What would you do if you were in a lifeboat stranded at sea? Would you hope that at least one of the castaways with you is God? Of course, the majoritWhat would you do if you were in a lifeboat stranded at sea? Would you hope that at least one of the castaways with you is God? Of course, the majority ‘enjoying’ this unfortunate incident happened to be some of the world’s richest and powerful people. How powerful are they now?
This is the story of those castaways. How they react to each other. The caste system blatantly determining position on that boat. And, the struggles that occur when all are left floating with little in the way of resources.
So, how does God fit in to all of this? What lessons is Albom trying to teach his readers? Mostly, can we as readers overcome the plot?
As much as I love this author, this one was a miss for me. Please read other reviews, I am no doubt an outlier here. ...more
“All things considered, time was nothing but a gift.”
Relationships are complicated. And, sometimes it takes time to realize that they are truly a gift“All things considered, time was nothing but a gift.”
Relationships are complicated. And, sometimes it takes time to realize that they are truly a gift that is given to us. At least the ending of this book, if you can make it that far, will lead us to see this. And, I’d like to believe I haven’t given away any spoilers. That is not what I like to do in my reviews.
So, why did I go for this book?
I think it was the book cover that initially attracted me to this novel. And, that the premise alluded to the protagonist escaping her life briefly with her beagle dog, Barney.
I liked that idea.
Have you ever just wanted to pick up everything and your precious pet and just go somewhere comforting to escape the chaos of the world?
Still, would this premise be enough to sustain the story? And, was that really the essence of the premise? I was just presuming it was when I was daydreaming my life away in the book cover.
Back to the review.
I will say this much…I am not one for characters that need illegal drugs to get by in their life. So, when that happens, I wince. I feel uncomfortable, and uncertain I want to even continue reading. I recognize that flaws in character can add to a story, but using drugs to give it a comedic flair or any story build-up just isn’t my thing.
Just like I don’t like prison stories, or abusive characters. There already is too much ugly in the world.
Do I need to read it, too?
Mona, an actress is escaping her household, in a drug-like state of mind, to find her mentor director who was accused of sexual misconduct during the #MeToo movement. (Another icky trigger warning.)
Why? (No spoilers from me.)
But I will say this. I just found myself becoming more uncomfortable. And, I couldn’t help but ask myself…
How will I get myself through this story?
Answer…
To be honest, not easily.
As Mona struggles to come to terms with her marriage, with a Trump like father-in-law and too many other characters in this story to keep track of, I found myself coming up with excuses to exit stage right from this book.
The only one I was hanging on to hope for was Barney. Maybe you may feel differently. Not about Barney, but this book.
You might want to consider again my first paragraph, and then consider other reviewers before making your final decision about reading this book or not. ...more
Typically, I enjoy this author. But this time I found myself a bit put off by the more than perfect good-looking pair of main characters. Is that realTypically, I enjoy this author. But this time I found myself a bit put off by the more than perfect good-looking pair of main characters. Is that really possible to be so perfect?
And, do we need to be reminded of just how cute they are – over and over again?
Also, the insta lust was a bit too saucy and spicy for me, especially with an over-abundance of foul and coarse language spread throughout the story.
Although it had a plot that could be considered interesting, i.e., a past that for one of the characters left her somewhat traumatized which affected her life decisions, and a child in the middle of a divorced couple, expecting more for her parents, it was hard to connect to this rom-com for all the reasons shared above. Still, don’t go by just my review, I may be an outlier.
As I sat here reading the 3rd and final novel in the Susan Ryeland series, I had to ask myself the same thing Susan Ryeland, the editor was asking herAs I sat here reading the 3rd and final novel in the Susan Ryeland series, I had to ask myself the same thing Susan Ryeland, the editor was asking herself, ‘why am I here, again?”
For Susan she may have a different answer. She has a mortgage to pay. And thus, she was being asked to read and edit a manuscript that was being written by another author that would extend dead author Alan Conway’s, Atticus Pund’s mysteries. To her that would bring up tortuous memories. Was it going to be worth it? For me, would it be worth it? Especially since I didn’t like “Moonflower Murders,” the second in the series.
In this book, Susan is typically a loner, after realizing a relationship back in Crete had gone the distance. Susan and readers will learn she will be better off with the adoption of Hugo the cat. Readers will learn that Hugo will be an important relationship that doesn’t become clear to us until towards the end when something happens.
And, what did the author mean when they started the book with the following paragraph…
“Marble Hall Murders is a stand-alone novel – but it is also the third book in a series that began with Magpie Murders. Readers should be aware that the solution to Magpie Murders is revealed in this book.”
Huh? What does that mean?
I mean, I obviously loved “Magpie Murders” both as a book and a Britbox television series, even if I didn’t like “Moonflower Murders.” So, that paragraph absolutely confused me.
What I do know is that this is the third and final installment in this series. And, for that I am grateful. Because to be honest, this book within a book is underwhelming. Now that I have read all three, I think the series should have stayed with the first book, and stopped there.
As I mentioned earlier, Susan is expected to work with another author to finish off the dead author’s Atticus Pund mystery who also eventually ends up dead. Oh my! Her hope in putting herself in this regretful position will be to get a full-time editing position out of the deal. But complications obviously occur which leads her in a very unpleasant direction that also becomes rather complicated. Poor Susan! Isn’t she just supposed to be an editor?
When we first are introduced to “Magpie Murders,” it was a unique premise and concept to read a book within a book. Now, it feels old and worn out, with 130ish pages of ‘Pund’s Last Case’ also included within this story. Supposedly, if we pay close attention, this continuation novel gives us keys and clues within clues to Susan’s story of armchair sleuthing. Unfortunately though, the telling felt rather uninspiring.
Of course, for Agatha Christie fans, there will be those twisty moments, but it won’t happen until towards the end which means you have a long time to wait for it, and that may take some incredible patience because this book is 579 pages. Would it just be easier to skim through?
So, was the Pund story really necessary? And, what finally happens to Susan Ryeland? Does she get what she needs in the end? Could the story have been told just through her, without readers having to be dragged through ‘Pund’s Last Case?’
Typically, I am a Horowitz fan. But as I said earlier, I am glad this series is over. I hope you enjoy this one more than I did.
One last thing…
Remember when I said that the cat Hugo will be important to Susan when something happens towards the end? Well, I won’t give away spoilers, but I will say that, Hugo lives. I wanted to be sure you knew that much. ...more
PLEASE NOTE: I would be exceedingly grateful that if you are a Trump supporter that you bypass reading and commenting on my review. I honestly have noPLEASE NOTE: I would be exceedingly grateful that if you are a Trump supporter that you bypass reading and commenting on my review. I honestly have no tolerance for what you have done to our country by voting for Trump or continuing to support him. Especially after serving witness to the havoc he and his cohorts continue to create in our country and abroad. Thank you.
Full Disclosure: I wasn’t sure I wanted to read this book. And, I wasn’t sure why this book needed to be written by these supposed ‘respected’ journalists. Especially when it was learned that the anonymous sources who made up most of the alleged book’s claims were unreliable. The authors say they talked with 100’s of sources. And yet, only a dozen are ‘willing’ to be on the record, and barely any are standing behind ‘their’ quotes. What gives?
Naomi Biden, President Biden’s granddaughter, considered this a “silly book” one that was filled with “political fairy smut for the permanent, professional chattering class.” Of course, she would defend her grandfather, but her concerns do pose relevant questions about the timing and true intentions for such a book.
For those who still choose to believe this is another ‘I told you so’ story against Biden, I hope you will soon come to recognize the lack of consistency within this book, where ‘evidence’ to support the title of this book appears sketchy. I leave that to readers to discover.
Mostly, this is my take on what really should have been discussed.
I happen to be a true fan of President Biden and his illustrious career as a civil servant. And, in my continued, full disclosure I want it known that, I respect President Biden’s accomplishments while in service to our country. I recognize that he was imperfect, but I have to believe, being in the public eye isn’t an easy position for anyone. And, thus many trips and flubs will most likely be noted, especially by those looking for fodder.
Still, we can’t help but note his vast accomplishments while President. To begin, Biden worked to minimize the damage of Covid, which Trump irresponsibly let enter our country during his first administration. Because Trump arrogantly and blatantly ignored the blueprint for handling pandemics that was left for him by President Obama and then Vice President Biden.
Also, there were so many wins under Biden’s leadership. Some of which include but are not limited to…
He created a phenomenal executive team of competent, well-educated visionary leaders; added millions of jobs, tackled junk fees, built a fairer tax system, worked towards affordable housing for Americans, provided for a healthy economy, gave our country the American Recovery Act, the Chips and Science Act, the Inflation Reduction Act; united, reinvigorated and strengthened NATO, supported Ukraine, supported student debt relief, protected Social Security, Medicaid and Medicare; advanced equality, racial justice and reproductive rights, delivered for diverse communities, provided for infrastructure funding across the states; as well, as continued to strengthen the pandemic response. Amongst many other programs that helped countless Americans. Including responding immediately to any weather induced or horrific crisis in which support was needed throughout the states.
For anyone believing that our country wasn’t in a better place under President Biden, in comparison to our current circumstances under Trump (even his first administration), has to be delusional.
Mostly, we as Americans could always count on Biden’s love of this country and the people, despite how they voted. He represented everyone. Equally.
His son, Hunter Biden shared recently, “That unconditional love has been his North Star as a President, and as a parent. He is unique in public life today, in that there is no distance between Joe Biden the man and Joe Biden the public servant of the last 54 years.”
There is so much to appreciate about Joe Biden for all that he has given to this country. That sometimes it is difficult to remember those moments when I was actually angry with him. The one time being when he chose to run again for President. I didn’t want him to do it. I thought he was only going to be a one-term President, and that was fine with me. By choosing to run, I believe he may have inadvertently set in motion the very circumstances we are facing in today’s world – and, especially in today’s un-United States. And, that is what concerned me then and now. President Biden deserves to be remembered for his legacy of service, not for whatever Tapper and his co-writer, Alex Thompson is choosing to blame him for within these pages.
The dismantling of our country by Trump, a conman, criminal, and his unethical, spineless henchmen, and countless cult-like followers who have no decency to consider the truth of what their vote has done and continues to do to our country, is what we should be concerned about – not whether Biden’s health, or decision to run again is the deciding factor for the current mess are country is in.
And, most of all, we cannot forget the flame that lit the fire in the first place. Mitch McConnell. I blame him most of all. Mitch McConnell is the lead factor for Trump being able to be in the oval office today. If McConnell would have done the right thing, by leading the GOP to convict Trump in the initial impeachment trial we wouldn’t be having this conversation.
Trump was guilty, McConnell knew it, and he also knew it should have been handled on his watch as Majority Leader. He and his GOP complicit counterparts were just as guilty in putting our country in the hands of this authoritarian madman. The corruption continues relentlessly, and it astounds me that his followers are sitting by and letting Trump and his minions (those elected, and those who were not elected or legally appointed) to continue to get away with it. Shame on them.
Tapper and Thompson consider this book a tragedy. Their description for Biden. They describe Biden as failing with political allies, or aides helping him through important conversations. A mental decline that should have been noticed sooner, by the authors as journalists. By Congress. By everyone. And yet, they offer no set date as to when the decline actually began.
And, even if Tapper shares a sense of empathy for Biden, as a journalist he still felt the need to talk about the deterioration of the man’s mind openly. Tapper saw it as a cover-up. That needed to be revealed now. What Tapper and Thompson now consider their investigative deep dive into Biden’s deteriorating condition, and how ‘everyone’ protected him.
So, is this an important story? Does it matter now? The point for me, is this really the story journalists need to be writing now?
Regardless, did any of this impair Biden’s ability to do his job? Look at Biden’s accomplishments. Tapper/Thompson even concluded that his critics could “attest to Biden’s ability to make sound decisions.” So, what’s the big deal here?
Look at all Biden had to endure during his Presidency. Even an impeachment of Trump and an insurrection incited by Trump prior to Biden taking office. And, with an uncooperative Congress at most times. And, the ridiculous and unrelenting lawsuits proving over and over again that the 2020 election was not stolen – despite what Trump continues to claim, Biden did his best to get legislation passed and funding to where it was most needed.
In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, Tapper felt that keeping information from the public about Biden’s declining health could be considered a “horrible cover-up of something that wasn’t technically a crime, but you could argue morally it was.”
Maybe Tapper/Thompson should be concerned about what is going on in Trump’s head, and that should be the real story. Not this one. Trump is the true moral crime.
And since, the authors also concluded that staff and political allies felt Biden was able to do his job, again I ask, what is the big deal here about Biden?
Because as Trump is unraveling and destroying literally every institution in America, shouldn’t this be something everyone should be concerned about now? And, what about the ‘words’ that come out of Trump’s mouth? Have the authors followed his speeches that don’t make sense? His erratic behavior which is always on full display, even as staff say to not take his comments seriously? His relentless and vitriol threats and verbal attacks on individuals and countries? The disinformation, exaggerations and lies and lack of historical accuracy that Trump spews? But mostly…Clearly laws are being broken, the constitution is not being followed, and Trump and his GOP administration show absolutely no respect for American democracy or the rule of law.
“The president of the United States appears to have long ago forgotten that Americans fought the Revolutionary War not merely to secure their independence from the British monarchy but to establish a government of laws, not of men, so that they and future generations of Americans would never again be subject to the whims of a tyrannical king.” – J. Michael Luttig – Lawyer and former Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, “The End of Rule of Law in America” – The Atlantic, May 14, 2025
PLEASE. Stop the madness. Stop going after or blaming Biden. Go after the true bully, the true criminal in this dark VERY present story. Remove Trump now. Impeach, Convict and Remove him from office. For real this time. We have a country and citizens to protect here.
Please Tapper/Thompson re-direct your reporting energies. There are obviously more important things to focus on. ...more
Sometimes I try to remember why I ordered a book from my local library. Especially when, like in this circumstance, I ordered the book on December 2, Sometimes I try to remember why I ordered a book from my local library. Especially when, like in this circumstance, I ordered the book on December 2, 2024, and finally received it on May 14, 2025. Please know that I am not complaining. I recognize that when I made the decision to focus on reading books that are available from my local library, I always feel fortunate when they are available to me. It is just, that when it takes so much time to get here, I can’t help but forget why I requested them. Until they come. And then, I can read the book blurb about them, and go, “oh yea, that is what you are about!”
On to the review…
So, what happens when your one-night stand turns out to be dead as a doornail the next morning? Well, for gay writer David who is suffering from writer’s block, will he see this as a book idea? Seriously, that is the place David decides to go?
Well maybe he should first figure out how to get rid of the body. Granted, David, our main protagonist, didn’t kill the guy, but the situation does pose a rather comic scenario. Or, does it?
Readers will soon determine whether they will like David or not and his antics at figuring out how he is going to get out of this mess and find a way to resume his life.
With other characters who make their entrances and exits, readers may not be sure whether they care about David’s self-reflections or not. Or, what happens to him and the body, in this unusual quirky dark comedy that focuses on loneliness and the misadventures of relationships. ...more
When this author’s book, “Heart of Ice” was donated to my Little Free Library Shed a while back, I did what any other local library patron would do. I When this author’s book, “Heart of Ice” was donated to my Little Free Library Shed a while back, I did what any other local library patron would do. I hoped that the first book in the series would be available to check out that I could read first. And, as it so happens it was.
Because I had never heard of this author, or this series, I wasn’t sure how I would feel about reading it, so I did not put it on my ‘currently reading’ list initially for Goodreads. Thus, my review is the first time you may be reading about my connection to this book.
As background, this book is the first in the Triple Threat series. It was first published in 2008. *Heart of Ice, the one that was donated to my LFL, is the third book in the series, and was published in 2010. Apparently, there are four in the series. The last book being published in 2012.
What I have also come to learn is that this is a team writing effort. Lis Wiehl is a Harvard law graduate and former federal prosecutor. She has worked at NBC News, National Public Radio’s (NPR) All Things Considered, as well as Fox News Channel as a legal analyst and reporter. She has also served as a commentator for CNN and has appeared on CBS and NPR and other news outlets.
April Henry, her co-writer, is an American New York Times bestselling author known more for her mysteries and thrillers. Of which I have yet to read.
It is called the Triple Threat series because it features 3 female characters who consider themselves a triple threat because of their positions as Reporter, Cassidy Shaw, Federal Prosecutor, Allison Pierce and FBI Special Agent Nicole Hedges.
In this first in the series, we have the opportunity to get background on each of the women, as we are introduced to their strengths, relationships, how they met, their vulnerabilities, and how they will bring their individual talents together on this particular case. The women, although well-described appeared a bit cliché.
In this debut story a 17-year-old Senate intern goes missing, and it is presumed that the Senator may be responsible, especially after she is found dead. This sends all 3 women on the case, following leads.
Unfortunately, this story was too similar to a real “ripped from the headlines” case that took center stage years ago. (Think: Chandra Levy a former senate intern who was killed in 2001, which was tied to her romantic connection with Gary Condit, a married U.S. Representative.)
Along with some side stories, there will be several twists and unanticipated turns that will bring the various stories to a neat conclusion.
3.5 stars
*I decided not to continue with the series, because I was unable to find book 2, and less than interested in the triple threat team’s future.
I was reluctant to read this one because I had a difficult experience with her debut novel, “All Good People Here.” But I was willing to give myself aI was reluctant to read this one because I had a difficult experience with her debut novel, “All Good People Here.” But I was willing to give myself and this author another chance. To be honest, my experience was better with this one, BUT…
What happens when 2 women go missing from the same area within 2 weeks of each other? In this instance, it becomes a cold case that haunts both surviving sisters of each known victim.
After 7 years, Jenna, who lost her sister, Jules, contacts Nic, who lost her sister Kasey, and asks her to participate with her in an investigation into their missing family members. Jenna believes she has some leads into their disappearance.
What will they discover? And, what will they do when they find out the truth?
With this book, when all seems clear, nothing is truly as it seems. With short, fast-paced and cliffhanging chapters and questionable characters (both unlikable with an unreliable narrator), this twisty suspenseful, page-turning mystery will have readers guessing up to the last page. The most important questions being…
As readers, will your guess be right? And, will the ending feel believable? Or satisfying?
So, what about the BUT I alluded to in my opening paragraph? Yes, this book had everything that most readers would expect from their mysteries, as I described above. But for me, the lead up to the ending and actual finale seemed contrived. I had a hard time wrapping my head around it. As if the author felt this final twist was going to give her a Wow moment.
Could this climax revelation, with all its predilections and tragedies provide readers with a believable or satisfying ending? I am left grappling with this question. I realize the ending may be what connected readers most to this book, but for me, I think it did the opposite.
I think I will pass on any more books from this author. I haven’t had successful outcomes with my reading experiences with her books. Still, please read other reviews, as there are higher stars out there for this one, than mine. ...more
This April (2025) I read and reviewed “The Queens of Crime” by Marie Benedict. Review link available below, if interested.
Interestingly enough, “The This April (2025) I read and reviewed “The Queens of Crime” by Marie Benedict. Review link available below, if interested.
Interestingly enough, “The Queens of Crime” also featured the same real life crime fiction authors within her fictionalized story as this book is also doing: Agatha Christie, Dorothy L. Sayers, Ngaio Marsh and Margery Allingham.
So, when I heard about this book, I was curious how this author was going to write these same women into her fictional murder mystery. And, I also wondered if I would be as captivated with it, as I was Benedict’s book.
As I opened this book, I was greeted with a 2-page list of 29 characters! Oh no! Will I be able to keep track of all these people?! The good news was that at least the author had provided a list. And, interestingly enough, in the author’s preface, she lets readers know that some of these characters she has listed (other than the ‘queens’ authors already mentioned) are based on real people. So, will this many characters enhance or hinder the story?
It is 1938 London. The sense of pending war is in the air with the recent actions of Hitler’s Nazis. The four queens have been invited to be the centerpiece attraction at a fundraiser for the Women’s Voluntary Service being hosted at the estate of Sir Henry Heathcote, an aristocrat.
As short chapters introduce readers to the various players/guests to the event, and the event itself, the murder of Sir Henry is eventually discovered.
Who wanted Sir Henry dead and why? Especially when so many within the family could possibly benefit from his death. Still, there were also others who may have been affected by Sir Henry’s actions as an aristocrat that may have been motivation for murder. Could the motive have been…
“Revenge, freedom from oppression, a crime of passion, money and property?”
The four queens decide to put their sleuthing skills together to try and figure out what occurred with the help of Detective Chief Inspectors Lilian Wyles and Richard Davidson.
With many suspects, will they be able to solve his murder?
The author finds a way to weave together the temperament of the time, including political leanings, which add to the eventual understanding of what could possibly have motivated the killer. As well as, provide good character development of the four queens, and the women police assigned to solve the case, based on their own historic real-life resumes. There were also a few more ‘real people’ characters within the story that were well-developed.
But unfortunately, the plot dragged a bit in the beginning and middle as it was weighed down by so many characters entering and exiting the scenes. It wasn’t until close to the end when characters started to be more revealing about what happened that night, that the story lit up and came to an interesting conclusion.
For this one, 2.5 stars for ‘authentic’ character development of the queens and chief inspectors.
The Golden Girls was a popular American sitcom on NBC Television from 1985 – 1992. It starred Beatrice Arthur, Betty White, Rue McClanahan and EstelleThe Golden Girls was a popular American sitcom on NBC Television from 1985 – 1992. It starred Beatrice Arthur, Betty White, Rue McClanahan and Estelle Getty. It was about 4 mature single women, Blanche, Rose, Dorothy, and Dorothy’s mother, Sophia who shared a home in Miami, Florida. The half-hour show, each week navigated their ‘golden years’ with humor, friendship and comedic chaos.
Anyone who watched these shows in real time or reruns could attest to the actor’s brilliance, in playing their distinctive characters.
Beatrice Arthur would play Dorothy with a sarcastic straight face and sharp wit, while Betty White’s Rose was the sweet naïve one. White conveyed her with an endless positive energy. The audience could count on Rue McClanahan’s flirty Blanche with her pure southern charm. McClanahan gave viewers a kittenish view of aging women. And, how we could age beautifully and confidently. While Estelle Getty, even with her short-stature, came off brilliantly as the wise-cracking Sophia. Getty with her sharp tongue, always had the one-liners that would create belly laughs. There was a respect for women that resonated with viewers.
The actors came to the series with their own rich resume. But even that didn’t matter. Together they embodied a phenomenal chemistry that worked and radiated a charm week after week that made this show popular with viewers.
And, now, this new murder mystery book series, stars the very same foursome. So, how does a 1980’s-early 90’s sitcom translate to a 2025 written page? Well, the author based the story in the 1980’s. Did it work?
In this story Rose wants to put on a wedding for her niece Nettie who currently lives in St. Olaf, Minnesota. So, she invites her to come to Miami, Florida, where she will put on the wedding for her and her fiancé, Jason. The young couple agree to come.
The girls decide to help Rose. In the meantime, Dorothy decides she wants to have a date at the wedding, and finds a man named Henry via a VHS dating service. She agrees to meet him for lunch in which he uncomfortably stands her up after a stilted meet-greet conversation at the restaurant. She dejectedly leaves without a word to the girls.
As wedding planning continues and the couple arrives from St. Olaf, it is time to partake of the cheesecake that Rose lovingly made as part of one of the many rituals necessary to make for a good St. Olaf traditional wedding. (Finally, we are getting to the point of the title of the book!)
But as Rose and Dorothy open the walk-in refrigerator at the motel to get the cheesecake, they discover a body. A dead body that took them all the way to page 60 to find the purpose of the title of the book!
So, why does this body have on him a note that he was meeting Dorothy at a restaurant? Could it be Henry? And, if it is Henry, what is he doing at this event – now dead?
To be honest, this was a silly read that tried too hard to bring the actors to life in print. (The actresses caricature drawings are on the book cover.) But to this reader, it only stumbled along miserably with an ill-conceived plot that just didn’t feel authentic to the time period or the characters that were beloved in the original series.
As a Little Free Library Shed book donation, I was intrigued by the title of the book and the colorful book cover. Unfortunately, that was about all tAs a Little Free Library Shed book donation, I was intrigued by the title of the book and the colorful book cover. Unfortunately, that was about all that intrigued me.
The story revolves around a woman named Pen. She is attempting to find her own independence as well as investigate the ending of her parents’ marriage as she takes off for university in Scotland.
The premise itself seemed plausibly interesting. Especially with a mystery to solve in respect to her parents. But the execution of the story felt forced. It involved an overwhelming cast of characters, coming-of-age, exploring their sexuality and autonomy. With so many characters to keep track of, it seemed to dilute the plot, in following along on Pen’s journey.
And, what about the octopus? Especially as it relates to the title of this book. Is there supposed to be a parallel between octopi and human behavior? If so, it felt lost in translation for this reader. And, didn’t seem to connect to the title of the book or the story presented.
Unfortunately, for this reader, the storyline fell flat and the characters were more annoying than likable. And, the mystery proved anti-climactic. With an abrupt ending, it added to the disappointment. I may be an outlier, so please read other reviews.
I am always fascinated when different authors choose to take on the infamous Sherlock Holmes. Will they provide more to the character, and/or is it a I am always fascinated when different authors choose to take on the infamous Sherlock Holmes. Will they provide more to the character, and/or is it a good rendition of the original created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle?
So, when this book was donated to my Little Free Library Shed, I thought it was worth exploring. Most importantly to me, would I like this version of Sherlock?
Apparently, this is the 3rd in Siciliano’s Sherlock Holmes series. In this version, Doctor Henry Vernier, a cousin of Sherlock’s takes on Watson’s roles of recording his adventures.
Siciliano also shows Watson in a second marriage, and uses his Dr. Vernier character to downgrade Watson’s importance. He paints him as a mediocre author and sometimes unreliable ally. What? How dare they disparage Dr. Watson! Of course, he also is willing to acknowledge Watson’s bravery and shooting expertise. Still, for avid fans of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, this could be considered a personal affront. (At least it was to me.)
In this case, Sherlock Holmes is being asked to find out why Lord Fredrick Digby’s fiancé, Rose Grimswall has broken their engagement. Since Lord Digby is the youngest son, he won’t inherit much of his father’s estate, so he was counting on this marriage.
Sherlock and Dr. Vernier head off to the estate to discover the truth. What is the Grimswall Curse, and how has it impacted Rose and her family? And, at this point, do I really care?
The setting was very similar to ‘The Hound of the Baskervilles.’ Making the scenic moorlands feel like its own eerie character. But was it enough to capture this reader’s interest? No. Still, I may be an outlier.
I think I will stick with the original Sherlock Holmes series. Others may be fascinated with a different re-telling of Sherlock, but without the smart deductive reasoning that he is known for, or Dr. Watson as his perpetual right-hand person, this book feels like a major disappointment.
My understanding of this story was that it followed Adrian, a ghostwriter for rappers who doesn’t have much control over his life or his relationshipsMy understanding of this story was that it followed Adrian, a ghostwriter for rappers who doesn’t have much control over his life or his relationships. His character is spiraling after an unsuccessful relationship, so he turns to AI for therapy. Sike being the AI therapy app.
The story is told through two perspectives, Adrian and Maquie and their relationship.
Although the premise sounded intriguing, I struggled to connect to it and the characters. The narrative and characterizations were disordered, over-explained, unfocused, uninspiring and difficult to follow.
Unfortunately, this was a DNF about 35% in.
I still would like to thank Celadon Books for providing this advanced reading copy of this debut novel to read. I was given this opportunity because I am a Little Free Library Steward, who shares books with the neighborhood. I am providing an honest review.
I recognize that we all come into stories in our own way, so I am hopeful other readers might feel differently about this book.
Sociopath definition: ‘a person with a personality disorder manifesting itself in extreme antisocial attitudes and behavior and a lack of conscience. Sociopath definition: ‘a person with a personality disorder manifesting itself in extreme antisocial attitudes and behavior and a lack of conscience. Sociopaths often exhibit a lack of empathy or remorse, and show a pattern for disregard for others’ rights. They frequently lie, manipulate, act impulsively, often breaking laws and disregarding social norms.’
Hmmm…sounds like somebody we have experienced. Starts with T ends with p.
When this one was donated to my Little Free Library Shed, I wasn’t sure I wanted to read it. For one, the title was not very appealing. And secondly, who wants to spend time between the pages with a sociopath?
Unless maybe we would like to understand them.
Still, I chose not to put it in my currently reading pile here on Goodreads, because I just didn’t know how motivated I would be about entering this book. Yes, I had curiosity, but isn’t there enough sociopaths already serving in the United States government? Did I really need to read this?
In regards to this author and her book, it appears she wants to destigmatize the often-misunderstood sociopath personality type. Most commonly referred to as antisocial personality disorder (ASPD). Please note that if you were expecting someone that was informative about sociopathic personality disorders, because of their vast research on the subject, this will not be the book to read.
She will however say that most sociopaths are not murderers. Instead, she wants readers to look at those diagnosed as sociopathic as on the spectrum, like autism. She wants to void the idea that ALL sociopaths are monsters.
Still, as she describes herself, readers can’t help but wonder how terrifying she really is, with her ‘on the spectrum’ personality type and the things she chooses to do as an adult, or did as a child. Like having no guilt. And, funerals being her go-to-party experience.
And, as readers trying desperately to understand her, what we come to recognize is that she may not feel people’s emotions, or apathy or empathy towards others. But she can feel love because it is “not transactional, not possessive, not ego-driven.” And, when it comes to emotions, even if she doesn’t care about someone else’s pain, she doesn’t want to cause more of it.
I believe her point to writing this book seems to be that she is really trying to get us to like her – maybe feel a sense of empathy towards her, too. Even if that is not an emotion or feeling she will experience back towards us. But all I felt was uncomfortable. And, relieved to move on from her story.
Trigger warning: foul language (a lot!), violence against animal...more
Recently, I got a Facebook memory of my review of the author and co-writer, David Ellis’ book, “Unsolved.” As I re-read my review which was posted in Recently, I got a Facebook memory of my review of the author and co-writer, David Ellis’ book, “Unsolved.” As I re-read my review which was posted in April, 2023, a sentence stood out to me…
“I’m not sure adding a second author is going to save James Patterson any longer.”
So, why do I bring this up? Because, for whatever reason, I am still reading James Patterson and his various co-author’s books. Why?
First, I was curious about “Eruption” which was him partnering with the long-dead author, Michael Crichton, which his part was written long before his death. 3.5 stars rounded down.
Second, I am a fan of Miss Marple and Sherlock Holmes, so I was curious about his book, “Holmes, Marple & Poe.” 3.5 stars rounded up. When I attempted to read the second in the series, I found myself DNF’ing it and returning it to my local library.
Third, I also wondered how things would work out with his partnership with Dolly Parton, since I am a long-time fan of hers, when they co-wrote, “Run, Rose Run.” 3 stars (I loved Dolly’s part, but it wasn’t enough.)
Forth, how could I resist his partnership with former President Bill Clinton, when they co-wrote, “The President is Missing?” 3 stars
Fifth, his books are one of the most “checked out” and donated to my Little Free Library Shed.
And, lastly as a lover of libraries and bookstores, I couldn’t resist being curious about his “The Secret Lives of Booksellers and Librarians.” Woo hoo, 5 stars!
So, there you have it. At least 6 reasons why I was still reading James Patterson. But to be honest, I am not giving his books very high ratings, other than his non-fiction book, “The Secret Lives…”
So, why even read another one of his thrillers?
Good question.
On the cover of this book, it says very specifically…
“You’ll never forget the ending.”
Is that enough to entice me? So, I asked myself if I should just read the ending and be done with James Patterson. (I didn’t do that.)
Would his co-author, J.D. Barker change my mind about this book?
It appears that J.D. Barker, an international bestselling American author on his own, has also been a prolific writer. But I have never read any of his books. Probably because his suspense thrillers incorporate horror, science fiction and the supernatural. Not my genres. But if it is yours, maybe this pairing might make you curious enough to read Barker’s books.
Well, I did read this book. So, how did I really feel about it? What do my stars above say?
2.5 stars rounded up for quick page-turner!
We have a best-selling author, a murdered husband, and Detective Declan Shaw being requested at the scene. Is this a set-up? To what? And why?
To say anything more about this story would give too much away. So, I will get straight to the point, because obviously I haven’t throughout this review.
This story is so full of twists and red herrings, and more twists, that I felt like I was experiencing whiplash throughout. My neck hurts from all the twists. And then, there is that ending. Meow! ...more
This book, and the author’s following series books, “Persons Unknown” and “Remain Silent” were donated to my Little Free Library Shed. I decided to reThis book, and the author’s following series books, “Persons Unknown” and “Remain Silent” were donated to my Little Free Library Shed. I decided to read this one, to see if I might be interested in continuing with the series. This book is the first in the author’s Detective Sargeant (DS) Manon Bradshaw series.
Readers meet DS Bradshaw as a single woman who listens to her police radio as a way to get to sleep. It also focuses on her loneliness as a 39-year-old who settles for one-night stands.
The victim is a 24-year-old Edith Hind, a Cambridge postgrad who was working on her PhD on fighting the patriarchy in Victorian literature.
The story is rich in character development for her leads. Readers will be able to feel DS Bradshaw’s sadness and loneliness as well as her cleverness as a policewoman. And, although Edith is absent because of her known status as “the victim,” readers will still feel a strong connection to her in the way she is described throughout the story.
Even as the story feels depressing and disturbing, it also is compelling and highly believable. But it is slow moving with immense details about police procedurals that lead to a weak solution to the mystery and a rushed ending.
So, what did I decide about Book 2 and 3? They will go out into my Little Free Library Shed unread by me. I’m not a fan of depressing and disturbing reading these days. Interestingly enough, it didn’t take long for others to “check-out” the books from my Little Free Library Shed. I’m glad others are appreciating this author. Maybe I am an outlier?
3.5 stars (strong character development of leads)...more
I had just finished a delicious rom-com called “First-Time Caller” by BK Borison with a character named Lucie that I absolutely loved. Review here: htI had just finished a delicious rom-com called “First-Time Caller” by BK Borison with a character named Lucie that I absolutely loved. Review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
And, as I was reading this one, I am reminded that the main character’s name is Lucy, too and she is still in the throes of grief over the loss of Gabe, almost 10-years later. So, what is happening here? To me. As I read this one.
Is reading 2 rom-coms in a row a good thing? Or not?
Well, I am grateful for short chapters as I read on. But I keep asking myself…
How am I really feeling about this one?
To be honest, I am feeling dreadful.
Lucy begged to “heal me, please.” And, yes maybe we wanted that for her, too. But her healing journey didn’t come naturally. For me.
I wanted to connect to this novel, because I loved the first story so much. And, it seemed like it was the author’s intention to have readers feel Lucy’s life through ‘love, loss, birth, death, marriage, divorce, success, and the character’s perceived failures.’
But for me, everything felt forced. Her actions. Her reactions. Even her endless discussions with “dead” Gabe. And, even the moment she met Dax, and what came after, didn’t feel natural and meant to be, but instead felt expected. Like, we as readers were just supposed to go along with it. And, be happy and excited and gushy for Lucy. And, that just didn’t happen for me.
I didn’t feel the chemistry. Or the heart. Everything just felt like words tumbling together, that we are supposed to swoon over. And, no matter how hard I tried to get in to those words, I couldn’t feel any of it. The “feels” just weren’t there for me.
With this book, I found myself detached, disappointed, disinterested and anxious to leave. I know I am an outlier here, so please read other reviews....more
This one was a donation to my Little Free Library Shed, so I thought I would check it out before providing it to the neighborhood.
Typically, I enjoy This one was a donation to my Little Free Library Shed, so I thought I would check it out before providing it to the neighborhood.
Typically, I enjoy most rom-coms. I find them great escapes. But when I started reading this one, I wondered if this was really worth my time.
But as I began to read, I kept wondering, too…Why was I so annoyed with it?
We have two characters who are our main protagonists. Alexa, a bookstore owner and Nick, born wealthy, but hindered by a provision in his Uncle’s will. They have known each other since childhood, and, since he disappointed her early on, she has distrusted men since. So, what will this mean in the overall picture?
Well, let us consider what happens when Alexa needs money, even though she wants love, too; and, Nick needs a wife in order to receive his full inheritance. What can we as readers expect?
What readers get is a troupe soup which includes first love, marriage of convenience, will they or won’t they, and the inevitable, hopeful happily ever after, which is typically desired by readers. Now, if I am sounding cynical you are probably right. It seemed like every page was so predictable, I knew what was going to happen before it happened.
Still, for those who love a story where the girl and the guy, find their way to each other, then you may enjoy this little sexy romp with its steamy moments. Afterall, wouldn’t you expect sexual tension when the two enter into a marriage agreement purely for money’s sake, only to find that they may fall in love for real in the process anyway?
For the most part, the characters are likable, the tension is palatable, and it is an easy, fast-paced, somewhat enjoyable read. And, since this is the first in the series, the epilogue gives readers an eye witness account of what could possibly be coming in the next book. But for me, I believe I am one and done.