Snow: A Prequel Short Story (Inspector Porfiry Rostnikov #0.5), by Stuart M. Kaminsky

Seven stars

Needing a quick short story to tide me over, I chose Stuart M. Kaminsky’s prequel short story from the Inspector Porfiry Rostnikov series. Knowing nothing of these novels, I entered this piece without any preconceived notions. During a heavy Moscow snowfall, newly minted Officer Porfiry Petrovich Rostnikov and his superior are in search of a baby. Having visited a crime scene in a Moscow apartment, Rostnikov and Inspector Luminiov noticed a still-warm crib close to a recently murdered woman, leading them to believe that someone has a little one. With the snow close to blinding, Rostnikov and Luminiov locate a man atop another building, carrying what appears to be a bundle. Rostnikov uses his wit and gift of calm speech to bring the man’s defences down, if only to save the baby before something dire can take place. With Luminiov and a gathering crowd waiting, one can only hope that this new recruit has it in him to help the situation, not add to the body count of this winter night. An interesting story that, should I continue on with the series, will likely prove poignant in helping me build a larger understand of the character who will rise through the ranks of the Moscow Police Department. For now, a neutral recommendation, as the story was too short to really point me towards any particular group of readers.

I admit that I have not read any Kaminsky before this piece, which can sometimes be a good thing, keeping me from being influenced one way or the other. Interestingly enough, I could find no mention of this book on any sites (such as Goodreads), so I am at a loss to really understand if this was a lost story or one embedded into a larger collection of short pieces by many authors. All the same, Kaminsky does have a good grasp on how to lure the reader in and lays the groundwork for what looks to be an interesting series. Rostnikov may be a young officer, but he has a history, as yet not fully understood. His leg injury at the hands of a Nazi tank is likely one that has more play in another piece, but it does show his roughened exterior and ability to survive, making the most of what he has. The brevity of the story leaves little time for any other characters to shine during this snowfall, but the minute portions of character development on offer suits the story well. Meagre folks who remain nosy but not willing to help pepper the short piece and help shape part of the setting’s despair and lack of caring. The story itself is decent, though it almost seems as though Kaminsky needed somewhere for his long-standing protagonist to begin and chose this piece to flesh it all out. I am not sure if I’d rush out to binge this series, but I will surely keep it in mind when I am looking for something new and perhaps a little different from my usual reading fare.

Kudos, Mr. Kaminsky, for this interesting piece. It served the purpose I had (needing a short story) and has me slightly intrigued, but I am not dazzled just yet!

Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:

https://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

The Sequel, by Jeffrey Deaver

Eight stars

Needing a quick short story to end a day of reading, I turned to this Jeffrey Deaver piece, as it sounds quite intriguing. It did not let me down and had me rushing to finish it in a single sitting. Frederick Lowell has spent years managing the estate of one of America’s greatest authors. When Edward Goodwin penned his only novel, the country stood up and took notice, turning him into a hero overnight. Lowell receives a redacted letter indicating that there may be a sequel published before Goodwin’s death, the fallout could be monumental. It would not only quell the rumours of such a manuscript, but could help a new generation of American readers to fall in love with Goodwin again. Lowell follows some of the breadcrumbs left for him, discovering some interesting aspects of Goodwin’s life and writing style, all while the next generation of Goodwins await their royalty cheques. What Lowell discovers shocks not only him, but those around him, as it is a game of cat and mouse to locate and substantiate this apparent manuscript that could be invaluable. Deaver is full of wonderful ideas in this piece and he had me glad that I took the time. Recommended for those who enjoy a little dry wit in their short stories.

I admit that I have not read much Deaver in my life, but this piece has me wondering if I ought to change that soon. The story, while not out of this world, was compelling and had me hooked throughout. Frederick Lowell is a believable character and one whose ideals and curiosity trump his search for the almighty dollar. Others who pepper this short piece make enough of an impact to guide the story along and keep things light when they need not sink too deep in a quagmire of repetitive information. The story was well crafted and, truth be told, I could not help but supplant the Harper Lee connection within these pages. While I am not entirely sure if Deaver had a particular individual in mind for this piece, but Lee’s name kept surfacing, even if her life was anything but on par with that of Edward Goodwin. I’ll keep my eye out for more by Deaver and more generally the Mulholland Books collection, which is the collection that permitted this piece to flourish.

Kudos, Mr. Deaver, for a great effort. I may have to find more of your work and dive in, if it is anything like this short piece.

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

Beached (Mer Cavallo #2), by Micki Browning

Eight stars

After enjoying her debut novel, Micki Browning plunges into the depths of the water again for this mystery off the Florida Coast. Dr, Mer Cavallo is a teuthologist by training, but has agreed to work for a dive shop between academic pursuits. While out with a family of clients, she comes across a a floating bale of contraband. Taking it aboard, Cavallo discovers a gold coin from almost three centuries ago. Before she can admire her find, she is attacked by a handful of men who shoot first and ask questions later. Dumping the drugs and pocketing this coin, Cavallo barely makes it ashore, where she can examine the coin a little closer. After turning it in to the authorities, Cavallo does a little digging at the local library and discovers that there is rumoured to be many more of these coins off the coast, rumoured to be part of the Thirteenth Galleon, which is echoed by a man seeking day labour who approaches the dive shack. Trying to learn a little more about this mysterious ship, Cavallo approaches a local nautical archeologist who has made a name for himself with such finds, only to find herself on the wrong end of a cocked fist. With a treasure and many more valuable coins waiting for her, Mer Cavallo wants nothing more than to explore and see what awaits her on the ocean bed, if she can stay alive long enough to tell anyone. Browning has delivered a wonderful novel here that will appeal to those who like their mysteries below water and full of oceanographic settings.

I discovered the series debut when handed an ARC over a year ago and have been keeping my eyes open for this follow-up piece. Browning does well to depict life off the Florida Coast and filling her stories with dive- and ocean-centric details that helps differentiate it from much I have read within the genre. The characters are strong, particularly Mer Cavallo, whose life has taken quite the twist since her last academic posting. She is trying to keep her life in order without letting an old flame burn her again. Her love of the water shows through much of the character development and discussion of her passion, something that Browning captures with ease. With a strong supporting cast, the story flows well and those familiar with the series debut will latch on to learn even more about some of the returning individuals. The story holds water (pardon the pun) and I was pleased to be taken on more nautical and underwater adventures, learning much between parsing through the process of the mystery. Browning has definitely found a sub-genre that suits her well and I would gladly explore more off the Florida Coast if she and Dr. Cavallo have additional stories to offer.

Kudos, Madam Browning, for a strong second novel. I am happy I stuck with this series and can see much coming from your work.

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

Perfect Silence (DI Callanach #4), by Helen Sarah Fields

Eight stars

First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Helen Sarah Fields, and Avon Books UK for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

Helen Sarah Fields has been developing this strong police procedural series over the past few years, which mixes some unique characters against the backdrop of some vicious murders that will keep the reader wondering well into the story. When a young woman is discovered murdered, her body dumped like a pile of rubbish, DI Luc Callenach and DCI Ava Turner are understandably concerned. However, when the body is shown to have a doll-like piece of skin carved from both the abdomen and back, things get a little more concerning. Thus begins a panicked search for a killer that Police Scotland can only hope will be brief. When a second woman goes missing, she is seen to have left her baby in a pram. The baby is eventually located, with a raggedly stitched doll of human skin tucked next to her. Callanach and Turner think that this may be the start to a gruesome killing spree and it is only getting started. Meanwhile, there is a new drug on the streets named Spice, which turns its users into zombies, at least for a time. Those in the homeless population are turning up carved with a ‘Z’ on their cheek while under the influence. Turner and the rest of her team are trying to see who might be targeting this vulnerable population, finding a clue that takes them on a goose chase through the richer families of Edinburgh. DCI Turner must not only wrestle with these two cases, but a superior who will stop at nothing to meddle and cut her down. Edinburgh is rocked by these crimes and the killer may be trying to push a religious extermination of their own to cleanse the streets. Fields continues with her stellar writing that will have series fans begging for more. Recommended to those who have been intrigued by the DI Callanach novels to date, as well as those who like a well-paced police procedural that does not lose stream throughout.

While there are many police procedural series on the market today, Helen Sarah Fields has found a way to produce unique stories with a handful of strong characters. Using Edinburgh as an interesting backdrop, the stories exemplify the strength of Police Scotland as they face a number of bone-chilling cases. Fields again turns her focus on DI Luc Callanach and DCI Ava Turner, developing their characters as well as abilities to solve crime. Callanach continues to impress since his move from INTERPOL, showing that he has a strong dedication to the police work required to solve these complex cases. As with the previous novels, Callanach’s struggles with issues in his personal life bleed into the present through a well-paced narrative that highlights these struggles. The series reader will know precisely what is going on and find much interest in how it is handled herein. Turner is forced to continue her struggle with being catapulted up the ranks, where she is now able to oversee the Major Investigations Team (MIT). However, this has led to a number of other issues, including trying to define her relationship with Callanach, who now answers to her, as well as the issues of being put under the microscope by an equally determined Superintendent. Fields effectively shows how Turner seeks to find a balance in a position that is rife with controversial decisions. The story is strong and Fields is able to weave together a powerful crime thriller with clues and dramatic case development peppers amongst the ever-intensifying chapters. These cases are full of dark criminal elements and will surely keep the reader up well into the night. Another strong effort by Fields will keep me reading as long as she has ideas put to paper.

Kudos, Madam Fields, for another wonderful novel in this series. I cannot wait to see what else you have in store for your fans.

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

Jessica, by Bryce Courtenay

Nine stars

There is something about a novel by Bryce Courtenay that sets my mind at ease. The way he tells stories and the silky flow of the narrative has me eager each time I am able to (re)read his books, all of which I have found to be stellar. This story focuses on the life of Jessica Bergman and her family, who are living in rural Australia soon after the country’s formal independence. Jessica is unlike the other girls around town—including her sister, Meg—who prefer to remain prim and proper. Rather, Jessica is happy to get dirt under her fingernails as she is reluctantly given work shearing sheep alongside her father. While first seen to be an outcast and the lesser sex, Jessica soon befriends Billy and Jack, leading to a strong platonic connection between them all. When Billy is seriously hurt and suffers a debilitating brain injury, he becomes a pariah and ‘dim-witted helper’ to Jack’s family. One day, Billy comes to Jessica with news that he’s committed a horrible crime, one that no one will understand, especially in his altered mental state. Jessica soon realises that the only way to save Billy from the town mob is to get him to the police magistrate. Their journey is long and slow, but Jessica is determined to find justice for her friend. When the law takes over, it is the influence of those with power, administering it through a lens of judgmental beliefs, that sees Billy face harsh consequences. Meanwhile, Meg and her mother have a plan that could secure the elder Bergman girl into a life of luxury, or at least ensure her status, though an unsuspecting Jack has no idea that he’s soon to be lured into a trap. Seeing what’s happening, Jessica tries to strike back, only to be silenced and used in the larger plot as well. As the story progresses, Jessica comes of age and must grow up faster, not only because of her family’s schemes, but as she comes face to face with some of the racially-motivated laws on the books that seek to subjugate portions of the population. Jessica must struggle and discover that she alone has the power to shape her own future, and those closest to her. A brilliant piece by Bryce Courtenay that shows the power this man has when putting a story to paper. Highly recommended for those who love a strong tale of self-discovery and determination in the face of ever-growing doubt and obstacles.

I have had a long-standing admiration for Bryce Courtenay and his books, all of which have captivated me early in my reading experience. While they are usually long and quite tangential, their thread is one that can be easily followed and the plot constantly evolves, which may explain my vague summary above (which may appease those who chirp about my reviews being too long and revealing for their ivory tower reading sentiments). Courtenay creates a number of strong characters and utilises them effectively to shape the direction in which his narrative moves. Jessica is, of course, the central character in this piece and her life is shaped by those around her. Moving from the age of fourteen through to her mid-twenties, Jessica’s life is influenced by a number of events that take her along paths that could not have been foreseen. She becomes one person that the reader cannot help but admire and her tribulations, while surely placed in a ‘soap opera’ type drama, are usually grounded in something substantial. Others find their place in the narrative and offer poignant life moments to give Jessica even more depth. This is something Courtenay does well and seems to be able to effectively portray in most of his novels, as well as using some of his standing character types in each novel (ie, Jews, blacks). The story, rich with description and development, takes on an interesting approach. Courtenay opens each ‘book’ with a summary of events, then backtracks to play them out through a series of progressive vignettes, offering the reader foresight into what will come, then letting the narrative take control,. It is effective and does not present too many issues for the reader who enjoys a surprise within their reading experience. The plot is strong and well-grounded, providing not only personal growth for Jessica, but touching on a number of political and social issues of the day, not all of which have been adequately resolved close to a century later. Courtenay may have passed on, but his books resonate with me and I hope that by the time my son is ready to tackle them, they will appeal to his passion for reading and learning.

Kudos, Mr. Courtenay, for another wonderful re-read. I find myself so energised when I have read one of your books. Let’s ride that wave through the next little while.

This book fulfills Topic #5: Name That Book, for the Equinox #4 Reading Challenge.

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

The Great Alone, by Kristin Hannah

Seven stars

There is something about Alaska that tends to pique my interest, though I cannot put a finger on precisely what it might be. Could it be that it is so isolated from all that I know or that the stories that come from this far-away land tend to contrast so much with those I am used to reading? Whatever it might be, Kristin Hannah takes the reader on quite the adventure, exploring the land as well as the psyche of the characters she peppers throughout this piece. After her father is returned stateside from a P.O.W. camp in Vietnam, Lenora ‘Leni’ Allbright is not sure how things will change at home. Having spent so much time with only her mother, Leni is forced to acclimate to this new dynamic. When Ernt Allbright learns that he has been left a parcel of land up in Alaska, he announces that they’ll relocate there for a fresh start. With a few supplies to get started, Ernt leads his wife, Cora, and Leni up North to part of the world that Robert Service poetically called ‘The Great Alone’. It is here that things begin to unravel, as Ernt suffers from debilitating nightmares, which turn him sour and help justify an alcoholic crutch. This altered state has him raising a fist to a wife who has succumb to his violent ways, having forgotten her feminist beliefs from earlier in the decade. It’s 1974 and Leni is isolated from her friends and the world at large, a horrific thing for any girl of thirteen. As the story progresses through a series of vignettes, Leni begins to set down some roots and soon finds solace in the only classmate her own age, Matthew Walker. Leni comes of age in this desolate land and learns to hate her father’s explosive temper, but also her mother’s inability to leave him behind. Even when an escape from this vast loneliness seems possible, Leni finds a way to put the kibosh on it and remain cemented in the one place she cannot stand. Surrounded by others, the Allbrights each find their own way to suffer in the ‘Great Alone’, but might there be a glimpse of happiness on the horizon for the Allbrights, or simply the dashing of the Northern Lights? Well-crafted and strong on character development, Kristin Hannah offers an interesting tale of self-discovery against a frigid backdrop. Recommended for those who enjoy tales that take things off the beaten path and allow characters to meander along ti find their own way.

I agreed to try this book when a good friend of mine mentioned that it was set in Alaska. I read the dust jacket summary and immediately felt that I had to explore what Kristin Hannah might have to offer. What I discovered was that Goodreads was flooded with laudatory comments for this book, finding diamonds on offer with the turn of each page. While I cannot echo some of the blind praise, I did feel that there was much more to this book than the summary promises. Leni is an interesting character, who has been torn away from everything she knew and forced to grow up quickly. She suffers loss, anger, and isolation simultaneously, but cannot convince herself to shed this skin when given the chance, falling back on her loyalty above all else. Cora and Ernt also prove noteworthy, enriching their daughter’s journey while also proving to be oil and water in their marital interactions. The Allbrights serve to complement one another well, but seem so different that it is no wonder that they cannot live under the same roof in harmony. The author offers a handful of other characters who push the narrative forward effectively and serve to offer depth to the various vignettes that provide glimpses into this jagged way of life, loosely woven together to call this journey a single story. Speaking of vignettes, I agree with the idea put forward by some that there is no true sense of story arc, in that the entire narrative is a set of pocketed happenings that resolve themselves before moving onto the next. The reader may have a hard time solidifying their appreciation or ire towards anyone, as things keep changing, like the pieces of an ice floe. There is no setting other than Alaska that Kristin Hannah could have used and kept some of the deeper meanings within the novel. Symbolism peppers the narrative to the point that the reader cannot deny its existence. Each of the three protagonists seek to define and resolve their own form of ‘alone’ doing so with varied degrees of success. While I cannot offer blind praise, I can see significant growth in the characters throughout and in myself as I travelled this journey alongside them.

Kudos, Madam Hannah, for such a thought-provoking piece. I am happy to have taken the time to read this novel, but remain on the fence if I want to try more of your work. Allow this book to percolate for a while.

\A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

The. Slum Reaper (Esther and Jack Enright #4), by David Field

Eight stars

Victorian England’s criminal element comes to life in the writing of David Field. The reader can be assured of another strong Esther and Jack Enright tale, chock full of mystery and intrigue. After saving two young children in a harrowing act of bravery, young Inspector Jack Enright is sidelined with a severely broken leg. Not wanting to suffer from too much work atrophy, he accepts a temporary secondment to Records, while his uncle, Detective Sergeant Percy Enright holds down the fort within the Metropolitan Police. When Jack is recuperating, his wife, Esther comes to him with an odd request. Their neighbour’s niece seems to have gone missing without reason. While Jack is not able to convince his uncle to open a formal investigation, it does come on the heels of a number of gruesome discoveries in another part of London. The bodies of a few lower-class citizens have been uncovered in the debris of a recently razed building that is scheduled to be quickly rebuilt. Sergeant Enright begins an investigation and soon discovers that the builders may have hired a rent collector who had a strong-fisted way of handling those who refused to pay. This missing girl, Emily Broome, was a governess in a well-to-do home, though it is only upon pressing the matter that Enright learns that the twin boys have also gone missing. Enright continues to press for information as a new body is found in the rubble, one that matches Broome’s description. With no sign of the children, Enright is forced to juggle two cases, seemingly off the books, and use his nephew to press for leads amongst the criminal records of some in London’s underbelly. Unable to procure all the information needed, Percy and Jack press Esther to return to her role of unpaid, undercover agent for the Metropolitan Police. What Esther learns may be invaluable, though someone has their eye on her (again!) and will stop at nothing to keep the truth from coming out. Field presents another winner in this series. While the story may be brief, it should not indicate anything less than a stellar reading experience. Perfect for those who love Victorian murder mysteries and prefer something that can be read in short order.

I was introduced to David Field and his work not too long ago and feel that these novels have found a decent niche in the genre. After devouring a few novels for the publisher, I knew that I would return as soon as more novels appeared in publication. Field uses Victorian England yet again as an eerie setting, mixing in a handful of strong characters to propel this story forward. This turns a compact plot into something both exciting and easy to enjoy. Esther Enright, married and a mother of two, again plays a smaller role, but she is used effectively as a decoy and undercover agent. Her banter with many of the characters provides a lighter thread in the story, but she is also keen on injecting her own wisdom with a wonderful female perspective. Jack also takes a backseat in this piece, but has come to grow into fatherhood effectively and serves to prop-up his uncle effectively throughout this story. Jack and Esther continue complementing one another so well as they work yet another crime together, in new and exciting roles. The novel is surely one in which Detective Sergeant Percy Enright not only steals the spotlight, but has much development as he cracks the case wide open. Field has effectively used Percy in the past, but it was this novel that I felt he stepped out of his nephew’s shadow and served to propel the story forward in an effective manner. The secondary characters prove entertaining within the pages of this story, using Cockney speech and salty sayings to take the reader inside the less refined parts of London while also allowing a sense of being in the middle of the action. The story flows well, unique from past pieces, and keeps a decent pace, with a mix of quick and longer chapters that never hamper the narrative from moving forward. Field has but a short time to develop his plot, but injects a mix of dram and humour into the piece, with decent dialogue banter, when time permits. The writing leaves the reader wanting more, the sign of a well-developed story. Field has done a masterful job with these novels and I await another book in the near future. I can only hope that Field will continue crafting these addictive stories for fans who find them so enthralling.

Kudos, Mr. Field, for this wonderful novel. I am eager to read more Esther and Jack stories and hope others will follow my lead.

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

The Guilty Dead (Monkeewrench #9), by P. J. Tracy

Eight stars

First and foremost, a large thank you to P.J. Tracy and Crooked Lane Books for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

A much different P.J. Tracy continues to evolve in the series after the death of the elder in the mother-daughter duo. Those who are familiar with the series will notice a higher intensity to the writing and a plot that seeks to delve deeper into the mystery and police procedural genres. After the death of his son a year ago, socialite Gregory Norwood plans to honour him with a private memorial. However, before this takes place, the elder Norwood is found at his home, an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. This sends shock waves through the city and travels all the way to the top of the MPD pyramid, after current gubernatorial candidate—and best friend of Norwood—Robert Zeller, requests it be handled with discretion. Enter Homicide Detectives Leo Magozzi and Gino Rolseth, who survey the crime scene at the request of their chief, only to discover something out of place that tips the scales towards murder. Meanwhile, Monkeewrench are approached by a member of the FBI’s Minneapolis Field Office, hoping that they can create a specialised piece of software. It would seem that there have been murmurs of an attack within the Twin Cities, but nothing is surfacing with the usual suspects. The FBI has begun to wonder if those no longer on the radar might be developing new and covert means of communication through electronic channels, both legal and on the Dark Net. Members of the team rush to create something and run beta tests, unsure how long they might have before an attack. With the Norwoods mourning two loses in as many years and Minneapolis as a potential hotspot for the next big act of terror, Magozzi and Grace MacBride surely have no time to focus on the imminent arrival of their child. All that being said, babies follow no timetable or schedule, save their own. Tracy provides readers with a stellar exploration of terrorism, politics, and the ties that can bind a family together or tear it apart. A powerful new novel, which series fans will enjoy, even if it is with a heavy heart for the loss of part of this fantastic writing duo.

I am sad to say that I have reached the end of my summer reading binge of P.J. Tracy’s work. I must also offer my sincere condolences that the writing world lost a great member with the death of one half of the P.J. Tracy duo. The series has been well-crafted and thoroughly enjoyable, both in writing and audio formats, which helps solidify my admiration for the authors and books in this collection. This novel is again able to mix great mystery with strong characters and deliver a grounded story, one in which the reader will notice new depth and strong story development. The Magozzi/Rolseth banter remains strong, as always, as does the humour that offsets some of the more serious and morbid parts of the narrative. Tracy offers some interesting character development for Magozzi and Grace MacBride, both individually and as a unit, with impending parenthood. How this will change their lives and the characterisation of them has yet to be seen, but one can only hope that a tenth novel will answer some of the questions series fans will surely have on the tips of their proverbial tongues. The rest of the gang (both police and Monkeewrench) continue to dazzle and keep the reader on their toes for a variety of reasons. I was pleased to see a strong narrative and a few plots that developed throughout, keeping the reader guessing as to what might happen at any turn of the page. Using a constantly revolving group of characters, Tracy is able to push the narrative forward in interesting ways and never forces the reader to accept subpar writing or storytelling. I must wonder if the Magozzi/Rolseth storyline will change when they are both fathers and if, perhaps, Tracy will give readers a Rolseth-centred storyline (perhaps involving his family), which might help develop a stronger tie to those people who come up in Gino’s dialogue on occasion. These novels move away from the traditional police procedural and permit P.J. Tracy to entertain the reader with strong storylines, perfect for a vacation or summer binge. As noted above, there was a significant shift in the writing and story presentation, likely the influence of the solo writing that will continue going forward. Might the series take a heavier turn or will the lighter reads resume in subsequent publication?

Kudos, P.J. Tracy, for another wonderful piece. You continue to show how proud your mother can be in your efforts by keeping the story going. Write and think of her, always!

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

Nothing Stays Buried (Monkeewrench #8), by P. J. Tracy

Eight stars

A different P.J. Tracy emerges in this piece, primarily because one of the duo has passed on, leaving the legacy on the shoulders of the younger. It was also the first ‘book’ in the series I read, the others having been of the audio variety. After the daughter of a farmer goes missing, the local sheriff calls in a favour from Monkeewrench to help piece this all together. Grace MacBride, well into her pregnancy, is happy to oblige and the team makes their way into rural Minnesota to assist. One interesting clue found close to the scene is blood traced back to a member of a Mexican drug cartel. Meanwhile, in Minneapolis, Detective Leo Magozzi is pondering his recent move to the country and the fact that he will soon be a father. Alongside his partner, Gino Rolseth, they banter about anything that comes to mind, at least until a call comes in. It’s a body, slashed and dumped, but there’s also a playing card tucked inside the clothing. Could it be the killer that the MPD Homicide team has been hunting; a serial killer perhaps? When more bodies emerge, each with another playing card, Magozzi and Rolseth are baffled as to how they will solve this case. When the FBI sweeps in to take control of the case, both detectives are confused by the federal presence and unwilling to simply walk away. Meanwhile, Monkeewrench has been running some searches for Magozzi and found a few pieces of information that might tie-in to the case they have been working. Could the two be connected? With a story that moves from Minneapolis to a farming community, no one is safe with a killer on the loose and another one prowling the woods! Tracy, in whatever incarnation, is truly captivating in yet another novel and keeps the reader glued to the page well into the night. Recommended for series fans who love what they have read and are ready for a slightly different flavour in this piece.

I continue my summer reading binge of P.J. Tracy’s work, having been forced to pick up a book for the first time with this series. In their written form, the stories have not lost their momentum, even while I am forced to create accents and banter dialogue in my mind. This proves that Tracy’s work can transcend the audio medium and still come to life on the page. This novel is again able to mix great mystery with strong characters and deliver a knockout punch. The Magozzi/Rolseth banter remains strong and offsets some of the more gruesome aspects of the narrative. Of great interest in the realm of characters is how Magozzi and MacBride are each handling the pending parenthood that is surely just around the corner. Tracy offers the reader glimpses into both their psyches and permits some self-reflection on how things will change in the coming months (book or two?). I am eager to see this change in the next book, presuming there will be a birth before too long. The rest of the gang (both police and Monkeewrench) continue to dazzle and keep the reader on their toes for a variety of reasons. I was pleased to see a strong narrative and an interesting two-pronged story that neither dragged nor jumped without offering substantial progress. While P.J. Tracy commonly offers two cases, the reader is rarely left feeling unfulfilled during the gaze into the case’s progress. Using a constantly revolving group of characters, Tracy is able to push the narrative forward in interesting ways and never forces the reader to accept subpar writing or storytelling. These novels move away from the traditional police procedural and permit P.J. Tracy to entertain the reader with strong storylines, perfect for a vacation or summer binge. With one novel left (at this point) to read, I am beginning to face the reality that the binge is almost done, but I want more. Truly a sign of powerful writing!

Kudos, P.J. Tracy, for another wonderful piece. You have done your mother proud by keeping the story going. Write and think of her, always!

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

The Sixth Idea (Monkeewrench #7), by P.J. Tracy

Eight stars

In yet another thrilling novel, P.J. Tracy impresses readers with a well-grounded novel of mystery and suspense. Homicide Detectives Magozzi and Rolseth are enjoying some much needed time off, when a call comes in that a man has been found in his home, shot in the head. After rushing to the scene and beginning their investigation, a second call comes about a man who was killed outside a local hotel. A little digging shows that these two men had been exchanging emails and were planning to meet the following day. Could the murders be related, or simply a very odd coincidence? Soon, a woman comes forward, having seen the news about the murders. Lydia Ascher reports that not only was she on a flight from L.A. to Minneapolis with one of the victims, but they share an odd connection from sixty years in the past. Magozzi and Rolseth begin exploring this and learn that one victim had a website ‘The Sixth Idea’, which has since been removed from the World Wide Web. Enter, Monkeewrench and their tech skills to help with the investigation. What they discover only adds to the confusion and opens new pathways in the case. More murders bring Magozzi and Rolseth running, but the victims are not who they might predict… which only makes things more confusing and the case further from resolution. P.J. Tracy offers up another stunning piece that will keep readers devouring the novel well into the night, begging for more Monkeewrench. Recommended to series fans and those who love a good thriller without all the hype of the big city lights.

I continue to thoroughly enjoy my summer reading binge of P.J. Tracy’s work! The stories have not lost their momentum and Tracy is able to mix great mystery alongside wonderful characters to come up with the ideal formula for a hit. Magozzi and Rolseth dazzle throughout this series, including this seventh novel. Their banter, perhaps the thing I enjoy the most, is always sharp and on point, keeping me laughing between trying to piece together what’s going on in the larger mystery. Magozzi’s love affair with MacBride seems finally to be grounding itself, though there is still an interesting push-pull between the two. Rolseth has his own moments, though there is little new to offer up at this point, save one glaring issue. The entire Monkeewrench crew is present, using their tech-savvy skills to crack yet another case wide open. As with the other novels in the series, the narrative flows well, giving the reader a wonderful gift of great reading, which is sometimes lost in this genre. I did enjoy the six decade span of this novel and how things that started so long ago could return to being poignant, yet with its own new flair. On the topic of time passing in the novel, I found an anomaly worth mentioning. I have come to notice that Rolseth’s children never appear to age, at least based on mention of them in the narrative. ‘Ever youthful’ one might say, but the narrative clearly show a progression in time over these six novels (particularly when one character remembers having known Magozzi for a decade, when they first met on the original Monkeewrench case), while the Rolseth second generation remain five and close to sixteen. Not a major issue, but surely one that remains on my radar as I look ahead to the coming two novels. These novels move away from the traditional police procedural and permit P.J. Tracy to entertain the reader with strong storylines, perfect for a vacation or summer binge. I am eager to keep racing through these books and have only a few left. I can see the crash coming after such a great binge.

Kudos, P.J. Tracy, for another wonderful piece. I am so happy to have found this series and hope to feel more chills throughout this summer reading binge!

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

The Endgame: The Year of Short Stories, by Jeffrey Archer

Eight stars

Master storyteller Lord Jeffrey Archer has chosen to please his fans with a new venture; a short story released each month. Those familiar with Archer’s work will know that he can not only spin long and involved pieces, but also the short story that compacts adventure into a handful of pages. I recently discovered that I overlooked the December (2017) story in my reading, which is an interesting piece that pits family members against one another and shows just how charitable they can be in times of crisis. Cornelius Barrington has always suspected his family to be more interested in his money than anything else. Over one of their weekly chess matches, Barrington devises a plan with his solicitor, Frank Vintcent, to turn the tables on his greedy family. Barrington and Vintcent draw up paperwork to show that this well-to-do man is actually on the brink of bankruptcy. Reactions are quick to come in, though no one is entirely sure if they can help their esteemed family member with his financial woes. Barrington continues with the charade, putting not only his estate up for sale, but liquidating most of his belongings at auction. Barrington generously invites family and close friends to bid on items of interest to them. It is at this point that their greed and need to be at the trough becomes readily apparent, forcing Cornelius Barrington to see just how far people are willing to go to deflect the need to help, while surrounding themselves with riches. Archer pens yet another wonderful piece that keeps the reader thinking and the story flowing through to its final zinger. Recommended for those who love a good Archer short story or any reader who needs something to fill a little time in their day!

Lord Jeffrey Archer’s work is always full of unique perspectives, be they complete novels or shorter story such as this one. I am so pleased to have come across this collection and have reviewed each story based on its own merits. Now I await each instalment on a monthly basis, I can hope to find gems amidst all the reading I undertake each year. This was definitely one of the more complex and should likely not have been ready without the aid of my morning caffeine boost, as I needed to be sharp and follow the quick wit that Cornelius Barrington adds to the story throughout its development. That being said, Archer develops some interesting character traits for Barrington, this mastermind who coaxes his family into their downfall and shows that they are but a grubby lot, interested in riches over family honour. The supporting characters, individuals who seek to better themselves at the cost of others, proved interesting and their excuses kept my eyebrows raised throughout this piece. Truly, one could not ask for a more deceitful lot. The story was of the perfect length to remind myself why I enjoy Archer’s work so much. Archer is able to impress and entertain in equal measure, something that is rare in the pieces I have come across over the last number of years. I have enjoyed all these pieces and am eager for the next turn of the calendar, when I can be assured yet another short story.

Kudos, Lord Archer, for a masterful new story collection. How you find so many effective ideas that produce high quality publications I will never know.

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

The Museum of Mysteries: A Cassiopeia Vitt Adventure, by Steve Berry and M.J. Rose

Eight stars

There are few authors I could read every day without tiring (I say this never having tried, haha!), but Steve Berry would have to be one. His mix of mystery and little-known historical events blend together to make sensational stories. He has a well-established Cotton Malone series, which has permitted one of its supporting characters—Cassiopeia Vitt—branch out onto her own on one previous occasion. Berry has teamed-up with M.J. Rose, an author I have not read, to create this wonderful novella with Vitt in the driver’s seat. Visiting a friend in the French village of Eze, Cassiopeia Vitt finds herself chasing someone who has just stolen a costly item from a museum. This is not just any box, but a Sabbat Box, filled with elixirs and potions and used in mediaeval times. Apparently brought to auction six months before, the Box contains items that trace back to the fifth century and could be called an ancient ‘pharmacy in a box’. Vitt catches the apparent thief and slides one of the vials into her pocket, curious about what its powers might be. Soon, Vitt is attacked herself and the Box stolen once again. Confronting the original thief, Vitt learns the true power of the Box, having inhaled some of the fumes from her own vial. This takes her back in time, into the body and mind of one Morgan le Fay. During this state, Vitt (le Fay) encounters a man she has been waiting for and with whom she has a romantic connection. Does this hallucination speak to the present course of events? If so, who is this man, if not Cotton Malone (who is on his way to America)? Baffled but adamant that she will retrieve the Sabbat Box, Vitt follows clues she obtains while conversing with a Paris detective. With a French presidential election under a week away, the Sabbat Box could play a larger role that that of the ballot variety in swaying the results. The trouble is, no one is entirely sure how! A brilliant teaser for those waiting for Berry’s next Cotton Malone novel as well as the many fans Rose has of her own work. Recommended specifically for Berry fans who like what Vitt brings to stories (for I cannot speak of anything Rose has penned).

As I mentioned above, I have long been a fan of Steve Berry’s work and leapt at the chance to read this piece while I await the next Cotton Malone novel. Berry and Rose have created an interesting tale that pulls on both the present time and distant ages past. Cassiopeia Vitt, who has long been a secondary character, plays the protagonist in this piece. Her backstory is fleshed out a little more, with discussion of her childhood and upbringing. The authors also put her grit and determination front and centre, allowing the reader to better understand this woman who has often been called the ‘billionaire building a castle’ and more recently Cotton Malone’s love interest. The handful of other characters help to offer a stronger story, both in modern France and medieval Europe, though there is surely a sinister revelation that awaits the patient and attentive reader, revealed through intense dialogue presented within the narrative. The story straddles both time periods and uses alchemy to bind them. Without offering up too much of the story (and thereby spoiling it), there is a definite pulse to the story that requires the reader to understand what is going on during both time periods, which can then be bound together by the closing pages of the novella. Berry and Rose Bering their experiences together in this piece, adding some of their characters to the novella and creating a handful of others. While sorcery and magic is not my cup of tea, this piece did pique my interest and I may have to see what M.J. Rose is all about. Additionally, I am curious to see if Berry adds mention of it in his upcoming Malone novel. A great way to spend a short time reading and perfect for a beach afternoon!

Kudos, Mr. Berry and Madam Rose, for this piece that is both unique and on par with much that I have read in Berry’s series. I hope you work together again, as this was a wonderful collaborative effort.

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

The Dante Conspiracy, by James Becker

Eight stars

A great fan of James Becker’s work, I was pleased to come across this novella that mixes a police procedural with some Italian literary history. Professor Antonio Bertorelli is found tortured and murdered after an apparent struggle, though it is not entirely clear who might want to harm him. When Sergeant Cesare Lombardi and Inspector Silvio Perini arrive at the scene, they are equally confused, but soon learn that Bertorelli was quite knowledgeable when it came to Dante’s Divine Comedy, having penned an interesting academic article on the topic only weeks before. In the article, Bertorelli posits that Dante may have written an alternate part to his famous work, or at least amended it with some clues to another important document that he wished could come to light. As Lombardi and Perini seek to find the killer and get to the root of this homicide, there are a few hooded men who have been trying to crack Dante’s code themselves, ready to stop at nothing to horde the results for themselves. Lombardi and Perini find themselves surrounded by Italian history as the sift through much of the time in which Dante lived, hoping to better understand what the killers sought. What they find may shock not only historians keen on the period, but the larger academic community. Becker does a wonderful job keeping the reader hooked with this novella, mixing history and mystery into a brief piece of writing. Recommended for those who enjoy Becker’s past work as well as the curious reader who likes historical mysteries.

I tend to find that James Becker not only packs a punch with his writing abilities, but fills each story with so much history that the reader cannot help but go away knowing so much more. This piece is no exception, as Becker pushes a thirteenth/fourteenth century historical mystery into the early narrative and does not let it go until the final chapter. With so little time to explore character development, Lombardi and Perini receiving much of their connection to the reader through the sleuthing that they do. They ask the poignant questions and posit interesting solutions to issues throughout, keeping the reader feeling as though they are part of the investigation. The story moves forward at a clipped pace, mixing investigation of the murder with a great deal of history related to Dante. The story offers up both the man’s place in the larger Italian community as well as information about the Divine Comedy in general. Becker does not pull any punches, flooding the piece with a great deal of fact in order to push the narrative in a certain direction. I was happy to go along for the ride, admittedly hoping that much of what I was being told could be grounded in fact and not fallacy in order to spice up the story. Becker always seeks to reveal new aspects of history to keep his reader wondering and searching for more information. This novella was surely no exception.

Kudos, Mr. Becker, for another wonderful historical mystery. I am eager to get my hands on more of your work, as you seem to be churning out some interesting standalone pieces at the moment.

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

Off the Grid (Monkeewrench #6), by P.J. Tracy

Eight stars

Just when you think a series must be running out of steam (for how can things remain explosive forever?), P.J. Tracy comes out with another stellar novel in the Monkeewrench series! Down in the Caribbean, Grace MacBride is enjoying a restful, platonic time with former FBI Agent John Smith, aboard his boat. When two masked men make their way on deck and try to kill Smith, MacBride has no choice but to neutralise them. She discovers a photo of Smith and learns that these Saudi nationals seem to have been targeting him for reasons unknown. Back in Minneapolis, Magozzi and Rolseth are neck-deep in a case where a young Indigenous girl has had her throat slashed, one of six kidnapped from a reservation and likely bound for a life of human trafficking. When the authorities arrive at the kidnappers’ house, they find two of the perpetrators shot in the head, the apparent shooter across the way, and the five girls bound in the basement. A number of readings from the Koran and a calendar with a date is circled in red is found inside, leaving Magozzi and Rolseth to wonder if there is something brewing of the terrorist variety. While trying to piece together their case, Magozzi receives a call from Detroit, where a similar situation has occurred, two men killed and the same date circled on the calendar. This is soon matched by even more killings across America, reported by various police forces. Might there be a nation-wide terror plot brewing that the Feds inadvertently discovered? With John Smith off the grid, Magozzi and Rolseth must ensure that all connections to him are secured, including members of the Monkeewrench team. Still, there seems to be something in the works and yet a number of vigilantes stopping things at the same pace. P.J Tracy offers another poignant novel in this evolving series that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat throughout. Perfect for series fans and those who love a quick holiday read!

I have come to thoroughly enjoy this summer binge of P.J. Tracy’s work! The stories continue to find poignant ways to entertain me as I work and putter around the house, while not becoming too repetitive. Magozzi and Rolseth are always able to find new and great banter to keep me smiling, which is matched with their superior sleuthing skills to keep the reader hooked. Magozzi seems to be processing his distancing from Grace MacBride with ease, though the narrative does not spend too much time analyzing it, or his true sentiments about the John Smith angle. Rolseth has his own weak moments, particularly when speaking about child trafficking and his daughter, who is about the same age as these victims. The entire Monkeewrench crew is present, using their skills to crack the current case open and Tracy shows some development with them, if only peppered throughout the narrative. They are, truly, there to keep the series name going, rather than being firmly in the middle of this piece throughout. This novel keeps a dim spotlight on John Smith, while also spending time examining some of the indigenous ways of life, in which Tracy finds parallels to unite, rather than divide. The narrative flows well and the reader is treated to decent writing, something that lacks at times within this genre. Over the past ten years, the focus of thrillers has been to turn things on Muslim extremism and some of the evils that came from a post-9/11 world. While Tracy does hint at some of this throughout, there is less of a ‘beat the dead horse’ about good versus evil, which pleases me greatly. Smearing and using silly soapbox moments to colour an entire religion with a single brush gets old in the genre and I have read too many books where this hot button topic is used to sell manuscripts. Moving away from the traditional police procedural, P.J. Tracy entertains the reader with strong storylines, perfect for a vacation or summer binge. I am eager to keep racing through these books and have almost caught up to a great Goodreads friend who is bingeing as well.

Kudos, P.J. Tracy, for another wonderful piece. I am so happy to have found this series and hope to feel more chills throughout this summer reading binge!

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

A House at the Bottom of a Lake, by Josh Malerman

Nine stars

Having read one of his recent psychological thrillers, I was eager to plunge into this novella by Josh Malerman. James has had his eye on Amelia for a while and has wanted to ask her out but lacked the courage. When the moment arises and they both agree to spend time together, their first date seems cemented. Wanting to try something different, James uses his uncle’s canoe and takes Amelia out on the lake. They paddle together, traversing through a tunnel and into a second connected body of water. This area is much quieter and away from the speedboat traffic. As they drift along, James notices something at the bottom of the lake, pointing it out to Amelia. Could it be a roof… atop an entire house? As they both take the time to peer into the water, James and Amelia learn that the house seems firmly grounded to the lakebed, but cannot fathom what might have brought it there. Taking turns diving down, James and Amelia soon discover that the house is fully furnished and everything is stuck in place—defying any forces of gravity— as if it were meant to be underwater. Planning future dates that focus around more exploration of the house, James and Amelia discover that a love affair is brewing, both between one another and with the house. Other mysteries await the curious reader in this well-developed novella that is distinctly Malerman. Recommended for those who like something a little supernatural and full of symbolism.

I thoroughly enjoyed the single novel I have read by Malerman, but have read some blurbs about others that may surely make their way onto my To Be Read list soon. In this novella, Malerman offers the reader some interesting insight into young love that soon turns into something supernatural. James and Amelia are inseparable throughout much of the piece, making their character development one in the same. Young and still uncertain about life, they share stories about dating and personal struggles before the house takes over all their conversations. Their connection, both physical and mental, gets stronger as the chapters pass, but there is also a struggle that seems to surface, which both pushes them apart and makes their bond even stronger. The house takes on its own persona, becoming more complex and alluring as the story moves forward. Its presence is the crux of the early narrative and soon becomes part of the psychological thrill of the entire novella. The story was decent enough, morphing from a teenage crush into something that envelopes them both and takes over their lives. Obsession, but not of the typical teenager variety. My father, who was an English teacher, would surely rage, as I choose not to delve into the many instances of symbolism throughout the piece. The attentive reader who enjoys finding these instances will be buoyed by the story’s strength on many levels. Malerman offers the reader with some spine tingles akin to some of the great psychological thriller writers of the time, proving that he is not an author to be dismissed. This shorter piece is easily digested in a single day, though the reader may want to take a break when things get a little intense. Perfect for vacation reading, though some may not want to take it to the beach.

Kudos, Mr. Malerman, for another wonderful piece that will keep me thinking. I needed something short, but the memory of the writing lingers!

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

Shoot to Thrill (Monkeewrench #5), by P.J. Tracy

Eight stars

P.J. Tracy continues her wonderful series with a fifth novel that taps into some of the technological aspects of crime in the 21st century. As they still remember their last major case in the middle of a blizzard, Homicide Detectives Leo Magozzi and Gino Rolseth find themselves in the middle of a Minneapolis heatwave. They are, however, fitted out in a wonderfully air conditioned ride, at least for a time. When they are called to the river to investigate a floater, Magozzi and Rolseth soon learn that they are in for more than they thought, but are assisted by a former judge who’s down on his luck and pining for booze. Meanwhile, members of Monkeewrench have been called to an ‘invite-only’ meeting with the FBI, headed by Special Agent John Smith. It would appear that a number of people have been anonymously posting videos of killings, which is troubling enough. Who is out there, posting snuff films to social media across the country? Working an angle with some of their high-tech software, Monkeewrench discovers that people have been posting cryptic messages about potential killings, all around America. Working not only to crack through the plethora of chat room messages, Grace MacBride and her team try to sift through snuff versus fake murder videos, all while Agent Smith waits idly by to stop this spree of killings. Magozzi soon learns that his own case might have some ties to the social media killings, along with trying to decipher the struggles with his ongoing relationship, which seems to have hit a dry patch. P.J. Tracy proves that this is a series worth the time invested. Series fans will flock to this one, and those new to the party can binge (as I did) with ease to catch up.

I cannot put into words how much I enjoy P.J. Tracy’s work as I binge my way through this series! The stories continue to scratch an itch that I get when needing something a little lighter to pass the summer months. Magozzi and Rolseth assume their positions as protagonists again, using great banter and strong sleuthing skills to keep the reader hooked from the early chapters. There are some great character development moments for Magozzi, who continues to struggle with Grace MacBride and a potential new woman to keep things spicy. The series reader will know that the Magozzi-MacBride oscillation has been one that is simmering, tension—sexual and otherwise—always present. The entire Monkeewrench crew is present, using their skills to crack the current case open and Tracy shows some development with them, if only peppered throughout the narrative. This novel’s ‘spotlight’ character would surely be FBI Special Agent John Smith, whose beige attitude does not change throughout the investigation. He sticks out against the strong characters found within the narrative and there are some interesting hints about whether he might reappear, but that is for the reader to discover in the novel. Secondary characters offer some interesting perspectives within the novel, as Tracy is able to effectively utilise them to push home key points to drive home a theme throughout the narrative. The narrative flows well and the reader is treated to decent writing that lacks at times within the genre. Moving away from the traditional police procedural, P.J. Tracy entertains the reader with strong storylines, perfect for a vacation or summer binge. I am eager to keep racing through these books and will likely soon catch up to a great Goodreads friend who is bingeing as well.

Kudos, P.J. Tracy, for another wonderful piece. I am so happy to have found this series and hope to feel more chills throughout this summer reading binge!

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

A Long Time Coming, by Aaron Elkins

Seven stars

First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Aaron Elkins, and Thomas & Mercer for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

A fan of one particular series Aaron Elkins penned over the years, I was curious to see how one of these standalone novels might work for me. Valentino ‘Val’ Caruso is facing middle-age head on, though life has not dealt him the hand he would have liked. An assistant curator at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Caruso knows his stuff and makes it his business to ensure the New York art world remains on pace with its European counterparts. When Caruso is approached to help with the return of a few pieces of art confiscated by the Italian Government during the lead-up to the Second World War, he jumps at the opportunity to assist. Mr. Solomon Bezzecca, into his ninetieth year, tells of how he witnessed his great-grandfather lose two early pieces by Renoir, torn from his grasp, including an early self-portrait of the author. Caruso soon learns that the current owner is none other than his old friend and mentor, Ulisse Agnello. After securing a plan with Bezzecca, Caruso travels to Italy to determine what might be done. Armed with the knowledge that the Italian courts rejected Bezzecca’s claims of rightful return, Caruso will use his familiarity with the current owner to find a happy medium. After reaching out to Agnello, Caruso discovers that things are more complicated than they first appear. Pulled into the darker side of the Italian art world, Caruso will not stop until he brings these pieces home to a man who wants nothing more than to set the world right once again. Elkins proves that he is able to write effectively outside his forensic genre and still entertain the reader with his captivating writing. Those who enjoy art and mysteries centred around them will surely find much in this book to their liking.

I first became familiar with Aaron Elkins as the father of modern forensic anthropology mysteries, which proved to be a lighthearted and highly educational binge read a few years ago. I knew he had worked on a few other novels, including a husband-wife series, some of which might have an art flavour to them. However, this was my first venture outside of forensics with Elkins at the helm (admittedly, he adds some in this novel). Val Caruso proves to be an interesting character, with much of his backstories relayed through first-person narrative in the opening chapter. Moving forward, he presents as an intelligent man in the art world but one who bumbles around and appears to fall into the crosshairs of those seeking to stop him from accomplishing his mission. The handful of other characters pepper the narrative and inject their own personality traits to provide the reader with some decent contrasts, some more effective than others. The premise of the novel is decent, tracing back a piece of art that was confiscated from its rightful (?) owner in a world where prices change hourly and the criminal element is always lurking. I found the pace of the story decent, but the plot had so many quick resolutions. The art is there, then it’s gone. A shadow changes in the background, then two bodies are left bleeding and alone. There was also a problem with the first-person narrative, as it allowed Elkins (through Caruso) to offer annoying editorialising and information dropping. I have often read books outside of my area of vast knowledge, but I am forced to stumble through and learn for myself, not be told every minute thing that I may not know in a “look at how much I know and will tell you, reader!”.That being said, it is clear that Elkins knows his stuff and has been able to relay it to the reader effectively. I have come to expect Elkins to be a little ‘bumbly’ and ‘preachy’, though it has slightly skewed my enjoyment of this novel.

Kudos, Mr. Elkins, for a decent novel. I know many have lauded your praise and I see much that I enjoyed in this piece. At this stage in your life and career, I suppose it’s best to roll with the punches from reviewers like me.

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

Snow Blind (Monkeewrench #4), by P.J. Tracy

Eight stars

P.J. Tracy continues to pull me in with this fourth novel in the series, set during a cold snap that makes me remember my childhood. In the middle of the coldest part of winter, Homicide Detectives Leo Magozzi and Gino Rolseth are preparing for the Minneapolis PD’s snowman festival. However, as they examine some of the other entries, it becomes apparent that there are two bodies within other snowmen. These bodies are soon identified as fellow MPD officers, making it apparent that there is a killer on the loose and children will likely never want to see another Frosty-type image. As they begin their investigation, they cannot guess how many other bodies there might be hiding in plain sight or who might be the next victim. In a rural Minnesota county, Iris Rikker is ready to begin her first day as sheriff, having won a contentious election to unseat her longtime predecessor. As she is trying to get acclimated, a snowman body is found and she’s forced to start her new job on the wrong foot. The victim is a parole officer and it would appear that parolee Kurt Weinbeck took offence to something, having left him frozen solid and surrounded by snow. Magozzi and Rolseth see the similarities and make their way out to see Rikker, who soon learns that there is more to the story. Weinbeck is on the hunt for his ex-wife, Julie Albright, who is in hiding after being an abuse victim for too long. The MPD Detectives agree to tag along during a visit to Albright, to check on her welfare with Weinbeck on the lam and a potential killer. Locating Albright in Bitterroot, Rolseth is anything but pleased about the community, which offers a unique style of protection. Magozzi seems more accepting, but no matter how protection is offered, Weinbeck is on the loose and must be stopped. Back in Minneapolis, members of Monkeewrench discover someone’s been bragging about the snowman killings in a chat room, hours before the bodies were discovered. Might the killer be found through technological means and could this narrow the future victim pool? Tracy offers up another wonderful thriller that is sure to pique the interest of the series fan and those who love quick police procedurals with a difference.

I simply cannot say enough about P.J. Tracy’s work as I binge my way through this series! The stories reel me in each and every time and these characters continue to evolve, with new ones introduced in each book. Magozzi and Rolseth are back in the driver’s seat, using their banter and sleuthing skills to keep the reader keen on what they will find. Introducing the Sheriff Iris Rikker storyline is not only useful, but plays right into the larger theme of the novel, which can only do good things, should she reappear in future novels. As always, the Monkeewrench crew is present, though they seem to sit in the background for much of the story, popping up only when their usefulness adds depth to the plot. Secondary characters do, as always, offer some interesting flavours, and Tracy is able to effectively utilise them to push home a key point needed to better tell the story. The narrative flows well and the reader is treated to some superior writing that is not always found within the genre, while also staying grounded. Moving away from the traditional police procedural, P.J. Tracy entertains the reader with strong storylines, perfect for a vacation or summer binge. I am eager to keep racing through these books to see what other mysteries come up in the numerous cases that follow.

Kudos, P.J. Tracy, for another wonderful piece. I am so happy to have found this series and hope to feel more chills throughout this summer reading binge!

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

The Plan, by Stephen J. Cannell

Eight stars

There was a time when I could not get enough Stephen J. Cannell’s writing. With numerous other series catching my eye, I never did get around to some of his standalone novels, including this one. One topic in my current reading challenge includes reading a book that has been on my To Be Read list for over 2 years. This one has been collecting digital dust since July 28th, 2011 (my Goodreads anniversary). At the time I finally began reading this novel, it had been rearranged numerous times on my shelf and made it to #46(!). Money makes the political world go round, even if it’s coming from the mob. With the pending US presidential election, Mickey Alo works to enact a plan his father crafted decades before to help those within the crime family; he’ll buy a candidate and place him in the Oval Office. With unlimited funds, Alo chooses someone he can shape with no public notoriety. Enter Rhode Island Governor Haze Richards, who wants nothing more than to make America work for its citizens. Not feeling he can make any difference, Richards will have to be massaged by his campaign manager, A.J. Teagarden, who will handle all the dealings with Alo. Turning to a childhood friend who has fallen on hard times, Alo has Teagarden contract Ryan Bolt to prepare a campaign video to help catapult the Richards campaign well past the established Democratic candidates. However, when Bolt learns on the sly that Alo and his mob money are behind putting Richards in the White House, Bolt flees and does all he can to ensure the secret gets out. Thus begins a cat and mouse game of Alo trying to neutralise the threat and Bolt seeking to remain one step ahead. With Richards steamrolling in the primaries, there does not seem to be anyone who can stop him, even if he is only reading from a script. Usually, the mob gets what it wants… and with Alo’s two significant projects, it seems the mantra will hold true. Cannell delivers in this wonderful standalone novel, mixing political and crime thrillers in a seamless narrative, which is recommended for those who love both genres. Written over two decades before this latest presidential election, Cannell shows that he has an uncanny ability at foreboding, though you’ll have to parse through this pre-Twitter narrative.

Stephen Cannell is a master at his art, having perfect his writing for television before making the leap to published novels. I thoroughly enjoyed his Shane Scully series and was certain to find something that would remind me why I stuck with that series until the author’s death. After reading this book, I cannot fathom why I waited so long to pick it up, though I suppose it served a wonderful purpose for this reading challenge. Cannell is able to construct a number of interesting storylines with a handful of strong characters. Ryan Bolt, washed-up television writer and childhood friend of Mickey Alo, plays a central role, though he is parachuted into the story in what might seem a tangential manner. The reader learns much about Bolt through flashbacks and the story’s development, allowing for a complex understanding of the man’s issues and his foibles, as well as what drives him to do his best. Haze Richards is the pawn of the entire story, whose early reluctance to ascend to power is soon lost when the intoxication of the ultimate prize becomes apparent. He is idealistic and seems almost wholesome, which differs greatly from the candidate parallel I found in modern presidential politics, but is soon ready to make demands and knock anyone out of his way. Mickey Alo has the money and the readiness to make things happen, worrying only about how best to execute his plan, which helps solidify the parallel between him and his modern-day tsarmaker… I mean kingmaker. A handful of other characters add depth to the story, which runs through numerous parallel plot lines, all of which are enriched by the banter and development found within the stellar narrative. The story is both entertaining and curiously telling at this stage, showing how money and power can serve to place anyone in a position of power and how the thrill of the race can turn anyone into believing what is put before them. Action is woven into the story, though it is offset with the continued momentum gain of a political campaign, which has little time to rest. The interested reader will have to see if, like at present, the political campaign within the book is caught with its proverbial hand in the cookie jar as it receives funds from a source seeking to sway the American political system.

Kudos, Mr. Cannell, for another fabulous book. The world lost a wonderful thriller writer when you passed on those years ago!

The novel meets the requirements of Topic #3, The Teetering Pile for the Equinox 4 Reading Challenge.

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

Dead Run (Monkeewrench #3), by P.J. Tracy

Eight stars

Continuing with the work of P.J. Tracy, I ventured into the third novel of the Monkeewrench series, which spins things a little and provides the reader with a new approach. Sheriff Michael Halloran is keeping an eye on his rural Wisconsin county when three bodies are pulled from the water, degraded enough that they cannot be easily identified. Might there be another killer on the loose or could someone be using this as a dumping ground? Meanwhile, in Minneapolis, FBI profiler—and former sheriff’s deputy to Halloran—Sharon Mueller has been called to Green Bay to assist with the hunt for a potential serial killer. She reaches out to Monkeewrench co-founders, Grace MacBride and Annie Belinsky, to come along for the ride, where they might be able to use some of their new top-notch software to assist with the case. During the drive to Green Bay, they run into vehicle trouble, conveniently out of cellphone range. Walking the short distance to the closest town, MacBride and the others come upon Four Corners, apparently devoid of people and with its telephones wires severed. As they press onwards, all three women witness of double murder at the hands of an apparent militia, which only further concerns them. What’s going on in Four Corners and who are these camouflaged men? When Grace fails to check in on time, Minneapolis Homicide Detection Leo Magozzi gets worried, which is only expounded when the male half of Monkeewrench pile on their own concern. A call from Halloran sends a male contingent to Wisconsin, both to investigate the three aforementioned bodies and to search for the others, who have fallen off the radar without a trace. Facing additional danger, Four Corners could be the last place Grace and her group ever see, unless they can neutralise whatever’s turned this community into a barren wasteland. P.J. Tracy continues to impress with this series, turning the focus to the female characters of the series. Those who have enjoyed the first two books will surely find something here to keep their attention. New fans can still get hooked, though it is recommended they start with the opening novel, if only to preserve character development.

I’m bingeing P.J. Tracy’s work, which began with the chilling Monkeewrench. The plots have been engrossing and I cannot say enough about these characters, many of whom continue to evolve. Magozzi and Rolseth take a backseat in this one, allowing the reader to learn much more about Grace MacBride and her ‘sisters in crime’. MacBride has evolved from the head of Monkeewrench and an almost-victim into a well-rounded crime fighter whose instincts keep her one step ahead of those seeking to silence her for good. The reader is able to learn a little more about her and the sentiments she has for Leo Magozzi, though much of the time it is her emotional stability in the face of danger that makes waves. Annie Belinsky does receive some character development as well, though she parallels Gino Rolseth in this piece as she provides much needed banter to keep the story from getting too serious. While there are a handful of key secondary characters, all of whom fit nicely into the story, it is the ‘protagonist rotation’ that kept me most intrigued. Tracy is able to seamlessly move away from the Magozzi-Rolseth focus and push it onto the others, which offers new angles and glimpses at those the reader knows well from the past two novels. Injecting some old faces from the series debut is sure to give the reader the sentiment that there will often be a Minneapolis-Wisconsin connection and offers up some great geographic options to place the subsequent novels. The narrative kept the story feeling fresh and evolving without getting too far-fetched. Moving away from the traditional police procedural, P.J. Tracy entertains the reader with strong storylines, perfect for a vacation or summer binge. I am eager to keep racing through these books to see what other mysteries come up in the numerous cases that follow.

Kudos, P.J. Tracy, for another wonderful piece. I am so happy to have found this series and hope the rest of the series is as entertaining!

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

Live Bait (Monkeewrench #2), by P.J. Tracy

Eight starsReturning to the second novel in the Monkeewrench series, I am eager to see what P.J. Tracy has in store for readers after an explosive debut. With the Monkeewrench killings complete, Minneapolis Homicide Detectives Leo Magozzi and Gino Rolseth are in a lull. There have been no murders over the past months, leaving them happy to be able to relax and enjoy the weather. However, when a call comes in that an elderly man has been found outside his greenhouse, shot in the head, Magozzi and Rolseth make their way to the scene. Unnerved because the man’s wife has moved and cleaned the body, the detectives are sure they’ll have to try even harder to piece things together. However, Morey Gilbert seems to have been a model citizen; loved by many and respected by all. Who would want to kill such a wonderful man? At the same time, another elderly man is found tied to the train tracks with barbed wire, shot as well. Things have surely grown intense for Magozzi and Rolseth in short order, forcing them to sharpen their skills once again. When other elderly citizens turn up with similar gunshot wounds, the detectives are both baffled and worried about a spree killer. It would seem that Gilbert knew the other victims, tied together by the community of residence and a similar history. When Gilbert’s estranged son—an ambulance chasing, alcoholic lawyer—and son-in-law—a former Minneapolis cop—turn up, things get a little more interesting, though nothing could stop the news that some of the forensics has peeked the interest of INTERPOL. Magozzi cannot determine how to track down the killer or what motive might include this set of victims. Grace McBride, one of the founders of Monkeewrench Gaming has been working on a new forensic program that can synthesize minute facts in the blink of an eye. While she and Magozzi play their cat and mouse game of love, the system may have a lead that no one thought to explore beforehand, pulling McBride into the middle of the case as well. There’s still a killer on the loose and international police forces knocking on the door of Minneapolis Homicide, forcing Magozzi and Rolseth to double down. P.J. Tracy has crafted another stellar novel here and shows that the debut was no fluke. Recommended for those who loved the first novel and readers who enjoy a ‘smaller town’ police procedural.New to P.J. Tracy’s work, I devoured Monkeewrench and am happy that I have made this series my summer binge. I am hooked by the story and characters, hoping they will continue to evolve. Magozzi and Rolseth return as superior protagonists, working well in a professional capacity while remaining intuitive throughout this baffling case. Their banter is great, sometimes buried in story dialogue, forcing the reader to follow closely so as not to miss anything. This keeps the story moving well and helps flesh out the backstories for all characters, particularly these two detectives. Other characters help develop a stronger narrative and add depth in a fast-paced story. The story moves well, constructed around both criminal and historical matters that should hook the reader from the early stages. The narrative propelled the story forward and the well-crafted characters keep the reader committed from the early chapters. P.J. Tracy, the amalgamation of a mother-daughter writing team, is a great addition to the genre and I am eager to keep racing through these books to see what other mysteries come up in the numerous cases that followKudos, P.J. Tracy, for a second novel worthy of more literary awards. I am happy I have secured the entire series to date and can binge the summer—or at least a few weeks—away!A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

Monkeewrench (Monkeewrench #1), by P.J. Tracy

Eight starsAfter a long waiting period, I was nudged in the direction of this series, promised that it would be full of both excitement and strong writing. I was not disappointed and think I may have found a binge-worthy series to begin the summer months. The murder of an older couple as they pray in church has Wisconsin authorities baffled, with few leads and a police force scratching their heads. Meanwhile, in Minneapolis, Detectives Leo Magozzi and Gino Rolseth have a new case that has the entire Homicide Squad baffled as well. When a young woman turns up murdered in a local cemetery, Magozzi and Rolseth can only wonder if a sick killer is on the loose. Enter five computer game creators, part of Monkeewrench, a gaming company. They reveal that two recent Minneapolis murders are identical to ones in a game they are about to send onto the market, right down to the smallest detail. The detectives learn that while the game has twenty odd murder scenes, those who have purchased the beta version have not been able to make it past the seventh killing. All eyes turn to the Monkeewrench folk as potential suspects, forcing Magozzi and Rolseth to split their time between investigating them and trying to prevent the next murder. After another victim is found, perfectly matching the game’s layout, it becomes apparent that someone is playing a sadistic game and it must be stopped. Armed with their gut and intuition, Magozzi and Rolseth dig deeper into these five Monkeewrench folks, while also trying to parse through the list of those who have access to the game, in hopes of turning up a strong lead. Back in Wisconsin, the investigation into the two slain parishioners takes an interesting twist and points to a church and boarding school in upstate New York. When Magozzi places a call to the same Mother Superior, begging for information about computer use, the two cases seemed tied together, though without any apparent similarities. Could the cases converge at this point, with a killer’s spree crossing state lines? P.J. Tracy proves a masterful writer in this debut thriller, sure to keep me guessing throughout series. I have a goal and the high quality of this series will help me reach it. Highly recommended to those who love a great police procedural/thriller outside the ‘big city’ feel of most American-based novels in the genre.While I had heard of P.J. Tracy and the Monkeewrench series before, I never had the inclination to start reading them. However, a curious publisher seeking my input on the yet to be released ninth novel and a few Goodreads friends who have been pushing through the novels in the middle of the series left me very curious. I am happy that I took the time to start, as I am hooked and need more very soon. Magozzi and Rolseth are wonderful protagonists in this opening novel, working well in a professional capacity while remaining intuitive. Their banter keeps the story moving well and the backstories offered give the reader a better connection to these men, sure to be the centre of future investigations. Other characters prove interesting, particularly those related to Monkeewrench, with their tragic pasts that have come to the surface once again. The Wisconsin storyline proved very interesting and while I was sure it would play into the central story early on, its reemergence allowed for more in-depth exploration of the facts pertaining to that case. The story moves well, constructed around some strong criminal matters and detailed exploration of medical phenomena. The narrative propelled the story forward and the well-crafted characters left the reader fully involved from the opening pages. Tracy, the amalgamation of a mother-daughter writing team, is surely a force to be reckoned with in the genre and I am eager to delve deeper to see what other mysteries come up in the numerous other cases.Kudos, P.J. Tracy, for a debut worthy of the literary awards you’ve won. I cannot wait to get my hands on the next novel and binge the summer away!A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

Black Jack (Hunt for Reacher #9), by Diane Capri

Eight starsReturning to a tried and tested series, I sought out Diane Capri’s latest in the Hunt for Reacher collection for a memorable summer read. After being seconded by the New York Field Office, FBI Special Agent Kim Otto makes her way there amidst piles of snow and blustery weather. Her assignment, to assist on a case that has ties to Jack Reacher. A woman’s body is found in a bathtub, partially filled with green paint. The victim appears to be none other than Jodie Jacob, former lover of the aforementioned Reacher. With a string of identical serial murders in the not too distant past, and Reacher as a potential suspect at that time, might he have returned to exact revenge on a girlfriend who left him high and dry? Otto cannot help but wonder, as she continues her larger assignment to locate Reacher, one she has been on for months. As the case progresses, Otto becomes uncomfortably aware that there is a power struggle within the New York office, one that reaches as high as her own boss. Might Otto have been brought it, not only to help lure Reacher out of the shadows, but also to stick a thumb in the eye of her superior? Working alone, Otto is forced to cobble together pieces of the investigation while receiving odd messages on her burner cells. She is left to wonder if Reacher is watching her in the city, but must also try to determine if it was truly Jacob in that tub and how this plays out on a larger scale. Meanwhile, a killer is going around town killing people who have slipped through the justice system, an odd form of revenge all its own. After reinforcements arrive for Otto, she seeks to piece the entire narrative together, but there are more than Reacher’s eyes watching her and it could spell disaster. Capri does well in this piece to pull the reader into the middle of the ongoing search for Jack Reacher, as well as a case that resonates and has its own red flags. Recommended for series fans or those who love Jack Reacher novels, as it is sure to please and keep them wishing for another novel featuring that rugged (non-Tom Cruise) protagonist.I have always enjoyed Capri’s take on the Reacher series and her ability to slide these novels/novellas into the middle of the Lee Child crafted books. I will admit that I binge-read many of the Reacher novels a few years ago, so the impact of each individual novel is lost on me. That being said, while I cannot reference the individual crimes to which Capri refers (tying in to Child’s work), I find these books both highly entertaining and thoroughly captivating. Kim Otto has always been that independent character whose determination could not be derailed. She shows her gumption here, left without her partner for part of the book. Otto works well under pressure and the reader can feel a close connection to her, even when faced with daunting odds. Carlos Gaspar makes his appearance in the latter portion of the book, having been on medical leave. His role is less active for obvious reasons, though his banter with Otto helps buoy the novel effectively. The Otto-Gaspar teamwork comes to the surface throughout and the reader need not worry that it will be lost in this ninth instalment. The secondary characters, including Reacher himself, show themselves to be effective conduits as the narrative pushes forward. A few breadcrumbs come out about the special Reacher assignment, including some of the FBI politics surrounding it, which can only help the reader have a better understanding of the situation. The story is strong and does have solid ties to a past Reacher novel. There is always that feel that Jack is just out of eyesight and watching as Otto and Gaspar seek him out. With ties to a past crime and Reacher’s heart, there is sure to be some intervention, though catching the man is always harder than first appears. Capri keeps the story moving well, mixing short and longer chapters to keep the reader guessing and wanting to read a little while longer. I am eager to see what else Capri has in store for series fans, with another novel almost ready for publication. This is a series that, if handled effectively, could surely go on for many more years. Kudos, Madam Capri, for keeping an energetic writing style throughout and showing readers how much fun hunting Jack Reacher can be. I look forward to the next in the series and will talk about the previous eight pieces to anyone who will listen.A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

Confessions, by Kanae Minato

Eight starsNeeding a quick book to fill my time before ending a holiday, I turned to Kanae Minato’s debut thriller that spins a murderous tale from many perspectives. Yuko Moriguchi has chosen to retire from teaching after her young daughter drowned in a pool. As a single mother, the death hit hard and Moriguchi faces her students one final time to deliver an end of year lecture. During this final address, she admits that the death of her daughter was no accident and that two students are responsible, choosing not to reveal them to the class. She has taken it upon herself to exact a form of revenge, even after the police deemed the death an accident. What follows is a telling of the events through the eyes of many, each with their own truths and revelations. The students, parents, and Moriguchi herself are touched by these perspectives, which enrich the revenge and leave everyone a little more vulnerable to the truth. A wonderfully crafted story that keeps the reader’s attention throughout. Those who love a thriller with many hidden revelations will enjoy this and need not worry about the translation, as it keeps a seamless narrative.While this book is apparently an international sensation, I had not heard about it. I am glad I scrolled through my local library and found it, which has fit nicely into the end of my holiday reading period. Minato does well in presenting this piece, which allows the reader to see the story (particularly the crime) through the eyes of many characters, thereby offering motives and enriching the greater story. Yuko Moriguchi is an interesting character, given the first opportunity to tell her version of events. The reader is likely locked into this truth through the long opening chapter and their beliefs are only then shaped by subsequent characters, all of whom twist events slightly to their favour while peppering the narrative with new facts. The various perspectives are strong and depict the differences in age, mentality, and ability of those given the narrative reins, which can force a reader to relax their preconceived notions. The story is not like anything I have read before, both because of its Japanese-influenced references and individualised approach to the subject matter. This is unlike many thrillers, English and translated alike, that I have read, proving both refreshing and mind-cramping. I was impressed to see the story develop as it did and am interested to read Minato’s second piece, which seems to be receiving the same type of praise.Kudos, Madam Minato, for such a thought-provoking novel. Full of the criminal element and personal angst, I can see why you received such literary praise.A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

Confessions, by Kanae Minato

Eight starsNeeding a quick book to fill my time before ending a holiday, I turned to Kanae Minato’s debut thriller that spins a murderous tale from many perspectives. Yuko Moriguchi has chosen to retire from teaching after her young daughter drowned in a pool. As a single mother, the death hit hard and Moriguchi faces her students one final time to deliver an end of year lecture. During this final address, she admits that the death of her daughter was no accident and that two students are responsible, choosing not to reveal them to the class. She has taken it upon herself to exact a form of revenge, even after the police deemed the death an accident. What follows is a telling of the events through the eyes of many, each with their own truths and revelations. The students, parents, and Moriguchi herself are touched by these perspectives, which enrich the revenge and leave everyone a little more vulnerable to the truth. A wonderfully crafted story that keeps the reader’s attention throughout. Those who love a thriller with many hidden revelations will enjoy this and need not worry about the translation, as it keeps a seamless narrative.While this book is apparently an international sensation, I had not heard about it. I am glad I scrolled through my local library and found it, which has fit nicely into the end of my holiday reading period. Minato does well in presenting this piece, which allows the reader to see the story (particularly the crime) through the eyes of many characters, thereby offering motives and enriching the greater story. Yuko Moriguchi is an interesting character, given the first opportunity to tell her version of events. The reader is likely locked into this truth through the long opening chapter and their beliefs are only then shaped by subsequent characters, all of whom twist events slightly to their favour while peppering the narrative with new facts. The various perspectives are strong and depict the differences in age, mentality, and ability of those given the narrative reins, which can force a reader to relax their preconceived notions. The story is not like anything I have read before, both because of its Japanese-influenced references and individualised approach to the subject matter. This is unlike many thrillers, English and translated alike, that I have read, proving both refreshing and mind-cramping. I was impressed to see the story develop as it did and am interested to read Minato’s second piece, which seems to be receiving the same type of praise.Kudos, Madam Minato, for such a thought-provoking novel. Full of the criminal element and personal angst, I can see why you received such literary praise.Needing a quick book to fill my time before ending a holiday, I turned to Kanae Minato’s debut thriller that spins a murderous tale from many perspectives. Yuko Moriguchi has chosen to retire from teaching after her young daughter drowned in a pool. As a single mother, the death hit hard and Moriguchi faces her students one final time to deliver an end of year lecture. During this final address, she admits that the death of her daughter was no accident and that two students are responsible, choosing not to reveal them to the class. She has taken it upon herself to exact a form of revenge, even after the police deemed the death an accident. What follows is a telling of the events through the eyes of many, each with their own truths and revelations. The students, parents, and Moriguchi herself are touched by these perspectives, which enrich the revenge and leave everyone a little more vulnerable to the truth. A wonderfully crafted story that keeps the reader’s attention throughout. Those who love a thriller with many hidden revelations will enjoy this and need not worry about the translation, as it keeps a seamless narrative.While this book is apparently an international sensation, I had not heard about it. I am glad I scrolled through my local library and found it, which has fit nicely into the end of my holiday reading period. Minato does well in presenting this piece, which allows the reader to see the story (particularly the crime) through the eyes of many characters, thereby offering motives and enriching the greater story. Yuko Moriguchi is an interesting character, given the first opportunity to tell her version of events. The reader is likely locked into this truth through the long opening chapter and their beliefs are only then shaped by subsequent characters, all of whom twist events slightly to their favour while peppering the narrative with new facts. The various perspectives are strong and depict the differences in age, mentality, and ability of those given the narrative reins, which can force a reader to relax their preconceived notions. The story is not like anything I have read before, both because of its Japanese-influenced references and individualised approach to the subject matter. This is unlike many thrillers, English and translated alike, that I have read, proving both refreshing and mind-cramping. I was impressed to see the story develop as it did and am interested to read Minato’s second piece, which seems to be receiving the same type of praise.Kudos, Madam Minato, for such a thought-provoking novel. Full of the criminal element and personal angst, I can see why you received such literary praise.Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at: https://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasonsA Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

The Ashes of London (Marwood and Lovett #1), by Andrew Taylor

Seven starsMy first trip into the world of Andrew Taylor’s historical fiction was sure to be exciting. The cover and title drew me in while I was walking through the library on one occasion and I could not wait to see if it lived up to my expectations. It’s September of 1666 and London is burning! The Great Fire has begun sweeping through the city and people are dying en masse. Smoke and ash pepper various streets, including the massive structure of St. Paul’s Cathedral, thought to be impregnable. Amongst the debris found within this great church is a body, badly charred and with its hands pushed behind the back, thumbs tied. James Marwood serves as a government informer and reluctantly agrees to begin searching for what might have happened so that the killer can be apprehended. Marwood struggles, as he seeks to shed himself of his father’s shadow, a former printer and admitted plotter in the death of the former king. England is still shaking off the shackles of their Civil War and Cromwell’s time as head of the government, though sentiments are still divided. As Marwood investigates, more bodies with similar thumb bindings are found, forcing him to explore numerous motives. With calls to bring those guilty of regicide to justice, there is a theme of the End of Days as well, pointing to the ‘666’ in the current year. Might England be preparing for an ecclesiastical event, begun with a raging fire? Marwood explores all his options while others are wrestling with issues of their own and London comes to terms with the devastation, seeking to rise from the ashes and rebuild in short order. Taylor propels readers into this interesting piece, full of drama, mystery, and history. Recommended to those who enjoy English history and murder, blended into a strong piece of fiction.As this was my first novel by Andrew Taylor, I was unsure what I ought to expect. He gives the reader little time to acclimate, as the history comes flooding in on the opening page. While some may be put off by the immediate slide into the past, there is no better way to get involved than to toss the reader off the literary deep end. Taylor uses a handful of strong characters to lay the groundwork for this novel, now known to be the first in a series. James Marwood is an interesting protagonist, taking the reader along on this complex journey through both formal duties and personal struggles. Taylor portrays Marwood as a man who seek to balance his life, though there are stains upon his character that he cannot remove, carrying the Marwood name. Some of the other storylines developed, though I will admit that by listening to the audiobook, my attention was sometimes waylaid and I could not focus as attentively as I might have liked. Still, some underlying themes in character development showed me that others had interesting instances of personal growth. The story was sound and I enjoyed some of the historical references and banter, as well as appearances by those who played a key role in shaping London after the fire. The political and regal influences within the narrative were also of great interest to me, as was the religious undertones hinted at throughout. I knew of the Great Fire, but had not given it much thought, at least until reading Taylor’s piece. I may return to read the second in the series, though am debating picking up a book version and re-reading this novel to collect the full impact before moving forward with future series novels.Kudos, Mr. Taylor for an entertaining read. High praise for you, though I suspect I ought to read this one again, eyes on the page, to give it the merit it deserves.A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

The Rabbit Hunter (Joona Linna #6), by Lars Kepler

Eight starsIn this sixth instalment of the Joona Linna series, Lars Kepler reminds readers what true Scandinavian psychological thrillers are meant to entail. When Sweden’s Foreign Minister is murdered by someone lurking in the shadows of his own home, the only witness to the event mumbles something that confuses authorities. Joona Linna, Sweden’s most prolific hunter of serial killers is not available to assist, having been sentenced to prison. However, no one is taking any chances and Linna is given a brief pass to aid in the investigation. When all presume the attack was terror-based, Linna promises to deliver a message from a suspected terrorist leader, in hopes that this will bring the case to a close. However, things go drastically wrong and Linna is back behind bars with no new answers. More murders occur, with this mysterious individual taunting victims by reciting an old children’s rhyme about rabbits. Swedish authorities remain baffled and cannot piece things together, knowing full well that their only hope is Joona Linna. The murders turn international and all eyes are on Sweden, forcing Linna’s release from prison in a negotiated settlement, which allows him to work on a plan he’s concocted. Could this ‘Rabbit Killer’ have a larger and more concrete plan when it comes to choosing victims? This spree of deaths seems to trace back decades, though once Linna pulls a thread, even he cannot know what will unravel. Kepler stuns readers again with a powerful psychological thriller that is not diluted in its translation. Recommended to series fans, who have had to wait a few years for this stunner, as well as those who like a little dark with their thriller reads.I remember wondering about Lars Kepler a handful of years ago, having seen the books on shelves but never taking the leap. Once I accepted that I could try something that had not been penned originally in English, I was hooked by these books, which flirt with the mind as they pull the reader deeper into the story. Joona Linna has had much development within these novels, though he is also a very dark person and hard to admire. The fact that Kepler painted Linna into a corner and sent him off to jail did little to lessen the story’s impact, as he is able to spin his mind while incarcerated and ends up blowing the case wide open. Other characters prove to complement Linna well, giving that essential ‘tug of war’ sentiment that keeps the police procedural aspect of the story strong. Some of these ‘one time’ characters are also highly entertaining, providing the reader with some subplots that drive the story home, though nothing too earth shattering. Turning to the story itself, it was strong and flowed well, though I am having a hard time feeling as eerily connected as I had been to past Kepler novels. Perhaps I am inundating myself with psychological thrillers or Scandinavian dark novels, but I almost felt as if I wanted more scintillating aspects to leave me gasping. That being said, the book read so easily and the narrative was well-paced throughout. There was a seamless translation into English and, as I have said with all books in this series and many other Scandinavian dark pieces, it is as though the move to English fits the story like a glove. I could not ask for anything more and am so pleased to feel a connection throughout. Those looking for a series that will keep them up well into the night (both for the writing style and subject matter) need look no further.Kudos, Lars Kepler, for another wonderful novel. I can see Joona Linna is in fine hands with you at the helm. And now I wait to see what else you have coming down the pipeline. A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

Crime Pays: The Year of Short Stories, by Jeffrey Archer

Eight stars

Master storyteller Lord Jeffrey Archer has chosen to please his fans with a new venture; a short story released each month. Those familiar with Archer’s work will know that he can not only spin long and involved pieces, but also the short story that compacts adventure into a handful of pages. July’s story is an interesting piece on crime and one that will get the reader thinking throughout. Kenny Merchant is a superior thief, or so he likes to think. After planning and calculating a shoplifting arrest, he readily admits to his crimes, as well as a number of others. Voluntarily agreeing to a prison term, Merchant begins researching his next scheme. It is much more complex, involving a significant piece of legislation recently passed in British Parliament. After his release, Merchant flies out of England and leaves the authorities on opposing sides of the world scratching their heads. Years later, he is brought to justice and faces a trial on a new set of criminal charges. It is here that Merchant is able to show just how calculating he can be and what a dedicated criminal can do to ensure that crime pays high dividends. Archer has done it again with this wonderful short story, sure to impress those who enjoy a little escape from the every day. Highly recommended for Archer fans and those who enjoy shorter pieces of writing to enjoy over a cuppa!

Lord Jeffrey Archer’s work is always full of unique perspectives, be they complete novels or shorter story such as this one. I am so pleased to have come across this collection and have reviewed each story based on its own merits. Now I await each instalment on a monthly basis, I can hope to find gems amidst all the reading I undertake each year. This was definitely one of the more compelling and complex reads (due to all the information being presented, not writing style). Archer does well to present Kenny Merchant as a straightforward man with many calculating thoughts. His schemes are simple enough that he can undertake them alone, but also complicated enough that the reader ought to pay attention in order to understand each cog in the larger criminal wheel. I enjoyed the banter between Merchant and the authorities, seeking to unravel what’s taken place. The story was just long enough that I could remind myself why I enjoy Archer’s work so much, as I let my brain follow whatever he has to say and suspend any disbelief. Archer is able to impress and entertain in equal measure, something that is rare in the pieces I have come across over the last number of years. I have enjoyed all these pieces and am eager for the next turn of the calendar, when I can be assured yet another short story.

Kudos, Lord Archer, for a masterful new story collection. How you find so many effective ideas that produce high quality publications I will never know.

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

Death in Transit (Torquil McKinnon #5), by Keith Moray

Eight stars

First and foremost, a large thank you to Keith Moray and Sapere Books for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

More fun on the Hebrides, where Keith Moray recounts another stunning Scottish police procedural that provides the reader with local lore alongside a decent mystery. West Uist awaits the transit of Mercury, when the planet crosses between the Earth and Sun. The local astrological society has chosen to put on some lectures about the phenomenon, as well as broadcasts by one of Scottish TV’s best-known programmes on heavenly events. Torquil McKinnon is ready with his handful of police staff for the obvious influx of tourists around town, though everything seems to be going well at present. When a murder shocks the community, it becomes exponentially more concerning with the sketch of the Aquarius symbol next to the body. The West Uist Chronicle runs a story about the emergence of a zodiac killer, which turns concern to all-out panic and forces Torquil to rush before things get out of hand. Another body appears soon thereafter, with another sign of the zodiac and everyone is sure that there is a killer on the loose, targeting those who have ties to the numerous astrological symbols known to all. Questions arise related to the planetary goings-on and whether the killer is trying to pass along a message to West Uist as a whole. However, Torquil McKinnon will not rest until the killer is caught, even if the clues seem obscure and no one is forthcoming with concrete leads. Moray provides readers another wonderful tale, sure to keep them enthralled until the final reveal. Those who have enjoyed this series will surely find solace in this latest instalment, as well as any reader who enjoys a mystery with a true Scottish flavour.

The publisher sought my opinions on early novels in the series, and I remain hooked through to this fifth piece. This novel took me back into the rural Scottish community Moray developed with such detail throughout the literary journey. Torquil McKinnon is a character that many readers can enjoy, though he has not become too one-dimensional so as to become boring. Torquil mixes a dedication to his job as leader of the constabulary with a strong connection to the locals. While he is tough on crime, he holds out a soft heart for the woman he loves and his new trusty companion. The handful of secondary characters is always changing and entertains the reader throughout. Social and personal issues weave their way into each character, providing the reader with something interesting to explore besides the central crime. There is much humour and banter for the reader to enjoy, as the characters find their niche within the dozen or so chapters of the story. The story itself is quite well crafted, keeping the narrative flowing well, with unique scenarios that foster murders and vendettas to be developed. Moray is back to his mid-length chapters, which push the reader onward in this quick adventure. The narrative flows well and keeps the reader hooked throughout, making the story an easy single-day read (as it was for me). While some may be familiar with ‘big city’ and tangential police procedurals, the reader can enjoy this close-knit story that fills the pages with Scottish lore! I’ll gladly read more and was told that Moray is hard at work on additional novels. Alas, I now have to be patient until I can devour the next Torquil McKinnon novel.

Kudos, Mr. Moray, for this refreshing read. Perfect for my holiday time, as the story does not let up until the final page. I hope you’ll dazzle your fans in the very near future.

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

Upon Further Review: The Greatest What-Ifs in Sports History, edited by Mike Pesca

Seven stars

Enjoying alternate history discussions and the pull of organised sports, I was curious to read Mike Pesca’s collection of essays on ‘what if’ moments in sporting history. From the outset, Pesca explains, as editor, that he was not looking to have contributors focus too specifically on a single event and how that might have changed a game’s outcome, but more how an event might have led to a complete change in the sport or how the public came to accept this. Academic? To a point, but I like to think about the larger outcomes rather than the simple ‘Jenga block’ changes a single move would have made in an isolated game. Pesca calls on individuals to discuss such issues as: had Wayne Gretzky never signed with the Edmonton Oilers, had the National League agreed to adopt the Designated Hitter in gameplay, had (American) football never taken off in North America, and should a certain basketball winning team been able to travel back in time and played other superstar teams. True, these topics may not interest all sports fans, but the essays within offer the reader an opportunity to suspend belief while also analysing some of the facts that could have turned a league or a player onto a different path, thereby altering the game entirely. Not all essays were up my alley, but the thought-provoking nature left me intrigued and hoping to find more collections of this nature (or that Pesca will recruit more essays for another collection). While it is hard to find a group that might appreciate a recommendation, I suppose sports history buffs might enjoy this collection, even if they focus attention on a few essays.

Essays by a collective are much harder to review than a number of writings by a single author. The cross-section of thoughts and topics proved to be highly educational and entertaining, though I will be the first to admit that not all essays caught my attention. That being said, I also had no idea of Pesca’s story or life before I found this book, so I cannot say I was a fan and wanted to see how he fared as an editor. The essays were usually short and to the point, but did delve into interesting analysis on the topics at hand. Some, admittedly, were silly and could likely have found a better home on the cutting room floor (basketballs larger than hoop rims?), but I was able to suffer through these and get to some of the more historically controversial issues and focus my attention. I know which sports I enjoy and I have a decent grasp on their histories, but this one definitely opened up my mind and left me wondering ‘what if’ on countless occasions.

Kudos, Mr. Pesca, for editing such an interesting collection. I would love to read more from some of the contributors and leave others by the wayside. Well done for sure!!

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons