Wednesday, February 27, 2019

Stalker - Lars Kepler

Stalker - Lars Kepler

She read

This is the fifth  in the Swedish series of books featuring Joona Linna, who is now a former Detective Superintendent.

I don’t know if it is because of the translation, but the writing seemed very disjointed.  Although the overall plot was good, I found none of the characters likable and it took a long time to tell the story.  I had to force myself to finish the book and frequently skimmed over sections.

Fans of this series will probably enjoy it, but it just wasn’t one of my favorites.

Tuesday, February 19, 2019

Unto Us a Son is Given - Donna Leon

Unto Us a Son is Given - Donna Leon

Publication Date:  March 5, 2019

He and she read


Whenever a new Commissario Guido Brunetti novel comes out, I stop everything I am doing to read it.  I cannot believe that this the 28th!  They are a joy! Donna Leon’s novels contain good writing, colorful character development, piquant observations of life both in general and specific to Venetian society.

I could have easily voraciously devoured this book, finishing it in one day while forsaking all else.  However, writing this good should be savored and I tried to take my time, digesting it chapter by chapter.

Travel along with Brunetti past familiar Venetian landmarks, stopping here and there for a coffee, wine, or a meal.   Join him as he negotiates the politics and cynicism of the Italian justice system.  Visit again with his family and the cast of characters with whom he works.  They are all here!

For anyone new to Donna Leon, this certainly can be read as a stand alone, but why deprive yourself?  Go back to the beginning of the series and enjoy getting to know all of these memorable characters.



Monday, February 11, 2019

The Hiding Place - C.J. Tudor

The Hiding Place - C.J. Tudor

She read

 I loved The Chalk Man, giving it one of my very few five stars rating.  I couldn’t wait to read this novel.  And now I find that I am having a difficult time giving it a rating.   It was very well written, but I just didn’t like it.

The beginning was intriguing, but I struggled to finish as the story progressed.
To me, none of the characters were likable, or even seemed to have any redeeming qualities.

I didn’t realize it had the air of supernatural to it, or I probably would not have chosen to read it as I greatly dislike the mystical or anything where one has to suspend one’s beliefs.

I’m sure there will be others who will like this book, but it just wasn’t for me……

Wednesday, February 6, 2019

The Perfect Alibi - Phillip Margolin

The Perfect Alibi - Phillip Margolin

She read

Publication Date:  March 5, 2019

A wealthy, arrogant young man is convicted of rape based, in large part,  on DNA evidence. The victim has retained attorney Robin Lockwood, introduced in an earlier Margolin novel, to sue the man for damages.  Soon after he is locked up, another rape is committed and the DNA evidence matches the first case. 

Parallel to this, the partner of the attorney who represented the young man is murdered.  A vengeful DA targets the attorney as the main suspect.   Soon, there are other murder victims as well who are seemingly unrelated…..or, are they?

As bodies pile up, this legal thriller will have you guessing as to how the cases may or may not be connected.  This is a quick, engrossing read.  

Saturday, February 2, 2019

Say Nothing - Patrick Radden Keefe

Say Nothing A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland - Patrick Radden Keefe

He and she read

Publication date: Feb. 26, 2019

In telling the true story of the 1972 disappearance of a mother of ten in Northern Ireland, Patrick Radden Keefe presents a well researched, comprehensive review of the “Troubles”,  some of the main characters involved, their history with the republican movement and the atrocities on both sides. The narration takes the reader up to current times and notes some of the implications of this history in view of Brexit.

I found the book riveting and, despite a full cast of characters, easy to follow
There is so much I never realized about this situation….this is a MUST read.

Thursday, January 31, 2019

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.

Sunday, January 20, 2019

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!