begins to wonder if with Hannah and Isabelle he could finally belong to a family; something has not felt he was part of in a long time.
This is a superb contemporary drama as Hannah fulfills her dream with the adoption (over the opposition of her dad who insists marriage before the baby carriage); but now that her wish has been granted, she must adapt to raising an infant. Her falling in love with rolling stone Joe just complicates her suddenly complex life as she learns that babies nuke lifestyles. Fans will enjoy this strong tale of love as baby makes two and Joe might make three.
Harriet Klausner
The Likeness-Tana French
The Likeness
Tana French
Viking, Aug 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780670018864
When the cops see the murdered corpse of Ph.D. candidate Lexie Madison, found near Glenskehy, Ireland, they agree how remarkably identical the victim is to one of them, Detective Cassie Maddox (see IN THE WOODS). Since they could have been identical twins, in spite of the danger Cassie agrees to pretend to be Lexie in order to trick her killer into exposing him or herself.
Cassie as Lexie movies into Whitethorn House, the mansion the victim shared with four other post graduate students (Daniel, Justin, Rafe and Abby); she informs them that she was fortunate to have survived the assault. As Cassie investigates each of her flatmates, she finds she likes each of them because they are so different in personality. However, inside the mansion the quintet begin to argue, but Cassie wonders if the threat to her as Lexie might be from the village.
This brilliant psychological suspense police procedural is a strong tale because the four surviving roommates and the cop masquerading as the fifth seem genuine especially inside of Whitethorn House. The relationships between the quintet enhances the tension as Cassie and the readers wonder who of these nice flatmates is the killer, if any; and when will the next attempt occur.
Harriet Klausner
Tana French
Viking, Aug 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780670018864
When the cops see the murdered corpse of Ph.D. candidate Lexie Madison, found near Glenskehy, Ireland, they agree how remarkably identical the victim is to one of them, Detective Cassie Maddox (see IN THE WOODS). Since they could have been identical twins, in spite of the danger Cassie agrees to pretend to be Lexie in order to trick her killer into exposing him or herself.
Cassie as Lexie movies into Whitethorn House, the mansion the victim shared with four other post graduate students (Daniel, Justin, Rafe and Abby); she informs them that she was fortunate to have survived the assault. As Cassie investigates each of her flatmates, she finds she likes each of them because they are so different in personality. However, inside the mansion the quintet begin to argue, but Cassie wonders if the threat to her as Lexie might be from the village.
This brilliant psychological suspense police procedural is a strong tale because the four surviving roommates and the cop masquerading as the fifth seem genuine especially inside of Whitethorn House. The relationships between the quintet enhances the tension as Cassie and the readers wonder who of these nice flatmates is the killer, if any; and when will the next attempt occur.
Harriet Klausner
Sweet Man Is Gone-Peggy Ehrhart
Sweet Man Is Gone
Peggy Ehrhart
Five Star, Jun 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9781594146688
Blues singer Maxx Maxwell believes her band Maximum Blues is going to hit the big time ever since guitarist Jimmy Nashville joined the group. After practicing at the Feedback Studio for a gig in the Village, Jimmy gets into a dispute with a tall guy, but nothing comes of it.
The next night, Maxx drives from Hackensack to Manhattan to pick up Jimmy and continue on the club where they are performing. Instead she learns Jimmy fell from his ninth floor apartment. She also learns someone cancelled the gig. Unable to resist especially when the cops declare Jimmy committed suicide, Maxx investigates who gave her band the blues. She thinks he was murdered probably by someone who knew him.
This is a fun cozy although realistically Maxx has no time nor should be investigating what happened to her guitarist even if she was attracted to him. Still fans will enjoy the merger of music and murder as the heroine is a delightful caring individual who believes she and her blues band can make it while the support cast is solid as they bring to life mostly the music industry from the rarely seen viewpoint of the dire straits struggle of bands trying to make it while the musicians keep their day job.
Harriet Klausner
Peggy Ehrhart
Five Star, Jun 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9781594146688
Blues singer Maxx Maxwell believes her band Maximum Blues is going to hit the big time ever since guitarist Jimmy Nashville joined the group. After practicing at the Feedback Studio for a gig in the Village, Jimmy gets into a dispute with a tall guy, but nothing comes of it.
The next night, Maxx drives from Hackensack to Manhattan to pick up Jimmy and continue on the club where they are performing. Instead she learns Jimmy fell from his ninth floor apartment. She also learns someone cancelled the gig. Unable to resist especially when the cops declare Jimmy committed suicide, Maxx investigates who gave her band the blues. She thinks he was murdered probably by someone who knew him.
This is a fun cozy although realistically Maxx has no time nor should be investigating what happened to her guitarist even if she was attracted to him. Still fans will enjoy the merger of music and murder as the heroine is a delightful caring individual who believes she and her blues band can make it while the support cast is solid as they bring to life mostly the music industry from the rarely seen viewpoint of the dire straits struggle of bands trying to make it while the musicians keep their day job.
Harriet Klausner
One Bad Apple-Sheila Connolly
One Bad Apple
Sheila Connolly
Berkley, Aug 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780425223048
Months after her boyfriend dumped her, Meg Corey’s job is made redundant when her bank merges with a larger one. Her mother comes up with a solution that will occupy Meg for the next few months. They own property in Grandford, New England that includes a house and an apple orchard. If Meg fixes up the house, she will earn half the profits from the sale.
Neither Meg nor her mom is aware that the house needs enormous structural and cosmetic repair. The plumping needs immediate attention so she calls Seth Chapin who informs Meg the septic tank needs replacing. The day after it is fixed, her sink is stuffed, Seth inspects what is clogging the system only to find the corpse of Meg’s ex boyfriend inside. He was in town to sell the concept of a strip mall and had many enemies with a motive to kill him.
There is a delightful charm to this small town regional cozy. The protagonist works the homicide because the police officer leading the investigation considers her the prime person of interest. Sheila Connolly provides a fascinating whodunit filled with surprises especially red herrings as the amateur competes with the cop to prove she is innocent by uncovering the identity of the guilty person.
Harriet Klausner
Sheila Connolly
Berkley, Aug 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780425223048
Months after her boyfriend dumped her, Meg Corey’s job is made redundant when her bank merges with a larger one. Her mother comes up with a solution that will occupy Meg for the next few months. They own property in Grandford, New England that includes a house and an apple orchard. If Meg fixes up the house, she will earn half the profits from the sale.
Neither Meg nor her mom is aware that the house needs enormous structural and cosmetic repair. The plumping needs immediate attention so she calls Seth Chapin who informs Meg the septic tank needs replacing. The day after it is fixed, her sink is stuffed, Seth inspects what is clogging the system only to find the corpse of Meg’s ex boyfriend inside. He was in town to sell the concept of a strip mall and had many enemies with a motive to kill him.
There is a delightful charm to this small town regional cozy. The protagonist works the homicide because the police officer leading the investigation considers her the prime person of interest. Sheila Connolly provides a fascinating whodunit filled with surprises especially red herrings as the amateur competes with the cop to prove she is innocent by uncovering the identity of the guilty person.
Harriet Klausner
Wicked Hot-Charlene Teglia
Wicked Hot
Charlene Teglia
St. Martin’s, Aug 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780312369460
As a Saxon, Edana killed a Norman in 1066, damning her to hell. When Nick makes her a succubus; for centuries her whole being enticed men into giving up their souls for a chance to have sex with her. She never has sex because she drains her victims before they can do the deed; so she remains a virgin because before she was one a when she was a human. This time when she returns to Nick he has a special assignment waiting for her.
He want the succubus to destroy the Nephilim, the beings born between the mating of angels and human females. They were destroyed by the Flood, but they are back to restore the balance between humanity and a surplus of demons. Eli has the power to conjure and bind the demon to him so that she must do what he says or be punished in the Void of nothingness. When Edana meets Eli and his brother Del, she learns the Nephilim are given another chance to protect humanity from the overabundance of demons. However Edana has feelings for Eli, but their relationship seems doomed from the start because if she succeeds on her mission he is doomed; while if he succeeds on his mission she is doomed.
This wickedly hot romantic fantasy is filled with sexual encounters of all kind including ménage a trois and light bondage that enhance the intriguing story line. The Nephilim are being tested to see if they control their lust while Edana is the target of all sides as the lure. The dilemma of loving the enemy is devilishly designed in Charlene Teglia’s evocative XXX supernatural romance.
Harriet Klausner
Charlene Teglia
St. Martin’s, Aug 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780312369460
As a Saxon, Edana killed a Norman in 1066, damning her to hell. When Nick makes her a succubus; for centuries her whole being enticed men into giving up their souls for a chance to have sex with her. She never has sex because she drains her victims before they can do the deed; so she remains a virgin because before she was one a when she was a human. This time when she returns to Nick he has a special assignment waiting for her.
He want the succubus to destroy the Nephilim, the beings born between the mating of angels and human females. They were destroyed by the Flood, but they are back to restore the balance between humanity and a surplus of demons. Eli has the power to conjure and bind the demon to him so that she must do what he says or be punished in the Void of nothingness. When Edana meets Eli and his brother Del, she learns the Nephilim are given another chance to protect humanity from the overabundance of demons. However Edana has feelings for Eli, but their relationship seems doomed from the start because if she succeeds on her mission he is doomed; while if he succeeds on his mission she is doomed.
This wickedly hot romantic fantasy is filled with sexual encounters of all kind including ménage a trois and light bondage that enhance the intriguing story line. The Nephilim are being tested to see if they control their lust while Edana is the target of all sides as the lure. The dilemma of loving the enemy is devilishly designed in Charlene Teglia’s evocative XXX supernatural romance.
Harriet Klausner
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Just for Her-Katherine O'Neal
Just for Her
Katherine O'Neal
Kensington Brava, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0758210620
In 1926 everyone believes Jules Habsburg lives a perfect life of luxury with her fairy tale Prince Charming of a husband Dominic DeRohan. Everyone that is except Jules who knows her spouse is an abusive robber baron; she lives a nightmare.
After Dominic shoots her lover, Jules runs away; taking refuge amidst artists, authors, and bohemians in the French Riviera’s Cote d'Azur. The notorious cat burglar Panther enters her home through a window, but she catches him. She believes he is one man who can eliminate Dominic before he finds her. However, he demands remittance staring with her heart and ending with her soul. As she falls in love, Jules is unaware that the Panther is the one person who knows something about her that if revealed will destroy her.
This engaging historical thriller grips readers from the onset as a desperate Jules wonders if she jumped from the frying pan into the fire when she chose the Panther to battle her husband. The story line is fast-paced and filled with a few nice twists especially an excellent plausible last one that will shock the audience. Fans will appreciate this character driven tale as readers will need to know who is left standing with whom.
Harriet Klausner
Katherine O'Neal
Kensington Brava, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0758210620
In 1926 everyone believes Jules Habsburg lives a perfect life of luxury with her fairy tale Prince Charming of a husband Dominic DeRohan. Everyone that is except Jules who knows her spouse is an abusive robber baron; she lives a nightmare.
After Dominic shoots her lover, Jules runs away; taking refuge amidst artists, authors, and bohemians in the French Riviera’s Cote d'Azur. The notorious cat burglar Panther enters her home through a window, but she catches him. She believes he is one man who can eliminate Dominic before he finds her. However, he demands remittance staring with her heart and ending with her soul. As she falls in love, Jules is unaware that the Panther is the one person who knows something about her that if revealed will destroy her.
This engaging historical thriller grips readers from the onset as a desperate Jules wonders if she jumped from the frying pan into the fire when she chose the Panther to battle her husband. The story line is fast-paced and filled with a few nice twists especially an excellent plausible last one that will shock the audience. Fans will appreciate this character driven tale as readers will need to know who is left standing with whom.
Harriet Klausner
Hard as Nails-HelenKay Dimon
Hard as Nails
HelenKay Dimon
Kensington Brava, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0758215835
"This Old House”. In affluent Dupont Circle DC his partners Adam and Whit Thomas ask Cole Carruthers to persuade the elderly woman who sold them the Victorian fixer upper house to please leave so they can get on with the reconstruction project. However, he is greeted by sexy Aubrey Matheson who rejects his efforts to remove her; insisting the house is hers. She does not reject his attempts to examine the bedroom first hand together.
"All About Adam”. When they kissed, a stunned Becky Carter fled from the arms of realty rehabber Adam Thomas. However she regrets her panic and he wants to raise the heat.
"Man at the Door". After receiving unwanted notoriety artist Erin McHugh wants to be left alone except from renovating her home. However site foreman Ray Hammond persuades Erin to let him live in the house to reduce the calendar time it takes to finish the job; he has not told her this job includes a lifetime guarantee with her.
The link between these three contemporary romances is the Dupont Circle project in which the lead couples (and readers) will discover every nook and cranny can be used for a tryst. HARD AS NAILS is a fun anthology although the hunks at times become wet noodles instead of nails. Fans will enjoy this fun fixer upper collection.
Harriet Klausner
HelenKay Dimon
Kensington Brava, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0758215835
"This Old House”. In affluent Dupont Circle DC his partners Adam and Whit Thomas ask Cole Carruthers to persuade the elderly woman who sold them the Victorian fixer upper house to please leave so they can get on with the reconstruction project. However, he is greeted by sexy Aubrey Matheson who rejects his efforts to remove her; insisting the house is hers. She does not reject his attempts to examine the bedroom first hand together.
"All About Adam”. When they kissed, a stunned Becky Carter fled from the arms of realty rehabber Adam Thomas. However she regrets her panic and he wants to raise the heat.
"Man at the Door". After receiving unwanted notoriety artist Erin McHugh wants to be left alone except from renovating her home. However site foreman Ray Hammond persuades Erin to let him live in the house to reduce the calendar time it takes to finish the job; he has not told her this job includes a lifetime guarantee with her.
The link between these three contemporary romances is the Dupont Circle project in which the lead couples (and readers) will discover every nook and cranny can be used for a tryst. HARD AS NAILS is a fun anthology although the hunks at times become wet noodles instead of nails. Fans will enjoy this fun fixer upper collection.
Harriet Klausner
Rogue-Danielle Steel
Rogue
Danielle Steel
Delacorte, Jun 2008, $27.00
ISBN: 0385340257
Five yeas ago, then late thirties Dr. Maxine Williams was tired of raising four children; three were her preadolescent kids (the oldest was seven at the time) while one was her dot-com wealthy husband Blake. She divorced Blake though they remain friendly; and their three children live with her. Maxine’s psychiatric practice specializes in childhood trauma and suicide while Blake is an international womanizer having young females on several continents.
Maxine becomes embroiled in a depressing teen suicide case in which she meets divorced Dr. Charles West. They are attracted to each other as she relishes his commitment and responsibility. Blake becomes embroiled in a tragedy that makes him aware of what he has lost. He suddenly rushes home to persuade Maxine that he has changed. Maxine is torn between two lovers.
This is an entertaining romantic triangle with a terrific final twist. The story line is fast-paced and the lead trio seems genuine as does her three kids. Although the emotions of Maxine pulled by two opposites, the rogue and the responsible one, are never dug deep enough beyond a shallow level to satiate the audience, Danielle Steel’s fans will appreciate this well written character driven tale.
Harriet Klausner
Danielle Steel
Delacorte, Jun 2008, $27.00
ISBN: 0385340257
Five yeas ago, then late thirties Dr. Maxine Williams was tired of raising four children; three were her preadolescent kids (the oldest was seven at the time) while one was her dot-com wealthy husband Blake. She divorced Blake though they remain friendly; and their three children live with her. Maxine’s psychiatric practice specializes in childhood trauma and suicide while Blake is an international womanizer having young females on several continents.
Maxine becomes embroiled in a depressing teen suicide case in which she meets divorced Dr. Charles West. They are attracted to each other as she relishes his commitment and responsibility. Blake becomes embroiled in a tragedy that makes him aware of what he has lost. He suddenly rushes home to persuade Maxine that he has changed. Maxine is torn between two lovers.
This is an entertaining romantic triangle with a terrific final twist. The story line is fast-paced and the lead trio seems genuine as does her three kids. Although the emotions of Maxine pulled by two opposites, the rogue and the responsible one, are never dug deep enough beyond a shallow level to satiate the audience, Danielle Steel’s fans will appreciate this well written character driven tale.
Harriet Klausner
Winter Turns to Spring-Catherine Palmer & Gary Chapman
Winter Turns to Spring
Catherine Palmer & Gary Chapman
Tyndale, Jul 2008, $13.99
ISBN: 9781414311685
Brad and Ashley Hanes are each considering ending their marriage. They are tired of constant fighting over bills and habits. They rarely do anything meaningful together.
Their neighbors want to help the couple, but they have their own relationship issues. That is everyone except elderly widower Charlie Moore, whose spouse Esther just died. As he grieves his loss, the Hanes see someone who has lost his long time companion; both want the same long time from each other as the arguments seem trivial, but will either take that first step towards intimacy or will each assumes it is too late.
The final novelization of the Four Seasons of Marriage is an interesting contemporary look at a couple struggling with seemingly overwhelming issues and major differences re how to deal with them. The story line is well written as winter roars like a lion but spring with its renewal promise including marital vows and love is coming. In some ways Charlie steals the show as the Hanes in spite of their fights seem too sweet. Still this is a fine entry in a solid series that reflects on marriage through the parable of the seasons of life.
Harriet Klausner
Catherine Palmer & Gary Chapman
Tyndale, Jul 2008, $13.99
ISBN: 9781414311685
Brad and Ashley Hanes are each considering ending their marriage. They are tired of constant fighting over bills and habits. They rarely do anything meaningful together.
Their neighbors want to help the couple, but they have their own relationship issues. That is everyone except elderly widower Charlie Moore, whose spouse Esther just died. As he grieves his loss, the Hanes see someone who has lost his long time companion; both want the same long time from each other as the arguments seem trivial, but will either take that first step towards intimacy or will each assumes it is too late.
The final novelization of the Four Seasons of Marriage is an interesting contemporary look at a couple struggling with seemingly overwhelming issues and major differences re how to deal with them. The story line is well written as winter roars like a lion but spring with its renewal promise including marital vows and love is coming. In some ways Charlie steals the show as the Hanes in spite of their fights seem too sweet. Still this is a fine entry in a solid series that reflects on marriage through the parable of the seasons of life.
Harriet Klausner
A Darker Side-Shirley Wells
A Darker Side
Shirley Wells
Soho, Jun 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9781569475096
Former forensic psychologist Jill Kennedy left police work following a suicide on her last profiling case. She moved to remote Kelton Bridge planning to author books and never to work a police investigation again.
However, her former lover, Lancashire DCI Max Trentham pleads with Jill to assist him on the investigation into the murder of teenager Martin Hayden; the victim had disappeared only to reappear floating in a canal with his head fractured. She reluctantly agrees to assist him and they soon interview Martin’s mother, Josie, who admits he was not the biological son of her spouse George, but that of a traveling salesman. Soon after their meeting, someone kills Josie and another teenager. Max thinks serial killer, but Jill feels otherwise as the link remains Martin, which may mean Josie’s past is the key element.
This is an engaging British police procedural starring a reliable cop who becomes desperate when his son is threatened (though that subplot seems too off kilter to believe) and a reluctant profiler who works the case differently than the officials. The key to this fine whodunit is that Jill and Max though still attracted to each other don’t jump into each other’s arms. Although the climax is obvious, A DARKER SIDE is a fine psychological profile police procedural (see INTO THE SHADOWS for Max’s previous case).
Harriet Klausner
Shirley Wells
Soho, Jun 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9781569475096
Former forensic psychologist Jill Kennedy left police work following a suicide on her last profiling case. She moved to remote Kelton Bridge planning to author books and never to work a police investigation again.
However, her former lover, Lancashire DCI Max Trentham pleads with Jill to assist him on the investigation into the murder of teenager Martin Hayden; the victim had disappeared only to reappear floating in a canal with his head fractured. She reluctantly agrees to assist him and they soon interview Martin’s mother, Josie, who admits he was not the biological son of her spouse George, but that of a traveling salesman. Soon after their meeting, someone kills Josie and another teenager. Max thinks serial killer, but Jill feels otherwise as the link remains Martin, which may mean Josie’s past is the key element.
This is an engaging British police procedural starring a reliable cop who becomes desperate when his son is threatened (though that subplot seems too off kilter to believe) and a reluctant profiler who works the case differently than the officials. The key to this fine whodunit is that Jill and Max though still attracted to each other don’t jump into each other’s arms. Although the climax is obvious, A DARKER SIDE is a fine psychological profile police procedural (see INTO THE SHADOWS for Max’s previous case).
Harriet Klausner
Mad about the Boy?-Domores Gordon-Smith
Mad about the Boy?
Domores Gordon-Smith
Soho, Jul 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 1569475113
In 1923, mystery writer Jack Haldean attends the Silver Wedding Anniversary gala of his Aunt Alice and Uncle Philip at their country manor Hesperus. However the fete is dampened by the apparent suicide of Jack's friend Tim Preston. In financial trouble Tim served as secretary to detestable haughty Lord Lyvenden; a nouveau riche who paid for his peerage and a proper wife from his humongous munitions manufacturing profits although business has slowed since the war ended.
Although everyone else assumes suicide, Jack has doubts that quickly become validated when Lyvenden is found dead with Jack's friend Arthur Stanton standing by the corpse. Jack investigates, but Stanton is gone. Meanwhile Jack’s cousin Isabelle, engaged to wealthy banker Malcolm Smith-Fennimore, insists her beloved Stanton is innocent; and Lyvenden's wife Lady Harriet relishes her new status of wealthy widow. Throw in some angry Russians seeking stolen Czarist gold and Jack knows Superintendent Ashley has a difficult murder investigation to conduct.
Jack’s back (see A FETE WORSE THAN DEATH) in this entertaining historical mystery. The story line is fun to follow as the manor murder mystery is a combination investigative tale and a deep somewhat comedic (the humor feels flat and out of place) look at the post WWI fall of the aristocracy still cling to their estates even if they cannot afford them. The hero is terrific as he makes inquiries as if he is writing a novel, but alienates everyone. Readers will enjoy this fine period piece reminiscent of Carola Dunn’s Daisy Dalrymple mysteries.
Harriet Klausner
Domores Gordon-Smith
Soho, Jul 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 1569475113
In 1923, mystery writer Jack Haldean attends the Silver Wedding Anniversary gala of his Aunt Alice and Uncle Philip at their country manor Hesperus. However the fete is dampened by the apparent suicide of Jack's friend Tim Preston. In financial trouble Tim served as secretary to detestable haughty Lord Lyvenden; a nouveau riche who paid for his peerage and a proper wife from his humongous munitions manufacturing profits although business has slowed since the war ended.
Although everyone else assumes suicide, Jack has doubts that quickly become validated when Lyvenden is found dead with Jack's friend Arthur Stanton standing by the corpse. Jack investigates, but Stanton is gone. Meanwhile Jack’s cousin Isabelle, engaged to wealthy banker Malcolm Smith-Fennimore, insists her beloved Stanton is innocent; and Lyvenden's wife Lady Harriet relishes her new status of wealthy widow. Throw in some angry Russians seeking stolen Czarist gold and Jack knows Superintendent Ashley has a difficult murder investigation to conduct.
Jack’s back (see A FETE WORSE THAN DEATH) in this entertaining historical mystery. The story line is fun to follow as the manor murder mystery is a combination investigative tale and a deep somewhat comedic (the humor feels flat and out of place) look at the post WWI fall of the aristocracy still cling to their estates even if they cannot afford them. The hero is terrific as he makes inquiries as if he is writing a novel, but alienates everyone. Readers will enjoy this fine period piece reminiscent of Carola Dunn’s Daisy Dalrymple mysteries.
Harriet Klausner
Eight in the Box-Raffi Yessayan
Eight in the Box
Raffi Yessayan
Ballantine, Jun 2008, $25.00
ISBN: 0345502612
In Boston, professional women are alarmingly vanishing; the only clue of an assault is their bathtub is filled with blood. The police assume these victims are dead though no corpse has been left behind or surfaced. There are no suspects or even a person of slight interest as the cops are stymied.
Veteran Boston homicide sergeant Wayne Mooney and his rookie partner Angel Alves lead the investigation of the Bathtub Killer, but are going nowhere with the case. Assistant District Attorney Connie Darget is frustrated as he wants this perpetrator stopped, but the cops have provided him with nothing except another missing female; he is also disgusted with his peers who only care what happens to their résumés. Meanwhile the clever psychopath continues his or her taunting body snatching.
This is an exciting serial killer whodunit with some police procedural and legal thriller elements enhancing the tale. The story line is fast-paced as the police and the office of the DA are in the dark not even certain whether the crime is kidnapping only, sexual assault, or murder while the audience knows from the first page who the Bathtub Killer is. Fans will appreciate this action-packed cat and mouse encounter although the ADAs except for Connie are treated with contempt; Richter is more sympathetic then this selfish group.
Harriet Klausner
Raffi Yessayan
Ballantine, Jun 2008, $25.00
ISBN: 0345502612
In Boston, professional women are alarmingly vanishing; the only clue of an assault is their bathtub is filled with blood. The police assume these victims are dead though no corpse has been left behind or surfaced. There are no suspects or even a person of slight interest as the cops are stymied.
Veteran Boston homicide sergeant Wayne Mooney and his rookie partner Angel Alves lead the investigation of the Bathtub Killer, but are going nowhere with the case. Assistant District Attorney Connie Darget is frustrated as he wants this perpetrator stopped, but the cops have provided him with nothing except another missing female; he is also disgusted with his peers who only care what happens to their résumés. Meanwhile the clever psychopath continues his or her taunting body snatching.
This is an exciting serial killer whodunit with some police procedural and legal thriller elements enhancing the tale. The story line is fast-paced as the police and the office of the DA are in the dark not even certain whether the crime is kidnapping only, sexual assault, or murder while the audience knows from the first page who the Bathtub Killer is. Fans will appreciate this action-packed cat and mouse encounter although the ADAs except for Connie are treated with contempt; Richter is more sympathetic then this selfish group.
Harriet Klausner
The Bad Boys Guide to the Galaxy- Karen Kelley
The Bad Boys Guide to the Galaxy
Karen Kelley
Kensington Brava, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0758217692
Texas police officer Sam Jones sort of knows what to expect from a Nerakian so he wants to say no, but he reluctantly agrees to escort Lara to his cabin. In spite of his expectations, Sam is stunned by his reaction to Lara and her nakedness.
Lara has come to Earth on a mercy mission; she seeks the cure for a beloved sick elder; her planet is unused to illness having none. Before arriving on earth she was aware of the temptations, she vowed to ignore all especially chocolate. However, she is unprepared for spending a weekend with Sam especially since she believes Nerakians are superior beings.
The latest Nerakian ET invasion is like its predecessors (see CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF A SEXY KIND) a humorous science fiction romance. The zany story line is fun to follow as the earth cop and the “medical” alien are unable to adhere to their personal pledges due to the magnetic attraction of opposites being stronger than the greatest force in the universe: chocolate. Fans of the series will especially enjoy this fine entry as Karen Kelley provides insider information re planet Nerak.
Harriet Klausner
Karen Kelley
Kensington Brava, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0758217692
Texas police officer Sam Jones sort of knows what to expect from a Nerakian so he wants to say no, but he reluctantly agrees to escort Lara to his cabin. In spite of his expectations, Sam is stunned by his reaction to Lara and her nakedness.
Lara has come to Earth on a mercy mission; she seeks the cure for a beloved sick elder; her planet is unused to illness having none. Before arriving on earth she was aware of the temptations, she vowed to ignore all especially chocolate. However, she is unprepared for spending a weekend with Sam especially since she believes Nerakians are superior beings.
The latest Nerakian ET invasion is like its predecessors (see CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF A SEXY KIND) a humorous science fiction romance. The zany story line is fun to follow as the earth cop and the “medical” alien are unable to adhere to their personal pledges due to the magnetic attraction of opposites being stronger than the greatest force in the universe: chocolate. Fans of the series will especially enjoy this fine entry as Karen Kelley provides insider information re planet Nerak.
Harriet Klausner
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Reckless-Saskia Walker
Reckless
Saskia Walker
Berkley, Jul 2008, $15.00
ISBN: 9780425221389
Sergio Teodoro pleads with seemingly prim and proper Katrina Hammond of Pocklington Auction House to come to Catalonia, Spain to evaluate his private collection and hands her his list of items he owns. Katrina explains that her auction house limits assessments to the greater London area, but Mr. sexy and suave makes her fantasize about day and night at his luxurious country home, Torre del Castagona. He hides from her that he sees a work of art underneath her buttoned to the top of the neck garb that he wants to own.
Katrina goes to Spain somewhat fearful that her fantasies will be fulfilled, but hoping to be RECKLESS with her host. However, she finds herself also attracted to Sergio's younger brother Nicolas, an artist estranged from his family. Confused as she wants both siblings; each teach her their version of erotica.
This hot erotic contemporary triangle works because Katrina seems real when the siblings DOUBLE DARE her to turn her fantasy desires into hot passionate KINK. Sub-genre fans and their significant other will enjoy Saskia Walker’s hot days and nights in Spain while wondering who if either or both brothers will be with Katrina at the climax.
Harriet Klausner
Saskia Walker
Berkley, Jul 2008, $15.00
ISBN: 9780425221389
Sergio Teodoro pleads with seemingly prim and proper Katrina Hammond of Pocklington Auction House to come to Catalonia, Spain to evaluate his private collection and hands her his list of items he owns. Katrina explains that her auction house limits assessments to the greater London area, but Mr. sexy and suave makes her fantasize about day and night at his luxurious country home, Torre del Castagona. He hides from her that he sees a work of art underneath her buttoned to the top of the neck garb that he wants to own.
Katrina goes to Spain somewhat fearful that her fantasies will be fulfilled, but hoping to be RECKLESS with her host. However, she finds herself also attracted to Sergio's younger brother Nicolas, an artist estranged from his family. Confused as she wants both siblings; each teach her their version of erotica.
This hot erotic contemporary triangle works because Katrina seems real when the siblings DOUBLE DARE her to turn her fantasy desires into hot passionate KINK. Sub-genre fans and their significant other will enjoy Saskia Walker’s hot days and nights in Spain while wondering who if either or both brothers will be with Katrina at the climax.
Harriet Klausner
Show and Tell-Jasmine Haynes
Show and Tell
Jasmine Haynes
Berkley, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780425221587
Trinity Green has always behaved prim and proper in public, but dreams of wild dirty passion. She never expects to find hot sex since Harper, her husband of six months, is a stick in the mud except on the golf course. At least that is what she thought until she finds him doing to another woman what she fantasized he do to her.
Trinity decides it is time to stop pleasing everyone else, an impossible chore, and begin pleasing herself; starting with dumping her cheating spouse. When she meets business executive divorcee Scott Sinclair, Trinity decides he is the one to show her the carnal pleasures in life. They have a heated affair that he wants to continue, but Trinity has demands too. As they venture into dicey trysts, they endanger their respective jobs and lay bare their families to scandals, but neither can stop the obsession which increases the risks.
This is an entertaining heated contemporary romance starring two victims of marriage; whereas her spouse cheated; his left. The promiscuous behavior between the lead couple, strangers in the night in which lovemaking started with a glance in a hotel, sends a bad message. Still fans will enjoy Scott and Trinity finding passion and love with each other in this erotic second chance at love.
Harriet Klausner
Jasmine Haynes
Berkley, Jul 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780425221587
Trinity Green has always behaved prim and proper in public, but dreams of wild dirty passion. She never expects to find hot sex since Harper, her husband of six months, is a stick in the mud except on the golf course. At least that is what she thought until she finds him doing to another woman what she fantasized he do to her.
Trinity decides it is time to stop pleasing everyone else, an impossible chore, and begin pleasing herself; starting with dumping her cheating spouse. When she meets business executive divorcee Scott Sinclair, Trinity decides he is the one to show her the carnal pleasures in life. They have a heated affair that he wants to continue, but Trinity has demands too. As they venture into dicey trysts, they endanger their respective jobs and lay bare their families to scandals, but neither can stop the obsession which increases the risks.
This is an entertaining heated contemporary romance starring two victims of marriage; whereas her spouse cheated; his left. The promiscuous behavior between the lead couple, strangers in the night in which lovemaking started with a glance in a hotel, sends a bad message. Still fans will enjoy Scott and Trinity finding passion and love with each other in this erotic second chance at love.
Harriet Klausner
The Monster of Florence-Douglas J. Preston and Mario Spezi
The Monster of Florence
Douglas J. Preston and Mario Spezi
Grand Central, Jun 2008, $25.99
ISBN: 0446581194
For over a decade, the killer murdered and mutilated fourteen people; seven couples making out in parked cars. The police arrested several people, but none were permanently convicted. Though the case turned cold with the last homicides in 1985, renowned novelist Douglas J. Preston and Italian crime reporter Mario Spezi began an investigation to uncover the identity of THE MONSTER OF FLORENCE, which led to their being in trouble with local prosecutors.
This is an incredible true crime book that in some ways reads like an obsessed investigative novel. The book is chilling because it is real and not a fictional account. Set aside time as readers will be spellbound to learn whether the authors identified the serial killer.
Harriet Klausner
Douglas J. Preston and Mario Spezi
Grand Central, Jun 2008, $25.99
ISBN: 0446581194
For over a decade, the killer murdered and mutilated fourteen people; seven couples making out in parked cars. The police arrested several people, but none were permanently convicted. Though the case turned cold with the last homicides in 1985, renowned novelist Douglas J. Preston and Italian crime reporter Mario Spezi began an investigation to uncover the identity of THE MONSTER OF FLORENCE, which led to their being in trouble with local prosecutors.
This is an incredible true crime book that in some ways reads like an obsessed investigative novel. The book is chilling because it is real and not a fictional account. Set aside time as readers will be spellbound to learn whether the authors identified the serial killer.
Harriet Klausner