Into the Black Nowhere - Meg Gardiner

Into the Black Nowhere - Meg Gardiner

She read

Publication Date: Jan. 20, 2018

This is the second book by Gardiner featuring FBI profiler, Caitlin Hendrix. Caitlin and her crew are called to Texas where there have been a series of young women who have disappeared.  Why have they disappeared without a trace from such unlikely places as the concession stand at a movie theater and waiting for a passing train? Are there other victims? Is there a serial killer on the loose?

Although the ending may have been just a bit over the top, in all it was a thrilling read and I could not put it down.  I thought there was good insight into suspect profiling along with realistic characters and solid plot development.  

I did not read the first Caitlin Hendrix book and although I do not feel that it is necessary before reading this one, I am now going to go back and read it.  Looking forward to the next in this series……

The Girls in the Picture - Melanie Benjamin

The Girls in the Picture - Melanie Benjamin

Release date: January 16, 2018

This is a fictionalized account of the careers and friendship of Mary Pickford and Frances Marion, pioneering women in Hollywood. Benjamin did a good job of encapsulating the history of film from the silent movies through the rise of talkies and the big studio era, highlighting the obstacles encountered by successful women.  

I enjoyed Benjamin’s prior novels, especially The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb and The Aviator’s Wife.  I thought this work a bit cloying, but still it made for an interesting and entertaining read.  

Poison - John Lescroart

Poison - John Lescroart

She read

Publication Date: Feb. 13, 2018

Dismas Hardy is ready to slow down and maybe even give up murder cases when a former client reaches out to him.  She has been arrested for killing her boss.  As the evidence mounts up, there are more killings seemingly unrelated to this case. Harry’s wife, still shell shocked from Dismas being shot in the last novel and fearing future danger, gives him an ultimatum regarding this case and Harry must race against the clock to prove his client’s innocence.  

It’s evident that there is some connection among the murders, and I didn’t want to put the book down until I found out what it was and how the case is resolved. 

It’s been a while since the last Hardy novel and it was a pleasure to have him back.  The usual cast of characters are there including Abe Glitsky, son and daughter, Vincent and Rebecca, private investigator Hunt. 

If you are a fan of John Lescroart, you will welcome this latest addition to the Dismas Hardy series.  If this is your first introduction to him, you will want to go back and read some of his prior works.  He is master of the legal thriller.

The Chalk Man - C.J. Tudor

The Chalk Man - C.J. Tudor

He and she read

Publication date: Jan. 9, 2018

I really liked this book.  Well written, excellent character development, intriguing, I read it in two sittings as I didn’t want to put it down.  The author’s wry humor and astute observations of life were a joy to read. Moving and and forth between past and present was a successful device in the unfolding of the story.  And the final ending…WOW!

I don’t often rate a book five stars, but this one deserved it. This should be one of the first books you read in the new year.

End Game - David Baldacci

End Game - David Baldacci

He and she read

The sixth  Will Robie, Jessica Reel novel.  This time, they team up to find their handler, Blue Man, who has disappeared in the wilds of Colorado where skinheads, neo Nazis, and other vigilante groups hang out. There is lots of shooting and action that stretches one’s credibility.  This is not my favorite Baldacci series, but if you enjoy it, you will like this addition.  In the future, I think we will both skip this series.  

Two Kinds of Truth - Michael Connelly

Two Kinds of Truth - Michael Connelly

He and she read

I’m a big fan of Michael Conley’s writing, especially the Hieronymus Bosch series. I think Two Kinds of Truth is one of his best.

It is well written with a credible plot and good character development. There are appearances by Harry’s daughter, his half brother, the Lincoln Lawyer, and even some old partners.

Often authors have difficulty ending their books. The endings seem contrived or not credible. The ending of Two Kind of Truth ties together nicely and is satisfying.

 If you enjoy Connelly’s writing, you will like this book. If you are new to Connelly, and like good police procedurals/legal thrillers, this book is for you. 

Hardcore Twenty Four - Janet Evanovich

Hardcore Twenty Four - Janet Evanovich

She read

The latest in the Stephanie Plum series. Yes, I know they are silly, but I usually enjoy these books. The ridiculous situations and the colorful characters are all very entertaining.  Maybe it's the Jersey setting/jokes/lifestyle that gets to me as that is where I am originally from.  Yes, the characters are predictable, but I expect them to be.  Yes, the relationships don't progress, but, really, they are living in Trenton!!!! This twenty fourth novel, though,  seemed a bit too rushed and fantastical.  

Two Girls Down - Louisa Luna

Two Girls Down - Louisa Luna

She read

Release date: Jan. 9 2018

Two sisters are missing from a local mall in a rundown Pennsylvania town. The family hires Alice Vega, noted for her ability to find missing persons. To find the girls, Alice teams up with a local PI who resigned from the town’s police force under a cloud.

Although I initially had a difficult time getting into this book, I really liked it. It is a  fast paced story with good character development and a plot that hangs together. I definitely would recommend it to mystery fans. 

Louisa Luna is known for her Young Adult fiction; she has made a successful transition to writing for adults. I think this would make a great series; I’d love to read more about Cap, the divorced PI with a precocious daughter, and Vega.  There are a lot more adventures they could have and so much of their history to learn about.

Every Breath You Take - Mary Higgins Clark and Alafair Burke

Every Breath You Take - Mary Higgins Clark and Alafair Burke

She read

Mary Higgins Clark was one of my mother’s favorite authors.  I have read all her books and, out of sentimentality,  continue to do so as a matter of routine.  This one, written with Alafair Burke, is the fifth in the “Under Suspician” series featuring Laurie Moran, the producer of a TV show that attempts to relook at cold cases.  

This book is a quick read…perfect for curling up on a cold or rainy day or saving for a beach vacation. It is a good story and keeps readers guessing.  Featuring the same repeating characters, some of them are a bit “too perfect”, but what is so wrong with a little bit of saccharin right now?

The Wife Between Us - Greer Hendricks; Sarah Pekkanen

The Wife Between Us - Greer Hendricks; Sarah Pekkanen

She read

Publication Date: Jan. 9, 2018

Wow!  Get ready for deception, twists, and turns throughout this read.   I don’t even want to begin to summarize the plot other than to say that it involves the deconstruction of what appears to some an idyllic relationship.  But, that is only on one level.

Suffice it to say that fans of Gone Girl  and other psychological thrillers should love this book; I did.  Don’t miss out on what is sure to be a best seller.

The Rooster Bar - John Grisham

The Rooster Bar - John Grisham

He and she read

Four friends are over their heads in student loans, attending a for profit law school that seemingly will accept anyone. One of them has unearthed some shady dealings involving banking and the school’s owner.  After his (spoiler) suicide, the remaining three cannot face their last semester at school knowing how much they owe and that their job prospects are poor.  They find an alternative……

Not a typical Grisham legal thriller, it is a quick, fun read, although, to some, it may push the boundaries of credibility.  

Murder in the Manuscript Room - Con Lehane

Murder in the Manuscript Room - Con Lehane

Publication Date:  Nov. 21, 2017

She read

An employee of the New York City’s library is found murdered
It seems she is not the person she presented herself to be.  Solving the case involves Raymond Ambler, the crime fiction curator at the library, a cast of his friends, family, and acquaintances, as well as the Intelligence Division of the NYPD, the investigation of the murder years ago of a trade union reformer, and perhaps some terrorists. 

Despite all these characters, the story hangs together and the characters well developed.  This is the second book in a series.  Initially, some of the background  was a little unclear. I do think reading the first book, though, would have helped in understanding the history of Ambler and his family. 

It was a decent story that held my attention throughout. 

Never Coming Back - Alison McGhee

Never Coming Back - Alison McGhee

What a beautiful book!

Clara returns to her home turf when her mother is diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s.  She is reunited with her two best friends from college and meets an interesting new man as she struggles with losing the strong woman in her life with whom she has had a mixed relationship.  An old mystery is solved and Clara comes to grips with the new life she must make for herself and her future. 

Well written with a wonderful command of the English language (Clara is a “words” person) this novel is a poignant look at one woman’s relationship with her mother as well as life in general.  I’m so glad I read it.  

In the Midst of Winter - Isabel Allende

In the Midst of Winter - Isabel Allende

She Read

Release date: Oct. 31, 2017

Evelyn is a young woman who escaped the atrocities of the MS-13 gang in Guatemala; Lucia, an older woman who experienced her own horrors in the political turmoil of Chile; Richard, also older and an acquaintance of Lucia’s, has fled from his own miseries in Brazil.  They are all drawn together during a blizzard in New York City when Richard is involved in a minor accident with the car driven by Evelyn.  The car conceals a secret with which they must deal.  As they do, they share their life stories and love blossoms between Evelyn and Richard.

Isabel Allende is a skilled storyteller, and she is at her best when weaving the history of the various Latin American countries into the personal narratives of her characters.  While she is to be applauded for at least tangentially touching on the plight of many immigrants today who are forced into human trafficking, I thought the storyline involving the present day actions of the characters was a bit amateurish.  While that was a flaw, it does not detract from my recommending this book.  When focusing on the backgrounds of the three characters, the book was fascinating and her reflections on aging sometimes painfully accurate.  

Murder on the Oxford Canal - Faith Martin

Murder on the Oxford Canal - Faith Martin

She read

A body is found in the Oxford Canal and DI Hillary Greene is on the case.  She is also under investigation because of the illegal actions of her late, estranged husband and to make matters worse, there is a fellow officer who seems to have it in for her.

A decent, absorbing British police procedural that held my attention throughout, 

I liked her character as well as most of those surrounding her, though I was a bit peeved by the fact that all of them seemed to be on the make in one way or another.  

With some investigation, I learned that this book is part of a series; there are more than a dozen Hillary Greene mysteries.  I look forward to reading some of the past titles and will be on the alert for future ones.  

The Cuban Affair - Nelson DeMille

The Cuban Affair - Nelson DeMille

He and She read

This is only the second DeMille book that I have read. “Mac” MacCormick, an Army veteran has made a new life as a charter boat captain in Key West.  Like many of the residents of that colorful location, he is a unique character.  Approached by some anti Castro Cuban Americans, he signs on for a dangerous mission on the Communist island, accompanied by an attractive, savvy woman.  

 Although I thought the book dragged a bit in getting through the story, I enjoyed it, especially DeMille’s often cynical sense of humor.  It is an entertaining read.

Y is for Yesterday - Sue Grafton

Y is for Yesterday - Sue Grafton

She read

I enjoy Sue Grafton’s alphabet series and am sad that Y is the penultimate.  Kinsey Milhone is a delightful character.  Grafton places her in the late 1980s which means she doesn’t have a smart phone nor the advantage of advanced technology.  She still relies on index card notes to keep track of her cases.  She is surrounded by a repeating cast of supporting characters and it is always enjoyable to revisit them.

This book, which seems to be a bit longer than some of the prior ones, involves two cases.  The first is a situation of black mail that refers back to incidents that occurred ten years ago.  Kinsey must unravel what really happened then as well as figure out what is going on in the present.  The second case is a carry over from the X novel and involves a dangerous madman on the loose who has already tried once to kill Kinsey.

Grafton is a good writer and although the book did seem to drag a bit, I enjoyed it.  

Second Acts - Teri Emory

Second Acts - Teri Emory

Release Date: Sept. 26, 2017

She read

I really liked this book.

Written from the points of view of three different women, Beth, Sarah, and Miriam who have been friends since college in the 1960s, The author demonstrates astute observations on love, aging, and life. 

The women have faced various crises in their lives… losing a child, a parent, a job, a lover; the one constant has been their friendship and mutual support.  Once free thinking young women with boundless options, they have endured many choices and challenges and are now embarking on the “second acts” of their lives.

Well written, this book is engrossing, entertaining, funny, sad, infuriating, satisfying. 

The Scarred Woman - Jussi Adler-Olsen

The Scarred Woman - Jussi Adler-Olsen

She Read

Release Date: Sept. 19, 2017

This is the seventh in the Department Q series police procedurals by Danish author Jussi Adler-Olsen. Department Q is Copenhagen’s cold cases division and in the Scarred Woman they are juggling five cases.  A recent homicide is similar to an unsolved one from more than ten years ago.  Young ne’er-do-well women are victims of a hit and run driver. There has been a robbery at a local club and a murder nearby.  Finally, the team is grappling with the dark history and instability of one of their own. 

Denmark is often identified as one of the happiest countries in the world. Adler-Olsen focuses on the decidedly seedier side of this society in this Scandinavian Noir tale.  He writes with a sense of humor, irony, and social commentary.   

I have not read the previous novels in this series and I think that was a disadvantage. Some of the recurring minor characters were not that well developed; I felt as though I intruded in the middle of some of their lives and was left wondering who they were and their relationship to each other.  I did enjoy the members of Department Q, particularly the endearing immigrant Assad who hasn’t quite got a grip on the local language and keeps misspeaking idioms. 

I thought the story was a bit convoluted with a rush toward the ending. Despite that, I enjoyed the book and would like to go back and read the prior ones as well as read future works by Adler-Olsen.  If you enjoy Nordic Noir, do read this!

Best Day Ever - Kaira Rouda

Best Day Ever - Kaira Rouda

She read

Publication date:  September 19, 2017

Paul Strom is one of the shallowest, most self centered, chauvinistic characters you will meet.  At first, I thought Rouda was writing a parody of every despicable trait a man could have when it hit me that he was a classic pathological narcissist and men like him really do exist.  

The action in this domestic suspense novel takes place over less than 24 hours with an epilogue one year later. Paul wants to spend the “best day ever” with his wife and is intent on not letting anything interfere with it. Why is he so intent on this?

Paul is so heinous you might be inclined to stop reading this book….but don’t.  You will be rewarded if you stay with it to the end. His sinister actions drew me in; I couldn’t put the story down and finished it in a day. It is well written with excellent character development and a satisfying ending. 

The Last Tudor - Philippa Gregory

The Last Tudor - Philippa Gregory

He read

Having read Gregory's entire Tudor series, he thought this was the best.

Lie to Me - JT Ellison

Lie to Me - JT Ellison

She read

Release date:September 5, 2017

Ethan and Sutton Montclair are successful, prize winning authors who, to all appearances are living the good life.  But, all is not as it seems.  Is he a monster?  Is she?  Did their baby really die of SIDS?

The novel opens with the discovery of a decaying body in the woods. Sutton has disappeared, leaving a terse note indicating she needs some time away; Ethan shouldn’t look for her.  Is the body hers?

Written in short segments from three different points of view, the true story of the Montclair’s lives, filled with betrayals, unfolds.  The suspense builds; just as the reader thinks s/he has figured out what is going on, more is revealed and there is another twist.  This is a well written story that you won’t want to put down.

Close to Home - Robert Dugoni

Close to Home - Robert Dugoni

She read

Release date:  September 5, 2017

I only discovered Robert Dugoni a year or so ago….and I am glad I did.  A prolific writer, he tells a good, cohesive story with strong character development that maintains reader interest.

This is the fifth in the Tracy Crosswhite series. Dugoni revisits familiar characters and introduces two new people whom I think may become recurring figures.

The Seattle Violent Crimes section is investigating two cases.  The first involves a hit and run that kills a young African American boy.  The culprit is a Navy man from nearby Bremerton which results in their official involvement in the case.  Tracy and her partner, Kins Rowe, receive this assignment.  Meanwhile, Del Castigliano and Vic Fazzio pursue the people responsible for selling a strain of heroin that has resulted in a number of fatal overdoses.  It’s personal for Del as one of the victims was his niece.  Add to that Tracy coping with infertility while Kins is facing hip surgery which he is sure will go wrong.  

As the cases unfold, the suspense builds and there are twists and turns that will keep the reader enthralled.  Another hit for Dugoni.

One doesn’t have to have read the prior novels in this series to understand who the characters are. However, if you are unfamiliar with Dugoni’s work, do yourself a favor and go back and read the four prior books.  

16th Seduction - James Patterson & Maxine Paetro

16th Seduction - James Patterson & Maxine Paetro

She read

The Women’s Murder Club series is the only James Patterson work I still bother reading.  I enjoy the four characters who make up this group; the short lived TV series some years ago enhanced this enjoyment.

Despite its flaws, I did enjoy 16th Seduction. I thought there was a big whole in the plot near the end.  I kept asking myself,”didn’t the authorities do a thorough search of the house and the suspect’s background?  Since it was such a high profile case, didn’t they find anything questionable in his history?”

There was a subplot that was a bit absurb; perhaps it was added just to pad the book? And, the denouement seemed rushed and somewhat of a jumble.

Despite those flaws, I couldn’t put this book down and read it in two sittings.  

Unraveling Oliver - Liz Nugent

Unraveling Oliver - Liz Nugent

She read

Release date: Aug. 22, 2017

Handsome Oliver Ryan, rejected by his father and never having known his mother, is a successful writer of children’s books; his somewhat dowdy, reticent  wife, Alice illustrates them.  The novel opens with Oliver rendering Alice unconscious with a brutal blow.  In each subsequent chapter, we learn something more about Oliver from acquaintances of the couple and Oliver himself. 

I almost put this book down after the first chapter; Oliver presented as such a despicable person.  But I forged ahead with this engrossing although somewhat unsatisfying read.  

As the circumstances behind this heinous act are revealed layer by layer, the author is deft in taking the voices of the various characters and the reader learns the consequences of family secrets and the rigidity of society’s mores.  Although I liked this book and would recommend it, at the end I was left with a feeling of “meh”.  Perhaps you will feel differently. 

Good Friday - Lynda La Plante

Good Friday - Lynda La Plante

She read

Release date: September 7, 2017

I enjoy both the old Prime Suspect  and the more recent Prime Suspect:Tennison series on PBS, so I thought I would try this book; I’m glad I did. 

Good Friday features the younger Jane Tennison as she is beginning her career as a detective in the 1970s.  The plot revolves around the bombings  by the IRA in London and is a stark reminder that terrorist attacks are all too familiar for this city.

Recently transferred to a new division and making new acquaintances there as well as settling in to a new home and adjusting to a roommate, Jane is  witness to a bombing that takes place in the Covet Garden tube station. 

The story moves along at a good pace and is believable. La Plante is a

good writer who pays attention to detail.  The supporting characters are well developed and easily distinguished from each other. I was a little uncomfortable with how the males in the department tend to treat her more like a pet than an equal, but that is probably realistically reflective of the times.

I found  myself  lost in this book and didn’t want to put it down. It is a good choice for those who enjoy police procedurals with good character development. 

Beach House for Rent - Mary Alice Monroe

Beach House for Rent - Mary Alice Monroe

She tried to read

I read the first in this trilogy, Beach House and enjoyed it primarily because of the sea turtle interest.  I tried this one, but quit after 100 pages...just too cloying and predictable for my taste.

Don't Let Go - Harlan Coben

Don't Let Go - Harlan Coben

Release date: September 26, 2017

She read

Coben has another best seller in Don’t Let Go.

“Nap” Dumas' twin brother and girlfriend were killed by a train when they were in high school and his great love, Maura, disappeared immediately after.  Fifteen years later, evidence of Maura resurfaces. Others who knew the dead couple are mysteriously killed and just what was going on at that Nike Missile base in town? Nap, now a police detective, is caught up in investigating what really happened those many years ago.  

This novel was fast paced, and suspenseful; my curiosity wouldn’t let me put it down. I didn’t see the ending coming and was glad that Coben tied up all the unanswered questions, leaving nothing hanging.  Coben is an excellent storyteller who writes with humor and insight. His fans will enjoy the Myron Bolitar cameo.

Snap Judgment - Marcia Clark

Snap Judgment - Marcia Clark

Release date: August 29, 2017

She read

This is the third of three in Clark’s series featuring criminal defense attorney Samantha Brinkman. Samantha is not my favorite female protagonist.  A damaged soul due to a childhood history of abuse, I have empathy for her but her professional ethics…and those of people around her…are quite sketchy.

There are two storylines.  The first about the deaths of two college students is multi layered, with twists revealed as the novel progresses. The second involving a criminal known to Samantha from her past is a bit of an intrusion and I think dragged the pace of the book. 

For those who like a good mystery/legal thriller albeit without the courtroom scenes, this will make an enjoyable read. 

One Summer Day in Rome - Mark Lamprell

One Summer Day in Rome - Mark Lamprell

Release date: August 1, 2017

She read

Narrated by an unnamed ancient spirit, this is a story about love…love lost, love found, but most of all it is a love poem to the Eternal City.  There are three separate yet interwoven stories, the characters of whom occasionally intersect and just may have something in common. Yet, these six people are just the supporting characters for the true star is Rome itself.

Lamprell has a wry sense of humor and is a good observer of life, especially the vagaries of aging.  The three couples sometimes find themselves in comical, yet believable situations.

This is a light, quick read and I loved some of the new eccentricities I learned about Rome.  

Crime Scene - Jonathan Kellerman and Jesse Kellerman

Crime Scene - Jonathan Kellerman and Jesse Kellerman

She read

Release date: Aug. 1, 2017

Prolific writer Jonathan Kellerman has teamed up with his son, Jesse, to write this psychological thriller.  They managed to make an interesting story out of what seems like a nothing case.

I enjoyed the vivid detailed descriptions of various locations, some of which were amusingly metaphorical.  A lot of the language made me chuckle such as the image of a “unicorn vomiting up a rainbow” or the mention of a Donner golf course…”Think of the clubhouse lunch menu”.

Fans of the Jonathan Kellerman’s Alex Delaware character will enjoy the good doctor’s cameo appearance.

A compelling, quick read, it seems this may be the first of a series featuring Clay Edison, a deputy sheriff working in the county Coroner’s Bureau.  Let’s hope so!

The Late Show - Michael Connelly

The Late Show - Michael Connelly

Release date: July 18, 2017

She read

As a fan of both Michael Connelly’s Harry Bosch and Lincoln Lawyer series, I look forward to each new book by him. In this police procedural, Connelly introduces a new female character, Renee Ballard.  Like Bosch, she has a history of issues with authority and as a result is assigned to the “Late Show”, or night shift.  Usually officers on this shift do not have the opportunity to follow up on many of the crimes they are called to initially investigate. Ballard, though,  also like Bosch, has an independent streak which drives her to pursue cases to their finish.    

Set in the gritty underworld of LA, The Late Show is a compelling read; I didn’t want to put it down.  A good writer, Connelly interweaves the various cases well; there is no confusion among the characters or action.  

I’m not sure yet how I feel about this female character and some of the tactics she employs to achieve her goals, but I look forward to the next book in this series to find out! 

Camino Island - John Grisham

Camino Island - John Grisham

She read

Not a typical Grisham legal thriller, I enjoyed this change of pace.  A good, light, summer read.

As someone who lives on an island off of Florida and has been a sea turtle volunteer, I thought he captured island life well and appreciated the accurate information he provided about the turtles.

Deadfall - Linda Fairstein

Deadfall - Linda Fairstein

She Read

Release date: July 25, 2017

Fans of Linda Fairstein’s Alexandra Cooper series will be pleased that Alex is back and  starting to heal emotionally from the damage inflected after being abducted in an earlier novel.  It’s been a year since the last Alex Cooper novel which had a twist at the end leaving readers hungry for Deadfall, the 19th in this series.

Deadfall picks up where the last one, Killer Look,  left off, with the shooting of long time New York City DA Paul Battaglia.  Alex, still on leave as a prosecutor in the DAs office,  finds herself in the crosshairs of both the investigation and the killer.  Even though she shouldn’t be involved in the case, she can’t stop herself and teams up with her usual cohorts to find the truth.  

One of the things I like about Fairstein’s books is that you always pick up new knowledge about some New York City landmark.  In Deadfall  it is the Bronx Zoological Park, along with insight into the criminal world of animal trafficking and a brief history of subway cars!  And, of course, there are the Final Jeopardy questions, a hallmark of the Alex Cooper novels. As always with Fairstein’s books, this a quick and absorbing read.  

This book can be read as a stand alone, but there are many references to actions that took place in the last novel, so anyone new to this series might consider reading it at the very least. Then there is the long history of the main characters and their many fascinating cases, so why not start the series from the beginning?

Into the Water - Paula Hawkins

Into the Water - Paula Hawkins

She read

Another dark story from Paula Hawkins, author of Girl on the Train.   Told from the different viewpoints of the characters in a small British town where a number of women have succumbed to what is known as “The Drowning Pool”, the truth gradually unfolds.

Unlike other reviewers, I did not find the number of characters overwhelming or confusing.  (Note: If you are someone who does have difficulty remembering names, take a minute to jot down the names and relationships as you read and then you will be less confused).

The book held my interest and it was a fast read.  I would rate it a good, not great read.  

Exposed - Lisa Scottoline

Exposed - Lisa Scottoline

She read
Release date: August 15, 2017

Fans of Lisa Scottoline’s Bennie Rosato/Mary DiNunzio series will be happy to see this latest entry.  A case involving Mary’s close friend, almost family, Simon Pensiera, finds the partners involved in a professional ethics quandary and questioning their personal and professional relationship.   

There are legal machinations and plot twists as well as some (violent) action all the while exploring who/what constitutes family and what we will do for them.  

Readers don’t have to be familiar with the earlier books in this series, but knowing the history of the law firm and Mary’s close neighborhood ties does add to the enjoyment of this story’s continued  insight into these characters and their motivations.  

I Know a Secret - Tess Gerritsen

I Know a Secret - Tess Gerritsen

She read

Publication date:  Aug. 15, 2017

This is the twelfth in Gerritsen’s Rizzoli and Isles series, all of which I have read.  A riveting read, I thought it was one of the better written of the series, although all are good.

There are many twists to the plot and Gerritsen manages to keep you guessing. There is continued character development of not only the main players, but also some of the supporting ones such as Jane’s mother, Angela.  Gerritsen infuses forensic science into the story without belaboring the action.

You don’t have to have read the prior novels in the series, but doing so would provide more of the back story of the characters.  And, if you are only familiar with the TV series, there are significant family history differences with the book characters.  

Persons Unknown - Susie Steiner

Persons Unknown - Susie Steiner

She and He read

As in her first novel featuring DS Manon Bradshaw,(Missing, Presumed) Steiner places more emphasis on character development than actual police procedures and the story unfolds told from the perspective of different characters. Don’t expect explosive action or shocking twists and turns, just an attention grabbing literate read. 

Steiner has an amusing sense of humor and the many ruminations of Manon make her a very real person and character I really liked.   Unlike many series featuring one central character, Manon’s life does not remain static….it is changing, as are the lives of some of those around her. 

While it is not necessary to have read the first book in this series, doing so will give readers more background on some of the recurring players.  

The Fix - David Baldacci

The Fix - David Baldacci

He and She read

This third in a series of Amos Decker novels is a good beach read.  Although quick reading, there did seem to be parts that went on and on unnecessarily rehashing information. There were layers of complexity to the plot and the action wasn’t too far from plausibility.  

If you want to have better background information on the main characters, read the other books in this series; but that isn’t necessary to appreciate this one. 

Beyond Justice - Cara Putman

Beyond Justice - Cara Putman

She Read

Recently, I have read quite a few good mysteries and legal thrillers.  Unfortunately, this was not one of them.

I felt a lot of the story's action was contrived and sometimes didn't make sense.

I really had to force myself to stick with this book...it seemed to drag on and on.  All the ruminations of, in particular, the main character belabored the story.  And, I found her insecurity annoying.  Guess I have just read too many novels featuring strong, independent characters to find this one appealing.

London - Edward Rutherfurd

London - Edward Rutherfurd

He read

Comprehensive history of London serves as backdrop.  He enjoyed it...it is a "heavy"(literally) book!

The Graves - Pamela Wechsler

The Graves - Pamela Wechsler

She Read

Publication Date: May 2, 2017

This is Pamela Wechsler’s second in what I hope will be a long series featuring Abby Endicott, chief of the Boston DA’s homicide unit.  A former criminal prosecutor and now consultant, writer, and producer for a variety of successful network television legal shows, Wechsler has a breezy writing style that kept my eyes glued to the page.  I didn’t want to put the book down and, in fact, read it in one day. Although one might be tempted to compare Endicott with Linda Fairstein’s Alex Cooper character, Wechsler’s writing seemed fresh and original

Wechsler knows Boston well and those familiar with the city will enjoy the landmark references, even if many of them are made in relation to crimes!  Those unfamiliar with the city will appreciate the introduction to it. 

Although I don’t ever try to, I was able to guess the culprit fairly early on.  However, that didn’t detract from the unfolding story as there was so much else going on with the trial as well Abby’s personal life and a look into the underside of politics. 

There are references to the prior Abby Endicott novel in The Graves.  These references were not confusing; they did make me curious and I will now go back and read it.  

There was good character development and I look forward to future books in the series.

Startup - Doree Shafrir

Startup - Doree Shafrir

She read

This was not a typical genre or even generation for me, but I really enjoyed this satirical portrait of millennials negotiating the startup culture of today's tech world.  Shafrir gives a great snapshot (no pun intended) of what is becoming our social media driven society.  

Her biting wit resulted in me smiling a lot as I read....especially at some of the made up (or maybe not so fictional) apps being created.   What struck me is that despite the changing culture of the workplace as technology becomes a driving force, some things like the role of women and workplace relationships haven't changed all that much.

The ending is somewhat abrupt and enigmatic....but perhaps it is reflective of the environment about which Shafrir writes.  Enjoy this book for the satire it is and marvel at what we are becoming in our tech savvy world.    

The Girl Who Was Taken - Charlie Donlea

The Girl Who Was Taken - Charlie Donlea

She read

Although this is the second book by Charlie Donlea, it is the first I have read and I am glad I found him.

A popular convention of late, the story moved back and forth from the past to the present.  Yet, it was not formulaic and there was never confusion about the time frame or the different characters.  There are clues sprinkled throughout the book that will keep the reader guessing.

It nagged at me a bit that Livia, a medical examiner in training and sister of a missing girl did a lot of investigating on her own, including taking evidence; were there to be a criminal case, it could be negatively affected.  That aside, I really enjoyed the book and didn’t want to put it down.  

There was strong character development of both the major and minor players.  The insight into an underworld of abduction “groupies” was original and the insight into forensic medicine added to my interest. 

Fans of a good mystery, thriller, and forensic pathology will like this book.   I could easily see it becoming a series or being made into a screenplay. 

The Nix - Nathan Hill

The Nix - Nathan Hill

He read

Testimony - Scott Turow

Testimony - Scott Turow

It’s been a while since Turow published a new novel and I’ve missed him.

Initially, Testimony  seems as if it is going to be a legal procedural, albeit unique in that it involves the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the Hague. But then it takes a twist and becomes more menacing and turns into a thriller/mystery. 

The action takes place not only in the Netherlands, but also the Balkans and the US. and includes a look into the life of the Roma. Turow handles introducing the different countries and  cultures well. 

He successfully interweaves complex story lines; his personal life and reflections of midlife, familial background secrets, NATO’s involvement in the Balkans, the Roma culture. The story is

plausible and he ties up all loose ends.

Although a substantial novel, I read it quickly as it held my attention and I did not want to put it down. It was interesting to learn how the ICC functions and especially the United States’ relationship to it.  

Those who have read other Turow novels will find references to some familiar characters from Kindle County.  I always enjoy it when an author employs that device.  

Two Nights - Kathy Reichs

Two Nights - Kathy Reichs

She read.

I enjoy Reichs’ “Bones”  series featuring Temperance Brennan.  In this novel, a new protagonist, Sunday (Sunnie) Night is introduced and she is very different from Temperance.  With her own rough back story, Sunnie is hired to get answers about a year old bombing in which her employer’s daughter and grandson were killed and granddaughter is still missing.

I look forward to each new “Bones” novel and as I began reading Two Nights, I wasn’t sure if I would like this new character.  She is a damaged soul who is savvy, physical, and tough. 

This is a fast read.  There may be times when you aren’t sure you know what is going on, but stick with it and all will be answered. 

I enjoy Reichs’ writing.  She has a clever way with words and a good sense of humor comes through. If this becomes a series, I don't think it will replace the "Bones" series as a favorite, but I would certainly read the next one!

The Dark Flood Rises - Margaret Drabble

The Dark Flood Rises - Margaret Drabble

She Read

I’m not a huge fan of Margaret Drabble’s, but I did enjoy this book.  It is very literary and a bit of a slog to get through. I liked the characters and thought the reflections on aging were spot on. Although the effects of age and one’s mortality are ever present, the book was more comforting than depressing. Not a lot of action…just the ever passing on of everyday time and life. 

Anything is Possible - Elizabeth Strout

Anything is Possible - Elizabeth Strout

She read

Fans of Elizabeth Strout will be delighted with this new collection of loosely linked stories.  All of the characters have in common that they were familiar with the young Lucy Barton (My Name is Lucy Barton) as she grew up in a small midwestern town and now weave in and out of each others’ lives.   Strout is a gifted writer whose characters are beautifully drawn and her poignant observations of life are right on.  This book can be enjoyed on its own, but I think it my be more meaningful if one has read My Name is Lucy Barton. 

The Cutaway - Christina Kovac

The Cutaway - Christina Kovac

She read

This is a mystery from the perspective of a television news producer/investigative journalist. In addition to the main plot line described in the book synopsis, office relationships, the effect of family history on current characters’ functioning and the precarious position of tv news in today’s world are all subplots.  There are some twists, but as I was reading felt the story and characters to be somewhat flat; there was just something missing to connect with.

I thought the author was a little sloppy in pulling it all together as the mystery climaxed, but it moved along at a good pace, held my attention and I didn’t want to put it down.  I believe this is the author’s first novel.  It’s a good debut and I look forward to more from her. 

One Perfect Lie - Lisa Scottoline

One Perfect Lie - Lisa Scottoline

She read

I enjoy Scottoline’s writing and have read all of her books featuring attorney Bennie Rosato.  This is outside of that series and with it, Scottoline has hit a home run! The development of all the various characters is excellent.  There is good insight into the mind of a (non sexual) predator and a twist (well more than one) that has you guessing and makes you not want to put down the book until the end.  As a bonus, you even learn a little about our government! The climax was a little over the top, but that didn't take away from my enjoyment of the book.  Be prepared to read this book well into the night……

Heartbreak Hotel - Jonathan Kellerman

Heartbreak Hotel - Jonathan Kellerman

She read

I am a fan of Kellerman's Alex Delaware series and this is his 32nd. You do not have to have read all the prior ones, but familiarity with characters is part of the charm of reading this series.  I enjoyed this one, as I have just about all of the others except for the one where it got a little supernatural.

Conviction - Julia Dahl

Conviction - Julia Dahl

She read

Julia Dahl has written two other books in the Rebekah Roberts series.  Rebekah is a journalist (alright, she works for a tabloid!) who seems to find cases to investigate that involve the Orthodox Jewish community as well as the wider community in New York.   There is good character development, the story moves along quickly, and held my interest throughout as the plot moved back and forth between the time right after the Crown Heights riots in the early 1990s and present (2014) time. I enjoyed this book and when I find the time, will go back and read the prior in the series.  I don't think that not having read the previous two books negatively affected my reading of this one.

Mangrove Lightning - Randy Wayne White

Mangrove Lightning - Randy Wayne White

She read.

This is the 24th in the prolific Doc Ford series written by White. I've read a few of his other books; if this had been the first one, I probably would have never read another.  Perhaps fans of his will enjoy the story, but I found it to be a bit of a jumble.  There is a subplot second story that never really seems to go anywhere, just adding to the muddle.  While I did enjoy some of the history of the southwest Florida area, this was not a pleasant story and a bit too misogynist and fragmented for me.

Earthly Remains - Donna Leon

Earthly Remains - Donna Leon

She read

Disclaimer:  I am a huge fan of Donna Leon’s Commissario Guido Brunetti series.  I look forward to each new release. 

This one is a little different from most prior novels as Guido tries to take some time away from the Venetian justice system for some R and R on one of the out islands.  I was a little concerned that we wouldn’t have the presence of some of Leon’s other colorful characters such as the indomitable Signorina Elettra, but, (spoiler alert) an ensuing mystery does bring back all the favorites further on in the book. I also worried that Guido would not have the opportunity to stop for one of his beloved coffees, but, rest assured, he does.    Leon is an extremely literate writer who is a joy to read. 

You do not have to have read the prior books in this series to enjoy this one, but why would you deprive yourself by not reading all of them?

Lying Blind - Dianne Emley

Lying Blind - Dianne Emley

She read

This is the second Nan Vining mystery I have read.  Although I didn’t like it as much as the first one I read, it captured my attention and I didn’t want to put it down until I had finished.  There were a few times when it seemed it was trying to cross over into a romance novel, and, for me, that took away from the story.  Although, without revealing any spoilers, I was glad that Nan has another option! Yes, you might not like some of the characters, but, afterall, they are the “bad guys.” The sixth in the series, it is not necessary to have read the prior ones, although they would certainly add to the main character’s background. 

Swing Time - Zadie Smith

Swing Time - Zadie Smith

She read

Although disappointed in the ending, I enjoyed this book and would recommend it.  It moves back and forth between the present and the past, but was never confusing.  Don't expect any big revelations, but it has good character development and is beautifully written.

Assassins - Mike Bond

 Assassins - Mike Bond

He read

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