THE HOBBIT by J.R.R. Tolkien

I've not only read The Hobbit, my favorite college class was a literature class on this book! A true classic, The Hobbit is like no other book. The fascinating and diverse characters are well developed, they draw you in, and you become invested in the outcome. This is the beginning of the ultimate adventure. One of my all time favorite reads!

POWER PLAY (RAGNAROK ON ICE) by Jeremy Croston

I love the mix of Norse mythology with modern society presented in the Ragnarok on Ice books. Although this one is set primarily in Asgard, not in our world. The characters are engaging, and rather well developed. The plot is adventurous and fun. This was purely an enjoyable read.

FRANKENSTEIN by Mary Shelley

What doesn't this true classic horror story have? We have the requisite mad scientist, grave robbers, stolen body parts, a creature made of mix and match human parts, scientific experiments, and of course it's a love story as well. What a great book! If you're one of the few who have not yet read this tale... what are you waiting for?

ANOTHER FINE MYTH (MYTH ADVENTURES, #1) by Robert Asprin

I've enjoyed all the Myth books I have had the pleasure of reading, to this point. A naïve sorcerers apprentice, in a backwater dimension, a demon, and loads of myth adventures. This is simply a fun and engaging read. Pick up a copy, you won't put it down and will want more.

HAT TRICK RAGNAROK ON ICE by Jeremy Croston

Mythical Norse Gods in the nations capital. Retrieving an artifact from the Smithsonian Institution. Mythical creatures prowling the modern United States. This all comes together to create a fun little story. Although a bit short, it was an interesting tale!

REVOLT by Terry Ray

This story is horrible, but it's so interesting and well written. It's horrible because it seems to be an omen of our possible future, maybe it could be a wake up call! If you are part of the PC (political correctness) police, I'm afraid this tale will turn you absolutely apoplectic! Every freedom loving human on the planet should read this tome, and wonder if it may not be a prophetic!

FATHERLAND by Robert Harris

Fatherland is really two books in one, one it's an alternative history story and two it's a murder mystery. While the murder mystery plot is well written it is a bit long and drawn out. That said, the alternative history plot could have been better developed, it would have been nice to spend more time on how else history would be effected by the Reich winning WWII. Overall this was an interesting story and well written.

THE FACE OF DECEPTION (EVE DUNCAN #1) by Iris Johansen

Eve Duncan is one the most interesting characters I've been introduced to in literature. She is charismatic, driven, adventurous, daring... she's everything you could want in a main character. Then there's the plot, solve a crime through reconstructive science put a face to a nameless skull. What is the face being reconstructed is never meant to be identified? What if others would kill to keep a secret? Read the book and find out!

TRIGGER MORTIS A JAMES BOND NOVEL by Anthony Horowitz and Original Material by Ian Fleming

Okay, in all fairness, it's not written by Ian Fleming. But, it is still 007, with all the implied intrigue and adventure. Of course the women are here as well, even Pussy Galore makes a comeback appearance.  Mr. Horowitz did a fine job, and presented James Bond the way one would expect! Get a copy and read it... you won't be sorry!

THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Being a Sherlock Holmes fan, picking a favorite is difficult... but pressed to do so this would have to be the winner! It has everything, mystery, horror, it's creepy, Dr. Watson get to shine a bit, and the interactions between Holmes and Watson are exemplary. There is also no shortage of the incorrigible behavior Sherlock is so well known for. If you haven't perused this book yet, get a copy and read a great story!

COUP DE FOUDRE by Ken Kalfus

Mr. Kalfus may be a brilliant writer of the Hitchcock variety, maybe. That said, I find myself disappointed when story after story leaves one wondering what happened. In one story there is a discovery in a closet that leads to an arrest, what was in the closet? My mind comes up with countless possibilities... but I'll never know. Same type of unresolved information presents itself in other stories as well. I'm left wanting, is that the mark of literary genius??? I'm not sure, if so our author qualifies!

BREAKOUT by Kevin Scott Olson

This is a short story, only 35 pages... but it packs a punch! Plenty of action, likable characters, believable plot, and danger make this story quite interesting! I look forward to reading more stories by Mr. Olson, and more Michael Quinn stories as well.

AMELIA BEDELIA by Peggy Parish

This is a fun book, no matter how you look at it! But, if you are like I am a very literal person, this book is made for you! The hijinks related to Amelia Bedelia understanding what is meant, as opposed to what is actually stated, yields hilarious results. Although made for young children, the child in all of us will enjoy this story. A very quick and fun read!

DEAN KOONTZ'S FRANKENSTEIN, VOLUME 1: PRODIGAL SON by Chuck Dixon

I'm a big fan of Frankenstein and Dean Koontz, so reading this was a no-brainer. I really enjoyed the villain, Victor Helios... he is absolutely diabolical. It's hard not to be a fan of Frankenstein in this tale either! I look forward to reading more of this series. I would highly recommend this book to fans of Frankenstein... he lives on!

SURVIVING CISSY: MY FAMILY AFFAIR OF LIFE IN HOLLYWOOD by Kathy Garver

As a nostalgic fan of '60s television, I found this book quite insightful and entertaining. While I don't remember the show well, I do remember Family Affair and Cissy, so was familiar with the characters of the time. This book shows a woman of class and character, and gave us insight into not only her life as part of Hollywood television but of Hollywood itself at that time. I enjoyed this book, but found it a bit hard to follow at points due to the jumping ahead to place someone now... hence the four stars.

HARRY POTTER BOXSET (BOOKS ONE - SEVEN) by J. K. Rowling

I thought about reviewing each book separately, but didn't believe I could do each book any justice by that approach. This is a series that needs to be enjoyed in its entirety. Starting at the beginning is always a very good place to start, so we get an introduction to the main characters in the Sorcerer's Stone. We go to Hogwarts with Harry and company, meet the villain Voldemort. Then we experience the growth of each of the characters over the years, through the thrilling conclusion in book 7. We accompany them to their first day of class, their first dance, first competition... all while learning about their extraordinary world of magic. What an amazing adventure! If you are one of the few people on Earth who has still not read these books, correct a grievous error on your part and get started... today!

CONTRACT CITY by Mark Falkin

WH2RR??, any idea what that means? Then grab a copy of Contract City and find out. The future of the United States and Tulsa seem a bit bleak, at least in this story. This was an interesting read with a unique plot and some bizarre characters. I thoroughly enjoyed this one!

GOLDEN BUDDHA by Clive Cussler and Craig Dirgo

I'm a huge fan of Clive Cussler, and was introduced to his writing through the Dirk Pitt series. Have to say the Oregon Files is my new favorite series by Mr. Cussler written with Craig Dirgo! The ship and crew are engaging, and the plot interesting. All the adventure this author is known for is present, along with new and entertaining plots and characters. This story is spy craft at it's best, but not part of a government agency. What a great read!

FIRE ICE by Clive Cussler with Paul Kemprecos

A master of adventure, intrigue and action, Mr Cussler, has done it again! This series is as good as the Dirk Pitt and Oregon Files series! Global intrigue, maniacal despots, danger, slavery... this story has it all! If you're not a fan of Mr. Cussler and Paul Kemprecos already, this story can win you over!

ROMEO AND JULIET by William Shakespeare

I know, how dare I even presume to review the ages old master? Simple really, I've read the story! One of the most well known stories of all time, the ultimate romance, the story by which all other classic romance stories will be judged... Romeo and Juliet. The language is a bit of a challenge some of us, but was the language of the times. And, come on, it's not that hard to follow! The story itself, even for someone who tries to stay away from romance tales, is timeless! We have the ultimate sh I know, how dare I even presume to review the ages old master? Simple really, I've read the story! One of the most well known stories of all time, the ultimate romance, the story by which all other classic romance stories will be judged... Romeo and Juliet. The language is a bit of a challenge some of us, but was the language of the times. And, come on, it's not that hard to follow! The story itself, even for someone who tries to stay away from romance tales, is timeless! We have the ultimate show of love, mixed with intrigue, a family feud, and a religious undercurrent. Everyone should read this masterpiece at least once!

ATLANTIS FOUND by Clive Cussler

Dirk Pitt = adventure! Clive Cussler has created one of my favorite characters in the Dirk Pitt series. And, this one has it all... Nazis, ancient cities, messages to be deciphered, fights on ice, intrigue, adventure, the list goes on and on! Clive Cussler has never let me down, nor has the Dirk Pitt series, and this one lives up to all expectations!

MISERY by Stephen King

Annie Wilkes, one of the best villains ever written! She is evil incarnate, and the most terrifying hostess ever. Grab a copy and read about one mans biggest fan! One of my favorites by the master himself! You won't regret delving into this twisted tale!

THE INVENTION OF FIRE by Bruce Holsinger

Gripping story, with colorful characters, although a little slow at times. Set in London in 1386, we get a tale of political intrigue mixed with a solid murder mystery. Once I was invested in the plot the pace seemed to move at a better clip as well. By all means worth the read!

THE STAND by Stephen King

An epic Stephen King fantasy novel set in America, that was the goal. Was it a success? The Stand was more than successful, what an interesting read. A true telling of the battle between good and evil. An epic trek across country by several people travelling to either of two locations. This epic journey brought on by a flu-like epidemic caused by a lab mistake. Pick up a copy, set aside some time, it's a long one... and well worth the read!

GHOST STORY by Peter Straub

What can one say about Ghost Story? It's scary! The past will come back to haunt you! You reap what you sow! It's really well written, a true page turner! You won't be disappointed you picked this one up! Grab a copy, turn on some lights, and spend some time immersed in an excellent tale!

THE SHINING by Stephen King

Classic Stephen King, with a creepy hotel and even creepier guests! Loved Mr. Halloran, my favorite character in this tale! What's scarier than a homicidal dad that loses it? Not much, read this one and see for yourself! The Shining is a must for each and every King fan!

THE CAT IN THE HAT by Dr. Seuss

Everybody loves Dr. Seuss! The Cat in the Hat does not let you down! Such a fun and entertaining story, and what a destructive way to spend a day! You can't help but fall in love with this one!

THE THIEF OF ALWAYS by Clive Barker

Careful what you wish for... everything comes at a price! The better something sounds the higher the price! With a character named Rictus you have to expect evil. Not a typical Clive Barker read, this one is rather tame for him... but great just the same! If you haven't already, be sure to get a copy and enjoy this tale!

TURNING ANGEL by Greg Iles

Mr. Iles has put together an interesting story with a disturbing plot. The middle aged professional having an affair with the teenage town hottie, is not something everyone would be comfortable reading. That said, this was a well written story with engaging and likable characters. It had all the drama and intrigue this author is known for, and was quite successful in creating character you became invested in.

ANDAMAN SEA by R. W. Magill

This book is disturbing and violent within the first 15 pages, and remains so through the entire story. It's a very engaging story with many criminal elements. You will find human trafficking, slavery, drugs, murder, bribery... it runs the gamut! It's also a story about people in difficult situations and their ability to cope and adapt. I would recommend it to anyone capable of seeing beyond the violence.