HOME AGAIN (A Civil War Novel) by Michael Kenneth Smith

War novels are in some ways such easy reads, we always know who the enemy is, right? In "Home Again" this is just not the case, we are presented the story of two soldiers Zach and Luke. One is a Union Sharpshooter, the other a Confederate soldier who fills several roles. Who is the good guy? You become so invested in the life of each that neither is the enemy in this tale. All the horror of war is evident in this book, as is human compassion. This is one I will share, and plan to read again.

THE MAGIC LAUNDRY Stories by Jacob M. Appel

I became a fan when I read the short story collection "Einstein's Beach House", and this collection solidified my position as a follower! This anthology is supposed to make you ponder what you would do in similar circumstances, and while I can't imagine myself in these particular situations, to some degree I found myself wondering. The subjects of these stories we quite varied; we have a daughter bringing home from college a stolen baboon, a couple who meets at a group grief meeting, a man seeking acceptance through social discord, a flasher set on revenge, a coin-laundry with machines apparently infused with magical powers, cancer and the loss of a son, a long overdue meeting, and the abduction of a baby by a tiger... but there are twists to each tale! What would you do? Pick up a copy and decide for yourself... you'll be glad you did!

THE LIGHTNING THIEF (PERCY JACKSON AND THE OLYMPIANS #1) by Rick Riordan

I thoroughly enjoyed the world created for the demi-gods in this book. The characters are interesting and you will find yourself caring about what happens to them, and disappointed when they let you down. The plot involves war between the gods, competition and envy between the demi-gods, villains, trials and tribulations. You can't go wrong with this tale!

B-MOVIE BLUES by Terry Woods

Now I know what it's like to shoot a movie, but where was a plot? Was the book interesting? At points, yes. Did I learn anything new? Sure, but did I really need this particular knowledge, probably not. I would highly recommend this to anyone contemplating a career in the movie industry, as it shows the mundane day to day life of film making. But, for the everyday run of the mill pleasure reader it is more drudgery than enjoyment.

THE ABYSS by Orson Scott Card

Orson Scott Card is a master fiction writer, and he again doesn't disappoint with The Abyss! The characters are well developed, and draw you into their lives and story. The plot is thrilling and has a few unexpected twists and turns. The story is written in such a way that you will not see the major plot twist coming. If all you know about The Abyss is the movie, do yourself a favor and read the book... it's soo much better!

THE TRAGIC AGE by Stephen Metcalfe

You could call this an educational novel, as well as a disturbing trip into teenage psychosis. We are given the word "fact" followed by a factual snippet related to a statement that was just made... they are quite illuminating. To call this story depressing would be a fair conclusion, but don't discard it as a valid reading choice... it's really a good read.

CORALINE by Neil Gaiman

This is a fun, albeit creepy, story of girl offered a "better" life. She comes to realize all is not what it seems, and the trade-off is far to great. It's a delightfully disturbing trek into the macabre, with fascinating characters. Get a copy and get your creep on!

DEATH DU JOUR by Kathy Reichs

Follow the double life of Temperance Brennan as she investigates crimes in both Canada and the United States. She teams up with her U.S. partner to investigate the cold case of a nun about to be granted sainthood. Forensic science at its most interesting, with much intrigue to make for a captivating story.

WATCHERS by Dean Koontz

Man's best friend, a monster, a bit of romance, horror, and communication between a dog and humans... quite a feat! Dean Koontz pulls it off rather well, although it is a little hokey. But, who can really call horror classics like Dracula, Frankenstein, or any werewolf story realistic? I enjoyed this book for exactly what it is, a somewhat scary journey into the unbelievable!

THE CHOPIN-SAND LETTERS by Rick Diamond

This is an intriguing tale, with plenty of action and human interaction. Although a bit of a slow starter, I found the plot quite gripping in the end. The characters are primarily all spies, with few exceptions, who tend to leave quite interesting double lives. There are several sub-plots and surprises to keep one engaged. I'm glad I had a chance to read this novel, and recommend it to anyone even remotely interested in spy novels.

THE TELL-TALE HEART (EDGAR ALLAN POE GRAPHIC NOVELS) by Benjamin Harper and Dennis Calero

Graphic adaptation of a classic, explore one mans plunge into madness. Illustrations do a good job of portraying a slow descent into loss of mind and paranoia. The classic by Poe is interpreted for a young adult audience, complete with questions at the end to provoke reflection.

FLOWERS IN THE ATTIC by V. C. Andrews

While exceptionally disturbing, this is a must read story for those open enough to controversial subjects. There will be no Mother of Grandmother of the year awards for the characters in this book, although they may qualify for villain of the year! This tale is very well written and will tug at your emotions. It's impossible to read without having strong feelings about the plot and situations encountered in the attic!

RELIQUARY by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child

Preston and Child are the Rogers and Hammerstein of literature, their writing combines to create a symphony of words. The main characters D'Agosta and Pendergast are just as compatible, and come together to present an interesting and engrossing story. I look forward to each and every time I sit to enjoy the pairing of these men! They never disappoint!

THE DA VINCI CODE by Dan Brown

A thrilling search through Europe, using hidden codes, for an Earth shattering revelation. This book has it all; intrigue, danger, religious ties, drama, sexual tension, and mystery. We've all heard of the book, especially since it has now been made into a blockbuster Hollywood movie. But, have we all read the book yet? Of course not, but it's time to rectify that... pick up a copy, you won't be sorry you did!

THE FIGHT FOR IMMORTALITY by Peter Arthur

If you're not a fan of science fiction, this is not the book for you. Those of us who love science fiction can be assured this is right up our alley! Aliens taking over Earth? Why not? This was an engrossing story from start to finish. I'm now a fan of Peter Arthur!

LONDON BRIDGES by James Patterson

I love the Alex Cross series, so was favorably predisposed to this story! Two protagonists the Wolf and the Weasel, who bring intrigue and danger to the tale. It takes everything Agent Cross can bring to solve this case. As is true with all James Patterson books the action never stops and the story is always fast paced. This is an excellent read!

TERM LIMITS by Vince Flynn

How do D.C. politics work? Reading this book will give you a pretty good idea, you get the feeling you are privy to an insider look at the U.S. political machine. Partisan politics and the budget are the antagonists in this story. There is plenty of action and political intrigue for die hard fans, with a plot that is interesting although void of a major plot twist. Did I figure out the whodunit? Yes, but I was taken there by way of a thrilling tale!

THE VAMPIRE LESTAT by Anne Rice

I thoroughly enjoyed the petulant, bratty characteristics of Lestat... it made him more relatable. Most vampires are depicted as otherworldly, here we have one with character. It was an interesting read with just enough twists to keep you hooked. If you haven't yet, I would recommend reading some of Ms. Rice's books.

THE GENERAL'S DAUGHTER by Nelson DeMille

Gripping depiction of politics and discrimination within the Army. Story centers around the investigation of the rape of a General's daughter, and all the soldiers she served with. As with all writing by Mr. DeMille, this story will grab your attention from the very beginning and not let you go until the end... a real page turner!

WHISKEY SOUR by J.A. Konrath

Lt. "Jack" Daniels is a dynamic character, who keeps you engaged in the plot. I found the story interesting and all the characters multi dimensional. I've become addicted to this series, and you may as well!

THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS by Clement C. Moore

What better Christmas tradition could you have than to sit down with your children, have hot chocolate, and read The Night Before Christmas? Most of us are quite familiar with the story, but reading it is magical! It's a journey back to childhood, and trip through our memories and how wonderful the holidays were while growing up. And, what better Christmas gift could you imagine? This is a masterful description of a classic Christmas, with all the holiday trimmings.

11/22/63 by Stephen King

I'm a fan of time travel tales to begin with, so combining that and Stephen King seems tailored to me. Well, I was not disappointed! One of my favorites by the master, although if you are looking for classic King horror look elsewhere. This story deals with altering the past and possible consequences, and it's done masterfully! What a great book, get your copy, set some time aside (you won't want to put it down), and enjoy an interesting and engrossing story!