Let Him In, by William Friend

Eight stars

First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, William Friend, and Dreamscape Media for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

William Friend marches onto the scene with a chilling debut novel that had me taking notice from the opening pages. Dark and haunting, Friend tells the story of a recently widowed father and his twin girls. While the girls appear outwardly normal, they possess an eerie best friend who is imaginary and directs them to do things. When the line between imaginary and real blurs, trouble follows soon thereafter.

When Alfie wakes one night to the pleas of his twin daughters, he is shaken to the core. Both assert that there is a man in their room, which causes Alfie to investigate. While he expects someone lurking in the shadows, all he finds is a room as he would expect it. Alfie is left to presume this is some nightmare or odd joke the girls have created for their own amusement.

All this seems normal, to a degree. The girls’ mother, Pippa, died suddenly nine months ago and one could only presume this is a fitful means of coping. However, Alfie begins to see things becoming even more troubling when the imaginary friend, Black Mamba, has a place setting for dinner, whispers to the girls, and apparently plans to take them away.

When Alfie seeks professional help in the form of the girls’ Aunt Julia, he hopes that it will bring some resolution to the situation. However, Alfie soon begins to feel some of the same ominous senses and wonders if this is grief in high-gear, haunting the entire household. Black Mamba is imaginary, but his presence lingers far past anything life could expect. It will be up to Alfie to rid the house of this ‘friend’ and keep his girls safe. A great thriller by William Friend that keeps the reader completely engaged.

I enjoy a thriller as much as the next person, particularly when it does not follow the cookie-cutter style of the genre’s writing. William Friend does well with this piece, gathering all the essential elements in a strong narrative. He builds from there and keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, as the story morphs from simple storytelling into a spirit hunting, told through the eyes of Alfie and Julia.

The character development is strong and ever-evolving, which keeps the reader wondering what awaits them. Both Alfie and Julia have their own secrets and sordid pasts, though these bleed into the present, rather than be compartmentalised. There is something about this eerie discovery that shapes all the characters in the piece.

Plot lines develop and are enriched by the writing style that Friend develops. There is a ghoulish sense of Black Mambo at times, though it is more the lingering effect that this imaginary friend has over the twins keeping the reader wondering where things are headed. I liked the twists and unpredictable turns, without things getting too graphic or out of place.

A great debut novel and I can only hope William Friend will return with more horror, thriller, or something in the same vein.

Kudos, Mr. Friend, for a standout debut!

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

https://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/

The Chalice of the Gods (Percy Jackson and the Olympians #6), by Rick Riordan

Eight stars

Continuing the Percy Jackson series—so diligently begun by audiobook this summer—I am pleasantly surprised to see how seamlessly Rick Riordan picked up on previous novels. Built on Greek mythology themes to provide the young reader with a collection that mixes education and reading, Riordan offers some great writing and humour to appeal to his intended audience. Percy and his gang are on another mission that takes them to the edge of danger as they try to appease the gods. A great continuation in a series that keeps readers of all ages quite enthralled.

Having been on many world-saving adventures, Percy Jackson is ready for a calm senior year of high school. However, the need for letters of recommendation from the gods is the only way he will get into any post-secondary education institution worthy of his lineage. Percy is forced to return to action, where the gods need three tasks competed before the winter solstice.

Armed with gumption and a desire to show his girlfriend, Annabelle, that he has what it takes, Percy agrees to this challenge. First on the list is to help locate and retrieve the Chalice of the Gods, which helps them ensure immortality. Percy will have to use all his powers, as well as the intelligence of both Annabelle and his best friend, Grover, to produce the needed results, while being constantly monitored by his own father. The temptation to sip from the chalice and ensure eternal life is present, but Percy may have some willpower in that teenaged body of his. All the while, Percy’s mortal mother has news of her own that is sure to distract from the mission at hand. Riordan has pieced together this new novel a decade later, without any hesitation, to keep Percy Jackson fans thirsting for more.

This summer’s discovery of the series has been an excellent addition to my reading experience. Started with Neo and continued on my own, I have been able to thoroughly enjoy Rick Riordan’s exploration of Greek Mythology in an easy to digest fashion. A strong narrative foundation provides readers with a clear pathway to follow the stories from past and present alike, while keeping things humorous and lighthearted even when handling some significant events in mythological history.

The characters are both well-rounded and plentiful, mixing modern issues wth those steeped in mythological stories. Riordan has been able to build on past novels, which have lingered for a decade, and added new angles to appease new readers, alongside those returning for their latest dose. I quite enjoyed how Percy, Annabelle, and Grover appear to keep the banter up without any sense of hesitation, as they move from teens to young adults.

While the plots are not complex, they are quite detailed, keeping the reader attentive throughout the novel’s development. Riordan has been able to parachute back into the Percy sphere, hoping to add some depth and twists to his already exciting life. Things flow well and these twists keep the reader engaged, while educating them with mythological references woven into modern events.

With two more novels to come, if the ‘three missions, three leters’ theme is to be believed, I am eager to see what is next and how Percy will handle it.

Kudos, Mr. Riordan, for a smashing return for this series.

Madam Vice President, by Julian Mann

Eight stars

First and foremost, a large thank you to OnlineBookClub.org and Julian Mann for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

Always excited to discover new authors, I gladly accepted this ARC for Julian Mann’s novel. With a strong narrative flow and some powerful plot points, Mann weaves a great story of deception, political power, and a journalist’s thirst for the truth in this thriller. While Brigadier General Victoria Pierce appears to be the saviour for all things political in the US, she is harbouring some deep secrets from her past, things that a sharp reporter is eager to uncover. However, secrets have a way of stirring up trouble on both sides, as this story suggests. A strong piece by Mann that is sure to keep readers engaged throughout.

Victoria Pierce has a secret. She has been having a long-term affair with a powerful US Senator. Their passionate connection came the year she was awarded a military medal in the Rose Garden and has been building ever since. If this were the only secret she harbours, it could be dismissed as little more than a dalliance, but there is a great deal more that this military hero has been keeping under wraps. Power is all that matters and Victoria Pierce has shown that she will do anything to obtain it.

Days before her 18th birthday in 1980, Vera Ochman is involved in a gang fight and ends up being present at the killing of an FBI undercover officer. She’s fingered as one of the key suspects and find herself sitting in court the day before she turns of age. Through some fine legal maneuvering, Vera’s lawyer strikes a deal that changes everything.

Flash forward to 2008 and Senator Eagan is about ready to make a run for the presidency. He needs strong advisors and turns to Victoria Pierce for help. Now a Brigadier General in the Marines, Victoria is eager to lend a hand, offering insight into the military portions of the campaign and some strong women’s issues as well.

Roving reporter Grace ‘Ace’ Brandon befriends Victoria, as the campaign heats up. After an accident leaves the Eagan campaign without a candidate for vice-president, Victoria somehow garners the nod to take the role, which puts Ace in a position to profile and help the country to better understand Brigadier General Pierce.

During a campaign stop in Oklahoma, Ace Brandon picks up on a story that is simmering. Ace finds herself working on a lead about the vice-presidential candidate. What secret could Victoria Pierce hold that might put everything in jeopardy?

Victoria Pierce might end up as Madam Vice-President, but none of that will matter if she is smeared and taken down a peg by Ace Brandon. Victoria Pierce will remove all impediments keeping her from holding and nurturing power. She has a plan and will use the US Constitution to ensure its success, at least for as long as it suits her. A gripping novel with political and constitutional ramifications embedded in the narrative that will have readers eager to forge onwards.

Political thrillers are just the type of book I enjoy when I want to relax and yet find myself needing some excitement. Julian Mann does just what I hoped, offering up a strong narrative base and building from there. His development of the multi-pronged narrative proves helpful to better understand some of the nuances in the central theme, but also offers up some great banter as the narrative progresses.

Characters develop throughout the story and tend to attach themselves to the reader with ease. The Victoria Pierce character finds herself dominating throughout, though her past has a way of bleeding into the present at the worst times. Ace Brandon is a sharp supporting character and provides a great counter-balance to all that the author offers with the protagonist.

Plot points emerge as the story’s momentum builds and kept me wanting to know more. The past story creeping into the present proves effective and Mann balances thing well as he reveals much that only the reader knows while the presidential campaign emerges as the core theme of the book.

I’d rate the book a strong four stars out of a possible five. While Mann’s writing kept me on my toes, his use of flashback chapters left the book feeling a tad too disjointed. I would have preferred Victoria’s story in more of a chronological order, or at least only brief flashbacks, rather than the large chunks of the story appearing to have been mislabelled as chapters. It left me trying to follow both the early Victoria and present one, where the connections between flashback and flash-forward are not as strongly built as I think Mann would have liked. Still, it was a great book and once I was able to capture the momentum, I was pushing through to learn just what Victoria Pierce would do to garner the power she feels is hers for the taking.

Kudos, Mr. Mann, for this political thriller that has so much more to offer.

Lion & Lamb, by James Patterson and Duane Swierczynski

Eight stars

The collaborative efforts continue between James Patterson and Duane Swierczynski in their latest thriller. A famous sports star is found murdered in Philly. While the police are rushing around for answers, two private detectives have been hired to do some of the dirty work. Paid by opposite sides, Veena Lion and Cooper Lamb have a history and find themselves sharing some of the intel. A wife is suspect number one, but the evidence is making that a little blurry, allowing Lion and Lamb to work together to find a killer and put this case to bed, with thoughts of doing so themselves as well. Patterson and Swierczynski do well with this piece that checks all the boxes.

Philadelphia is a city that loves its sports, particularly the Eagles, who are on a roll. As they prepare for the conference championship, their star quarterback, Archie Hughes, is found murdered. While the police are quick to answer the call, their investigation is as quick as January molasses. Still, they are able to collar the wife, Grammy-award singer Francine Hughes, for the crime before opening a thorough investigation.

With little time to waste and a city in mourning, the DA calls in private investigator Veena Lion to handle some of the specifics, with a promise to call in anything she has learned. Francine Hughes hires a legal team and they turn to one of Philly’s best PIs, Connor Lamb. Now, with two investigators on the case, there is sure to be an answer soon.

While Lion and Lamb have a history, it is not alway as adversaries. True, they love to compete for business in town and have a love/hate relationship between them, but they are also work well together and have what some might call ‘sizzling sensations’ between them. Both PIs begin pulling some evidence out of a hat, they readily share and come to some interesting conclusions. Still, they will have to keep things from their respective bosses, and the Lamb children, who are as precocious as they come.

When something comes out and more bodies emerge, Lion and Lamb find themsleves scrambling to find truths, in hopes of appeasing their bosses. A nanny who apparently had something going with the victim, but who seems also to be cozy with the PPD detective in charge of the investigation. Bad blood between Eagles ownership and the Hughes family. A missing piece of jewelry that shows up in a pawn ship soon after the crime. Even the dark side of Archie Hughes and his treatment of his family, both emotionally and physically. These and many other clues are at the heart of the investigation, with little time to settle things. While the Egles have their big game this coming Sunday and Cooper Lamb cannot keep his super-fan status under wraps, both PIs will have to forge ahead in order to bring some closure to a case that has rocked the Citry of Brotherly love. Patterson and Swierczynski do well with this piece, keeping the action high and the eye rolls plentiful.

While I have long enjoyed some of the work James Patterson puts out there, it is only because of collaborators like Duane Swierczynski that it has become palpable in recent years. The efforts of these two create both a strong story and interesting narrative technique. The use of dictated information throughout gives the story a true PI feel, as well as the bumbling of those trying to sty one step ahead of the tech buzz without proving to be too conspicuous. This permits a varied narrative perspective and keeps the reader interested until the final page.

Characters rerplentiful and emerge throughout the piece to offer their own flavouring. The authors have effectively differentiated them from one another, while keeping Lion and Lamb at the centre. Flirting with their past connections, the authors add another layer of intrigue throughout the piece, while also tossing in the traditional perspectives to keep the reader guessing about the true killer.

Plot lines develop easily and there are a few twists in the piece that are sure to keep the reader guessing until all comes together. The surprises, while plentiful, are not strictly from the investigators revealing possible motives, though this does tend to take up much fo the story;s content. These plots are further proved enticing by the authors’ use of short chapters to push things along.

Kudos, Messrs. Patterson and Swierczynski, four keeping things light and yet quite intriguing throughout this piece. I am eager to see what your next collaborative effort might be.

Obsessed (Michael Bennett #15), by James Patterson and James O. Born

Eight stars

Always eager for an established James Patterson collaborative effort, I was pleased to get my hands on the latest in the Michael Bennett series. James O. Born brings his strong writing style to the series as the NYPD detective of ten children is back to fight crime in Manhattan. As young women begin disappearing. and their bodies turn up soon thereafter, Detective Bennett is worried that one of his daughters might be next. With sharp writing and short chapters, the story builds throughout and provides the reader with something exciting into which they can sink their teeth.

Michael Bennett knows murder all too well, though he has yet to get used to it. While standing on a boat in the Hudson River, NYPD Detective Bennett and members of the force find the body of a missing college student, slain and tossed away, still in an evening gown. It hits home for Bennett, whose daughter has a friend who has gone missing and could be anywhere.

With a new case on his hands, Bennett begins combing though the clues and asking for help wherever he can get it. His CI helps guide him, though the tip will not come cheap and Bennett does not have time to waste. As a second body emerges, Bennett has a chilling sensation run don his spine; this could be his daughter. Rushing to find answers, Detective Michael Bennett realises that this case hits a little too close to home.

Following the leads provided, Bennett and his partner uncover a ‘girlfriend rental’ website, where young women are able to earn a little extra money while accompanying paying men for the privilege. A number of the women from the site have gone missing or commented on some rough action with their dates, including a few who have pressured the women Dior sex, sometimes refusing no for an answer. Bennett will have to follow the intel before another body turns up, while praying that his daughter has yet to entertain the idea for some easy money.

All the while, the Bennett household is rocked with their own drama, when two of the boys are bullied and have a gun pulled on them. A father of ten with a lovely new wife, Detective Bennett will have to juggle all this and keep a killer from striking again. The task seems daunting, but Bennett has never shied away from a little hard work. A strong addition to the series by Patterson and Born, showing that this is a collaborative effort worth fostering.

While I have found some weaknesses in the Patterson publication threshold, this book defies that and proves that the right collaborator can make all the difference. James Patterson and James O. Born work well together and are able to foster a strong relationship to keep Michael Bennett on track for success. A powerful narrative provides the pathway and leaves the reader to find themselves directed as the story moves along.

Characters emerge with ease and find their place in the larger story, as the authors offer some development, albeit minor, to some of the core characters. Those on the periphery provide their own flavour to the story. This helps push things along and keep the reader wondering, without ever losing the momentum of the core story.

Plot lines emerge and find a way to develop as well, though there is little time for slow and methodical emergence. Detective Bennett thrives on the unknown, while using new intel to develop new leads in a short time. The authors do well to creat that and keep the reader wanting more as things progress.

While I am still hoping for a great cross-character story involving some of Patterson’s strongest detectives—Alex Cross, Lindsay Boxer, and Michael Bennett—this piece has keep me sated for a little while longer. I can only hope that something happens, as they are all o very strong and keep me on my toes.

Kudos, Messrs. Patterson and Born, for another great addiction to the series.

Night Owl (Trasker #1), by Andrew Mayne

Eight stars

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

Long a fan of Andrew Mayne, I eagerly accepted this book, which begins an exciting new series. A retired American spy finds himself pulled back into the life when he witnesses a prototype airplane explode and the CEO barely escape death. Brad Trasker may have a unique way of keeping things organised, but he’s top-notch when it comes to deducing plans and how things fit together. As he pulls himself deeper into the investigation, Trasker uncovers just how deep things run. A great start by Mayne that is sure to keep readers pushing on.

After serving his country for many years, Brad Trasker is retired from the world of espionage, with a number of regrets to add to his resumé. After being invited to a next-gen aircraft launch, Trasker finds himself chatting with the company CEO, Kylie Connor. Soon thereafter, the aircraft explodes and Connor is almost engulfed in the flames. Something’s happened and mechanical error does not seem plausible.

Connor immediately pulls Trasker in to help identify what’s happened and who might be behind the explosion. The mystery gains some momentum when Trasker digs a little deeper and finds that the aircraft is not entirely unique, in that it has tied to old Soviet-era plans. All of Connor’s data is missing and some close to her on the investment side turn up dead. With a missing engineer to add to the mix, Trasker will have to pull on all he knows, and a great deal that he does not, to piece things together.

With motive still very diluted, Trasker combs through data and follow some leads in order to make sense of everything, all while being forced to watch his back. Is this the Russians, the Chinese? Could there be a domestic angle? Trasker will stop at nothing to make sense of it all as he tries to keep Kylie Connor alive for as long ad the investigation takes. Mayne at his best in this powerful new series!

Andrew Mayne has a variety of life experiences, using them to fill his writing and pull the reader into the middle. I have quite enjoyed some of his past work, so I was ready to fully commit to this new series. Mayne takes his time to develop things with ease, laying the groundwork in a strong narrative and decent characters, before taking the plunge for all to truly see his abilities. With Brad Trasker and his unique take on memory compartmentalisation, Mayne has developed a character about whom the reader will want to learn over time. Plots develop and weave through action, mystery, and espionage genres to get to the heart of the matter. Mayne’s use of titled rather than numbered chapters provides the reader with a chance to get lost in the writing and novels be fully aware of where things are headed. I highly enjoy this type of story and hope to see Brad Trasker back again soon, for all to enjoy!

Kudos, Mr. Mayne, for expanding your abilities and series reach yet again.

Be sure to check for my review, first posted on Mystery and Suspense, as well as a number of other insightful comments by other reviewers.

https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/night-owl/

The Ink Black Heart (Cormoran Strike #6), by Robert Galbraith

Eight stars

The Cormoran Strike series by Robert Galbraith has a complete hold over me! In another intense and highly active novel, Galbraith takes readers deep into the world of online gaming and the anonymity that brings. When a funny cartoon makes its debut on YouTube, the world goes mad and things explode from there. When one of the show’s creators is found murdered and another viciously attacked, Cormoran Strike and his partner, Robin Ellacott, try finding the murderer and bring justice to a young woman who only wanted to entertain. This could be their greatest challenge yet, as they wade into the online gaming world to find a faceless killer. Galbraith sets the bar once more with this piece.

With firm footing beneath them, Cormoran Strike and Robin Ellacott can finally relax a little. People are using their services, the bills are paid, and they are even able to bring in some sub-contractors. This helps, as their personal lives are still somewhat in shambles, not to mention the ever-growing magnetism between them that does not appear to be sparking.

After Edie Ledwell appears in the office begging to speak to Robin, something is surely wrong. Edie is frantic and appears out of sorts, explaining that she is being hunted and harassed. Edie is the co-creator of a highly popular cartoon, The Ink Black Heart, that gained fame on YouTube, but has since been glorified in an online multi-player game, where people from around the world can join and conquer various levels. The chat function of the game has everyone chiming in, but one player and moderator of the game in particular, Anomie, has set their targets on Edie. Robin promises to do all that she can to help unmask Anomie in hopes of saving Edie a great deal of strife.

After a few days and some in-depth conversations with the tech-clueless Strike, Robin realises that this is not something that the agency can handle and prepares to share the news with Edie. However, Robin learns that Edie has been murdered, her body found in the cemetery used as the setting for The Ink Black Heart. Someone is out there to offer up a message, though they remain shielded, perhaps hiding in the game itself. While he has little interest in playing a game of cat and mouse with someone happy to hide behind a gaming handle, Strike agrees that this might be a case worth taking and pushes Robin to open the investigation.

While trying to discover the truth behind Anomie, Strike and Robin are also hunting for a killer, someone who is nameless, faceless, and without a real forensic profile. All the while, they must struggle with their personal lives, which keep flaring up, but not in the way they both might have hoped, The lingering magnetism between them remains on a simmer, as neither is yet ready to admit the truth, or scuttle away the agency’s ability to function if they cannot. Sifting through gaming chats, loose ends, and even a few crime scenes, Strike and Robin will have to give it their wall as they delve deeper into the dark and hate-filled world of online gaming, in search of the elusive Anomie and perhaps a killer as well. Galbraith sets new challenges for the reader and the characters in a book that leaves everyone out of breath by the final page.

I have been fully committed to this series for just over a week and I cannot say that I have been disappointed at any point. Full of great stories, mountains of controversial topics and narrative, and even some strong development within the books, Robert Galbraith has set things up perfectly. The narrative foundation is strong and works well from book to book, There is an obvious guide to follow, but Galbraith includes some strong story arcs as well, keeping the reader going from book to book and hoping to learn more. Characters have always been a strength and this is no exception. There is an ongoing need for development, as Cormoran Strike and Robin Ellacott have seen a great deal in their times as a team. Their personal lives are also flourishing in each book, an interesting subplot that emerges each time they have a case on the go. A core set of secondary characters emerge as well, which helps offer banter and flavouring. The plot lines are key to the book and series, both of which find themselves heightened with the twists and turns that Galbraith inserts in here. A new angle, online gaming, leaves much to the imagination and Galbraith entertains thoroughly. With a new book on the horizon, I cannot wait to get my hands on it to see how things will progress and what Strike/Robin have in store for series fans soon.

As some who have read some of the past reviews find themselves in a tizzy, rest assured I know that Robert Galbraith is a pseudonym used by another author whose fame is pre-established.

Kudos, Mr. Galbraith, for another book whose length should not scare off the curious reader or series fan.

Second Term, by J.M. Adams

Eight stars

First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, J.M. Adams, and Oceanview Publishing for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

As the world still remembers January 6, 2021, J.M. Adams pens a debut thriller that is sure to turn heads and provide much conversation. Adams balances the tension of another political meltdown with a strong protagonist who will stop at nothing to keep her country together. Cora Walker is sure to leave an impression on many with this piece that extrapolates the happenings of January 6th with an equally ruthless dictator who veils his formidable destruction of democracy as a rally for truth.

Cora Walker finds herself as an integral part of the DIA in September 2012, where there are whispers of a Libyan attack in Benghazi. She is keen to protect the ambassador and keep a terror plot from coming to fruition. Her superiors scoff at her intel and mention that she has an overactive imagination. Cora refuses to stand down and decides to defy her superiors by preparing for an attack, working with fellow operative, Deacon Lobdell, to build a defence. When terrorist attack on the morning of September 11, Cora and her team barely escape alive as they counter the attack that she forecasted. Benghazi will be a political hot potato for years thereafter, with Cora Walker knowing the truth.

Fast-forward to 2028, Cora has taken a role as press secretary for the Speaking of the House of Representatives. She’s ready for most anything and has seen America scrape the bottom of the barrel during the January 6, 2021 insurrection on the Capitol. She’s a single mom to a young girl and refuses to let her daughter see a country that unstable again.

However, after a hard-fought election, lame duck President Terry Locke refuses to accept the results of the election, determined to show that, yet again, there are attempts to mute the people’s choice. As President Locke plans a rally to allow people to express their concerns, many see it as a new version of the 2021 mess. With Cora trying to preemptively block things, she is met with much resistance, especially since the president has turned all the intelligence agencies into his own personal soldiers.

As Cora reaches out to now Congressman Deacon Lobdell, who has long been a close confidante to the president, she will try to protect the Speaker and keep the Capitol from disintegrating once again. Cora and Congressman Lobdell agree something must be done, working covertly and off the grid. It appears that things are much worse than they were in 2021, with the people ready to kill in order to ensure their view of democracy is upheld.

As the Capitol turns into mayhem, Cora works to stay one step ahead of the worst rioters, sure that her life could be taken at any moment. Those toting guns and other weapons spout that this is in hopes of saving democracy and the republic, while hunting down Democrats like jackals. When martial law is declared and President Locke vows to ‘protect the country’ by extending his leadership for four additional years, Cora Walker knows that she will need to make the ultimate choice to bring some form of peaceful solution. With Congressman Lobdell running his own plan, there is sure to be blood running in the streets, where many have died for their beliefs. A chilling piece that reflects much of what came to fruition in 2021. J.M. Adams dazzles in this debut thriller.

I love a good political thriller, particularly when it parallels highly-realistic events. J.M. Adams has done it here, mirroring the January 6th Capitol Insurrection in this piece that projects ahead another 8 years. With a strong narrative, Adams weaves together a thriller that pushes what the world knows about American democracy and takes it even further. With a strong collection of key characters, the story flows well and has a multiple perspectives to show views from all sides. The various plot lines emerge as things get more intense, allowing the reader to see the depths of despair that could follow when democracy is shelved.

While all of this works well, I struggled at times to see how Adams would derive his own storyline, rather than creating a “Jan. 6th 2.0”. As the story progressed, things moved from copycat to the next level, with power concentrated entirely in a ruthless dictator and plans to suspend democratic ideals. With a number of references to 2021, this book developed a uniqueness that left me chilled to the bone as Adams pushed the envelope further and left little doubt to the chaos that could arise, should control be left in the hands of a politician drunk on absolute power.

Kudos, Mr. Adams, for this chaotic look into what might have been. I hope you have more Cora Walker to come!

Be sure to check for my review, first posted on Mystery and Suspense, as well as a number of other insightful comments by other reviewers.

https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/second-term/

When I’m Dead (Black Harbor #3), by Hannah Morrissey

Eight stars

First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Hannah Morrissey, St. Martin’s Press, and Minotaur Books for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

In a series that is both impactful and full of mystery, Hannah Morrissey continues with another chilling story set in Black Harbor, Wisconsin. A new murder, new protagonists, but the same small-town feel fills this third novel. Morrissey effectively paints yet another angle of the town’s goings-on, where a killer is targeting teenage girls and fueled by rumours that keep the community buzzing.

The shrill phone call on a chilly night can only mean one thing for Medical Examiner Rowan Winthorp; a body awaits her. Rowan and her husband, Black Habor PD Detective Axel Winthorp, are forced to investigate the death of their daughter’s best friend. Madison Caldwell is found on a path, her teeth knocked out, with few clues as to who might have done it. It is only hours later that everything hits home when Chloe Winthorp fails to turn up at home. Is the killer targeting their next victim?

As the clues begin piling up, Rowan and Axel begin to see a possible theory. With Chloe scorned by many—including Madison—for getting the lead in the school play, there are rumors that she is sleeping with the drama teacher. Black Habor is small, so talk moves swiftly and many begin whispering about the possibility that Chloe is not as innocent as some would think. These rumors drive a wedge between Rowan and Axel, who must stay calm outwardly as their lives are coming apart.

With a long-ago event in Rowan’s life leaving her to wonder if this is karma, a neighbour might hold the key to knowing the truth about the killings, the murdeter, and Chloe herself. Still missing, Rowan and Axel can only hope that they will get answers soon and find some justice, as the bodies continue to mount. A great addition to a series that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.

Hannah Morrissey has done well with this series, using the setting—Black Harbor, Wisconsin—as a commonality, rather than protagonists. Morrissey explores different aspects of the town and its residents, painting a dark and macabre picture of those who live and work within its parameters. A strong narrative base helps fuel a great story. Told from a number of perspectives, the story comes to life effectively through the eyes of multiple characters. Those same characters are well-established and provide new and interesting sides of the community’s make up. Each of the three books has placed its focus on different people, with a few repetitive names and roles. In a story that is wrapped in a veil of mystery, the plot development is key, as Morrissey crafts a chilling set of twists before revealing the truth and leaving the reader gasping. There is something about Morrissey’s writing that has me hooked and wanting more. Black Habor is both eerie and inviting for the interested reader. Let’s hope Hannah Morrissey has more to offer soon.

Kudos, Madam Morrissey, for a chilling tale that keeps building the Black Harbor theme effectively.

Troubled Blood (Cormoran Strike #5), by Robert Galbraith

Eight stars

Committed to the Cormoran Strike series by Robert Galbraith, I forge onwards. This is surely the most intense and hands-on book to date, pulling on a cold case that is sure to send shivers up the spine of the reader. In a piece that is drawn out and yet completely alluring, Galbraith weaves a tale keeps the reader wanting to know more, with numerous twists throughout. With strong characters and a sensational pace for a case that has been dormant for decades, Galbraith proves just how impactful a well-written book can be.

While Cormoran Strike is visiting his family in Cornwall, he is sure the private investigation agency is in good hands with his partner, Robin Ellacott and their sub-contractors. However, Strike is approached by a woman with an odd request, but sure that he can assist. The woman speaks of her mother, Margot Bamborough, who went missing in 1974. Many feel that she was a victim of the Essex Butcher—a ruthless serial killer caught in the mid-1970s—though the body has never materialised. Pondering his options, Strike is sure that this will be a taxing job and one he will need to pass through his partner before agreeing.

Having never worked a cold case before, Strike and Robin will have to really put in a great deal of effort. They agree to take the case, though the forty year delay is surely one that has them concerned. With a long list of active cases and some personal issues in both their realms, this will be something akin to juggling chainsaws, but it could have great prospects, should everything work out. Still, the niggling concerns about Robin’s marital dissolution and Strike’s aunt, their time will be severely limited, with witnesses also feigning memory loss.

Putting a great deal of their efforts into the cold case, Strike and Robin continue investigating the disappearance. This pushes them into liaising with many who see life from a different perspective, as they use tarot cards to explain events, a psychopathic serial killer who hoped to get another shot in the limelight, and even some witnesses whose theories cannot be trusted. All the while, both are trying to come to terms with issues in their own lives and an ever-growing magnetism towards one another. The truth about Margot Bamborough is out there, but with the clock ticking, will anyone uncover it in time? Galbriath’s best and most intense novel to date that shows just how addictive this series can be for the series fan.

This series has garnered a great deal of my attention and praise over the past week or so. Robert Galbraitaith, pseudonym or not, has proven to be a stellar writer that is able to weave together strong stories with just a hint of controversy to keep people drumming up added attention. A strong narrative foundation is again found in this book, which needs it for all the action that takes place throughout. There is a strong push towards exploring the lives of the protagonists, both personal and professional, as well as the ever-lingering question of a Cormoran Strike and Robin Ellacott romance. Galbriath flirts with the idea as he expands the regulars and keeps the cases from getting too stale. The plot twists in the main storyline re plentiful and the detail to which the author find himself going explains the length and depth of the book. This book is perfectly placed in the series look back over everything that has come to date. Something this intense should not have come any sooner, nor should it have been shortened. There is a strong connection between reader and protagonists, which needed to develop over time. Therefore, it is my pleasure to see Robert Galbraith offering up this stellar piece at this point, with a few more to go in the ever-intensifying series, Bring it on!

Kudos, Mr. Galbraith, for another great mystery. I cannot wait to see what else you have in store for fans.

Percy Jackson and the Singer of Apollo (Percy Jackson and the Olympians #5.5), by Rick Riordan

Eight stars

With a short story used to fill the time before the next full-length (and to some, unexpected) novel in the Percy Jackson series, I took the plunge. I have enjoyed Rick Riordan’s other work in the series and this did not look too taxing. Percy and his friend Grover are sent on an impromptu mission to locate an essential item for Apollo. Traversing the streets of NYC, these two will have to put themselves out there in order to save the day, as a melody for success remains just beyond their reach.

It’s Grover’s birthday, so Percy has been spending some time with his best friend in New York City, home to the centre of the Greek universe at present. However, when Apollo appears and seeks their help, they are forced to suspend the party experience. One of Apollo’s Chryseae Celedones have gone rogue. These golden, living statues have the most angelic voices, but with only three, Apollo is worried that his concert that evening will fall flat. As Percy feels the pressure to help out the god, he takes Grover along, who is armed with a magical lyre. They follow the sound of the Celedone’s voice, hoping to locate and trap her before too long. She is a little sly and is able to dodge them at first, hoping to blend in with the other ‘unique’ characters across New York City. Working together, Percy and Grover find a plan that might work, saving them the ire of Apollo and keeping the gods happy at the concert on Mount Olympus tonight. A great short piece that is sure to impress series fans.

I started this series over the summer with my son and have decided to keep the ball rolling in order to finish. With an unexpected sixth book in the series about to be released, I took a moment to read this short story to pass the time. Rick Riordan offers up a wonderful short story that can easily be read in a single sitting. Without the need for complex narrative direction, the author injects a little humour and gives the reader a sense of adventure. Those familiar with Percy Jackson and Grover will enjoy the banter found herein. No real character development, but a reminder of how easy to read this series tends to be, as well as how it caters to readers of all ages. Riordan does well to check all the boxes and has me eager for the next novel, to continue to Percy Jackson series.

Kudos, Mr. Riordan, for some great writing.

Lethal White (Cormoran Strike #4), by Robert Galbraith

Eight stars

I continue to enjoy Robert Galbraith’s Cormoran Strike series, a hearty collection of strong mysteries with just the right amount of controversy to stir up some drama for readers. The dual protagonists in the series offer up some wonderful banter, both within and outside of casework, while advanceing some great investigations into some of England’s most heinous crimes. Galbraith uses a strong ability to pull the reader into the middle of the story and adds wonderful character development to keep the reader coming back to see just what is going on with Cormoran Stroke and Robin Ellacott.

Picking up where the last novel ended, it’s Robin’s wedding and she is finally the centre of attention. Fast forwarding ahead one year, with Robin Ellacott gone from the investigative team, Cormoran Strike will have to try running his office without his administrative assistance and partner. Robin’s off trying to make the most of married life, which proves to be a little more than she thought it might be. She’s always wondering about whether she should have stayed with Strike and kept herself out of harm’s way.

In Robin’s absence, Strike has a new admin and she is really nothing like the previous holder of the position. After a troubled man barges into the office, Strike is forced to listen to Billy seek assistance investigating a murder he remembers witnessing as a child. Stroke is highly disturbed, not only by the revelation, but by Builly’s mental state. With few details to use as a basis, Strike tries to make sense of it all, but only gets more confused. Billy rushes way before Strike can make sense of anything, though it is the young man’s sincerity that keeps Strike interesting and vowing to follow-up, when he can fit it into his calendar.

With the new workload, Strike reaches out to Robin, who is more than happy to return as a full-fledged investigator. Both put their rocky past where it belongs, though Robin still wonders about her connection to Strike, while her new husband questions the need to crawl back to the brutal hours and low pay. Strike engages Robin in the Billy investigation after he’s hired by a Member of Parliament and Government minister to look into blackmail allegations. This is the perfect chance for Robin to slide into an undercover role and see if there is any validity to that, as well as poke around in two the Billy investigation, as everything seems to be intertwined.

While Robin and Stroke work to unearth the truth, it will take them on adventures through the streets of London, into the depths of a parliamentarian’s office and personal life, as well as into the closet of the deep secrets a family of wealth keeps. Someone is trying to keep things under wraps, while others are seeking to smear someone as effectively as possible.

A popular private investigator now, Cormoran Strike can no longer hide in the shadows to get his work done. Robin, too, sees the new-found success as being a major change in the workload and press coverage. With Strike and Robin trying to balance work and person lives, they find themselves connecting on many levels, which could pose issues in a professional capacity. As they both question what is truly going on, nothing seems clear. Galbraith does well with this piece and kept me flipping pages as I delve deeper into this series.

I find myself getting more and more interested as the series move forward, with Robert Galbraith’s varied interests and topics to address. Galbraith surely does not shy away from the controversy, but is also able to flesh out a great story on which the reader can latch, sure to find something they enjoy. The author uses great storytelling and a solid narrative base to build countless pathways until all is revealed by the final pages. Sharp characters push things along, helping to develop both the story and the larger arc this series has created. Cormoran Strike and Robin Ellacott find themselves developing effectively, never letting that deflect from a strong story at the core of the novel. Since obtaining a temp job in the opening chapters of the first novel, Robin Ellacott has seen much growth and it is her development that series fans will notice most, though there is something about the Strike-Ellacott relationship that must not be missed. Plot development keeps things on point throughout this piece and provides the reader with some entertainment, as they are never entirely sure where Galbraith wants to take things until the narrative reaches that point. I remain eager to see what Robert Galbraith has waiting in the next novel, which is sure to impress me as much as the past books in the series have done with ease.

Kudos, Mr. Galbraith, for another stunning mystery.

Career of Evil (Cormoran Strike #3), by Robert Galbraith

Eight stars

As controversy finds itself a new home around this series, I continue to enjoy each and every page. Robert Galbraith’s Cormoran Strike series has everything I like in a crime thriller, using some controversial topics to fill the larger narrative. Two strong protagonists develop well within the story and provide the series fan something to enjoy outside the well-paced murder mystery.

After a mysterious package arrives at the office, Robin Ellacott is surprised that it is addressed to her. When she peels back the wrapping, she is horrified to see the severed leg of a woman, wondering if this is a sick sign she ought to follow. With her upcoming wedding, Robin may have made one too many enemies, though this seems a tad extreme .

Robin’s boss, Cormoran Strike, is as confused by the delivery, but has many people he’s upset enough to want to send something like this his way. Strike narrows the list of possible culprits down to four, people he may have angered during his military career or early days as a ‘rough around the edges’ youth. One in particular has a history of brutal acts and fits the bill, but Strike will have to garner more evidence before many any accusations.

Alerting the police, Strike and Robin allow them to take the lead, while working their own investigation in the background. As more body parts arrive for Robin, she becomes more concerned and Strike is not longer certain the right man has been targeted. With a killer out there, slaying prostitutes to make his message clear, Strike and Robin try to stay one step ahead before they, too, fall in the crosshairs of their sadistic killer. Galbraith adds new depths to this piece, which proves the best in the series to date, as he impresses the reader throughout.

I have thoroughly enjoyed wading into the middle of this controversial series, as Galbraith’s writing keeps the reader enthralled and weaves a story like no other. While there is little doubt that they author prefers to focus on certain topics that may ruffle feathers, it is the distracted reader who loses sight of the great storytelling before them. Galbraith provides a sturdy narrative base and builds from there. The multiple perspectives offered in the book help to provide all angles of the story and gives the reader added insight into the mind of the killer, as well as the protagonists. The characters are sharp and well presented, with new faces making their marks at intervals. There is a great deal of focuson Robin Ellacott throughout this piece, especially her engagement, relationship, and the evolving of that in relation to her employment. The reader can connect with her there, but also see her grow as an integral part of the series. Cormoran Strike has developed well over the last three books, but there is always room for more personal growth, which takes centre stage at time in this piece as well. Plot development is not lacking, as Galbraith provides key moments on which the story pivots, leaving little to the imagination and pulling out surprises when they are essential. I am eager to see how Robert Galbraith will keep things progressing with the series, which lacks none of the essential elements for a superior thriller. Adding in some controversy will surely have people talking and garnering additional interest.

Kudos, Mr. Galbraith, for another unique piece that had me hooked from the early pages.

The Silkworm (Cormoran Strike #2), by Robert Galbraith

Eight stars

After devouring the Harry Potter series a few years ago, I was interested to see what else J.K. Rowling had written. While this series, written under her nom de plume, has received a great deal of controversial commentary, I was interested and could not stay away forever. Writing as Robert Galbraith, the Cormoran Strike series has all the elements of a great crime thriller, with the perfect amount of controversy and depiction for me to enjoy it all the more. As the protagonist brings a unique perspective to the genre, Galbraith’s development of a secondary lead, in the form of Robin Ellacott, adds depth and flavouring to the series that is sure to keep readers coming back.

Cormoran Strike is a great private investigator, having scraped the bottom of the barrel and flirted with bankruptcy, After solving his sole case a number of months ago, he is now riding the wave of success. His administrative assistant, Robin Ellacott, who was to be hired only for a week, has also seen an uptick in the firm’s popularity and is happy to join her boss on investigations as she can.

After the disappearance of novelist Owen Quine, many wonder if the writer might be secluding himself to come up with his next classic. However, Quine’s wife is sure there is more to it and hires Cormoran Strike to undertake some private detective work. Mrs. Quine is not worried about the reason her husband has gone off the grid, but wants him back for her own peace of mind.

Strike begins investigating and learns that Quine had just submitted a manuscript that was vastly different than his past pieces, an attack novel that goes after most everyone Owen Quine has known in the literary world. It includes some controversial subject matter that is sure to fan the flames of societal acceptance as well, which only adds to the motives that others might have for doing him harm. It would seem that Mrs. Quine was unaware of all this and that a simple ‘writer’s vacation’ is no longer a viable reason to explain her husband’s disappearance.

When Owen Quine’s body is found massacred, Strike realises that a ruthless killer is on the loose, ready to exact revenge for some sleight. He pulls on the assistance of his administrative assistant, Robin Ellacott, who has proven to be highly useful in the past, in hopes that she will shine a new light on things. While Robin is trying to keep her involvement from her overbearing fiancé, she cannot help but love the work that Strike has offered her. Together they will have to piece together the clues and locate the killer before they slip away and leave Owen Quine’s murder unsolved by the authorities. This is a complex case and no one has the answer, but the rumours and speculation run rampant. Galbraith ticks all the boxes and adds a great level of controversy as well in this second novel.

I first remember hearing about this series because of the controversies Rowling (Galbraith) brought to it. I feel that this was the novel that garnered a great del of blowback, addressing issues of women’s rights and the transgender community openly and without kid gloves. All the while, Galbraith offers up some strong narrative foundation for this piece, building on themes and developing a mystery that pulls the reader into the middle. I found myself captivated with the direction of things and can only hope that the rest of the books in this collection have as structurally sound a base. The characters are also well-developed, particularly the two at the centre of the story. Cormoran Strike continues to offer up some breadcrumbs of his past and present struggles, while Robin Ellacott has pushed herself into the limelight to keep the reader intrigued about her. Personal struggles play a significant, even if not a central role in the book for both protagonists and some of the key suspects who may have wanted Owen Quine dead. Plot twists provide the reader with something on which they can grasp, leaving things ever-evolving and far from going stale. I am excited to see where Galbraith takes things and applaud the bold move to speak out against the norm when addressing some issues that are prevalent in society at present.

Kudos, Mr. Galbraith, for another unique piece that had me hooked from the early pages.

One Last Kill (Tracy Crosswhite #10), by Robert Dugoni

Eight stars

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

Always happy to reach for another Robert Dugoni novel, I am especially pleased when it is the Tracy Crosswhite series. Dugoni has crafted a strong collection of novels, sure to interest those who enjoy police procedurals, moving from active cases, to cold one, and now delving into a long-ago serial killer who may have re-emerged. Crosswhite has grown throughout the series, as Dugoni puts her in many awkward positions. This novel helps explore some of the backstory of a superior and sworn enemy, Johnny Nolasco, including how his past has come to help shape the bitterness. In a race to find a long dormant serial Killer, Crosswhite and Nolasco will have to put their differences aside in order to find that missing piece of evidence. Dugoni dazzles once more and kept me on the edge of my seat.

Seattle was facing major panic in the 1990s when the Rout 99 serial killer was on the loose. Thirteen victims appear to be attributed to him, though he left only a mark on their left shoulder, something that was never released to the public. Outrage boiled over when four women who worked in the mayor’s office were slain, when the SPD finally took notice. When they could get nowhere, the case was shelved and left to gather dust.

Tracy Crosswhite is tasked with reopening the investigation, pressured by a Chief of Police who remains bitter for some recent accusations. While she would love to work with one of her former partners, she is pushed to work alongside another cop who cut his teeth on the hunt and task force, Captain Johnny Nolasco, Crosswhite’s largest nemesis , who has brought her nothing but pain and misery since she joined the SPD.

Nolasco is not yet ready to let bygones be bygones and challenges Crosswhite to close the case once and for all. The two are forced to revisit old clues and follow-up on some reports from an investigative journalist who blew the lid on another SPD scandal before she was kidnapped and left for dead in California. When Crosswhite thinks that she has found a solid lead, she presses it and reveals the likely killer, who has been lying low for decades. When the man is taken into custody, a new murder with the same marking occurs, leaving many to wonder if they have the wrong man. The pressure of the accusation and the obvious mess-up by SPD has many thinking that the police have dropped the ball once more.

When DNA shines light on a new possibility, Crosswhite and Nolasco will have to act quickly, as someone appears to be haunting them and trying to use their anonymity to their advantage. A killer is out there, and appears ready for one final kill, as Nolasco finally sees Crosswhite’s detective work as pure gold. This will be one case that must be solved in order to bring some form of respect back to the Seattle Police Department. Dugoni proves himself once more and keeps the reader guessing.

There’s noting like a Tracy’s Crosswhite book to get the blood pumping. Dugoni has built up the series over a number of years, adding just the right amount of spice to strong story foundations. The narrative flow guides the reader throughout this piece, leaving little to chance in a series that never turns towards the dull. With great characters, Dugoni has been able to set the groundwork for strong development and, in this case, turning a minor character into someone whose backstory is quite intriguing. Plot points emerge throughout the story, providing some surprises for the reader and keeping the novel from being too linear. Many will ask, should the series be read in order? Dugoni builds on themes and makes references to past novels, making reading the books in order an essential. I am eager to see what Robert Dugoni has to offer in the coming years, as Tracy Crosswhite appears far from done her work with the Seattle Police Department.

Kudos, Mr. Dugoni, for another great addition to the series that makes it even more enticing.

Be sure to check for my review, first posted on Mystery and Suspense, as well as a number of other insightful comments by other reviewers.

https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/one-last-kill/

The Cuckoo’s Calling (Cormoran Strike #1), by Robert Galbraith

Eight stars

Having long been intrigued by this series, I turned to the debut novel by Robert Galbraith. It is the protagonist, Cormoran Strike, whose uniqueness and utter determination caught my attention early and kept me hooked. In a thriller that touches on many aspects of the genre, Galbraith brings to story to life and sets the scene for what is sure to be an intense, well-paced series.

Cormoran Strike is a great private investigator, but barely able to make ends meet. In the heart of London, he is one missed bill payment away from bankruptcy and has just left his live-in partner. With a missing leg after a bomb blast in Afghanistan, Strike is not sure what to do and is literally grasping at straws.

After John Bristow walks through the door, things take a sudden turn. Bristow’s sister, Lula Landry, fell to her death a few months before. While the police ruled it a suicide, John cannot shake that there might be more going on. Never one to turn away work, Strike agrees to have another look and try to determine what actually happened to Lula.

As a supermodel who knows all the right people, Lula Landry was sure to have made an enemy or two, though Strike refuses to believe that the world of millionaires and beauties is that cutthroat. Things take a turn the more Strike tries to find answers and he is soon neck-deep in a world where no one wants to admit what they saw, but they will sell you up the river in a heartbeat. As Strike inches towards the truth, he discovers that Lula held many secrets and knew too much about too many people. If only it were that easy to finger the killer and get paid. Cormoran Strike is prepared to do whatever it takes to solve this crime and put himself back on the map. Galbraith does well to introduce the world to Cormoran Strike and I cannot wait to see what else the series has to offer.

While it was for the series’ controversies that I first put this book on my radar, I was also curious to see Robert Galbraith’s writing style, as I know ‘their’ other work quite well. Galbraith does well in the adult genre, pushing some strong ideas with key aspects of a scintillating thriller. A great narrative foundation helps to keep the reader involved throughout. There are some strong characters, many of whom receive their development moments in the book. The protagonist is well-developed with a decent backstory and much to be done in the years to come. I await the next novel to see if Galbraith has decided to build on some of the minor characters or leave them shelved. The plot is rich and finds itself growing at just the right moments. I cannot help but wonder where Galbraith hopes to take things, as there is a richness in the storytelling and the depth of plot development that has me begging to learn just a little more. I am eager to get to the second book to see if it is just as exciting,.

Kudos, Mr. Galbraith, for a strong opening salvo. Let’s see what Cormoran Strike has to say moving forward.

Phenomena: The Secret History of the U.S. Government’s Investigations into Extrasensory Perception and Psychokinesis, by Annie Jacobsen

Nine stars

I have enjoyed a few of Annie Jacobsen’s past books, each of which revealed some secret intelligence and defence work the US Government has been undertaking. Jacobsen continues in this vein, using this book to discuss the exploration of the human mind and how Americcan intelligence used it to their advantage. While some might call it a bunch of bunk, there are some interesting aspects to the exploration and I was quite happy to be educated, as Jacobsen never fails to teach while entertaining in her tomes.

It may be news to many that the US Government has been looking into the art of mind control and extrasensory perception for over four decades. Many might think that this is right out of a Stephen King novel, but Jacobsen explains that American intelligence has long wondered if there is truth behind using the mind to control things or at least to be able to predict things outside the realm of coincidence. Jacobsen posits that the US Government wanted to use this power not only to read minds, but to be able to help locate hostages, missing people or military hardware, and even determine what allies and foes might be doing behind their own borders. This came with numerous tests and secret projects, pulling people from the general public to tests their abilities.

There is no doubt that these are radical programs, with highly controversial outcomes, but they are far from the fodder to fill the pages of a science fiction novel. Jacobsen’s access to intel through declassification has opened many doors and left her with the ability to share this news with readers now, as they thumb through many of the human tests undertaken, as well as though on animals and even plants. This is all in an effort to better understand the brain and how it could be ‘weaponised’.

Jaacobsen makes the case that there are psychological tests to help gain the advantage, mostly during the Cold War. The tests being done were to help better understand the mind and how it could be used to get that ‘step up’ on others, particularly the Soviets. That said, tests involving memory, drugs (both natural and pharmaceutical), and even pre-cognition, were not unknown behind the Iron Curtain, all throughout he Cold War. Both sides sought to get the advantage, which is documented all throughout the pages of this tome. Parts of the tome also discuss China getting in on the exploration using the knowledge they acquired to further their own mental weapons in the large war of control.

While this was not my favourite of Jacobsen’s books, it did shed some light on a few interesting concepts undertaken by the Americans over the last forty years. The mind has long been a tool and some might call it a weapon. Jacobsen peels back the truths and fallacies that have emerged around CIA mind control games and experiments, providing the reader with some concrete proof of the things that have been going on. Jacobsen’s intuitive nature helps create a stellar piece of writing that many can enjoy. Her chapters are thorough yet not too dense as to make things difficult for the layperson. The vast numbers of documents she scoured and interviews she undertook to ascertain this information is to be applauded as well. While the topic has never been of keen interest to me, Annie Jacobsen does well and is sure to dazzle for many who love to read about the fine line between fact, fiction, and the completely ‘out there’.

Kudos, Madam Jacobsen, for another great piece that turns over many rocks to bring the public answers they deserve.

The Viper (Dave Gurney #8), by John Verdon

Eight stars

John Verdon returns with another stunning crime thriller with retired NYPD Detective Dave Gurney at its centre. While presenting his protagonist as a retired cop, Verdon always seems to pull him into the middle of the most complex and violent cases. The balance here is great and the reader is able to see both sides to Gurney, whose wife wants him to settle in upstate New York to expand their farm life. However, Dave Gurney is never one to shy away from a challenge, which proves to be quite daunting throughout this piece. Verdon has a knack for pulling the reader into something and never letting go, which appears to be the case once more. All comes to an intense culmination and a surprising ending, which will keep series fans wondering where things are headed.

Dave Gurney may have loved his time on the force with the NYPD, but he cannot shake the solitude of life in upstate New York with his wife, where the chicken coop and her cello playing are the biggest concerns. However, when Gurney’s wife brings him a request to help her friend, he obliges. Gurney is asked to review the case of Ziko Slade, one-time tennis misfit, who is serving twenty years for the gruesome murder of a local criminal, Lenny Lerman. While the jury seemed happy to convict Slade in record time, Gurney is presented with a case where the loopholes are massive and he cannot help but want to explore it a little more.

While Gurney has experience with complex cases, there is something about this one that screams red flag. While poking around, Gurney appears to reveal a large amount of corruption that had been buried beforehand. Lerman’s family wants nothing to do with a new investigation, making it plainly clear to Gurney in violent ways. As things would have it, Gurney persists and is soon being framed for murder. He knows that he is innocent, but try proving that to a bloodthirsty media and a determined district attorney, ready to serve Gurney up on a platter.

While dodging the law and trying to stay one step ahead of the killer, Gurney realises that this may be his most intense case to date, both during and after his time with the NYPD. He refuses to stand down, sure that this viper’s nest of controversy will abate once he gets to the truth. Someone is trying to keep that truth from surfacing, killing anyone who might share it, all with a mysterious venom appearing in odd locations and sparking Gurney to think even more. Verdon does a masterful job keeping the reader hooked until the very end, where he embeds a surprise that could turn this series on its head!

I have long enjoyed the work of John Verdon, perhaps because he never ceases to amaze me. His story ideas are first-rate and he knows how to present them in a way that is neither predictable or traditional. His narrative flow provides a clear path, though there are always twists to keep things from getting to be too simple. Gurney and his wife remain constant characters, offering a great contrast to the harsh and sharper-edged people who appear throughout the series. Gurney has not grown much in the series, but his commitment to a life post-NYOD has—even if he has an odd way of always wanting to be back in action. Plot twists develop and emerge throughout the piece, leaving the reader on the edge of their seats and they try to piece it all together. While there is little movement throughout the piece (from a setting perspective) there is never a lack of action, which is another of Verdon’s great abilities. We need not travel or see the glitzy lights of NYC to have a stunning mystery to read. I look forward to seeing what’s next for Verdon, whose ideas are always quite unique.

Kudos, Mr. Verdon, for keeping me curious throughout before slamming down that cliffhanger.

The Confessions of Pope Joan (Vatican Secret Archives #7), by Gary McAvoy

Nine stars

First and foremost, a large thank you to Reedsy Discovery and Gary McAvoy for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

Always eager to read the work of Gary McAvoy, I gladly accepted this ARC, the latest in the Vatican Secret Archive series. The story pulls on yet another aspect of early Christianity that is sure to rock the modern Christian world. McAvoy writes not only to educate on these revelations, but is able to produce a thriller that holds up against many of the other authors in the genre. McAvoy’s book provides some strong arguments for the inclusion of these newly unearthed views, which adds a subtle political element to the larger Vatican reaction. McAvoy’s ability to mix fact and fiction is second to none, forcing the reader to posit what might be truth and where the fabrication commences. Another great piece in this strong series with a gripping final few chapters.

While visiting a friend in the English countryside, Father Michael Dominic makes an unusual discovery when he comes across an old riddle that points to an ancient church. When Father Dominic and his entourage discover the cryptic diary of an old figure long thought to be a fallacy in the Catholic world, they are stunned. This is only further exacerbated when the 1st century Gospel found alongside it reveals new thoughts long buried by early biblical scribes. The diary of Pope Joan, long-thought a 9th century rumour, explores a voice for women that was far from common (or permitted) at the time. The purported Gospel of Salome, an early follower of Jesus, shows a completely different perspective for women and the means of understanding sin in its earliest form. Father Dominic and his close friend, sharp-witted journalist Hana Sinclair, know that they have something intense on their hands now. They are sure it will also cause many waves should it see the light of day.

When news of the discovery makes its way to Lord Lucius Pelham, a powerful Englishman with numerous connections, the concern over the documents increases. Lord Pelham leads a secret group within the Catholic Church, the Order of Papal Guardians, and vows to ensure neither of these relics see the light of day, promising he will stop at nothing to have them destroyed. When a local vicar is found murdered, Detective Inspector Grace Dempsey finds herself on the scene to explore what’s happened. Father Dominic and his entourage are questioned, as they were on site, though they are soon cleared by DI Dempsey. Still, it is a warning in an ongoing game of cat and mouse, as they return with the relics to the Vatican, in hopes of showing the current pontiff.

As Pope Ignatius learns of the diary and gospel document, he is deeply concerned. He knows that his time is short and hopes to shape his legacy, but is also not sure how the Church will handle the news of Pope Joan’s existence and what the Gospel of Salome might mean for future teachings. Father Dominic can only imagine that it is burden that could have heavy consequences.

While Lord Pelham seeks to capture the two relics and see one of Father Dominic’s close friends framed for murder, he will have to do more than simply wish it into being. DI Dempsey is aware of Pelham’s antics and history for meddling, using his powerful connections to get what he desires. Pope Ignatius must also decide how to handle the news of the diary and Gospel, as well as what it means for the future of the Church. Whatever he decides, there will be those on both sides of the argument sure to press him to turn their way. All the while, Father Dominic has an epiphany of his own involving Hana Sinclair, something that has been brewing for a while. All this, with a pending political cloud looming over the Holy See, which could change its perspective significantly. Gary McAvoy pulls the reader into a handful of poignant moments in the series, sure to intrigue those who have followed along from the very beginning.

The detailed writing of Gary McAvoy makes this series and the larger group of books related to Father Michael Dominic not only a joy to read, but provides numerous points of educational insight. While the books are deeply rooted in Christian history and the role played by the Catholic Church, they are not meant to inculcate the reader into believing a set of views espoused by the author. Rather, they seek to provide moments of thought as McAvoy hopes to leave the reader with some introspection.

McAvoy offers the reader a strong narrative foundation, permitting them to follow the story with relative ease. There is a mixture of action and education woven into each page, as things progress and the reader is highly entertained. Within the narrative is a building, not only of the subject matter at hand, but the connections between the characters and role of the Church in society. The characters, many of whom have been around for numerous books, help shape the story as well. Some work to build the thriller angle, while others push a deeper religious perspective, both of which are essential to better understand the book and the series, The Dominic-Sinclair connection, which has been a matter of some interest to series fans, gets a lot of time as well, though some of it more subtly than might be wanted. This enriching of the larger story can be appreciated by those who have a firm grasp of the series. Plot twists emerge and build on one another with ease. McAvoy has long been known to add moments of action and religious curiosity, both of which fuel the plot developments and keep the story from becoming too predictable. There is a strong sense of something extreme coming in the near future, which I am sure McAvoy has been planning for a few novels, I cannot wait to see how the cliffhanger at the end will play into the next novel and what role Father Michael Dominic might have moving forward.

Kudos, Mr. McAvoy, for another chilling thriller. I love your views, your insights, and your ability to grip the reader so effectively.

The Last Election, by Andrew Yang and Stephen Marche

Eight stars

First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Andrew Yang, Stephen Marche, and Recorded Books for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

Debut thrillers can be highly exciting, especially when they focus on politics. There is something about the unpredictability of the subject matter that can keep a reader on their toes. Andrew Yang and Stephen Marche present a chilling political thriller that could easily have ramifications on the upcoming 2024 presidential election, exposing harsh truths and reading the tea leaves with ease. Yang and Marche offer up a strong ‘what if’ option and espouse that it is not too far from the current situation in the country. As the reader follows along the intense presidential election campaign, they are forced to see just how realistic the authors have painted the options and what could await us, should the public tire of the traditional system. A great thriller that kept me thinking and proved painfully possible in an era of public involvement.

The upcoming presidential election will have many key players, none as important as Mikey Ricci and Martha Kass. Ricci has seen the circus that the 2016 and 2020 campaigns turned out to be, wishing that he could change the system to ensure America gets a leader in which it can be proud. Kass has an intriguing job with the New York Times, overseeing their tip line and with access to so many secrets, she is never sure what she ought to do.

Ricci may have found his solution, as he agrees to take on the campaign manager job for a third-party candidate, running as the Maverick Party. The candidate is frank and open about his past, as well as what he wants to see for America in the future. The great difference is that it is so much from what is currently being espoused by the two main parties, which appears to be garnering a great deal of interest and support at all levels. A refusal to backdown and a sense that America needs a push in another direction, the campaign’s theme remains ‘unfuck America’. Ricci finds himself butting heads with many in the political realm and not worrying about the fallout, sure that he may have found the man who will change things forever. Dark money pours in and the momentum leading to Election Day is like nothing anyone has seen before.

At the same time, Kass comes upon a credible tip that the Joint Chiefs of Staff have been mulling over a power grab in the upcoming presidential election. While not yet ready to call it a coup, they are worried about what will happen and can only hope that there will be a chance to keep America on the right path. With the Maverick Party gaining ground all across the country, the likelihood of political chaos once the ballots are counted and the Electoral College results emerge remains high. It would appear seizing power is looking more likely each to ensure a peaceful move into the next four years.

As things unfold and the campaign reaches its zenith, Ricci and Kass become allies in an unlikely way. Watching America turn on itself and buck the trends is only the beginning in a political atmosphere rife for chaos. With it unlikely that anyone will capture the needed 270 Electoral College votes, it all comes down to the hushed plan Kass has heard about. Will someone actually try to wrest power away from the elector? Can Congress handle the weighty job of breaking the logjam? How will people accept the unconventional way of determining a new leader, using a system that has only been gathering dust in textbooks? Yang and Marche posit this and many other things in this well-paced novel that sends chills up the spine of any with an interest in political thrillers.

There is no doubt that Andrew Yang and Stephen Marche have a powerful piece on their hands. Yang, a former presidential candidate, has some inside knowledge about how the system works and can only wonder if his ideas could come to fruition. A strong narrative basis not only guides the book, but provides a strong direction for what occurs throughout. There is a frankness to the book that is only possible when the foundation of the story is strong enough to keep it upright. Characters emerge throughout that are not only relatable, but also highly intriguing and keep the reader’s attention. The authors seek not to create candidates who are spotless or an electorate who care only about fiscal values or policy shifts, but the real issues that come to the dinner table. These people are peppered throughout the book and resonate repeatedly. The plot twists emerge without stopping, being both surprises and utterly expected results in equal measure. The authors have found the perfect balance to the fictional writing project and foreshadowing what could be coming down the pipeline, leaving the reader to wonder where the line might be. This is both a highly entertaining read and something that could really be a wake-up call to many, which is why I enjoyed it so much. I will have to wait and see what comes of the election south of me, as the world watches to see the sort of circus that is sure to come.

Kudos, Messrs. Yang and Marche, for this scintillating piece of political possibilities.

The Last Olympian (Percy Jackson and the Olympians #5), by Rick Riordan

Eight stars

As summer is done and Neo is in school, I have taken it upon myself to complete the Percy Jackson series we so diligently began by audiobook. Rick Riordan’s books build on Greek mythology themes to provide the young reader with an excellent collection that mixes education and reading enjoyment. Highly amusing for readers of all ages in what was supposed to be the series finale.

It is no shock that the Olympians and Titans will soon clash. Percy Jackson and his friends have been preparing for this day all year. Kronos is only getting stronger with all his recruiting, making victory by the Olympians all but impossible. Still, Percy refuses to stand down and deny that they have a chance, albeit a small one.

When Kronos releases the monster Typhoon, the Olympians can see they are not ready. Slowly, the Titans begin their advance on New York City, where Mount Olympus awaits and remains unguarded for anyone to take. Percy will have to rally the troops and hatch a plan that will work for everyone without putting the gods in danger.

All the while, Percy’s 16th birthday approaches, making the oracle’s premonition come into play. The Battle between the Titans and the gods will surely play a role in how Percy will handle the pending news that is set to occur on his birthday, but he refuses to stand down and wait for defeat. In what was supposed to be the final book in the series, Rick Riordan offers up some of his best writing and descriptions yet!

I had heard of the series long ago, but never took the time to delve into it. Glad that Neo and I finally took some time, I was greeted with some great writing and strong stories for all to enjoy. Rick Riordan offers up a solid narrative, filled with details and descriptions that teach about Greek Mythology and the life of a teenager. The characters emerge throughout the series and have grown as the series progresses, adding flavour and depth to an already great set of books. Plot twists, especially in this fifth book, are plentiful and there is a sense that Riodan wanted to save the best for last (though we now know there is another book), as he weaves together some of the foreboding and foreshadowing the entire series has included. I was blown away and hope Neo will be able to pick up where we left off together, learning all about Percy Jackson and how he battled the Titans thoroughly. What could be left to say in the yet to be published 6th book? We shall soon see!

Kudos, Mr. Riordan, for another great novel to pique my interest.

The Demigod Files (Percy Jackson and the Olympians #4.5), by Rick Riordan

Eight stars

With a novella the next book in the Percy Jackson series, I turned to this short collection, which includes the aforementioned short story. These are three pieces that show how busy Percy has been, as well as introducing new main characters that are sure to appear in the series’ fifth novel to come. Rick Riordan does well here to keep series fans intrigued as they wait for the next full novel. Great story ideas, punchy dialogue, and sassy teen humour fill the pages of these three stories.

Percy Jackson and the Stolen Chariot

In this story, Percy finds himself in school when Clarisse La Rue appears outside, in the middle of being attacked. Sneaking out to help, Percy soon learns that Clarisse has been travelling on Ares’ War Chariot, but it was stolen out from under her. Percy agrees to help, as the chariot must be back by sundown. The journey takes them on a few outlandish adventures, but the worry that Ares will discover the foible fuels them on to find the missing chariot.

Percy Jackson and the Bronze Dragon

This story sees Percy at Camp Half-Blood, where he is playing Capture the Flag. While in the middle of the game, Annabeth and Silena Beauregard attempt to capture Percy and his teammate, Charles Beckendorf. Charles finds himself drawn to a massive Myrmekes ant hill, where his discovers a bronze dragon’s head. He tries to take it for his own, but Charles is bitten and has acid tossed in his direction. Percy, Annabeth, and Silena will have to work together to help Charles before they, too, are attacked.

Percy Jackson and the Sword of Hades

The story serves as the actual “4.5” in the series for those who like reading in order. Percy, Thalia, and Nico are all tricked by Persephone into coming to the Underworld, where Hades has a new sword they may wish to take for themselves, though it has been stolen. Embedded within it is a key to the Underworld, capable of letting anyone either in or out. A powerful tool for sure. While Thalia protests participating, she sees the larger issue and agrees to come on the quest. When Percy leads the way into finding the demigod who stole the sword, things take a dire turn and the Underworld is soon on the brink of releasing many souls, which would prove problematic for all. How will Percy save things and will he be forced to step out of his comfort zone to do so?

This short collection fills gaps and adds new storylines, as if Rick Riordan did not have enough to juggle at present. A great companion to the full-length books, this collection fits in wonderfully, offering great narrative foundation and introducing new faces to the larger story. The plots are quick to appear and resolve, as this is three stories in one book. Those who have been enjoying the books can devour this as they wait for another novel, which is what I have been doing. Riordan proves that he is versatile and keeps the reader hooked, which has me eager to get to the next novel soon!

Kudos, Mr. Riordan, for some great writing.

Remi Bone, by William L. Myers Jr.

Eight stars

First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, William L. Myers Jr., and Oceanview Publishing for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

Always pleased to have a new William L. Myers Jr. novel to read, I gladly accepted this standalone thriller. Bringing more of Philadelphia to his stories, Myers offers up a thriller that pits a man who has nothing to lose against a city with so much to gain, all with a primary focus, his daughter. Myers presents a story full of action, adventure, and even a little humour, perfect for the reader who needs grittiness without all the drawn-out descriptions.

Remington ‘Remi Bone’ Bohne has seen a great deal in his life, A hard-working mechanic, Bone laid his wife to rest too soon and is a single father to a highly intelligent daughter. When he learns that Kayla has been accepted to Penn, he is both overjoyed and panicked, as he does not have the money to send her. However, this soon pales in comparison, as he discovered that he has congenital heart disease with only a short time left to live.

Unsure what he will do, Bone sifts through the money he’s stashed away for Kayla, realising that it will not be enough. In walks his boss at the shop with a proposal. With all the drugs on the streets of Philadelphia, many are beginning to think that there needs to be some honest to goodness clean up. This will not happen with city programs or law enforcement budgets, but with some vigilante work, killing those who are at the root of the problem, the drug dealers. Bone is offered the chance to make some decent money serving as a killer to rid Philly streets of the lowest scum. The money is nothing to turn away from and if Bone is going to be gone anyway, he might as well go out with a bang.

When one killing turns two two and then more, Remi Bone becomes the most sought after hitman of them all, both by the police and the drug dealers themselves. Uttering a catchphrase he always thought worked well for him, Bone is sent on multiple missions to rid the streets of killers and keep the money coming in for Kayla, all while keeping her strictly in the dark. All the while, some in positions of authority begin to piece it all together and lay a trap, in hopes of bringing this hitman to justice before too long. Myers does well to craft this piece and keep the reader flipping pages well into the night.

There is a certain eagerness when i read anything by William L. Myers, Jr. I discovered his legal thrillers and could not get enough of them, but also watched as he morphed into more writing projects more, all of which had his signature sharpness and great development. Myers builds a strong foundation with this book, premised on something is simple as cleaning up the streets, while providing the reader with something intriguing to read with an impetus unlike anything I have read before. Strong characters keep the story moving and leave the reader eager to discover more, particularly with Remi Bone and his sordid past. The plot simmers for a time before bubbling over and keeping the reader int he middle of the mix. There is a lot to discover with this piece and i hope Myers will keep writing, be it legal thrillers or something of a more psychological nature. I am exciting in to see what’s next and will have to wait patiently for whenever that might be.

Kudos, Mr. Myers, for providing energy and effort to a much needed topic.

Be sure to check for my review, first posted on Mystery and Suspense, as well as a number of other insightful comments by other reviewers.

https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/remi-bone

The Battle of the Labyrinth (Percy Jackson and the Olympians #4), by Rick Riordan

Eight stars

As the summer time ends and Neo returns to school, we tried a few ‘read together’ experiences with the early novels in this series. Now, it’s time to keep reading on my own to see how things progress. Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson books, building on Greek mythology themes provide the young reader with an excellent collection that injects a little education into some enjoyment. Highly amusing for readers of all ages, Riordan does well with the series.

Another year, another school in which Percy Jackson finds himself. Finally in high school, Percy hopes that freshman orientation will be a breeze, rather than a chance to get himself expelled before he begins. Things get bad when he sees someone from Camp Half-Blood as another student, but this pales in comparison to the chaos that occurs when a clan of demon cheerleaders try to kill him.

While the time inches closer in which the Olympians will have to face the Titans, led by evil lord Kronos, there is much yet to do. The Titan army begins amassing on the periphery of Camp Half-Blood, sending many into a panic and Percy to join one of his friends on another mission. Annabeth has finally been given the chance to lead a quest through the Labyrinth, an underground world full of surprises and where the Titans can surely prepare to attack without being seen.

As Grover, Tyson, Percy, and Annabeth begin their quest, they bring a few others along to explore the far corners of the Labyrinth, which will bring new challenges and worries for all involved. Percy cannot let his friends down, though he must also worry about many of the Olympians, who have children who are in the crosshairs of Titan fury. Many new and as -yet undeclared characters will grace the pages of this book, with Annabeth in the spotlight, as she explains a little more about herself. With spiders, scorpions, and man-eating horses only a few hurdles to cross their paths, these demigods will have to use all their ingenuity to ensure they are victorious. Rick Riordan does it again with a strong story and many successful plot twists.

I have seen mention of this series for years but never took the time to read them. Neo and I listened to the first few books, which left me wanting to see how things would progress. I continued on my own, but I feel Neo will also try the books when school work permits.. There is a great deal of Greek mythology within the larger narrative, which educates and entertains the reader. There is strong narrative direction throughout for the reader to follow. Many characters are Greek gods, demigods, and characters from the tales, which adds to the education component. The plots evolve throughout and keep the reader guessing. I can see some great things will come from this series and only hope that Rick Riordan has kept the intensity throughout.

Kudos, Mr. Riordan, for keeping me hooked.

The Titan’s Curse (Percy Jackson and the Olympians #3), by Rick Riordan

Eight stars

As the summer time ends and Neo returns to school, we tried a few ‘read together’ experiences with the early novels in this series. Now, it’s time to finish the series on my own before moving on to other things. Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson books are full of Greek mythology themes with a sprinkling of teenage sass and some well-plotted adventures. These books work well for the Young Adult reader, but I have come to be quite enthralled with them as well (having also taken the time to see the movies recently).

Percy Jackson just cannot get a break. He’s saved the world, made sure that those who mean it harm are kept in check, and even fostered a few friendships from those who would call him an enemy before today. However, this might be his most daunting task yet. It comes Percy’s attention that the goddess Artemis has gone missing. This is troubling in and of itself, as there is an upcoming vote that could significantly change how the Olympians handle the war with the Titans. When word comes that Artemis may have been kidnapped, things take an even more troubling turn. Who could want her out of the way so badly?

As Percy and his friends begin to track her down, Annabeth is taken as well, turning this from being a quest for honour to one where every moment matters to save a friend. It soon becomes clear that Artemis must be located before the winter solstice, as that important vote looms. The deadline lights a fire under Percy, as does the ongoing disappearance of Annabeth.

When the team seeks advice from the oracle, the future looks bleak. The prophecy is that some will suffer hardship durning the mission. What’s even more troubling is that not everyone is said to return alive, forcing Percy to take note before he engages too much. With a sinister monster lurking in the shadows, it is presumed that Percy will have to lead his team into battle to save Artemis and bring Annabeth back. However, as always, this could be one battle Percy is not yet ready to face. It will take a team to defeat the evils of Olympus or risk losing it forever. Rick Riordan does well once more with this piece.

I have seen mention of this series for years but never took the time to read them. Neo and I started out reading (listening) to the first few books and were quite impressed, so now it is high time to get fully immersed in them, if you pardon the Poseidon-type pun. The Greek mythology finds itself encased within the larger narrative, which allows the reader to feel educated and entertained at the same time. There is strong guidance throughout, keeping the reader engaged and ready to see what is to come. Many characters are Greek gods, demigods, and characters from the tales, which adds to the education component. There are also some wonderful mortals to keep the story relevant. The plots are strong and keep the reader guessing for as much as they are able. I can see some great things will come from this series and only hope that Rick Riordan has kept the intensity throughout.

Kudos, Mr. Riordan, for providing another winning story.

Camp Half-Blood Confidential, by Rick Riordan

Eight stars

Choosing to read a short piece before I continue with the full Percy Jackson novels, I turned to Rick Riordan’s short tongue-in-cheek book that serves as an accompaniment to the series. Camp Half-Blood has long been where the demigods train, but there is no up-to-date manual for those who arrive for the first time. Percy and some others have undertaken rectifying that, which has some humorous moments. Riordan has a great handle on this series!

Percy Jackson has long felt that while Camp Half-Blood is a great place for new demigods, there is a need for a more inviting introduction. After stumbling upon a horrible video creation from the 1950s by the god Apollo, Percy takes on the task to create a new and ‘hip’ manual for all to enjoy. It covers a number of aspects, including history, context, and even some of the new architectural plans for the cabins. This manual has it all for newbies to take in. With in-depth explanations and a number of satirical poems or presentations, the reader can smile as they are educated throughout.

This short piece tackles many issues and adds some great humour to keep things moving. A perfect companion to the books, this document fits in wonderfully, offering a little context to the novels without revealing too much. Riordan touches on key aspects of the book and highlights key characters, as well as many of the Greek gods/goddesses. Those who have been enjoying the books can devour this as a lighter aside to the novels and hold key nuggets for everyone to enjoy. Riordan proves that he is versatile and keeps the reader hooked, which has me wanting more as I look to the next book in the series. While it may be YA, this is a series all can enjoy.

Kudos, Mr. Riordan, for a great addition to the series!

The Sea of Monsters (Percy Jackson and the Olympians #2), by Rick Riordan

Eight stars

As the summer time ends and Neo returns to school, we wanted to try one final ‘read together’ experience. We had one more road trip left and chose an audiobook we could both enjoy, especially since the series debut was so engaging. Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson books have strong Greek mythology themes throughout, surrounded by great adventures and a little sass. Riordan crafts the perfect book for teens and something that adult readers can enjoy, together or on their own.

After last summer’s cataclysmic events, Percy Jackson has found seventh grade much more of a yawn. This quiet time is welcomed, as he has a lot on his plate all the same. The greatest issue that crosses Percy’s path is how to help his new friend, Tyson—a massive boy whose mental acuity and current home situation leave much to be desired—and try to attract a more ‘normal’ set of friends.

Peace does not appear to be in the cards for this summer either, as Percy discovers that there is trouble at Camp Half-Blood, where he and the other demigods go to train. On the periphery of the camp property, things begin dying when a mysterious poison begins to take effect. Many are left on the verge of dying and those Percy admires will soon be out of a job. With mythological monsters appearing all over, Percy and his closest friends— Annabeth, Grover, and Tyson—have a new mission before them.

Percy must first handle saving Grover, who finds himself in a spot of trouble. He’s been captured by Cyclops Polyphemus on a small island in the Sea of Monsters. Grover, a satyr, is less than enthused by his current plight and his goat-tongue may get him into additional trouble. The Sea of Monsters is anything but blissful, the new name for what many in the geography vernacular call the Bermuda Triangle.

Using Tyson’s understanding of cyclopses, being one himself, the team is able to work their way to the Sea of Monsters, but are constantly attacked along the way, Annabeth will use her wisdom and Percy his connection to a powerful father (not the only one of Poseidon’s children who play a key role in the story), all to connect with their powers. Grover is an essential part of the team and Percy will not let him fall into the hands of evil-doers if it can be helped.

Tasked with collecting the Golden Fleece, Percy, Annabeth, and Tyson must go to the Sea of Monsters to find it. They will need to act quickly, as they only have until the end of summer before Camp Half-Blood is ruined forever. With the knowledge they have acquired up to this point, it will be a battle of wills. Percy must also wrestle with knowing that his father’s other offspring may make it clear that he is anything but special, an inner argument that rages like a torrential sea within his mind. A wonderful continuation of the series by Riordan and has me eager to keep reading, when time permits.

I have made note of this series for the last number of years but never actioned reading them. Neo has done the same and finds himself interested in all the Greek mythology, as well as the sarcasm and teen humour that emerges from Riordan’s pen. As I mentioned in the series debut, the narrative is strong and while geared to teens, it is easily understood and entertaining for readers of all ages. The Greek mythology is woven into the larger narrative and there is a lot to learn, which allows the reader to take in as much as they desire throughout the adventure. Many of the characters are based on Greek gods, demigods, and characters from the tales, continuing the education moments. There are, however, some wonderful mortals as well to keep the story relevant. The plots are wonderfully developed and kept me wondering as things progress. I commented to Neo that Riordan writes as if these are new mythological adventures that could be transposed from the original pieces from thousands of years before. We can only hope that they will continue with the stories to come, which appear to be plentiful. Neo seems ready to take on a few more books in the series on his own, though I will share some of his sentiments in my reviews, when I am able.

Kudos, Mr. Riordan, for piquing my interest in Greek mythology once again.