Review:Dark Matter by Blake Crouch

 

I'll start by saying that this book was one wild ride!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 

Black Crouch has firmly secured his place on the list of authors I must read more from. For those not familiar with his work, he's the author of the Wayward Pines series. I have yet to read any of the books in this series, but that will be changing shortly. 

Review: The Storycatcher by Ann Hite

If it has anything to do with haints, I'm there! Ann Hite's The Storycatcher is the story two young women Shelly Parker(16) and Faith Dobbins(19). Although neither woman much cares for the other, they're common goal is to get rid of the spirit that is following them in hopes that they will reveal her story, her truth. Their ghost wants to help them ward off the evil that is sure to be on it's way to them.

The novel takes place is the Depression-era when beliefs in haints, hoodoo, the gift of sight, and the "touch" are relied upon to communicate with the dead. In this gothic world Hite has created there are spirits every place you turn. These souls stand between two worlds unable to move on until those stories being revealed set them free. The storycatcher is someone who's job is to set life stories straight. 

The Storycatcher immediately draws the readers in. Initially I planned to only read the first chapter, until the next day, but Ada Lee Tine and the richly drawn descriptions of the Georgia coast begged me to turn the page. Plus, anyone who can see and speak with the dead is worth giving a chance. Shelly is similar to Ada Lee in being "touched" and able to speak to the dead. Her parts in this novel describe vividly the beauty that is Black Mountain, North Carolina. Although it's not apparent from the beginning how these stories connect, Hite begins to lay down the strings to tie in their converging histories. 

Each chapter is narrated by a different voice. And amongst those voices a few are dead. I hope that's not a spoiler alert but c'mon! It's bound to happen. If our heroines can talk to them, why can't we? I am forever grateful to Hite for making the characters speak English well enough to understand. There is nothing more annoying than trudging through a book only half understanding what a person from the 30's is saying. I mention this only because the voices seem distinct enough to me that I could decipher who was speaking although some are less educated than others. 

The one thing that really confused me until I started paying closer attention are the timelines. At one point I thought that we were in the present (circa 1939) only to realize mid-chapter that I was reading something from 1859... argh!!! The transistions could have been smoother. That is my only gripe.

The Storycatcher by Ann Hite is definitely a must-read for those who enjoy gothic novels with a lot of paranormal elements and mystery. This is the first novel I've read by Hite and I'm looking forward to reading more. I genuinely loved living in this world of ghosts, storycatchers, body-snatchers, mediums, and hoodoo. Recommended!  ****

Review: Mother, Mother by Koren Zailckas

Talk about a family with major issues and secrets. Mother, Mother by Koren Zailckas is the exploration of a family who's matriarch is possibly one of the most vile, nutcases I have read in a long time. Mother, Mother is brilliantly twisted, engrossing, and makes those of us with "normal" parents thank our lucky stars.

It is evident from page one when William Hurst wakes to find his mother smiling down at him that maybe Josephine Hurst is a few cans short of a six pack. It could be that her husband drank five of those cans, but we'll never know because he's currently laid out and plastered in the next room. Violet Hurst isn't there to help either because she may (or may not) have gone into a violent rage against her younger brother William. Dysfunction at its finest. 

When Josephine isn't cleverly manipulating every situation we get down to the grit of the story. A visit from the Child's Protective Services sparks the unraveling of a family who doesn't have it together at all. The reason for CPS is that they are following up on the running away of Rose Hurst, the eldest child. With the new violent action having taken place in the home, there's reason to suspect that things aren't too good in the Hurst household. With Violet rushed to an insane asylum we get the truth of who/what Josephine is. William, her loyal and faithful subject, gives us evidence.

Koren Zailckas gives us a family with very real problems. Their greatest threat, problem, is their narcissistic, sociopath matriarch. Think of Joan Crawford (it's there in the book...really!) This is Josephine. She's always the victim, and so concerned with her public image. Assuming there's always someone out to get her and deflects all her short-comings onto the world, or whoever's convenient. Zailckas cleverly places true psychology facts in order to give Josephine the most depth and realism as possible. I love it.

There are so many flawed characters in this novel that I can't choose who to dislike most so I'll choose the father. Ultimately it's Doug Hurst's fault that he didn't try to see the world he placed his family to live in sooner. I would like to dislike William since he is Josephine's pawn, but it's not his fault that his mother created him. At his age he's so impressionable that I can't really blame his being maleable on him. She also supplies him with a list of handicaps such as autism and seizures to ensure he remains in her clutches. Plus, unlike his sisters, he hasn't reached the dreaded teen years that scare their mother to no one.

Mother, Mother is a must-read for fans of dark fiction, psychological suspense, and clever plots. I had my suspicions about the ending but I wasn't let down at all. Koren Zailckas' debut novel is sure to excite the masses and may make her a new favorite for those who haven't read her bestselling Memoirs. Zailckas says it best: "Having a baby doesn't make you a mother anymore than buying a piano makes you fucking Beethoven."   ****

Review: In the Matter of Michael Vogel by Drew Yanno

In the Matter of Michael Vogel by Drew Yanno is a pretty interesting suspenseful mystery located in a small town in upstate New York. Michael Vogel, 8-years old, is found dead at the bottom of the community pool. Initially it's safe to assume that Mikey has drowned, but there are three people who know the truth... or at least a portion of the truth. Their own truths lead them on a path that comes together explosively.

In the Matter of Michael Vogel is told by three diffrent voices. The first is Sam Fisher. Sam Fisher is quite possibly the last person to see Michael Vogel alive and is in fear that he may be the next on the list. What he and Mikey witnessed would absolutely shake this small town to the core. Not to mention what they witnessed would only be accepted by today's standards, not the 60s. Sam Fisher is definitely my favorite of this cast. He's young, innocent, and interesting the entire novel. 

Sheriff Daryl Miggs' voice guides us through the police procedural portion and uncovers the mystery bit by bit. Yancey Hager completes the trio of narrators. Miggs is burdened by a lot of guilt and understandably so. Hager is anxious to divert any attention from the matter of Michael Vogel. He has the most to hide is afraid of the consequences of his actions. Actually, all three men harbor so much guilt, fear, and regret. Yanno uses these emotions to great affect.

Drew Yanno does a great job at character development and doens't introduce any unnecessary characters. In a lot of small town novels, the author usually over does it with the character after character introduction. I appreciate it tremendously that Yanno did not fall into this trap. Instead he made the primary characters interesting enough that there was no outside help needed. 

What is also done well in this novel is that initally it seems we have the bad guy figured out. There are red herrings to suggest as much but then a character point of view change will suggest something else entirely. It makes the ending hard to figure out and if true hero really exists. 

In the Matter of Michael Vogel the author uses a lot of foreshadowing that is sometimes a good thing, but in one instance totally took me from the story. It's clear that the story is being recounted and that pretty much ensures some of the survivors. I can accept that. What I don't accept is that during the climax one of the primary characters says that they were later told by a doctor of an injury... It seemed out of place and took away from the suspense. I only mention this one instance because it's huge and glaring. There are moments throughout the text where I was like Whoa! I wish I could have discovered that myself instead of being handed that nugget of info on a silver platter.

Overall, I enjoyed Drew Yanno's debut novel In the Matter of Michael Vogel. It's a fast-paced, easy read that should have mystery lovers on the edge of their seats. Well drawn characters and plot twists are sure to excite readers. I look forward to adding his future novels to my read shelf.    ****

Review: The Angel Stone by Juliet Dark

The Fairwick Chronicles has come to an end with The Angel Stone. I hate to see Callie go but after 3 books I'm beat. Anyone who is interested in reading this book should read the first two The Demon Lover and The Water Witch. Juliet Dark does supply readers with ample background information but it's really necessary to go discover it all first-hand and not in the abridged version provided in this novel. With that being said let's move on to my thoughts... yes!

Juliet Dark begins The Angel Stone a few months later from where the plot ended in The Water Witch. Those who have followed the series know that Callie's incubus has been killed after becoming human briefly. Duncan Laird, the evil wizard of the 9th order, and his nephilim, have taken over the Fairwick College and have big plans for the student body. Callie and the others left in Fairwick after the door was closed, devise a plan to take back their school as well as their lives. This is the goal at least until Callie finds another guy...

Callie must be the hottest woman on earth because she gets laid constantly. Sorry to be so brash but she's really romping it up and when she isn't she's dreaming about it. That was the most annoying aspect of The Water Witch. Lucky me (insert sarcasm here) Juliet Dark continued to keep up with that bizarre limbido of Callie's. I needed to get that gripe off my chest and move on to the good.

Juliet Dark's writing is still top-notch with this novel. I feel like I've escaped to another dimension every time I pick up a Fairwick Chronicle book. The setting is well described with a supporting cast of characters worth getting to know throughout the 3 books in this series. 

Overall, I am saddened that my time with Callie is over but I am still relieved. It's so tiring that Callie finds any reason to let a hot piece of tail distract her from saving Fairwick. I have enjoyed this journey and has made me a fan of the fantasy romance genre. I recommend The Angel Stone to anyone who's read the other two first, and lives for the romance in a fantastical world.  ****

Review: Mad Gods: Predatory Ethics by Athanasios

I admit I've put off reading this book for way too long and it's a shame because this was one awesome trip that I could have taken already and by now moved on to the sequels. Predatory Ethics by Athanasios is the well written, thought-provoking story of Kosta and Adam. 

Upon first meeting Kosta we find that there is much more to him than meets the eye. He's The Truth and he helps guide spirits to their final resting place. He returns their memories and sets them free... although some unwillingly. He eventually pursues a new task of locating the antichrist to bring him back to his handlers. Instead Kosta decides to hide the child from all opposing sides. The Catholic Church and the Luciferian Church. That old Nature vs. Nurture debate... yes! Kosta knows the Truth and he's convinced that his way of bringing up Adam will prove his thesis.

Adam is the antichrist. He's seemingly like any other child. Anxious for knowledge, comfort, and love. He's also aware that there is something very different about him. The Seekers pursuing them does not do much to assuage this assumption. With a love of TV and radio, Athanasios develops Adam into a character that is fresh besides the antichrist we all picture in our minds. 

Predatory Ethics is a great blend of stories most have come to know through either the Bible, myth, or at least pop-culture (The Omen). Kosta and Adam's story is a unique look in the way we view the antichrist or any other religious icons. Essentially giving these entities the power they possess over us instead of realizing they are human all the same. Humans composed of things good and bad. 

The mixture of historic text to support the characters in this novel was essential and helps to bring structure. Although at times it slows the novel down, it's easy to breeze through because finding out the fate of our protagonists is of the highest priority. The tensity and suspense is held at such a level that makes every page worthwhile and adds another layer to the world Athanasios has created. 

Ultimately, I am so happy that I've been given the opportunity to read Mad Gods:Predatory Ethics (that's a mouthful). There's more to the series and I'm thankful that Athanasios did not leave lover's of this novel hanging. I recommend this novel to fans of... well a few genres and authors, really. Horror, historical thrillers, supernatural, and Clive Barker (courtesy Albert Robbins III from book cover) fans should take a look at this one.  ****

Review: Hollow Bones by CJ Lyons

Hollow Bones is the latest in The FBI Supervisory Special Agent Caitlyn Tierney series by C.J. Lyons. I'm not exactly certain where this lands in the series count but I'm assuming somewhere around #2 or #3. Hollow Bones is my first encounter with C.J. Lyons, and I have to say, it was pretty good.

Hollow Bones opens to an explosive standoff between Caitlyn Tierney and an unexpected adversary. From page one it's gripping and action packed. The next chapter doesn't lose steam as the character Maria Alvarado is introduced. Almost immediately things seem wrong, but the strong will of a 19-year old anxious to spend time from under a parents watchful eye, is plunged into a nightmare. Maria deboards a cruise ship and less than an hour later is running from some very scary people with guns in the Guatelmalan jungles. Oh My! 

After being missing for not very long, Caitlyn Tierney is called in to find the missing girl. Maria's father being a leader in biotechnology has pulled enough strings to get such a swift response to his daughter's disappearance. Slowly Tierney unravels the truth that there is a lot more going on than what she could have ever imagined.

The perks of this novel is that there are simply no dull moments. C.J. Lyons manages to keep the tensity and action going for the better half of the novel and for that I am grateful. There's nothing more boring than a boring novel. Lyons also brings her knowledge of medicine and the horrors of said profession into the forefront without slowing down the novel. There's info that's given in a funeral home that made me cringe... whoa!

The gripes I have with this novel should be pretty evident with it being a part of a series. Those gripes are the thinness of the characters. There's a lot eluded to about Tierney's past but not enough information was given for me to see how it affected her one way or another. The most well developed character is Maria but even she's simply a caricature. A naive teenage girl who suddenly finds the strength to survive no matter what. We all love those type of stories but readers aren't as dense as that. We want to really experience her development and see it blossom.

Overall, my introduction to C.J. Lyons has been enjoyable. I look forward to reading more novels she has written. Hollow Bones is definitely for her fans as well as fans of Tess Gerritsen or Tami Hoag. I recommend this novel to all interested in a quick paced read that allows no time to breath.  ***

Review: The Residue Years by Mitchell S. Jackson

The Residue Years is the gripping debut novel by Mitchell S. Jackson that explores the depths one will go to in order to make their family whole again. We are introduced to Champ and Grace through their narrated alternate chapters. Grace is fresh out of rehab and trying to remain sober. Her reason for being sober is to someday get her two younger sons back. Champ has the same idea in mind of getting his family together again by way of buying back the only home they have ever lived in together.

The Residue Years is a difficult book to review because it has many themes and issues it brings to light. Mitchell S. Jackson brilliantly expresses the plight of many urban families that try and try to do their best(even if by less than legal means) and still never seem to get anywhere. It is evident during Champ's chapters that he is intelligent and is even teased as being a college boy. His goal of getting a house leads him on a path that is foreshadowed in the beginning of the novel. Although I knew where his profession as a drug-dealer would lead him, I needed to find out how. 

Grace is as equally intriguing as her son Champ is. By using first-person Jackson is able to really allow readers insight to her thought processes. We can truly understand her struggle with staying straight and what it means for her if she fails. I wanted so much for her to do well and overcome her obstacles and really redeem herself as a mother. 

On many levels, although the characters are in an urban setting, their goals are not unlike others all across America. It's a pretty universal idea to want a family that's together living in a home that is their own. For Champ, owning this house means so much. Enough so that he risks his future to obtain it. In a world full of broken dreams, absent parents, systematic racial profiling, and no hopes of ever escaping (unless you can hoop), these two dared to dream.

Because this is written in the first-person there are moments where scenes can seem a little disjointed and this would be my only gripe. Because of how richly drawn both Champ and Grace are, I couldn't help but continue forward even when I felt I was missing something crucial that I couldn't quite put my finger on. Eventually the author's writing style became familiar enough that I didn't notice so much there were no parentheses.

Overall, The Residue Years is a story of redemption, love, family, and the choices we make that affect the ones we love the most. If someone is looking for a novel with a cliche ending that promises butterflies, rainbows, and unicorns this is not the book for you. I really enjoyed this novel and will patiently wait for what's next from Mitchell S. Jackson.   ****

Review: Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock by Matthew Quick

What a great read! Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock is the first book I've read by Matthew Quick. Quick is famous for writing The Silver Lining's Playbook. That book and movie was last year's everything. Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock doesn't stray too far from that same model of having a protagonist who isn't quite right in the head. 

Leonard Peacock narrates the story that's taking place over the course of 24 hours. What makes this day different is that he's going to kill Asher Beal and then committ suicide. He's planned this day to the point where he's carrying his grandfather's P-38 WWII pistol. He also has presents for four people he wants to say goodbye to. These items, as well as the P-38, are ironically wrapped in pink wrapping paper contrary to its morbid cause. 

What keeps the reader engaged with this novel is the voice of Leonard Peacock. He's obviously brilliant and observant. Quick has made him a fully developed character. The secondary characters are brought to life through the eyes of Leonard as well. I could see the religious Zealot Lauren, and his favorite teach Herr Silverman.

Leonard watches (stalks) adults he crosses paths with, in an effort to find out if that is the life for him. What he discovers makes getting to adulthood seem pointless to him. Because he's deeply troubled, he finds the most seemingly broken (or angry) person he can to justify his reasoning for going through with the suicide. The Leonard Peacock I met in this story would find that to be a huge flaw in his theory. It's very inconclusive and negates the many of us adults who are extremely happy.

Although we know the novel is about suicide, Matthew Quick doesn't write an insanely melodramatic anti-hero that turns off readers with his whining. There are parts where Leonard makes me laugh-out-loud and other moments I thought to myself, this kid gets it. I was especially entertained when Leonard Peacock had questions for his love interest who's a religious nut. Questions I've wanted to ask the many religious nuts in my family. 

Leonard Peacock also references the reasons behind wanting to kill Asher Beal who was once his best friend. The reader could see it coming from a mile away but it's still worth reading on to findout definitively what occurred. The other antagonist in this book is Linda, Leonard's mother. She is referenced most in this novel and her abandoning him. She seems like the caricature he accuses her of being.

Overall, Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock is a story of hope. Matthew Quick says that the idea for this novel came from students he had while teaching, who saw the approach of adulthood and it scared the shit out of them. There is always hope. Ulitmately, this novel should entice readers to "trust in the future". I know anytime I'm having a bad day, I will think of that nugget of inspiration. "Trust in the future". I can't wait to read more by this author.  ****

Review: Winter Chill by Joanne Fluke

I really wanted to give Winter Chill by Joanne Fluke 2/5 stars because of the flaws I saw in it... but later on that. Marian and her husband Dan and their daughter live a quiet, peaceful existance in Minnesota until a tragic accident leaves Dan paralyzed and Laura dead. A snowmobile accident leaves the family in disarray and a mother who's left to pick up the pieces of what was once a normal life. In an attempt at normalcy, happenings in this small town suggest that things will never be normal again. It appears that a series of either freak accidents, or murders, are plaguing the town. Who or what's going on is something no one is sure of.

The reason for my 3/5 star rating of Winter Chill is because this plot was excellent. It's the quinessential page-turner that someone who's interested in a quick read would pick up. There's nothing complicated about this plot but I still found it intriguing. The ending is to die for and it's obvious why this author Joanne Fluke is so popular. And I don't think any review I could write would change any of her fans minds about her awesomeness.

 My gripes with Winter Chill are how hokey the language is, paper-thin characters, and it's dated. I know this is up for re-release and I don't think that's a bad idea but did everyone seriously own a van in the 80s? Have these people never heard of any car other than a van? That's me going off on a tangent... but seriously. The conversations between the characters in this novel did not draw me in at all. This is definitely an action-driven novel as opposed to character-driven. I felt terrible for Marion and Dan initially, but then they slowly start to chip away at my giving a care about either of them.

Overall, great plot. Joanne Fluke is a rookie no more and I assume her writing has gotten 100x's better since Winter Chill. Once more, I loved the ending. It was great! I recommend this novel to her fans as well as readers of light mysteries. I am excited to have finally read something by Fluke since I always see her books around the bookstore. FYI never fall asleep in a running van in your garage. NOT SMART!!   ***

Review: & Sons by David Gilbert

After spending a week with this novel and getting to know A.N. Dyer and his sons, I am finally done with & Sons (And Sons). & Sons is the debut literary fiction novel by David Gilbert and it is quite a treat. & Sons opens at the funeral of Charles Henry Topping, Dyer's oldest and dearest friend.  After speaking at the funeral, Dyer pretty much loses it and begins trying to get all his sons together under the same roof so he can make some sort of amends for being a crappy father.

Phillip Toppin narrates the story and even defends his narration by suggesting that Dyer uses his father in his own fiction, so he can do the same. Dyer is a famous author who's debut novel Ampersand, likened to A Catcher in the Rye, has given him fame and fortune. But with death knocking at the door, that doesn't much matter to him. Dyer's fame and fortune doesn't matter to his son Richard who wants nothing to do with the family wealth (except when it's given from Mother). He lives as far away from the Upper Eastside as possible: Los Angeles with his wife, daughter, and son who is close in age to his uncle, Andy. Andy is the youngest (17 years old) of the three Dyer siblings. Andy also seems the most connected with their father and wants to follow in his footsteps. Jamie, besides one good scene where he's in an altercation, is absolutely forgettable. Sorry... but he is.

As a debut effort, this novel is extremely well written, yet approachable for those who are intimidated by the literary label. I usually find some literary fiction to be one blabbering mess that goes nowhere. The absence of a plot seems to give any hack author the right to call their work literary. Thankfully, David Gilbert's & Sons deserves that recognition. He even references, pay homage, to the greats of the past.

What helps make this novel worthy of recommendation is it's character development and themes. Although many of the characters are deeply flawed, I felt that they deserved some sort of redemption. & Sons speaks often about death, friendship, family, and relationships between fathers and sons. I like when the mention of our friends faces never really change regardless of their age. & Sons is poetically written... most certainly.

Overall, I would recommend David Gilbert's & Sons to lovers of intelligent fiction. There is definitely some quirky moments, sad moments, and awe inducing moments. I really enjoyed & Sons. Hopefully Gilbert won't miss with his sophomore effort because I will be waiting for it.  ****

Review: The Mouse-Proof Kitchen by Saira Shah

I usually have a lot to say or at least general points I like to mention in reviews but this time I feel so all over the place with this novel... I really don't know what to say or how to begin.

The novel begins with Anna and Tobias welcoming their daughter Freya into the world. Right from the beginning it's obvious that there's something wrong with her. While in the ICU of a an English hospital, they are given a vague diagnosis that their child is severely disabled. They at once begin to loathe this child and how she will ruin their perfectly made plans. One of these plans includes moving to France where Anna can open a restaurant and Tobias to practice his music thing.

Eventually they buy possibly the most dilapidated house in all of France. A house full of mice, bugs, dirt, structural issues, and a plethora of other things that a good home inspection would have requested this house to be condemned. For some obscene reason these parents think that a disabled child can be raised in such a mess since there's always the option of... you know what.

I've felt every sort of emotional imaginable towards Anna and her invisible husband Tobias through much of the novel. The most vivid emotion I remember feeling is anger. But then again I have no children, I have no idea what I'd do or how I'd react if the child I birthed were severely disabled. Their bitching and moaning didn't help with my feelings towards them.

Saira Shah writes an emotion-packed debut novel that at times I felt I shouldn't be reading because of it's honesty. I really felt that I was let in on a secret that I shouldn't know and now I can't unknow it. This novel is well written and will cause readers to laugh, cry, boil over in anger, and also count the blessings that they do have. Of course there's no way to truly mouse-proof a kitchen but that's no reason not to see the beauty in the moments filled with rodents. ****

Review: A Serpentine Affair by Tina Seskis

After reading Tina Seskis novel One Step Too Far I was excited when I found that she had another novel available for my enjoyment. Thankfully Seskis did not disappoint with A Serpentine Affair. A Serpentine Affair is the story of seven women who were at some point very good friends but aren't so much anymore. They've made a tradition of meeting together yearly for 22 years. Their latest get-together ends in some closely gaurded secrets being revealed and the facade they all have built around themselves begin to crumble. To make matters worse, they leave Serpentine Lake one person less.

A Serpentine Affair has a lot of characters and for some it may be a little frustrating for some but I loved that about this novel. I'll help by giving the names of the seven main women: Juliette, Camilla, Katie, Siobhan, Sissy, Natasha, and Joanne. Each character is so well developed, believable, and recognizable that I instantly fell in-hate with some of them. The reason I say that is because a few of the ladies come off as bratty, egotistical, uppity... whatever other selfish there can be. While a couple of the other women were sensitive, engaging, and likeable. Each characters strengths and flaws help move the story along and encourage readers to findout what secrets could possibly make these women seem to hate each other so much... yet carry on this tradition.

Once news of the missing woman surfaces, each woman has to confront their own personal demons as well as handle the guilt of their part in the situation. Part 2 of A Serpentine Affair definitely adds more layers to the plot as well as the characters. It becomes easier to understand each woman's motivations and why their relationships are so strained. They all have fond memories of each other being their for the other when really needed, but too much has happened that stands in the way of them moving on. These revelations are the sucker-punch that I remember Seskis landing on me with One Step Too Far and I couldn't help but think Damn! Tina's got me again.

Overall, I loved A Serpentine Affair. It's about friendships, relationships, guilt, forgiveness, and redemption. I'm sure there are a few other themes to be found in this novel. I gladly recommend this novel to all. What I've learned from this novel is to get what needs to be said out of the way in order to move on. There's not always that chance to make it right in the future.  ****

Review: Cemetery Lake by Paul Cleave

Cemetery Lake is the second book I've read by Paul Cleave and it's the first in a series featuring the anti-hero Theo Tate. While overseeing an exhumation, questions are raised about the identity of the person's body they find in the coffin. Before long, bodies begin to surface in the nearby lake that is neighboring this cemetary. The corpse found suggests that Tate is to blame because of his failure in the past two years earlier when his whole world fell apart. Tate convinces his self that if he'd had his head on straight, the bodies would not be there so he goes on the hunt and hopes his past doesn't resurface as the dead have.

This first person narrative Cemetery Lake is one wild roller coaster after another. Theo Tate is a severely damaged guy who harbors many secrets and so much guilt. After a freak accident that leaves his wife as a shell of her former self and his 9 year old daughter dead, he is no longer the man he once was when working on the force. Now as a private investigator he has less rules to follow, but the constant struggle between right and wrong weigh heavily on him. As the novel progresses, we see him through many lows with few highs. I liked him most of the novel because he's determined to bring justice to the world, but his method of delivery may not be for the masses.

The first novel I read by Cleave, The Killing Hour, was average to me. It was amusing but nothing substantial enough to break away from the pack. Thankfully, Cemetery Lake has completely renewed my interest in this author. Cemetery Lake jumps from one situation to another without so much as a pause between. I don't remember a moment I wasn't completely sucked into the story or wishing I could read faster. This novel is definitely what makes me love crime thrillers.  Although the ending was slightly abrupt, I couldn't take anymore jaw dropping twists, so I was grateful for this to finally come to a strong conclusion.

Overall, I can't wait to read the followup novels Collecting Cooper and The Laughterhouse featuring Theo Tate. Although Cemetery Lake was originally published in 2008, this US re-release will hopefully bring more fans into Paul Cleave's wake. Crime thriller lovers won't want to miss Cemetery Lake. I highly recommend this being added to the short list of what to read next. ****

Review: Easy Go by John Lange

Originally published in 1972 under the pseudonym John Lange, Easy Go is one of the late Michael Crichton's earliest novels. Easy Go is reminiscent of the Andromeda Strain in the sense that it's a straight forward novel that is not meandering in the least bit. Short, simple, and to the point, Easy Go includes a jack of all trades group who's interest in finding a long lost treasure. Cairo is the setting and robbing a Pharoahs tomb is the plan. Let the good times begin.

Easy Go opens with Harold Barnaby, an Egyptologist examining scrolls that he's convinced leads to a treasure that if found, will lead to millions of dollars. He pursues a familiar drunk in a hotel lobby named Robert Pierce. Pierce is a freelance writer who knows every type of person. He quickly takes on the role as the leader of this mission. Pierce then baits an eccentric millionaire, a noted smuggler, and a thief not unfamiliar with the art of murder. Together Pierce, Barnaby, Nikos Karagannis, Alan Conway, and Lord Grover plan an intelligent cover up dig in order to keep the Egyptian government from suspecting there is much more happening.

Although the characters are a little hokey and it seems like it was a little too convenient, Easy Go is still a good solid read. I imagine, under ideal circumstances, can read it in a few hours. There isn't the long windedness found in some of Crichton's later work but it's a fun ride. There's no need to whip out a thesaurus and the message is pretty transparent. I recommend this to die hard fans of Crichton and lovers of a good treasure hunt. Easy Go is timeless and that's why it ranks high on my list of favorites.**** 

Review: Until She Comes Home by Lori Roy

Until She Comes Home is the riveting novel by Lori Roy. This is the first I've read by this author but I have read many good reviews for Bent Road. I can understand why the reviews are favorable because Roy is quite a gifted author.  Until She Comes Home begins with Malina fretting in her kitchen about the whereabouts of her husband and concerned that the town will know exactly where he is since his vehicle is missing from the driveway. The first chapter lets us know that there are some serious problems in this town that will soon be coming to a head.

With the death of a black woman and the disappearance of a "childlike" woman named Elizabeth, the whole town is on pins and needles and engulfed in fear. Neighbors are contemplating moving form the homes since the sudden influx of coloreds and the disappearance of Elizabeth. While the men go out searching for the girl, the wives stay in the "safety" of their homes. One woman in particular knows what may have happened to Elizabeth, but she is too afraid to tell. Rather, she's encouraged not to tell because of it's possible repercussions.

Until She Comes Home is fast paced and immediately absorbing. I got lost in the lives of the towns folk for the week they spent looking for Elizabeth. The twins Izzy and Arie are completely mesmerizing and fun to follow being the only children in the novel. Grace, and her secrets keeps readers in suspense about what she may do regarding the missing girl. Malina and her craziness only further paints a vivid picture of this 1950s Detroit neighborhood. Each character is vividly drawn and their depth comes from some of the secrets they harbor.

Blurbs of this book suggest that it's a thriller but I didn't find it suspenseful in the conventional sense.  Besides on harrowing scene in a garage, the other main plot driver was done off scene. There is a mysterious buildup but never a hair standing up on the back of my neck feeling. The book is perfectly acceptable as is, but the blurb does not do much in that regard except be misleading. Much of the characters are full of fear but not for killers on the loose. 

Ultimately, I look forward to reading Bent Road by Lori Roy. Her fans will find this to be a great followup. Until She Comes Home is definitely a not-to-be-missed read. ****

Review: The 9th Girl by Tami Hoag

Tami Hoag has done it again with her latest novel The 9th Girl. The "it" is make an exceptional read that's full of twists, turns, suspense, and some really dead bodies. The 9th Girl begins with the body of an unrecognizable girl coming from the trunk of a car on New Year's. She is believed to be the 9th victim of a serial killer dubbed the Doc Holliday. All of his victims are discovered during or around holidays and have similar MOs. Nikki Liska and Sam Kovak are called into the crime scene and immediately get on the case.

The investigation takes Liska and Kovak into the seedy, underworld of high school politics and family secrets. All the evidence suggests that "Zombie Girl" may have been killed by Doc Holliday, but there's so much going on in Zombie Doe's life that anyone is potentially her killer. The investigation brings Liska to question her own parenting she struggles with the idea that she isn't around enough for her two sons. One, Kyle, a very teenage son who may have known the victim or last saw her.

Hoag manages to sprinkle in a lot of cop babble that's genuinely funny in a very serious novel which is a breath of fresh air. The characters all work well together and compliment each other. Liska takes center stage in the The 9th Girl and her struggle between the badge and being a good parent is very relatable to any working single parent. 

In conclusion, Tami Hoag kept me guessing until the very end. Although the ending may be a little too neat for some, I find it acceptable. Fans of Tami Hoag will need to add The 9th Girl to the Kovak/Liska series.  For those living under a rock and not familiar with her work I recommend that fans of Tess Gerritsen, Lisa Gardner, or suspense thriller lovers go out and get it. The 9th Girl will make you question who can you really trust? And is any of it worth being accepted as opposed to just being you. ****

Review: The King's Deception by Steve Berry

I have completed Steve Berry's 8th Cotton Malone novel, The King's Deception and I'm once more reminded why I'm such a fan of this series. Cotton and his son Gary are in Europe as a favor to his (ex)boss Stephanie. His assistance in escorting a teenage fugitive, Ian, is needed. Once they touch down in England, they are approached by some very dangerous men weilding weapons. This is where Cotton is seperated from his son, as well as Ian, and things begin to explode in ways that Cotton wasn't expecting for what was supposed to be an easy assignment.

What Cotton doesn't know is that he's going to soon be involved with uncovering 400 year old secrets that can tip the scales in America's favor against Great Britain. This secret is what can be used to keep a Libyan terrorist from being released for humanitarian reasons and keep the cancer ridden man in Scottish prisons. The CIA has been trying to locate and uncover secrets from Tudor England disguised under the codename King's Deception. Blake Antrim is the operative in charge of King's Deception and is the definte villain in this novel. He has ulterior motives that come pretty evident in the beginning but I don't want to spoil it for anyone so... let's leave it at that. He isn't to be trusted.

What I love most about The King's Deception is that there is so much craftiness being performed by the people in this novel, it's hard to know who's on who's side. This formula is used often in Berry's writing but it never gets old for me. The betrayal's keep the story moving forward amongst all the historic background that's given. On the topic of historic background, readers will find themselves researching topics in ANY Berry novel and comparing what's fact or fiction. The lines are so obscure at times. Love That!

The one gripe I have about this novel is that I don't believe for one second Cotton is this gullible... or stupid. The novel begins with Cotton telling his ex-wife about the adventures he had with his son Gary in England, two years earlier. I don't understand how Cotton didn't figure there was some sort of setup. He's supposed to be a bookseller. Why would he need to personally escort a teenage fugitive when the government has plenty able bodies. I thought that was a little thin but I dismissed it for the good storytelling.

I recommend The King's Deception to all Steve Berry fans and lovers of suspenseful historic fiction. We all know how essential it is to keep up with our favorite ex-agent of the Magellen Billet division of the Justice Department. There is no shortage of mystery, cunning characters, or suspense.****

Review: Summer Death by Mons Kallentoft

Summer Death is the second in the Malin Fors series by Mons Kallentoft. Sadly, I haven't read the first in this series and I hope to change to that some day because I really enjoyed this book. Malin Fors is called in to investigate a crime scene once a young, teenage girl is found naked in Horticultural Society Park after being attacked. The biggest problem is that she doesn't remember anything about the attack and there is a complete lack of evidence. Not long after, another young teenage girl who was reported missing is found dead on the beach. Her wounds are similar to the one who escaped but... she wasn't so fortunate. The only piece of evidence that links these summer angels is what I won't give away because it is pretty interesting.

At first there is nothing happening in the Swedish burg Linkoping to all of a sudden everything is happening. The summer is brutal and everyone's feeling the affects of the 100+ degrees.  The case is just as hot and is a source of constant tension for Malin Fors. She can see her young teenage daughter Tove in each girl. Malin is a strong character but she completely turns to mush when it comes to her daughter. I love that Kallentoft does this for her. It makes Fors much more real and authentic instead of being the caricature that comes to be for female cops in noir novels.

Summer Death is also a very captivating read. For me, I was stuck as soon as I opened to page one. It's gritty, descriptive, thrilling, and suspenseful. All the things necessary to be a winner in my book. I love how the voice changed to the killer's so we could really get inside their head. The killer almost speaks poetically at times which seems like it should have no place in a noir, but completely works in this title.

Overall, I'm happy to have been given the opportunity to read Summer Death. I will defintely be going back to read its predecessor. Hopefully it's as engrossing as this one has been.****

Review: Doors by Daniel Brako

Imagine seeing a door that no one else can see in the middle of a busy street. Now picture like doors strewn across town. This door is the portal to different worlds. Some good and some bad. Do you enter or just figure you're going crazy? David Druas, a successful psychologist, is approached by a sporadic client, Hans Werner. Hans claims to be seeing "imaginary" doors. After summoning the doors, David begins to see the same doors that he thought were the product of Hans delusion. Ultimately this changes David's life in so many ways.

Brako takes readers on a terrifying, weird journey with David and doors. With elements of science fiction, horror, and mystery we embark upon one crazy ride with David. This novel is short but big on action and interesting characters. Doors will have readers wondering what's real and what isn't. It's very much worth the short amount of time needed to read it so I highly recommend this novel to lovers of sci-fi and horror. An answer to the above question of whether I would enter the doors or not is: definitely not! ****