Monday, August 31, 2015

THE CABINET OF CURIOSITIES by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child



I'm a big fan of Agent Pendergast, and love every story in which he makes an appearance. Preston and Child are master story tellers, and their collaborations are always a welcome diversion! The story is a thrill ride, and the characters engaging. You won't be disappointed in this one, it's one of their best!

Sunday, August 30, 2015

HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! by Dr. Seuss



A character and story nearly everyone knows, written by a genius in a great book. One of my all-time favorites! How can you not hate and love the Grinch? And, who doesn't feel sorry for his dog? Then you have the lovable gullible people of Whoville, who no matter what happens never lose their spirit. It all comes together to create a timeless tome!

Saturday, August 29, 2015

THE LOGIC BOMB by Scott Richard Lord



This one is a slow starter, but once it gets going it's a real page turner! Mafia, government agents, foreign intelligence agencies, computer software, kidnapping, murder, trials... the list keeps going! There is something for everyone in this one! And, now I know what a logic bomb is... do you???

BODY OF LIES by Iris Johansen



Eve Duncan and Joe Quinn are two of my favorite characters in the world of the written word. Iris Johansen, who created them, makes both seem so real and engaging. They are no strangers to intrigue and danger, and that's very evident in this story. A masterful tale told by a master storyteller!

Friday, August 28, 2015

THE OMEN by David Seltzer



Gruesome deaths, bizarre rituals, demonic dog, and creepy kid... formula for one scary tale. Horror at its scariest! You won't want to put this one down.

Thursday, August 27, 2015

INCA GOLD by Clive Cussler



Clive Cussler and Dirk Pitt, what a combination, great writer and great lead character! The intrigue, the suspense, the daring situations, the well developed plot all combine to form a gripping story! You won't want to put this one down!

Wednesday, August 26, 2015

THE HISTORIAN by Elizabeth Kostova



Interesting story, but a bit of a slow starter. Once I became invested in the characters, it was an intriguing read. How can you really fail with a subject like Dracula?

I ONLY READ IT FOR THE CARTOONS by Richard Gehr



Not really what I expected, read like a course book. There were cartoons included, just not in the way I expected. The information was interesting.

THE BOOK THIEF by Markus Zusak



What an outstanding book! You came to feel for the characters quickly, and get drawn into the story line. Humanity in a horrible timeframe. Not a story you will soon forget!

BLOOD TRUST by Eric Van Lustbader



What happens when you can only trust one person? Read the book and find out! A great story filled with twists and turns, deceit, and intrigue! You won't regret picking this one up!

A TROLL UNDER THE BRIDGE by D. S. Arnauld



I loved everything about this book! It's perfect reading for children, so imaginative and interesting. You can really get behind the characters. And, a positive message about tolerance. But, beware, it's not all flowers and rainbows.

WHEN THE BALLS DROP by Brad Garrett



Just as funny as the characters he plays. Don't expect a G rated read, gets a bit raunchy at times. But, what else would you expect with a title like that??? What a joy to read, and it's nice to gain insight into his life. There's even a bit of life advice included.

BURN DOWN THE HOUSE AND EVERYONE IN IT by Zachary T. Owen



The jacket of this book promises some of the stories to be "deeply disturbing", I would say that is an understatement! If you like something different, and like to step out of the box this book is by all means for you! These stories are much more than just interesting, they will draw you in and some will repulse you! This is one I will read more than once!

Tuesday, August 25, 2015

DUMA KEY by Stephen King



I LOVE Stephen King books, they are so complex and intriguing! If his name graces the cover of a book I want to read it! That said... this is my all time favorite by the master himself! Won't give away a single thing in this review. Just get a copy and read it! You won't be sorry!

ADVENTURES OF HUCKLEBERRY FINN AS RETOLD BY SHERLOCK HOLMES by Holy Ghost Writer



I completely enjoyed this retelling of the Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. The discourse between Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson was equally enjoyable. This was a clever way to expose this story to a new audience.

BLOODY BLOODY APPLE by Howard Odentz



Creepy town, creepy people, creepy story! Great read! Think you have it figured out, think again! I'd love to meet Mr. Odentz, just to get a glimpse of the mind that came up with this twisted tale. I'll have to read more by him!

ABARAT by Clive Barker



I liked everything about this book! In all fairness, I am a Clive Barker fan. But, that said, this story is one of my favorites. A whole new land, great characters, a rich engrossing story... it has it all! This is a must read!

THE UNWRITTEN FABLES by Mike Carey, Bill Willingham, Peter Gross, and Mark Buckingham



This was a fun read, but also a bit predictable. Mister Dark was an interesting and complex character, adding dimension to the story. While I would gladly read other stories in the series, they would not be at the top of my list.

IT by Stephen King



A classic by the Master himself!!! What is it about clowns??? Creepiest things on the planet! Like to be scared? Stephen King takes that intrinsic fear and builds on it. Pennywise is the most disturbing character I've ever gotten to know in a book! This is a must read!

BRAILE HOUSE by James Wayne King



With a last name like King, where does your mind go? Yeah, me to, you'd be pretty close in your expectations. This book goes places only a twisted mind can envision, and it works quite well! Give this one a chance, while getting off to a slow start, Braile House is a very good story! Took me a little time to get into this one, but you will find yourself invested in the characters and story. Great villain in this one, as well!

MANIFEST DESTINY, VOL 1: FLORA & FAUNA by Chris Dingess, Matthew Roberts, and Owen Gieni



Not where one might expect the Lewis and Clark Expedition to go, but an interesting story. The illustrations were well done, and the story was an easy read. Looking for something different in American history? This might be of interest!

DEAR DAUGHTER by Elizabeth Little



What do you do after serving a prison sentence for killing your own Mother? Pick up a copy and find out!


I loved this book! The story was engrossing, and the characters interesting. Kept me wondering until the end. The ending was not what I had hoped for, but just goes to show the surprises never stopped! Hope there's a continuation in the works!

GOLD MINE by Wilbur Smith



As is true with all of Wilbur Smith's books, a very good read. Grabs your attention from the start and doesn't let go. Mr. Smith always delivers suspense and intrigue, here he gives both in good measure. Want a page turner? This is the one for you!

KIRK'S LANDING by Mike Young



Set in a small Canadian town, with colorful characters, the book is off to a good start. I've found a new addition to my favorite authors. "Kirk's Landing" is a fun read, and a page turner! I found myself invested in the characters and plot. The only thing I might have changed is the ending, I was looking for closure. Get a copy and enjoy a good read!

THE FINAL REVEILLE by Amanda Flower



Who knew Civil War reenactments could be so intriguing? A who-dun-it set around a reenactment in Ohio, with engaging characters... sounds like an interesting read, right? Wait, there's more... you get some history thrown in. Did you know the uniform cap was called a kepi in the Civil War, after reading the book... I do!

I really enjoyed reading this story, and it's an easy read. I completed it in less than a day. I'm sure you as well will enjoy it!

THE DARKEST HOUR by Tony Schumacher



Looking for something a little different? This book is for you! While the alternative history and Nazi books are right in my wheelhouse, the story still came as a surprise. I loved the characters, and plot line. There were surprises around every corner.

This book gets a big thumbs up!!!


THE SECRET HOUSES by John Gardner



Read more like a soap opera than a spy novel. While the characters were engaging, the story could have used some excitement.

WAR STORIES by Jaym Gates & Andrew Liptak



As is true in any short story collection, there were stories that I really liked and others not so much. Overall, however, I really enjoyed this collection. Don't expect many happy endings, after all these are war stories! These stories are by all means something different!

THE DEAD IN THEIR VAULTED ARCHES by Alan Bradley



I love a good mystery, and the British are masters of the craft. An 11 year old sleuth? Hey, it works, she is endearing. I've found a new author whose works I can delve into. Most, intentionally, of the characters are likeable, all are interesting. I would recommend this to everyone.

NO FORTUNATE SON by Brad Taylor



I loved this book! The story and characters are engaging from the first page! The premise of the book is unfortunately quite believable, and more than a little scary. There was no shortage of plot twists to keep you guessing. I will, by all means, be reading more books by Mr. Taylor!

GHOST SNIPER by David Healey



I enjoy WWII related books, so could not resist reading Ghost Sniper. And, I was not disappointed! I just hope there is a continuation of the story. I want to know what happens. What can I say... I want closure! :)

Just goes to show this was a good read!

EVERYBODY GOES TO JIMMY'S by Michael Mayo



So many interesting characters and branches to this story. At times it's hard to keep them all straight. It took me 3/4 of the book to begin figuring it out in earnest. It is a fun little mystery with lots of action. Mobsters, Nazis, bootleggers, Indians and cops in a story set in New York City!

RUNNER by Patrick Lee



We've all heard the rumors about government mind control experiments, they are a bit frightening! Get ready for a story that shows just how scary it could be! No spoilers here, you'll have to read for yourself! This story will keep you engaged, and be prepared for some unexpected twists as well.

FLESH AND BLOOD by Patricia Cornwell



Love all the Dr. Kay Scarpetta stories! This one is no exception! Patricia Cornwell doesn't let you down, her stories are interesting and captivating! Make sure you read this one, you won't be disappointed! Can easily be read as a stand-alone, although it does reference things from earlier books.

THE FORGERS by Bradford Morrow



If you're looking for something interesting and different, this is the book for you! Want a page turner? You alright with a few disturbing aspects in a story?

I really enjoyed this story, and found some interesting plot twists. But, didn't find myself glued to the pages. This said, I would by all means recommend reading "The Forgers"!

THE VOID by J. D. Horn



Science Fiction equals a far-fetched story line, and this is no exception. The characters were interesting and engaging, and the story well written. I would, by all means, read more works by Mr. Horn! I don't believe in spoilers, so suffice it to say, there were many plot twists and unexpected events throughout.

GALACTIC HOT DOGS COSMOE'S WIENER GETAWAY by Max Brallier and Rachel Maguire



Fun little read, shaped like a book but more of a comic book layout. The story is entertaining, and will be loved by kids into outer space adventure. Very quick read for adults, so not overpowering for children. And, the characters are quite engaging.

LINKED by Rachel Trautmiller



Does the ending always become obvious to you early in a book or movie? Not with this one! You'll put things together on the authors timetable, not yours. Very engaging plot and characters make this a must read. There's so much going on, and you think you have it figured out... but you don't!
Get a copy, and enjoy a good read!


COLLECTIVE RETRIBUTION by D. S. Edwards



Would I recommend this book? By all means, I loved every moment spent reading it! That said, this was a horrible story, because it could happen. It was filled with character to love, and just as many to absolutely hate. This book really makes you think about what atrocities man is capable of. every American should read this book!

EUROPA by J. J. Co



Is there life out there somewhere? Read the book and see! Yeah, yeah, I know, it's science fiction but ... Makes you think about the possibilities. Also makes a very good indictment on our dependence on fossil fuels, and their effect on our environment. An enjoyable read that will capture your imagination and take you for a turbulent ride. Glad I read this one.

CAPTIVE by Aimee Carter



While some aspects of this story might be a little disturbing, it was interesting! The government presented here left a lot to be desired, which added to investing the reader in the outcome. The characters were interesting, there were plenty to love, hate and care about. The twists kept coming, keeping you interested throughout! Overall, a really good read!

CAT TRIVIA by Elliot Carruthers



Cute, fun read, perfect for your favorite cat lady! Oh, yeah, kids will love it as well!

GONNA STICK MY SWORD IN THE GOLDEN SAND by R. W. Holmen



Being retired Army myself, I found this story brought back many memories. It was a very interesting read, and provokes many feelings for what is experienced in war. But, this is not merely a war story, it's more a story of life and choices. This story may just provide you with a different perspective than you begin with. I would highly recommend it for all!


THE PROFESSIONAL by Kresley Cole



I've spent years studying Russia, and the language. So, when I saw this book I decided it was worth a shot, even though it was not in a genre I normally read.

That said, this was a story that draws the reader in from the first chapter. It was quite the interesting story, and kept me engrossed to the last word!


L. RON HUBBARD PRESENTS WRITERS OF THE FUTURE VOLUME 31 by L. Ron Hubbard



Most of the stories are quite interesting, they capture and hold your attention. While all were Sci-Fi and Fantasy, the stories are very diverse. I was really looking forward to Orson Scott Cards contribution, but it turned out to be an instructional piece on writing. This anthology takes you all over the universe, as well as across the country.

SPEAKING IN BONES by Kathy Reichs



As expected, I absolutely loved this book! I am a big fan, and enjoy not only each and every Kathy Reichs book but the TV series based on her writing as well! This book was great! I love the way her stories develop and each and every character. Temperance Brennan is one of my favorite literary characters, she seems so real. I look forward to the next "Bones" book!!!

SEVEN SEALS REDUX BOOK 1 WHITE HORSE by Connie Myres



I am by no means a fan of Zombie stories, that said I gave this book a chance due to the Alien angle. And, I'm glad I did! I thoroughly enjoyed this story. There were a few interesting twists in the plot, that you may not see coming. And, most of the people were likable, while there were some first class villainous characters. Get this book, and get ready for a short fun read!

AGAMEMNON by Hock G. Tjoa



As someone who has a long standing interest in Ancient Greek history and mythology, I expected an interesting page turner of a story. This book delivered on part of that expectation only, the story was by all means interesting. Alas, I can not however call this a page turner. That said, if you find Greek history and/or mythology interesting... you will also find this an enjoyable read!

ACCIDENTAL ALCHEMIST by Gigi Pandian



What a fun book! Yes, fun is a strange way to describe a murder mystery but... An adorable gargoyle, kids, a very old alchemist, poisons, herbal remedies, vegan cooking all come together to form an entertaining story. The characters were delightful and complex, well almost all of them it is a murder mystery after all. I hope there are more Accidental Alchemist stories in the future!

PRICE ON THEIR HEADS by Jeff Posey



The front cover promises mayhem, it begins within the first ten pages and ends with the last! This is a true page turner! I was a little worried about the economic aspect of the story, and the possibility of a boring read. But, the premise was intriguing enough to make me start reading... boy am I glad I did! There was nothing about this story I did not enjoy. Get a copy, you won't regret it!