Review: Trust Me When I Lie

Trust Me When I Lie by Benjamin Stevenson
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

So a caveat before I begin. About four months ago, I began taking a new opiate for chronic pain management. I hadn’t THOUGHT it was having any effect on my thought processes. Trying to muddle through this plot, however, has made me wonder if perhaps these drugs are more potent than I realize. It’s either that OR this is just really confusing storytelling, written without regard to chronology and lacking any real method of organization. It’s as if the author put together a series of significant events, placed each on on a separate sheet of paper, then drew them randomly from a fishbowl to determine the order in which they appeared in the book. No? Maybe it’s me. With that said, the chapters alternate between different moments in the past and present, jumping from one to the other like a hooker at a truck stop. Add to this frenetic approach the author’s tendency to be over indulgent with language, and what could have been a fine read becomes nothing more than an exercise in one’s ability to puzzle out the sequence of events and follow the chaotic musings of the main character, Jack. The worst example of this is as follows, as Jack attempts to describe his bulimia:

“He could feel the food inside him, acutely aware of where it sat. It swelled, an island, the seas of his stomach sloshing against it. But the cliff faces of that island weren’t eroding and falling into the sea, as they should have been. Instead, they were taking hold, scuttling ships and pulling more rocks into their tide. Clogging him up. He felt it. His acrobat, arms extended, wandered from shipwreck to shipwreck, mast to mast, above the jagged outcrop and vicious seas. Twirling his baton, jester’s hat wobbling, bells ringing. The sea arced beneath the acrobat, spat up, hissed.”

Seriously.

Read at your own intellectual peril.


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Review: The Inn

The Inn by James Patterson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

There was a time when each thing I read by James Patterson was better than the last—a time when I actually looked forward to his next book and marked upcoming publication dates on my calendar. Ah, those were the days. Recently, however, it seems as if Patterson is selling his name to the highest bidder in an effort to see himself on the cover of as many volumes as possible, quality be damned. The Inn is a prime example.

First, the style here is nothing like the Patterson of days gone by. Instead, there is a vibe within these pages that is distinctly female (not such a bad thing), coupled with a romanticized approach that is at once immature and overly sentimental (a very bad thing indeed). It was as if the novel just couldn’t decide what it wanted to be, so it settled down in frustration somewhere in the middle of a gritty cop tale that had been invaded by an idealistic adolescent. The ex-con in a wheelchair, brazen and raw, is suddenly smitten by the female author prone to flowery language and over-the-top drama. The mysterious houseguest brought in by a former FBI agent is sniper perfect with a gun, doesn’t hesitate to pull the trigger, and then from a house drain pulls a rat—that becomes her pocket pet. I could almost hear the teenage “squee!” when the rodent (monikered Crazy) would make an appearance. These dueling sentiments tore at the fabric of the story itself and removed me from the action in a way that dulled any reader investment. The plot is full of blood and revenge and evil, then softened into palatable fluff with unicorns and rainbows. Just. No.

In the end, I was able to work my way through the pages, but not without a fair amount of head-shaking. Please, Mr. Patterson, sit down and write another winner. This is just getting old.

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Review: Dying To Be Famous

Dying To Be Famous by R A Hennerley
My rating: 1 of 5 stars

Well, here’s another piece of total twonk to add to my “OMG Bad” shelf. In fact, this is right up there among the worst, most vile books I’ve ever managed to work through—and work it was. Not only has the author over-reached in an attempt to shock the reader, he has done so with myriad mistakes in continuity, grammar, spelling and punctuation, not to mention horribly bleak attempts at humor.

The book details the lives of British celebrities as they intersect with Andrew, a celebrity “fixer”. Screw young girls (or boys) and get caught? Andy has a solution for that. Call the Queen a “rancid old cunt”? Andy can get you off of the hot seat. Find you want to liquify fetuses and drink them to help you hide any signs of aging? Andy can keep your supply chain wide open. Each scenario presented is more disgusting than the last, as Andy and his murderous lover Johnny flit from setting to setting, protecting the reputations of clients whilst reigning hellfire and brimstone on everyone else in their path.

If the plot lines don’t confound, or at the very least nauseate, you, perhaps the language will. The word “cunt” is used as a noun, verb, adjective and adverb. Cunt, cunty, cunting and cuntola just scratch the surface. It’s like the author possessed a very thin thesaurus that stopped at the letter “c”. After awhile I found myself substituting my own words in place of the cuntfest just to mix things up. Equally as tiring was the author’s vast use of synonyms for gay men and women. Turd-burglar, shirt-lifter, dyke, bum bandit, faggot, gay wanker, shit-stabber...and the list goes on and on, one more offensive than the last. As the narrator is gay, however, the reader is somehow expected to find it all hilarious and forgivable.

Finally, lest you believe there is some inherent value in the writing itself, allow me to completely disavow that notion. This is an absolute nightmare in terms of asinine mistakes. A single character is at once referred to as both Jack Brierley and Jack Rigby, ping ponging from one identity to the other with nary an explanation other than piss poor editing. Articles are routinely absent, as if the author is getting charged by the word and had to eliminate a few to come in under budget, and comma splices and run on sentences are common as muck. It is an English teacher’s worst nightmare, surpassed only by the nightmare experienced by decent writers who have been unable to find legitimate publishing and are forced to acknowledge that trash like this gets front page billing on Amazon.

If you’re considering purchasing this, please, for the love of all things holy, reconsider. Support an author who deserves it.



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Review: Savaged

Savaged by Mia Sheridan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Let’s be clear right from the start—this story is implausible, filled with holes the size of meteor craters, and at times laugh-out-loud ridiculous. It’s also feral, animalistic and peppered with enough unbridled lust to make it a GREAT read. This author has mastered the art of character development and does so here with a brilliant, heavy hand that left me breathless and wanting my very own Jak.

The story is that of Jak (aka Lucas), an eight year abandoned to nature fifteen years prior and left to fend for himself in order to survive the elements. This modern day Tarzan grows from a frightened boy to a man who is bewildered by modern society whilst perfectly at home in the dense and isolated forest. His coming of age is multi-faceted—first, learning as a child to hunt and forage, then as a man feeling his way through societal norms and expectations. It’s a fascinating, though admittedly preposterous, idea that wraps the reader in a willing suspension of disbelief as the story progresses. It’s difficult to explain the juxtaposition of these opposing forces, to somehow justify such a visceral reaction to such a seemingly inane premise, but suffice it to say, it works! I was gripped from beginning to end, and I shared in Jak’s feelings of wonder, shame and even embarrassment as he navigated his way back to civilization.

If you’re in any way prudish about sex in your reading, this is definitely not the read for you. If, however, you enjoy a little spice in your soup, this one definitely brings the heat!

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Review: The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell

The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell by Robert Dugoni
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell is a prime example of a novel that is extraordinarily well written, whilst at the same time self-indulgent and chock full of unnecessary angst. I understand fully that those wed to the five star mantle they’ve placed over it will be crying out in protest, but this was in just in no way an enjoyable read.

The story is that of Sam Hill, born afflicted with ocular albinism, though blessed with parents who were completely devoted to him. From the time he opens his eyes as an infant, his mother is committed to making sure Sam understands that he is destined for extraordinary things. This is, however, as much a novel about unconditional love as it is a story of Sam’s struggle with faith. His mother is a devout Catholic who prays the rosary daily, attends mass regularly and is married to the conviction that God’s will is gospel. Although she raises Sam with these ideals at the heart of all they do, it is only though a journey fraught with pain and suffering that Sam comes to face and define his own relationship with God and organized religion.

The book bounces from past to present and back again, weaving threads of Sam’s childhood into a narrative that attempts to explicate his current state of being. In theory, the plot line and structure work—the reader is certainly attuned to the fact that his experiences as a child have made him who he is as an adult. Those experiences, however, are both heartbreaking and painful to read. Turning the pages felt like a betrayal of Sam, as he is laid bare and flogged over and over again. It hurt to read about man’s inhumanity to man when the victim was a young child, then a vulnerable adult.

The themes of family, faith, friendship and acceptance are all here, buried beneath a mountain of tears and suffering, and whilst the writing is superb, it was simply a difficult journey from the title page to the conclusion. I felt like I was walking uphill the entire way, pausing often to catch my breath and curse the hill. The summit just didn’t afford enough of a view to have made the trek there worthwhile.





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Review: The Price of Time

The Price of Time by Tim Tigner
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

The Price of Time wasn’t, for me, an enjoyable read. There’s a point where a story moves from encouraging the reader to suspend disbelief to asking the reader to accept the absurd—this was one of those novels. The premise here isn’t nearly as intriguing as the book jacket promises. A group of people invest in research that eventually leads to the discovery of the fountain of youth. They decide to keep it a secret (mmhmm) and each receive periodic injections that render them immortal. When they realize that others will start noticing their lack of aging (duh) they make a fateful decision to hire a hit man to find lookalikes whom can be murdered, thus allowing the immortals to assume their lives and identities. It’s just ridiculous. The only redeeming quality was Zach Chase, former member of the CIA, who begins to investigate the disappearance of his best friend. He teams up with a retired triathlon athlete, Skylar Fawkes, and together they seek answers. The ending is particularly unsatisfying, and though it doesn’t promote the possibility of a sequel to the story, this does appear to be the first in a Chase/Fawkes character series.

My recommendation is to skip this one altogether. There are too many other intriguing pieces out there to waste the time engaging in this one.

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Review: Safer

Safer by Sean Doolittle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sean Doolittle is, for me, a new author, but if this piece is indicative of his work, I foresee a long relationship in our future.

Safer is set in stereotypic suburbia, where all the neighbors know one another, where one’s personal business is suddenly EVERYONE’S business, and where safety is a dangerous illusion.

When Paul and Sara relocate from Boston to Clark Falls, Iowa for Sara’s job, their initial impressions are positive...unless, of course, you count the intruder who broke in and attempted to sexually assault Sara the first night in their new home. Not exactly the Welcome Wagon they had anticipated. The immediate neighbors, however, rally around the couple, led by Roger, a retired police officer. Roger’s past is fraught with horror, as his son was brutally murdered, after which his wife took her own life. In response, Roger has made it his mission to ensure the safety of those around him—at whatever cost necessary. Paul tries to make the best of the neighborly relationship, though it isn’t long before he begins to question Roger’s motives. As Paul pushes back, his own life begins to unravel at the seams. How much is coincidence? How far will Roger go to maintain the sanctity of his inner circle? And how far will Paul go to keep from drowning in Roger’s wake? Secrets, lies and betrayal all have starring roles, and the curtain of suburban bliss is pulled back to reveal what lies at the heart of Clark Falls.

There are many positive aspects of this novel, not the least of which is the superb dialogue. It is gritty and wholly believable, used sparingly for effect, and incredibly insightful. In addition to the brilliant conversation, Doolittle utilizes a plethora of literary references. From Bronte to Nabokov, the allusions are rich and varied, allowing for a sense of intimacy between the reader and the characters.

The only seeming hiccup in this novel was one of racial stereotypes. From the socioeconomic commentary that supported the geography of prejudice, to the use of a black man as the “villain”, this treatment of race was at once distasteful and unnecessary. Whilst it may be my own heightened sensitivity to contemporary racism that caused such a negative reaction, it is still worth mentioning.

All in all, and in spite of the negative mentioned, this is a must-read novel that will make the reader wonder exactly what is going on behind their own neighbor’s closed doors. Definitely recommended.

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Review: Rules of Survival: A Post-Apocalyptic EMP Survival Thriller

Rules of Survival: A Post-Apocalyptic EMP Survival Thriller by Jack Hunt
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was a quick read that held my attention long enough to keep turning the pages, but in the end it offered nothing particularly new or noteworthy. What is so infuriating is the number of post apocalyptic novels with myriad errors in basic punctuation—and though it may fare a tad better than some, this was no exception. When did it become acceptable to publish what reads like unedited copy? Either many authors are forgoing the editing process, or there are a significant number of editors out there making a buck for rubber stamping what they get without bothering to read it. A third possibility is that folks are hanging out an “EDITOR” shingle without any knowledge of the rules of grammar, spelling, or punctuation. In the end, fans of the genre will find this rather formulaic and without anything to distinguish it from the rest of the pack.

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Review: The Dreamers

The Dreamers by Karen Thompson Walker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Once again I find myself penning a review that is far afield of the majority and doing so without apology. The Dreamers is everything psychological horror should be—frightening, thought-provoking and eerily personal.

The story begins with the sudden illness and subsequent passing of a college freshman—a popular girl who was seemingly healthy and vibrant before falling victim to what would come to be called the “sleeping sickness”. As more students contract the illness and fall into a deep sleep from which they cannot be awakened, panic grips the school. When the mysterious affliction spreads to the surrounding community, the entire country takes notice, and extreme measures are enacted in an effort to stop the disease from spreading beyond the town’s borders.

The writing itself will appeal to those who appreciate a style that is at once unusual and engaging. At first, the narrative is seemingly abrupt, dispassionate and clinical. After the first few pages, however, that approach fades into the background as the characters take center stage. The point of view is consistently third person, but the chapters alternate between the stories of individuals from both the college and the town, as well as a bird’s eye view of the entire situation. The author is able to within that construct move from a voice of objectivity to the voice of those directly impacted. It is those characters that make this personal for such a diverse swath of readers. There’s a pregnant teen, a young couple with a newborn, an aging gay couple, a widower, young children, dedicated nurses, etc. No matter the audience, there is most certainly at least one aspect of this novel to which each reader can relate. In all, the work is fascinating to unpack and examine, making it a perfect choice for book clubs and partnered reading.

If pushed to find any weaknesses here, it would be with the conclusion. For those seeking definitives, this might not hit the mark. If, however, the reader is able to accept that the answers aren’t always black and white—that sometimes the best we can do as human beings is shrouded in shades of gray—this is a read that is at once satisfying, haunting and insightful.










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Review: Winter World

Winter World by A.G. Riddle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

So, I’m a self-professed fan of post-apocalyptic lit, but I prefer it without zombies, monsters or “nerdy” elements that make me feel like an outsider. I was surprised, then, to find that I actually LOVED this book, in spite of the sometimes lengthy intellectual passages that explicated aspects of astronomy and space travel. What impressed me most was the character development. Author A.G. Riddle has breathed life into a variety of personas, each unique, interesting and, most importantly, believable. Additionally, the I was completely engaged, from page one through the edge-of-your-seat conclusion—so much so, in fact, that I hated to turn the final page! I was, however, thrilled to discover that there’s a sequel, which I intend to begin tonight!

If you long for a good story, with characters you will love, look no further and make this one your next read!

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Review: The Overdue Life of Amy Byler

The Overdue Life of Amy Byler by Kelly Harms
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This light-hearted novel is the story of Amy Byler, a high school librarian, abandoned by her husband, John, and left alone to raise her two young children. When John suddenly reappears three years later and wants to reestablish a relationship with his kids, Amy reluctantly agrees to allow him to spend a week alone with daughter Cori and son Joe, while she attends a librarian conference in NYC. What begins as a short trip blossoms into a full-blown “momspringa”, as Amy rediscovers herself and finally realizes what is truly important.

The format of the novel is at once a bit confusing and brilliant. Chapters alternate between those told in first person from Amy’s perspective, and those written as reading journal entries from the point of view of teenage daughter Cori. The voices are well-developed and unique, capturing the essence of both a brooding, witty and sarcastic teen and a harried mom in search of herself.

This novel may be a niche piece, as much of the enjoyment comes from the ability to catch the literary references. Well-versed readers will delight in the Latin puns and jokes, as well as the clever nods to John Dewey, and those with an affinity for YA lit (especially those who teach it) will find the subplots relatable and perhaps even enlightening and educational. There are a few things here that I will certainly attempt to implement in my own classroom next fall.

My only misgivings about the book relate directly to the conclusion. It seemed almost “soap-operaesque”, overly affected and a bit melodramatic for my tastes, but considering the laugh-out-loud moments sprinkled throughout, the sappy conclusion can almost be forgiven.

Overall, this is a must read for librarians and English teachers, though it is also a pretty good beach read for anyone with a sense of humor.

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Review: One Final Gasp

One Final Gasp by Jacqueline Druga
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

One Final Gasp by Jacqueline Druga is a book I really WANTED to like. After all, Druga is a fellow Pittsburger with a penchant for post-apocalyptic fiction—a combination right up my proverbial alley, and one that I had hoped would result in solid gold. Unfortunately, this book laid waste to that optimistic bent, leaving in it’s a wake a tarnished and pitted brass finish that failed to conceal the cheap materials beneath. It is this lack of substance and editing (editorial?) polish that relegates the novel to two star status. I could write a dissertation regarding the holes in the plot, but I’ve decided to instead regale you with a boatload of quotes, thereby allowing you to form your own opinion. So, let’s get started, shall we?

”Matt had the gourmet, daily special sandwiches and coffee, they were on the outside table ready and waiting for when Hailey arrived.”

Punctuation is your friend. On the off chance Druga peruses this review, I offer this link, which will explain comma splices and run-on sentences. http://guidetogrammar.org/grammar/run...

”It was chilly out, but he kept his jacket zipped. The cooler air helped him stay awake.”

::sigh:: In all fairness, this one *might* be a result of my own inability to puzzle it out, but indulge me for a moment. So, it’s chilly. Shouldn’t that mean he KEPT his jacket zipped? Why the “but”? Or....should it read “he kept his jacket UNZIPPED”. That would make the next sentence more logical, no? He kept his jacket UNzipped so that the cool air could help him to stay awake? Clearly I’m overthinking this one, as there are so many more exciting editing errors to discuss. Moving right along...

”Elias had an entire statement prepared that he read it for the committee.”

*humming* One of these things is not like the others! One of these things doesn’t belong! If you guessed the word “it”, you’re absolutely right! *end of my off key attempt to channel Sesame Street.* Let’s just edit this one together and motor on, ok? “Elias had an entire statement prepared that he read for the committee.”

”Now, we can beat the plague now, but if a new Disease X emerges, seventy-five percent...”

Easy one. I mean this is just a throw away example. I’ll let you figure it out. Hint: redundant.

”The sat in a booth, Glen across from Eve.”

Ok, I’ll bite. THE WHAT?? Perhaps “they”?

“I asked Damien how he think it went.”

How he THINK it went? That isn’t even good slang. *shaking my head*

”It was her father, Luke expected for his face to face with him to be far worse than Matt’s.”

Sorry, but this one is just too convoluted to even attempt to fix.

“Like tried to stay calm, but he cried the entire way home.”

Like, that’s totally badass that the main character, Luke, has been transformed into a verb posing as a noun. For shame.

”You would have to of been in close proximity to someone that early to pass it on.”

So this is a pet peeve. HAD TO HAVE BEEN. *sitting down to calm my frazzled grammar-sensitive nerves.*

“I understand and the agency can you help you.”

Oh you good you! I was concerned! *God help me to not scream and frighten my neighbors*.

”Once and awhile I’ll cough, but it's really painful.”

It can’t possibly be as painful as reading this nonsense. *sobbing*. Once IN a while.

”It was twenty-four hours later and the first time since being on the plane he had been able to sleep, it wasn’t by choice.”

Sleeping wasn’t by choice? Was he drugged? (No). Was he hit over the head? (No). Additionally, please again refer to the link for run-one posted above.

”He’d work a little bit more, then head back out to search the streets for that homeless mad.”

If this were used in a novel full of colorful language, from an author known to take liberties with language in order to drive home a point, I would have applauded “searching for a homeless mad”. Unfortunately, it’s yet another typo and should have read “homeless man”.

”His final last moments in Boston were with the senator on a speaker phone call with the president in a conference room at NIEDL.”

Final last? Final LAST? Wtf? Additionally, ambiguity here just doesn’t work. Fix it, damn it! *sorry, my patience is wearing thin.*

”Conner said. “According to Marvin’s research there...”

OMG! The man’s name is MARCUM—THERE IS NO MARVIN. Seriously, how was this missed?

”However, it had been hours, Elias didn’t want to see if they were still there.”

I. JUST. CAN’T.

”The church bells rang for the eleven a.m. service, but no one really showed.”

STOP! Hang on! No one “really” showed? Did they or didn’t they?? TELL ME DAMMIT!

”Matt undid the draw sting on his shorts...”

*eye twitch* This shit would be funny if it weren’t so sad.

”Walking out the door into the hall was like part of a dream. She even felt a little dizzy as if she were suffering from algophobia.”

She was suffering from a pain phobia? That just doesn’t even make any sense! She had been holed up in a room for weeks—perhaps agoraphobia? The dictionary is a lovely resource, and the mind is a terrible thing to waste. I have no idea why that came to mind, but it seems pitifully appropriate.

“Okay. Stew sung out the word. “Can we all agree on this? It doesn’t matter how many people remain.”

Please. Make. It. Stop. They are now murdering punctuation. THAT SHOULD BE A FELONY!

“I know. We supposed to bring about two dozen people there in the next week or so.”

We supposed to. We SUPPOSED to? We ARE supposed to? Jesus be a proofreader. My heart hurts.


There you have it. If you’ve made it this far, you’ve read but a tiny sampling of the myriad errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation and common sense. I need a nap and the ability to recoup the hours I spent between these pages.




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Review: Supermarket

Supermarket by Bobby Hall
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Ok, I debated rating this a two, instead settling on middle of the road. That doesn’t mean I liked it—at ALL. In fact, I couldn’t wait for it to end. The three stars, then, reflect only the ingenuity of the author. With that said....

It’s difficult to discuss this one with some spoilers. So, here they are!

(view spoiler)[ When the book opens, we are introduced to the narrator, Flynnigan. He is twenty four, lives in his mother’s basement, and was recently dumped by his girlfriend, Lola. His father is deceased, a victim of suicide after a schizophrenic breakdown. Flynn is actually a writer, who in the midst of his own depression suddenly receives a substantial advance to finish his first novel. With that advance, he rents his own place, adopts a dog and takes a job at the local supermarket in order to research background for his book. Immediately, his circumstances are suspect. For example, when he walks his dog, Bennett, he describes the reactions of those around him. CLEARLY something isn’t right. Couple that with the hereditary nature of schizophrenia, and you’ve figured out the hook. There is no dog. There is no supermarket. Instead, Flynn is a patient in a mental institution, where he mentally turns doctors, orderlies and fellow patients into coworkers.

The book changes direction enough times to have left me dizzy, and the reader is never sure what’s real and what is being created by Flynn. This idea of an unreliable narrator is nothing new, but it felt like author Bobby Hall was pushing the envelope with the concept. The writing felt forced, juvenile and immature, and read more like a rough draft than an edited and published novel. (hide spoiler)]

Overall, for me this just fell flat.

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Review: All These Beautiful Strangers

All These Beautiful Strangers by Elizabeth Klehfoth
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I loved this book, though I wasn’t sure exactly into which genre the author intended it be placed. On one hand, this is adolescent lit, as it tells the story of high school junior Charlotte (Charlie) Calloway as she comes of age in a prep school environment. On the other hand, however, I felt like much of the subject matter (suicide, murder, sex, drugs, etc.) were handled in a way that would demand a certain amount of maturity in order to appreciate.

The plot that drives the novel is actually two fold. First is the story of Charlie and her initiation into a secret prep school “club” known as the A’s. Second is the tale of Charlie’s mother, who disappeared years earlier under suspicious circumstances, though Charlie was always led to believe that her mother abandoned her and her sister in search of greener pastures. The story of the A’s and that of Charlie’s mother intersect, delivering a powerful message about the destructive nature of secrets and lies.

The writing here is sound, and the characters are exceptionally well developed. The point of view is first person, with alternating speakers from chapter to chapter. The author handled these transitions beautifully, with a separate and distinct voice for each of these characters as they offered facts and background critical to a full appreciation of the work.

I always consider a book to be a success when first, it sticks with me, and second, when I can become so wrapped up in the reading that the room around me “disappears”. This novel did both. I still find myself wondering where those characters would have landed had the author written a follow up.

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Review: Queen of Klutz

Queen of Klutz by Samantha Garman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Author Samantha Garman has today gained a new and passionate fan—I simply loved this rom com! Main character Sibby Goldstein is a hot mess. She loses her job, finds her way home and discovers her long time boyfriend in her bed—with another man. Instead of curling into a fetal position and bemoaning her lot in life, plucky Sibby picks herself up, indulges in a lot of liquor and finds a temporary position in a local Italian restaurant. When she discovers her new boss is the piece of eye candy who ushered her home whilst she was in a drunken stupor, she is embarrassed but not enough to keep her from exploring the possibilities. This story is guaranteed to make you smile and may even cause you to laugh hysterically. In any event, it’s a must read for those who enjoy intelligent romantic comedy.

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Review: A Suitable Lie

A Suitable Lie by Michael J. Malone
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.5 rounded to 4 for this author’s bravery in tackling domestic abuse that portrays a man as victim rather than perpetrator. The writing was sound, the characters believable, but what really sold me was my own reaction. Initially, when it was revealed that Andy was being abused, and rather horrifically at that, my response was a knee jerk reaction to see him as weak and unreliable. I actually at one point stopped reading and thought, “What the HELL?” I was victim blaming! I couldn’t believe that my own biases were that deeply ingrained that I didn’t even consciously choose that path, and instead it just sort of happened! When I realized what I had done, I was mortified. Any book that can make me rethink my own prejudices is one worthy of praise. Predictable, somewhat slow and not exactly,an enjoyable read, it is instead one that might actually change your perspective as it did mine.

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Review: I'm a Therapist, and My Patient is Going to be the Next School Shooter: 6 Patient Files That Will Keep You Up At Night

I'm a Therapist, and My Patient is Going to be the Next School Shooter: 6 Patient Files That Will Keep You Up At Night by Dr. Harper
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

There just are no words to convey the depth of my confusion relative to the stellar ratings on this book. The premise is that Dr. Harper has compiled files of six “broken” patients he has treated—and he is allowing readers a peek at what’s inside. The files run the gamut from disturbing to creepy to flat out ridiculous. I expected to see traditional files, with the doodles and notes that Harper mentions at the start, but they were nonexistent. Perhaps it all circles back to formatting issues with the Kindle, but this book is simply a series of six first person narratives, with a paragraph or two added to the end of each as semi-footnotes. Every “file” is almost a short story, without the interesting “stuff”, like, you know, a purpose or even a plot. What they also have in common, besides being files of Harper’s patients, is that the stories all demonstrate Harper’s inadequacies as a therapist. In every single case he also documents his own behaviors, and they, without exception, prove to be unethical, unprofessional and possible examples of malpractice. I didn’t find Harper’s stories to be necessarily “bad”, nor were they entertaining or even funny. I’m not sure what Harper WANTED this to be, as his genre-confusion was evident in the inclusion of a school shooting at the beginning bookended by attempts at humor and social satire that falls flat. I am left shaking my head and hoping those with more insight can share the redeeming qualities I so obviously missed. Two stars because at least he wrote in complete sentences.

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Review: Roadkill

Roadkill by Cheryl Bradshaw
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Caveat: Everyone and their mothers seems to have enjoyed this. Spoiler—I didn’t.

So here we have a book, Roadkill, that begins by introducing Juliette Granger, mother to young Nora, on the run with her daughter. Her character is believable and well developed from that very first paragraph. Then, spoiler—she dies. Quickly. The only character in any way built from the ground up is taken out in a most gruesome manner, and her daughter is missing. Enter Juliette’s sister, Raine. Now here’s a character about whom I couldn’t possibly have cared any less. The fact that she is searching for her niece is admirable, but beyond that there just wasn’t anything redeeming. Trying to imagine her in the role of medical examiner, as she claims, is like trying to find shapes in the clouds—you squint and turn your head and STILL can’t see Aunt Lou’s mirror image, although your sister swears it’s there. Yeah, just not buying it.

So let’s sum it up:
Juliette is on the run with her daughter—and a lot of money.
Juliette is killed (roadkill, if you will)
Nora is missing.
Everyone dies except Raine and Nora
The end.

I just saved you hours that could otherwise have been wasted trying to find value here. You’re welcome.


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Review: The Stranger in Our Home

The Stranger in Our Home by Sophie Draper
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The Stranger in our Home was another psychological suspense novel that just failed to resonate and instead left me with more questions than answers. The author also seemed genre-confused and consistently flirted with the inclusion of supernatural elements, but without any follow through. In the end, it wasn’t ghosts or fairies or witches responsible for the chaos, but rather human depravity and immorality.

When the story opens, an anonymous narrator is lying in a hospital bed unable to communicate. Time is then rolled back, and the story actually begins. The reader learns that main characters, estranged sisters Caroline and Steph, have inherited the estate left by their (step) mother—the home where they grew up. After a lifetime of discord, Caroline discovers that Steph seems to have matured beyond whatever pettiness kept them apart, and though wary, Caroline embraces their new closeness. When Steph announces that she wants no part of the inheritance, Caroline puts aside her feelings of unease and moves into the house alone, with her sister’s blessing. Caroline is an accomplished artist, and her goal is to complete a commission to paint fairy tale illustrations while living in her childhood home. The past is never far behind the two sisters, however, and Caroline struggles to find the truth about her own history as well as the truth about long buried family secrets.

The writing here isn’t bad. The characters are believable; the dialogue, realistic. I did take issue with the commission Caroline was hired to complete. The title of the volume of fairy tales was The Pear Drum and Other Dark Tales From the Nursery. The reader learns that a pear drum was an object that played an important role in Caroline’s childhood. As I’ve never heard of a pear drum, I found this coincidence beyond believable. Perhaps somewhere there is a community of pear drum fans who see these every day and play them with regularity. For those readers, the coincidence may very well be one that rings true, but for those of us more pear drum naive, it was too much to believe—and I wanted it to be too much for Caroline as well. Her refusal to even discuss or consider the fact that a pear drum played such a negative role in her growing up and then it suddenly surfaces in a series of tales that seem to strangely reflect her own experiences is worthy of a face palm. Another thing that fell apart for me was the conclusion. Without spoilers, suffice it to say that I wanted more answers about the characters’ motivations and intent, as I felt unable to discern the final truth amidst the misdirections and lies. The shallow approach to drawing this story to a close was cheap and rushed. I invested the time in the reading and wanted to feel like there was some sort of payoff for my investment. Instead, it was hollow and unresolved.

There is one thing I’ve discovered following a marathon read of thrillers—my family isn’t nearly as dysfunctional as I previously thought. And that, my friends, is called a stretch to find the positive.

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Review: The Silent Patient

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The Silent Patient was, in the beginning, a test of MY patience, as the slow burn barely kept the glow under the ash. Once the pace picked up, it was an easier read, but it would be a mistake to assume that was because of any action. Any. At all. Seriously, NOTHING HAPPENS.

So, the plot—Alicia Berenson is an artist who, without any prior warning, kills her husband Gabriel by shooting him in the face—five times. After a trial declares her mentally incompetent, she is relocated to a residential facility: the Grove. Theo Faber is a psychotherapist with an obsession for all things “Alicia.” He manages to secure a position at the Grove, where he inveigles his way to work directly with Berenson. The remainder of the novel then revisits Alicia’s life and Gabriel’s murder, as the truth of what happened is (slowly) revealed.

For me, this novel pens a bold stroke under the differences between action suspense and psychological thrillers. Though many may straddle mid court, this is the quintessential example of the latter—a book that crawls into the recesses of the human mind and discovers the capacity for man’s inhumanity to man. Much of the terminology here is psychology “jargon”, and the pages are peppered with it. In fact, buying the conclusion means accepting the diagnosis, and without a background in psychology this necessitates a whole lot of blind faith that I wasn’t able to find. Specifically, there is a comparison drawn between Alicia and Alcestis of Greek mythology. The connection was drenched in “shop talk” and remained a bit cloudy to me, even after a detailed explanation. Nothing was concrete and instead I was left with a feeling of being slightly off kilter.

Overall, this is a well written psychological suspense novel that takes its time and makes no apologies for its reliance on the tenants of psychology (therapy, relationships, etc.) to further the plot. Just not my cup of tea!

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Review: Let's Pretend This Never Happened: A Mostly True Memoir

Let's Pretend This Never Happened: A Mostly True Memoir by Jenny Lawson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Author Jenny Lawson is absolutely hilarious in this collection of short, loosely-related essays that examine marriage, motherhood and friendship. The beauty of her humor is that it’s timeless and relatable across gender, age and socio-economic strata—and is bound to in some way offend everyone. From her miscarriage to the death of the beloved family dog, Lawson is able to turn tragedy into opportunities for learning and even laughter. She writes of her predilection for taxidermy (the animal must have died of natural causes), hiding under tables at social events (she experiences crippling social anxiety), and zombies (always cognizant of how her choices might play out in the event of a zombie apocalypse). She is able to poke fun at her own mental illness and is refreshingly honest about the struggle she faces every day just to fit in. NSFW, the pages are peppered with language so blue it would make a sailor blush. Additionally, stories include myriad references to her vagina (but only in a good way, and by good, I mean hysterical). So settle in at home with a glass of wine and a snuggly blanket. I’d also consider packing snacks. You aren’t going to want to close this until the last page is read!

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Review: If I Die Tonight

If I Die Tonight by Alison Gaylin
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

If I Die Tonight is a mystery/suspense read that boasts a riveting plot, interesting characters and a beautifully written narrative—as well as a thoroughly disappointing conclusion that was so “all’s well that ends well” that it warranted a full star demerit.

The story is a tale of two cities—the Reed family and Pearl Maze. The Reeds are one more divorce statistic, with mom raising two brothers who couldn’t possibly be more different: the morose and somber Wade—a high school senior who is seen as a social outcast, and the sensitive and smart Connor, who until recently defended and stood by his older brother. When a local teen is killed in a hit and run, Wade becomes the primary suspect. Pearl Maze is one of the officers investigating the crime in their usually sleepy little town of Haverkill, but Pearl is plagued with demons of her own. As the story unfolds, through third person narration and Facebook posts, the truth is finally exposed— for the Reeds and for Pearl.

The characters here are three-dimensional and engaging, developed beyond the stereotypes they could have been. Wade and Connor are teens in every sense of the word, battling growing pains and trying to find their places in the world. Pearl is a study in contradiction—an honest cop who seeks out one night stands and copious amounts of alcohol in an effort to numb the pain of her past. Even the minor characters are imbued with back stories and behaviors that give them life beyond the page.

In addition to her rich characters, author Alison Gaylin has gone far beyond the typical mainstream mystery by wordsmithing prose that often sings in short, staccato bursts, and it is in these moments that the story shines.

“Back at the station, Ryan Grant’s eyes had been tear-bruised and vacant, his jaw slack, the rosiness drained out of his cheeks. Such a handsome kid and obviously popular, but his most noticeable feature had been his sadness.”

“Mason Marx was short and squat, with mean little pig eyes and the personality of bad cheese.”

“Sheila plucked one of the cookies from the tray—a powdery little thing that looked like a puff of smoke.”

This would truly have been a four star read but for the dismal conclusion. Without spoilers, it’s difficult to explain, but it felt like a Hallmark movie, all tied with a sparkly bow that somehow cheapened the journey to get there.

All in all, a read to be enjoyed for its characters, plot and phrasing—just don’t look for any true surprises at the end.

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Review: Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Well, here I am yet again, swimming upstream and going against the grain. I just didn’t enjoy Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine.

I will leave the traditional summary to those who have already provided it, as there are literally hundreds of glowing, positive reviews that give brilliant plot details. Suffice it to say, the entire book made me hugely uncomfortable. Even the attempts at humor were wistful, as it felt that the reader was having a laugh directly at Eleanor’s expense. Her past was so horrific, and her capacity to read social interactions so lacking, that reading was sometimes painful. Beyond just my own level of discomfort, however, was my visceral reaction to the conclusion. Seriously. Without spoilers, it’s tough to elaborate, but it felt cheap and cliche.

I’m not going to opine with the usual specifics I try to include in every review, because I am clearly in the minority. I will say that the prose was brilliant and, at times, beautifully tragic. In the end, reading about a damaged woman, dealing with a spectrum disorder and alcoholism, plagued by delusion and a past of domestic abuse, just made me...well, sad.

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Review: Just a Name

Just a Name by Becky Monson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I picked this up based not only on the “book-blurb” but also on the myriad four and five star reviews. I am happy to say, it did not disappoint. A light and easy read, this rom com was a little humorous and a lot of “cute”.

Just a Name is the story of twenty-something Holly Murphy, a woman recovering from a recent break up with fiancé Nathan Jones. Not only was she unceremoniously dumped, amid accusations regarding her controlling nature, she is also stuck with two plane tickets, which would have seen the couple to a honeymoon that included both London and Paris. Although one ticket is hers, the other is in her ex-fiance’s name and is non refundable. Friend Quinn, a local tv personality recovering from her own professional crisis (dropping the f-bomb on live television), thinks she has the solution to Holly’s ticket problem—why not allow the station to conduct a search for men named Nathan Jones and offer them the chance at an all expenses paid vacation—with Holly? Initially adamantly opposed to the idea, Holly eventually, though reluctantly, agrees and the game is afoot as she narrows the field of applicants to the stranger who will accompany her.

Listen, when I said this was “cute”, I meant CUTE with a capital C. There is no cursing (out of respect for Quinn’s debacle, all in the friend group are asked to refrain from using untoward language) and instead foul language is replaced by phrasing like “the S-word” and “the H-word”. Yeah. Maybe a little TOO cute. Additionally, there’s no sex, so this book would be totally safe for work (yeah, I was disappointed, too).

Finally, there are some funny moments here. Holly leads a call center team at a local bank, and their interactions are giggle-worthy. At times, the author was trying perhaps a little too hard for laughs, but it didn’t detract from the “feel-good” tone.

In the end, this would make a great beach read—breezy and fun, with a dash of humor.



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Review: The Boy

The Boy by Tami Hoag
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Boy, a mystery/suspense novel, is the second in the Broussard and Fourcade series by author Tami Hoag. As a rule, I tend to shy away from books that are part of a same-character series, as I always feel a step behind if I pick up in the middle. Here, however, Hoag has written a haunting tale that stands alone—a harrowing story of neglected children, sexual and domestic abuse, misuse of power, and murder.

There is, first and foremost, a trigger here that needs to be reckoned with before the reader ever engages. KJ, a young child, is murdered in a most brutal way, and it is his death upon which the book hinges. In some novels of this type, that initial catalyst for the story is vague and ambiguous, an event gently couched in expository dialogue and narration. Hoag uses exposition but in that process provides numbing details about the crime that are sure to make the hairs on the back of the neck of any mother stand on end.

The remainder of the book is a web of subplots that connects four families who couldn’t possibly be more different, as the community mourns the loss of a child and authorities seek a killer. Broussard and Fourcade are both members of law enforcement, trying to raise their young son in the Cajun bayous of Louisiana. Genevieve Gauthier is a single mother trying to come to terms with the death of her own son. Sharon Spicer, a woman for whom appearances and security are key, juggles her fiancé and her son Cameron, who are like oil and water. Jojean Florette is a mother in absentia, a fist full of children growing up around her without the supervision of a responsible parent. Each character is given enough of a backstory to foster reader investment. They are complex beings who elicit a range of emotion, from sympathy to disgust, sorrow to malevolence. The collision course of their lives is complicated, but Hoag masterfully weaves their stories together in a tapestry of horrific events that forever changes them all.

At almost 500 pages, this is a read that requires some fortitude and concentration. The payoff is there at the end, though, as Hoag unravels the lies, deceit and confusion. Highly recommended, with the trigger warning caveat above. This is a series I intend to follow!


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Review: The Girl Who Lived

The Girl Who Lived by Christopher Greyson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I think I need my “inner-rater” recalibrated. Many of the works I’m reading seem so majorly flawed, and yet the majority of readers appear to find them enjoyable and perfectly worthy of all the stars. The Girl Who Lived follows in that vein—an average mystery with a ridiculous ending and more four and five star ratings that has left me shaking my head.

The plot is unique—to that I will concede. Faith is a twenty-two year old woman who has spent the past ten years in and out of mental hospitals after surviving a vicious attack that killed her best friend, her best friend’s mother, her own father and sister. Though local authorities have closed the case, convinced her father killed them all and then himself, Faith remembers another man—a man with the face of a rat—whom she believes committed all of the murders and then chased her into the woods. Now that she is finally out of the hospital (again) and in her own apartment, trying to tamp her rage and alcohol addiction, Rat Face is back—and he is stalking her. Is it Faith’s own fear manifesting as paranoia, or is the past finally catching up? That is the question that propels the rest of this book.

So not only is the plot reasonably unique, the writing is also solid. The tone in each scene is well-developed, the dialogue is believable and Faith’s character is intriguing and complex. So why three stars? It’s difficult without spoilers, but suffice it to say that for me, the end is cheap and cliche and feels like a betrayal of the trust between author and reader.

This would have been a four star read had I not had such a visceral reaction to the conclusion. As it stands, however, three stars feels generous.



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Review: The Couple on Cedar Close

The Couple on Cedar Close by Anna-Lou Weatherley
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I am loathe to even write a detailed review here, as this is yet another slightly less than average piece of crime fiction, coupled with a nod to domestic noir. The premise is fairly formulaic—Laurie Mills awakens after a drunken bender to find that she is covered in blood, her husband Robert upstairs with his throat slashed. The rest of the story follows detectives as they discover the truth behind Robert’s murder. Yeah. Been done, right? The writing is average, the characters are fairly flat and the ending is drawn out in an excruciating painful denouement. There’s just nothing here to make this book stand out amongst the hundreds of others that seem to be churned into publication, one after the next, in assembly-line fashion. I could rail on about the issues that this author attempted to address—incest, domestic abuse, child abuse, incompetent police, mental health...but to be honest, it wouldn’t add much to what I’ve already written. It’s not a “bad” book, it’s just a “familiar” book that didn’t for a single second fully engage me in the reading. 2.5 stars rounded to 3

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Review: Furiously Happy: A Funny Book About Horrible Things

Furiously Happy: A Funny Book About Horrible Things by Jenny Lawson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mental illness has historically been shrouded in shame and secrecy, but author Jenny Lawson has, in this absolutely hilarious collection of essays, opened that closet and allowed readers an unobstructed view into her own mental health issues. In spite of the serious nature of the theme, these pieces are not only funny but also raw, sometimes poignant and unflinchingly honest.

Lawson admits to having suffered numerous issues throughout her life. In addition to her crippling pain from rheumatoid arthritis, she is also a victim of periodic depressive episodes, tremendous anxiety and a host of phobias. In spite of all, however, in Furiously Happy Lawson lets her freak flag fly and confronts the social stigmas related to mental health with a comedic approach that is as surprising as it is refreshing.

I read this book a little at a time, particularly at night, when my own demons come home to stir up their devilment. The essays can be consumed individually, and not necessarily in the order in which they appear, which makes small doses easily consumable. Each piece in the collection stands alone—independent episodes that are as uplifting as they are entertaining. From Lawson’s predilection for taxidermied wildlife (the raccoon on the cover is a family institution) to her laugh out-loud-funny retelling of interactions with her husband, friends and fans, every page offers hope and support for readers suffering with their own inner conflict. Nothing is sacred here, and particularly the conversations with husband Victor are solid gold.

“Oh, holy hell … this website says I might have been impregnated,” I yelled at Victor.

“From a swan running at you?” he asked incredulously. “Do you even realize how crazy you sound right now?”

“Well, I’m problemly in shock. And possibly pregnant with waterfowl, so god knows what my hormones are doing right now. I just found a medical journal that says you need to seek ‘prophylactics’ after a swan attack. THAT’S HOW DEVIOUS SWANS ARE.”

Then Victor tried to explain that “prophylactics” means “preventative care” and doesn’t automatically equal birth control but I was too busy to listen because I may have just been forcibly impregnated by a murder of swans. Then Victor pointed out that it’s a “murder of crows” and that a group of swans is called a “lamentation” but I’m pretty sure that just proves my point because swans are mute, yet they’re named after a word that means “wailing in horrible pain”?

This is the perfect read for those who are afraid of the darkness that even sometimes comes in the daylight, but it’s equally as accessible for anyone who just needs a belly laugh, a giggle or even just a wry smirk. Highly recommended and a new favorite.


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Review: Ask Again, Yes

Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Very recently a question came up in a Goodreads group of which I am a member—what is literature? Definitions were bandied about and although there was some consensus, it was still fairly ethereal and ambiguous. An online dictionary, however, offers this:

Literature: written works, especially those considered of superior or lasting artistic merit.

Ask Again, Yes is most certainly “literature”—a novel that will not only assuredly be splashed across dozens of “Best of 2019” lists, but one that will also be read, explicated and analyzed for years to come. This is the birth of a classic.

The book begins in 1973, as two rookie NYPD officers, Francis Gleeson and Brian Stanhope, are partnered. Though it is only a six week stint, their meeting sets the course for the future of not only the two men, but also their families. For the next four decades, their lives intersect and collide as they face friendships lost and found, mental illness, and alcoholism—with eventual self-awareness that can only be achieved through the survival of horrific events and crisis.

Author Mary Beth Keane is on point as not only a skilled storyteller but also a brilliant wordsmith. Her prose is absolutely poetic, ebbing and flowing with phrasing and rich imagery that steals the reader’s breath. It’s not just the language, though, that makes this such a gorgeous book. Through Keane’s writing, each character is given life that lifts them off of the page and into existence. They are tragic and flawed, beautiful and real, each with hopes and dreams that transcend the obstacles with which they are faced. The reader KNOWS them and can’t help but to laugh, cry and cheer as their lives unfold.

Melancholy and even sometimes morose, the familial themes explored by Keane are at once uplifting and painful. At what cost do we cling to our past? How much energy do we expend in the name of vengeance? When does forgiveness become a noble pursuit? What, exactly, constitutes a life well-lived?

Ask Again, Yes is, without question, a must read for those who value family and the ties that bind; for those who expect good writing in exchange for the valuable time spent immersed in the pages; and for those who can appreciate the joy of a story well-told.

Thanks to both NetGalley and Scribner for allowing me access to an ARC in exchange for my review. The book is slated for a June 2019 release.

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Review: Avenue of Regrets

Avenue of Regrets by R.J. Piñeiro
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This domestic suspense/thriller is Piñeiro’s first foray into the genre, and whilst there’s much done right here, there are also a few areas in need of a bit more attention.

When the book opens, David Wallace is bellied up to a bar, drowning his sorrows, guilt and regret over the loss of his job, his wife and his son—the seventh anniversary of which is upon him. The root of his guilt, as well as what happened to his family, is ambiguous, but the weight of his responsibility is clear. He meets a woman at the bar, an intriguing stranger, who receives a cell phone call and leaves as quickly as she appeared—though not before presenting David with a note that tells him nothing is as it appeared seven years ago when he experienced his losses. When he tries to follow her, he happens upon her being assaulted, tries to intervene and is knocked unconscious. When he comes to, she is gone, another woman has been murdered and the race begins to unravel the mystery behind David’s past and what exactly happened all those years ago.

The main plot is definitely alluring, and Piñeiro goes a great job keeping the pages turning and the suspense high. The history of David’s past is slowly revealed, as the present crashes in and adds layer after layer to the story. Here is where I felt things go south a bit, as overlapping subplots became overwhelming and confusing. At only the 75% mark, it appears that the book is winding down and heading towards its resolution. It then takes the final 25% for the author to tell, rather than show, what happened seven years ago, what’s happened since and how the subplots presented actually relate. Characters offer convoluted dialogue that attempt to explicate events, but it was difficult to follow and required more work than a relatively short novel should.

The second problem I encountered was one of the relationships portrayed. David is at once vulnerable and unlikeable, his past transgressions overshadowing his future—a character complex and well developed. I just didn’t feel invested in his relationships—not in those he lost nor in the one burgeoning with his assistant. There was just no spark to court my engagement.

Overall, Piñeiro has shown himself to be a contender in the domestic suspense genre. The writing itself is superb, full of believable dialogue that moves the story forward. He is also a pro at creating tone and mood through that dialogue, as well as through the setting. Definitely an author to watch moving forward.

*Note: When reading, I was assaulted by ads in the Kindle version at the end of several of the chapters. The ads were for a giveaway of a signed copy of the book. I was so hacked off at the interruptions in the reading that I penned a message to the author. He responded quickly, and politely, explaining that this was a mistake in the e-copy that was in the process of being corrected.

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Review: When Brooklyn Was Queer: A History

When Brooklyn Was Queer: A History by Hugh Ryan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When Brooklyn Was Queer is a fascinating read in which the author delves deep into the history of same-sex relationships and gender identity. Whilst this is in itself is not a unique undertaking, author Hugh Ryan goes a step further, tying threads of the past to a central location—Brooklyn, New York. From its identity as a waterfront harbor, filled with sailors and businessmen, through its transformation into a city full of queer spaces, Ryan shares stories of the individuals who contributed to the emergence of “queer Brooklyn”. He also explores how that rise was experienced by white males, females and people of color—distinctions between which are followed throughout. He finally presents in glaring detail the sobering events that worked like falling dominos to destroy the fragile space.

Prior to this read, I considered myself fairly well versed on the gay movement. I knew about the Stonewall Riots and have friends who were there in the thick of things, making chaos as they also made a profound statement of solidarity and strength. I had never considered what being gay meant before those riots, however, aside from assuming that life was closeted and shrouded in secrecy. It was so much more complex than I had ever imagined.

The book opens with what I felt were the most moving and poignant pages—a brief glimpse into the shared lives of Gypsy Rose Lee and Carson McCullers. It’s a beautiful prologue that sets the stage for the rich and varied history that follows—and Ryan dives right in, explaining his use of the term “queer”:

“...in my research I use the catchall queer...to refer to people whose sexuality or gender identity isn’t conventional for their time, which helps me avoid projecting specific modern identities (such as gay or transgender) on folks for whom those ideas wouldn’t necessarily have made a lot of sense.”

From there, the book proceeds to lay down the first blocks in the foundation of queer life in Brooklyn—the publication in that city of Walt Whitman’s Leaves of Grass. The author simultaneously explicates Whitman’s verse and uses it as a lens through which to delve into Whitman’s sexuality. Whitman’s time as a resident of Brooklyn is the first marker of queer life in that city.

The Victorian-era discussion that begins with Whitman is explored through fact-based conjecture that addresses the societal constructs of relationships during that period. Ryan shares letters, diaries and publications to support the assertion that many of the intimate friendships may have been same-sex attractions, either considered or embraced, that would today be referred to as “gay”—and his research is as deep as it is broad. More hard evidence in the form of newspaper articles and editorials, personal accounts and publications underpin the rest of the book, as queer Brooklyn is birthed, then “erased”, from 1884-1969. Throughout, there is frank discussion of both gender identity and sexuality, public acceptance and prejudice

There’s so much to be learned, and Ryan teaches by sharing with readers facts and short narratives that bring to life the drag kings and queens, the activists and those simply living their truths as queer men and women. From Brooklyn Heights to Coney Island, the streets are filled with stories that are sometimes funny, at other times full of heartbreak. Unrequited love, bawdy behavior, beautifully intimate relationships and the cruelty of human nature is all on display here, eliciting from the reader both laughter and tears.

This is a must read for anyone living the queer life or simply interested in the issues of the LGBTQ community. As queer Brooklyn is rising like a phoenix from the ashes, a clear understanding of its history allows for an appreciation of the joys, as well as the sacrifices, experienced there—small, sometimes seemingly insignificant events that shaped and forever changed what it means to be queer.

Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated for publication in March, 2019.

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Review: The Warning

The Warning by Kathryn Croft
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Once again, I appear to be in the (very) small minority of people who just didn’t enjoy this book. I’m not going to spend a great deal of time trying to convince you that it’s a “bad” read—it’s not. It just wasn’t a read for ME.

First, the main plot is relatively cut and dry. Zoe and Jake have two sons, Ethan and Harley. The reader learns that three years prior to the start of the story, 14 year old Ethan and a friend, Josh, both drown after sneaking out late at night and making their way to the nearby river. Police ruled their deaths accidental. When the book opens, Zoe and Jake are still trying to find their way out of the darkness of grief that consumes them. Zoe, however, begins getting text messages from an unknown sender—messages that suggest Ethan’s death may not have been an accident. She sets out to discover the tuth, though the cost may be more than she bargained for.

In spite of the promising plot, there are a number of reasons I only gave this one three stars:

1. The structure is actually three-fold, which makes the entire work feel messy and disconnected—a series of chapters told in first person from an anonymous writer (in italics); another series written by Zoe, also in first person; then the remaining chapters, written in third person.

2. Extraneous subplots are, well....extraneous! For example, Cara, who works with Jake, is trying to seduce him. He rebuffs her, at which time she tries to (unsuccessfully) convince Zoe that he raped her. Entire pages are dedicated to detailing Cara’s attempts, yet those pages add nothing to the story itself. Other subplots were, I suppose, meant to be red herrings, but their resolutions just felt contrived.

3. The big reveal is a huge letdown and introduces characters that the reader has no idea even existed. There is NO way to puzzle this one out because the reader is never given all of the relevant details.

The writing itself is solid in construction, though there were numerous punctuation errors. This may be a Kindle issue, but if that’s the case, the electronic version should have been more closely vetted.

Overall, above average writing with an average plot and a substandard conclusion.

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Review: No Way Back

No Way Back by Rick Mofina
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

No Way Back is a perfectly mediocre crime thriller by author Rick Mofina. The plot is, though sometimes implausible, straightforward and easy to follow; the structure is sound; and the background on the news business seems to have been well-researched.

When the story begins, Ann is in a local high end jewelry store picking up a custom piece she has ordered for her husband. Suddenly, armed gunmen storm the shop. When the dust has settled, one police officer is dead, the getaway driver has been seriously wounded and the gunmen have disappeared—taking Ann hostage. At the scene is local star reporter Tom Reed, anxious to get a jump on the story. He crosses police lines to try to get an interview with the store clerk, who is still clutching Ann’s receipt. When Tom asks for the hostage’s name, the clerk hands him the paper—a receipt signed by Ann. Tom Reed’s wife. Ann Reed.

The remainder of the book details Ann’s trauma as she is dragged across state lines, her husband and police always a step behind. The structure here is both interesting and unique. Each time an event occurs to further the police investigation, the narration becomes an episodic third-person retelling. For example, assume a note from Ann, in which she begs for help, has been found. Some authors might have a character call the police and explain the circumstances surrounding the discovery, thus introducing this aspect of the story. Mofina, however, favors showing rather than telling. He takes readers into a hotel and allows them to “watch” as Ann hides that note. He then later includes a scene that follows a cleaning woman and an electrical contractor into that room, where the note is picked up. This pattern is repeated as the story unfolds. It reminded me of the opening segment of Law and Order—where characters who find the victim appear in a scene that leads to the discovery, then are rarely seen again. Here, it was an approach that broke the monotony of pages in which little happened.

Finally, I have to give credit to the author for the obvious research he did relative to the news business. The jargon and terminology lent an air of authenticity to the piece that otherwise suffered with the holes in police procedure and character development alike.

Overall, the book failed to impress—thoroughly an average read.






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Review: Dodgers

Dodgers by Bill Beverly
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dodgers, by author Bill Beverly, is a YA novel, haunting and beautiful, less “Y” and more “A”, filled with an intoxicating combination of poetic prose and the gritty language of the streets.

The story follows East, a young LA gang member, as he leaves the dangerous streets of his city for the first time, sent on a mission to pull off a hit ordered by his uncle. East, his brother Ty, and two others (Walter and Michael) head off for Wisconsin, armed with the resources, if not the experience, that they will need to get the job done.

Seeing the journey through East’s eyes is like living again the wonders of a child. He marvels at the mountains, is ensnared by the allure of the Vegas strip and shivers naively in the first bone-chilling cold he has ever known. Author Beverley is a brilliant wordsmith, giving a voice to East that portrays him as both child-like and adult, stuck in that vast in-between space that calls in both directions:

East liked driving here—the flat, unruffled fields with no one in sight, blind stubble mown down into splinters, maybe a tractor, maybe an irrigation rig like a long line of silver stitches across the fabric of earth. The flatness. There was more in the flatness than he’d expected. The van’s shadow lay long, and the fields traded colors. The boys slept in intervals or complained. Riding in a car for more than a few hours, he thought, was like suspended animation—somewhere under the layers of frost, your heart beat. To the left, a thunderstorm hovered, prowling its own road.

Know going in that the YA genre label is a bit of misdirection, as the language alone would preclude this from being appropriate for younger teenagers. Racial epithets and adult language, as well as episodes of profound violence, are many and varied. They are, however, as important to the story as the characters themselves.

Brutal and heart breaking, poetic and raw, this read will stay with you long after the cover has been closed.


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Review: Land of the Blind

Land of the Blind by Jess Walter
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It just doesn’t get any better than when Jess Walter tells a story, and Land of the Blind, his second novel featuring Spokane Detective Caroline Mabry, is yet another sterling example of Walter’s creative genius—a book that is worthy of a five star rating.

The first big star speaks to the quality of the structure—an innovative approach that alternates between two narratives, each imbued with a voice that is as unique as it is engaging. Initial, and then rotating, chapters are told in third person as Carolyn Mabry is given the unwelcome task of taking a confession from a man whom police fished from a hotel ledge—a man everyone at the station is calling a “loon”. The only thing he will tell the officers is that he is confessing to a homicide, and he intially hesitates to offer anything further, not knowing where or how to begin. Eventually Mabry convinces him to write his confession—and write he does. In these chapters, told in first person, the man from the ledge recounts his story, seemingly being written even as the reader is consuming the words. He works his way to revealing his name, then to explaining his crime. In the interludes within his story, the reader is audience to Mabry’s investigation, as she works to first identify, then locate, the victim before the written confession is complete. In the tradition of most suspense novels, the plot snakes in serpentine patterns, twisting and turning as the action unfolds.

The second star is for that winding plot, at once convoluted and complex, complicated and yet somehow beautifully simple: a story of the cruelties of youth, first loves and the occasionally painful consequences of our ill-conceived actions. Though the overarching premise is one of a man’s guilt-ridden conscience, crime, and ultimate confession, it is the confession itself that is the heart of this work. It is filled with rich episode snippets in the life of a man with a fractured self-image that is based upon the perceptions of others. Readers born in the mid to late 60s will appreciate the references to the culture of the time—the products made popular, the music being played and even the athletes who were idolized—as the confessions plays out. Beginning with his childhood, the man from the ledge spends 48 hours filling tablet after tablet with a retelling of events that he claims led to the very recent death of a friend, a death for which is responsible.

Star number three is awarded for the dynamic and diverse characters. Though first published in 2003, the characters remain relevant today, 16 years later. From the high school bully to the consummate and quiet stoner, the academic young girl to the neighborhood outcasts, the reader is able to invest in each as their relationships are explored with glaring clarity, unedited and raw. Walter presents characters so real it is as if the reader can reach out and touch them as they reach back.

Star four is for the wordsmithing. If there’s any doubt as to Walter’s talent, that concern is extinguished through passages such as this:

“...she wore a long, tight print skirt with no sign of her old smart-girl self-consciousness, and watching her walk in it, a man could be forgiven if he thought of trading everything—family, career, self-respect—for one day spent tracing that skirt’s gentle roll over hips and thighs, to the calf, where a glimpse of smooth, tanned ankle revealed a simple silver bracelet, a dizzying piece of jewelry that was impossible to ignore, to avoid imagining it as the only thing left on her, gleaming in the light from a bedroom candle.”

His ability to paint a visual that is also sensual and moving is beyond reproach.

The final star is for Walter’s ability to tell a tragically compelling story that is also steeped in social satire and dark humor. There are laugh out loud funny moments as well as tragic revelations that will make readers weep; the idea that nature and nurture are inextricably linked, that we are as much products of our environments as we are victims of fate.

If you’ve never read Jess Walter’s work, I can only ask why not and encourage you to drop everything you’re doing and read it now. Land of the Blind is the perfect place to start.



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Review: Dry Hard

Dry Hard by Nick Spalding
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dry Hard is a hysterically funny novel that chronicles one couple as they move through the stages of addiction recovery. From their manic highs in the throes of drunken oblivion to their lows of hitting rock bottom, author Nick Spalding infuses enough humor to make the journey one in which the reader fully engages, cheering for the characters to make it to full sobriety.

Spalding’s genius here is in his ability to make us laugh, even whilst we simultaneously wince. Kate and Scott Temple, both in their forties, are given voice in alternating chapters, the first several of which detail their drunken behaviors in separate high profile, awkward situations. The farcical nature of their retelling of events will cause even the most cynical of readers to truly laugh out loud, but not without an underlying feeling of unease and perhaps even a bit of guilt over finding the couple’s alcohol-induced actions amusing. This tightrope is walked throughout—we snort at their slapstick antics then silently follow Kate and Scott as they explore the depth of their self-deception and fight to recover.

The other character here that plays heavily into the plot is the couple’s sixteen year old daughter Holly. While her parents’ chapters are told as if Kate and Scott are speaking directly to the reader, Holly’s actions are retold through a narrator who addresses us as if we are sitting next to him. This was an interesting choice on the part of the author, and one that results in seeing Kate and Scott as unreliable storytellers, often drowned in their own indulgences. The recounting of events through an omniscient narration, however, is felt to paint a more authoritative picture, as we find ourselves audience to Holly’s internal teenage angst, revealed without a filter.

Dry Hard also takes a comical swipe at the iconography of British contemporary culture. YouTube is featured as both a vehicle of destruction and of redemption, and Spalding takes shark-jaw-sized bites out of Krav Maga, Piers Morgan and even Boris Johnson. Jools Holland’s Annual Hootenanny is also skewered in one of the funniest paragraphs in the book:

The Temples are watching Jools Holland’s Hootenanny.

Nobody in their right mind watches Jools Holland’s Hootenanny. It’s one of the rules of New Year. The BBC broadcast it—as is their right—and the entire population of Great Britain completely ignores it, as is theirs.

Only those suffering severe infirmity, or suicidal loneliness, have ever sat through Jools Holland’s Hootenanny. To do so under any other circumstances would just be plain wrong.

In the end, Dry Hard does devolve into a bit of banality, but the trip there makes this novel deserving of a read and worthy of high praise. Well written, with a focused plot, no extraneous filler and loads of laughs, Dry Hard may be destined to take its place among the funniest books written this year. Spalding will most certainly widen his fan base with this release—and rightfully so. The book definitely made a fan of this reviewer.

Thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

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