The Wedding Guest - Jonathan Kellerman

The Wedding Guest - Jonathan Kellerman

She read

Release date: Feb. 5, 2019

In the middle of a wedding that takes place in an unusual venue, a former strip club, a young woman is found murdered.  The bride and groom do not know who she is, nor do any of the guests.

In their familiar pattern, detective Milo Sturgis and psychologist Alex Delaware chase down leads and red herrings in what becomes a more and more complex case.

I am a fan of Kellerman’s Alex Delaware series and always look forward to the next one (can this really be #34)?.  This one did not disappoint.

These novels tend to be formulaic, but I enjoy them.  Alex and Milo chase down leads, generate and discuss different theories, interview persons of interest, enjoy a few good meals. Kellerman’s descriptions are particularly picturesque and entertaining and he always seems to put a fresh spin on cases.

Cuba Libre - Tony Perrottet

Cuba Libre - Tony Perrottet

He and She read

Publication Date: Jan. 22, 2019

This is an extensively researched, well written account of the Cuban Revolution and the overthrow of Batista.  It is well written, reading more like a novel than non fiction.

All of the main revolutionary characters are here as well as cameo appearances by some surprising individuals.  The roll of the US meddling in and attempts to control not only Cuba, but other Latin American countries as well is also presented.

I’m not a big fan of non fiction, but I really liked this book and would highly recommend it.  It’s an incredible story!

The Eighth Sister - Robert Dugoni

The Eighth Sister - Robert Dugoni

He and She read

Publication Date: April 9, 2019

I enjoy Robert Dugoni’s novels, especially his homicide detective, Tracy Crosswhite series.  The Eighth Sister is a totally different genre and a return tocharacters introduced seven years ago, attorney David Sloane and his friend, Charles Jenkins.

Jenkins, former CIA agent is seemingly called back into duty and travels to and harrowingly escapes from Russia.  But, was he really serving his country or his own financial interests?  On trial for espionage, it is up to David Sloane to defend him against an antagonistic government.

Spy stories are not my favorite, but  I thought I would try this one and was glad I did.  As with most heroes in this genre, I found some of the action a bit of a stretch and a little too convenient, but the book was easy to follow and suspenseful.  It moved along quickly and was ever so engrossing.

The Second Wife - Sheryl Browne

The Second Wife - Sheryl Browne

Publication date:  Jan. 29, 2019

She read

Becky returns to Britain for the funeral of her best friend, Nicole, who has committed suicide. Although she kept in touch with Nicole through the years, she is surprised as she learns how much her friend had changed while married to Richard.  Becky is welcomed into Richard’s home by him and his daughter, Olivia.  He seems the perfect man and she is soon attracted to him.  As she uncovers the truth about Nicole’s life, be prepared!

The unfolding of the story alternates between past and present and different points of view. Fast paced and engrossing, full of darkness and twists, fans of The Wife between Us, Unraveling Oliver, and others of this genre will surely enjoy this read. You’ll find yourself cheering for Becky and hoping that she is able to uncover the truth and seek some justice for her friend.

The Rule of Law - John Lescroart

The Rule of Law - John Lescroart

Publication date:  Jan 22, 2019

She read

This is the latest in the long running Dismas Hardy series.  All the familiar characters are here; some with changed circumstances. Wes Farrell has been defeated as DA by the up and coming but unscrupulous Ron Jameson who harbors some devastating secrets.  Those familiar with this series know that Hardy, Farrell, Gina Roake, and their pal, Abe Glitsky, have secrets of their own. It all comes to a head when Hardy’s long time assistant, Phyllis, is arrested as accessory to murder after the fact.

This book is very suspenseful as investigators on both sides work to unravel those secrets.  Despite feeling that the ending was a bit contrived, I really liked The Rule of Law.  It was so engrossing, I didn’t want to put it down.

If you haven’t read the prior Dismas Hardy novels, this can read as a stand alone; Lescroart fills in the necessary background information.  But, treat yourself and go back and read the prior books in the series.  It’s fun to follow the professional progress as well as the aging of the characters.

Never Tell - Lisa Gardner

Never Tell - Lisa Gardner

She read

Publication Date:  Feb. 19, 2019

Hard to believe, but I think this is my first Lisa Gardner book…certainly my first in the D. D. Warren series.

A husband is shot dead and his computer obliterated.  Suspicion falls on his pregnant wife who is recognized by Detective Warren
as someone who accidentally shot her father sixteen years ago.  But, all is not as it seems……

Told from three different viewpoints, all the lies and secrets did stretch credibility a bit, but I found this an engrossing read.  It is well written, with strong character development, and twists and turns that leave the reader guessing and second guessing throughout.  

The Moroccan Girl - Charles Cumming

The Moroccan Girl - Charles Cumming

He and She read

Publication date: Feb. 12, 2018

The author of popular espionage novels is approached by someone seemingly in the Service to deliver something to Morocco and help in the search for a young woman tied to a revolutionary group gone rogue in its attacks on right wing politicians and media.

I liked this book.  It is a spy novel without too much shoot ‘em up or unrealistic action.  The topic, and especially the ending, is very timely and perhaps somewhat  frighteningly prescient.   Lots of twists and turns, some of them predictable, some unexpected which keeps the reader guessing throughout. The ending hints at future novels featuring this protagonist.

And, by the way, He liked the book also!