Review: SAFE KEEPING by Barbara Taylor Sissel

CMash April 12, 2014 3 Comments

Safe Keeping by Barbara Taylor Sissel
Published by Harlequin MIRA
Publication Date: March 25, 2014
ISBN-10: 0778316165
ISBN-12: 978-0778316169
Number of Pages: 320
Review Copy from: Author/Harlequin
Edition: TPB
My Rating: 5

Synopsis (via GR):

My son is a murderer…. So begins this chilling and emotionally charged mystery from highly acclaimed author Barbara Taylor Sissel.

Emily Lebay had always thought of her family as ordinary. Sure, they’ve endured their share of problems, even a time of great trouble; what family hasn’t? But when a woman’s body turns up in the dense woods near their home, and Emily’s grown son Tucker is accused of murder, Emily is forced to confront the unfathomable, and everything she believed about her life is called into question.

This isn’t the first time Tucker has been targeted by the police; a year ago he was a person of interest when another woman was found dead in the same stretch of woods. Still, neither Emily nor her daughter, Lissa, can reconcile their Tucker with these brutal crimes. Terrified, convinced there’s been a tragic mistake, Emily and Lissa set out to learn the truth about Tucker, once and for all. And while his life hangs in the balance, what they discover proves far more shocking than their darkest fears.

“Past secrets contribute to present-day angst in this solid suspense novel, and the even pacing keeps the reader’s interest until the captivating conclusion.” Publisher’s Weekly

“…impressive writing and affecting subject matter.” Kirkus Reviews(less)

My Thoughts and Opinion:

WOW!!! I need to emphasize that WOW!
Barbara Taylor Sissel went on my “authors to read list” after reading her novel THE NINTH STEP. And she stayed that after I finished reading THE VOLUNTEER and EVIDENCE OF LIFE. Now with this latest book, SAFE KEEPING, she has a permanent spot on that list.

The LeBay family is once again dealing with a heart wrenching and “could it be” family crisis, son and brother, Tucker, is being accused of murder. Not Tucker! Yes he has had some difficulty in life, but murder? Yes, the family has some secrets, but murder? There are more likely suspects other than Tucker. With unconditional love, the family will prove his innocence. Or can they?

I know when I start to read a Barbara Taylor Sissel book, the writing is going to be impeccable, the characters life like and relatable, the suspense incredible. And she didn’t disappoint with this novel. She has an amazing talent of weaving a tale full of chapter cliff hangers, possible suspects, roller coaster action that is difficult to put down and comes to a climax with a “never saw coming” ending. Heart pounding!! An intense read!

I highly recommend!!!

DISCLAIMER

I received a copy of this book, at no charge to me, in exchange for my honest review.

No items that I receive are ever sold…they are kept by me, or given to family and/or friends.

ADDENDUM

I do not have any affiliation with Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble. I am an IndieBound affiliate. I am providing link(s) solely for visitors that may be interested in purchasing this Book/EBook.

Author, Book Review, The Story Plant

Review: PRESSED PENNIES by Steven Manchester

CMash March 31, 2014 1 Comment

Pressed Pennies by Steven Manchester
Published by The Story Plant
Publication Date: May 13, 2014
ISBN-10: 1611881358
ISBN-13: 978-1611881356
Number of Pages: 355
Review Copy from: Author
Edition: ARC
My Rating: 5

Synopsis via GoodReads:
Rick and Abby grew up together, became best friends, and ultimately fell in love. Circumstance tore them apart in their early teens, though, and they went on to lives less idyllic than they dreamed about in those early days. Rick has had a very successful career, but his marriage flat-lined. Abby has a magical daughter, Paige, but Paige’s father nearly destroyed Abby’s spirit.

Now fate has thrown Rick and Abby together again. In their early thirties, they are more world-weary than they were as kids. But their relationship still shimmers, and they’re hungry to make up for lost time. However, Paige, now nine, is not nearly as enthusiastic. She’s very protective of the life she’s made with her mother and not open to the duo becoming a trio. Meanwhile, Rick has very little experience dealing with kids and doesn’t know how to handle Paige. This leaves Abby caught between the two people who matter the most to her. What happens when the life you’ve dreamed of remains just inches from your grasp?

PRESSED PENNIES is a nuanced, intensely romantic, deeply heartfelt story of love it its many incarnations, relationships in their many guises, and family in its many meanings. It is the most accomplished and moving novel yet from a truly great storyteller of the heart.

My Thoughts and Opinion:

I seem to ask myself the same questions whenever I start to read the latest Steven Manchester book… can he do it again?… can he make me feel the emotions of his characters?…. will I relate to the cast?….will I imagine the settings from his descriptions?… will this read stay with me? …will this book be at the level of the bar that HE, himself set with his first book, Twelve Months?…what about his other books..Goodnight, Brian and The Rockin’ Chair? OK..let’s see so those questions can be answered!

From the first sentence, the reader is swept away to become one and part of the story because of the talented writing style by this author. Not only does Steven Manchester have the gift to pen stories about matters of the heart and relationships, I believe what puts him above many others, is that he truly writes from the heart. It is apparent that he writes about what he knows best, life, but he also has the ability to make his written words come to life in poignant stories.

The Cast: are believable and relatable even though I hadn’t experienced the situation of a divorce, which both Rick and Abby were going through when they were reacquainted, I could feel their emotions as the author described. I did know, and feel, the level of love between mother and child and kept putting myself in Abby ‘s shoes asking myself what I would do in this situation? Does a mother protect her child at the expense of personal happiness? (You will have to answer this question yourself)

There were so many other emotions, situations, experiences and feelings that were brought to mind in comparison and relatability to my own life, both present and past. One example, that brought back vivid memories and emotions of my childhood, of Christmas shopping with my Dad and sister in downtown Providence:

pg 126 Smiling faces, framed in woolen scarves and colorful earmuffs, released a chimney of steam into the starry night and most waved at him. Shop windows, adorned in the year’s latest clothing styles and ingenious toys, beckoned the masses…..Massive garlands, strung from lamppost to lamppost, dangled red-bowed wreaths at each center.

The Setting…it was easy for me to visualize since the setting mainly took place in southern New England with a quick getaway to Aruba, both places I personally have visited during different stages of my life. Places like Lincoln Park , a large amusement park that I haven’t thought about in years and has been long gone, Fenway Park, the corner neighborhood store and the beautiful beaches of Aruba. But I can guarantee that even if you don’t know this area, you will have no problem creating the exact imagery of what he describes.

The Answers: Yes to all!!! A lasting memory and a read that met the bar!! Once again Steven Manchester delivered!! As with all his books, they are written about love, compassion, parenting, growing, pain, relationships, family, disappointments, all the experiences and emotions of life as we all know it. Steven Manchester’s books are written with those very emotions and he allows his readers to remember, relive and feel. His books are timeless!

I have to be very honest, however. I did have one very big disappointment. It was when I started reading the final chapter and knew that the final word would be soon approaching. Why? For me, since I have read every one of his books, I now have to wait another year, waiting for his next novel Goosebury Island, which will be released in May 2015. I highly recommend and urge you to pick up this or any of his other books…..you won’t be disappointed. But like me, I’m sure you will become a Steven Manchester fan and waiting for and wanting more! In my opinion, PRESSED PENNIES, as all his books have, will be winning awards!

Bravo Mr. Manchester and thank you!

REVIEW DISCLAIMER

This blog was founded on the premise to write honest reviews, to the best of my ability, no matter who from, where from and/or how the book was obtained, and will continue to do so, even if it is through PICT or PBP.

DISCLAIMER

I received a copy of this book, at no charge to me, in exchange for my honest review.

No items that I receive are ever sold…they are kept by me, or given to family and/or friends.

ADDENDUM

I do not have any affiliation with Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble. I am an IndieBound affiliate. I am providing link(s) solely for visitors that may be interested in purchasing this Book/EBook.

Author, Book Review

Review: Murder Has Consequences by Giacomo Giammatteo

CMash February 2, 2014 Leave a Comment

Murder Has Consequences by Giacomo Giammatteo
Series: Friendship & Honor
Published by Inferno Publishing Company
Publication Date: May 21, 2013
ISBN-10: 0985030267
ISBN-13: 978-0985030261
Pages: 380
Review Copy from: Author
Edition: Kindle
My Rating: 5

Synopsis (Amazon):
A Thriller about Murder, Mystery, and Family. It’s easy to give your life for someone you love. It’s much harder to kill for them. ~Nicky Fusco For a select few people, friendship lasts forever. Nicky Fusco and Frankie Donovan were friends like that, but that was years ago. Now Frankie’s a detective in Brooklyn’s Homicide department, and Nicky is a reformed hit man. But when Frankie gets in trouble–and the law can’t help him–he turns to Nicky. The problem is that Nicky promised his family, and God, that he’d go straight.

My Thoughts and Opinion:
I was first introduced to this author when I read the first book in this series, Murder Takes Time. I was blown away with his debut novel, and quite honestly, was skeptical if the 2nd book would do the same. Did it?

Within the first few sentences the reader is reacquainted with Frankie “Bugs” Donovan, NYPD and Nicky “The Rat” Fusco. And thus begins a page turning read. A book of non stop action including murders, kidnapping, drugs, friendship, honor and loyalty.

Short chapters, alternating with the characters, had mini cliff hangers that teases the reader to “read just one more chapter” and realization that another 5 chapters have been read. I found myself trying to read faster so I could get to the next few chapters to find out where the story would bring me. The writing fluid and descriptive so that the imagery created was vivid. The story believable.

Was the 2nd in this series as good? Absolutely!! It was another “could not put down” experience that has left this reader waiting anxiously for the next book, Murder Takes Patience due out in March.

REVIEW DISCLAIMER
This blog was founded on the premise to write honest reviews, to the best of my ability, no matter who from, where from and/or how the book was obtained, and will continue to do so, even if it is through PICT or PBP.
DISCLAIMER
I received a copy of this book, at no charge to me, in exchange for my honest review.
No items that I receive are ever sold…they are kept by me, or given to family and/or friends.
ADDENDUM
I do not have any affiliation with Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble. I am an IndieBound affiliate. I am providing link(s) solely for visitors that may be interested in purchasing this Book/EBook.

(2014 Challenges: Mt TBR, EBook, Where Are You, A-Z, Turning the Pages, Outdo Yourself)

Author, Book Review, Providence Book Promotions

Review HOW NOT TO MURDER YOUR GRUMPY by Carol E. Wyer

CMash August 19, 2013 2 Comments

How Not To Murder Your Grumpy by Carol E. Wyer
Published by Safkhet Publishing
Publication Date: June 1, 2013
ISBN-10 1908208163
ISBN-13 978-1908208163
Pages: 106
Review Copy from: Author and Providence Book Promotions
Edition: Kindle
My Rating: 4

Synopsis:
Is your Grumpy Old Man getting under your feet? Is he wrestling with retirement? Are you wondering if you should bundle him up and entrust him to basket-weaving classes? Then this book could be the answer to your prayers. This light hearted guide is packed full of lively ideas, anecdotes and quips. Not only does it set out to provide laughs, but offers over 700 ideas and ways to keep a Grumpy Old Man occupied. From collecting airline sick bags to zorbing, you will be sure to find an absorbing pastime for your beloved curmudgeon. There are examples of those who have faced extraordinary challenges in older age, fascinating facts to interest a reluctant partner and innovative ideas drizzled, of course, with a large dollop of humor. Written tongue-in-cheek, this book succeeds in proving that getting older doesn’t mean the end of life or having fun. It provides amusing answers to the question, “How on Earth will my husband fill in his time in his retirement?” It offers suggestions on what might, or most certainly might not, amuse him. Ideal for trivia buffs, those approaching retirement, (or just at a loose end) and frustrated women who have an irritable male on their hands, this book will lighten any mood and may even prevent the odd murder.

My Thoughts and Opinion:
I was first introduced to this author when I found her blog, Facing 50 with Humor. So when she contacted me to read and review her 1st book, exactly 2 years ago, Mini Skirts & Laughter Lines, I knew it would be enjoyable and funny, which it was.

Fast forward to a few months ago when I received an email asking if I would read and review her latest book, How Not To Murder Your Grumpy. When I read the synopsis, my first thought was, this is perfect! Over the past few months my husband (or as Carol has renamed the species, Old Grumpys) has been talking about when he plans to retire and I have to be honest, anxiety has set in thinking what will he do all day every day, my peaceful days will be no longer, will he be underfoot.

In How Not To Murder Your Grumpy, the author, has listed many activities, from A-Z, that one can be involved with to fill the days. Some are obvious, some I would never have thought of and some are down right hysterical. Each chapter, a different letter, has many suggestions to keep a Grumpy occupied. What I found funny were the author’s descriptions, dry humor editorial comments and riddles.

For example, on archery. A description of the sport is given and then…….

Archery is one of the most ancient sports known to mankind. In Ancient times and the medieval period, this activity was used for protecting people from enemies and for hunting wild animals. Today, it is regarded as a recreational activity or sport, and is looked upon as a way to improve concentration, mental strength, and precision…..where was I? Oh yes, sorry, I was thinking about Kevin Costner in the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and got distracted.
Question: What did the lustful maiden say to the handsome archer? Answer: You make me quiver.

And that is just one of many descriptions that I was laughing at. And I had 25 more letters to get through. And 700 ~~distractions~~ hobbies to occupy my Grumpy for when the time comes. Yes 700! She found 700 activities!

This book will definitely be put in an easy accessible location and, I’m sure, will get much use once my husband leaves his office for the last time. It just might have saved him from a justifiable murder.

I recommend this if you are looking for a light read, full of humor and laughter and/or looking for a new pastime. Full of levity, amusement and witticism. I am looking forward to reading her next book, Just Add Spice, as I am sure it will contain more of the same.

REVIEW DISCLAIMER

DISCLAIMER

I received a copy of this book, at no charge to me, in exchange for my honest review.

No items that I receive are ever sold…they are kept by me, or given to family and/or friends.

ADDENDUM

I do not have any affiliation with Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble. I am an IndieBound affiliate. I am providing link(s) solely for visitors that may be interested in purchasing this Book/EBook.

Author, Book Review, Partners In Crime Tours

Review DEAD PEASANTS by Larry Thompson

CMash July 8, 2013 2 Comments

Dead Peasants by Larry Thompson
Published by St. Martin’s Press
Publication Date: October 12, 2012
ISBN-10: 1250009499
ISBN-13: 978-1250009494
Pages: 292
Review Copy from: Author
Edition: Kindle
My Rating: 5

Synopsis:
Lawyer Jack Bryant retires early to Fort Worth to kick back, relax and watch his son play football at TCU. Bored with retirement he opens a pro bono office in his RV. When Jack finds an elderly widow at his doorstep, clutching a check for life insurance proceeds on her husband but payable to his former employer, Jack files a civil suit to collect the benefits rightfully due the widow. A seemingly accidental death of his client’s husband thrusts Jack into a vortex of serial killings. He and his new love interest find themselves targets in the same murder for hire scheme. To stop the killings Jack must unravel what in their past makes certain people worth more dead than alive.

My Thoughts and Opinion:
When I first saw the title of this book, and knowing it was a legal thriller, I have to be honest, I couldn’t figure out what peasants had to do with the plot. And then it is explained. A “dead peasant” is a type of insurance policy (being vague as to details so not to include spoiler), but let me tell you, this is a bit scary as to it’s existence in real life.

The writing style was fluid, the characters 3 dimensional, so it was easy to visualize both the cast and settings.

The protagonist, Jackson Douglas Bryant, attorney, has become one of my favorite characters, and hope that this is the beginning of many future books written around him. Jack Bryant is a successful lawyer, who decides to become a pro bono plaintiff’s lawyer for those who do not have the means to hire an attorney. And his first case, turns out to be more than just routine. People are being killed but by who and why? And the “who done it” ending was one I didn’t see coming.

One thing I really enjoyed was that, even though it was a legal thriller, it did not contain the heavy legalese often found in this genre.

This is the first time I have read a book by this author, but let me tell you, it won’t be the last!! Loved it! A definite page turner that will keep you guessing.

REVIEW DISCLAIMER

DISCLAIMER

I received a copy of this book, at no charge to me, in exchange for my honest review.

No items that I receive are ever sold…they are kept by me, or given to family and/or friends.

ADDENDUM

I do not have any affiliation with Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble. I am an IndieBound affiliate. I am providing link(s) solely for visitors that may be interested in purchasing this Book/EBook.

(2013 Challenges: JFF, EBook, Count the Ways, First Reads, A-Z, Where Ate You, Mystery/Suspense, FreeReads, 52 in 52, Outdo, Read-A-Latte)

Author, Book Review, Partners In Crime Tours

Review BIRTHDAYS OF A PRINCESS by Helga Zeiner

CMash June 1, 2013 3 Comments

p class=”download”>Birthdays of a Princess by Helga Zeiner
Published by POW WOW Books
Publication Date: May 9, 2013
ISBN: 978-0-9868798-7-6
Pages: 290
Review Copy from: Author
Edition: ARC Kindle
My Rating: 4

Synopsis (from Amazon):
To be famous and be admired by total strangers can be very dangerous.

Her little girl has always been her princess. In fact, she was so lovely, Melissa entered her toddler into child beauty pageants, making her a star from an early age. But her dreams and hopes are shattered one October morning, when Melissa watches a breaking news story on television. A young girl has been filmed by bystanders, committing a brutal assault in broad daylight in a downtown Vancouver Starbucks…and it looks like the girl is her daughter.
From this moment on, a story unfolds, so shocking, that it will hold you captive and you will find yourself reading faster and faster into the night.

Guided by a forensic Psychiatrist, Helga Zeiner has captured the tormented inner thoughts of a former beauty queen and her mother with amazing sensitivity. The 5-star bestselling author delivers yet again an impeccably researched thriller – this time one that takes you into the complex world of child beauty pageants – with an ingenious plot. Just when you think you know the ending…read on, the ultimate surprise waits at the end of the thrill-ride.

My Thoughts and Opinion:

I was first introduced to this author when I read and reviewed her novel, Section 132, which was a page turner.

Birthdays of a Princess hooked me by the end of the Prologue. A mother, watching TV, is shocked when she realizes the attacker of a brutal stabbing of a woman, the news is reporting on, was her 15 year old daughter. But why? And who is this victim? Was it a random act? After Tiara’s arrest, a painful and emotional journey begins for why this child committed this vicious crime. Secrets that have been repressed come to light. And the only way she can recall these horrifying memories is to correlate it to her birthdays

Birthdays of a Princess is an intense psychological thriller and might be considered disconcerting by some readers, but unfortunately in today’s world, it is also a reality. A tale of extreme trauma and exploitation of a child. A mother’s selfishness and inability to parent. The betrayal of adults that were the protectors. Secrets, lies, greed and drugs. A child perpetrator that is truly the victim. And her quest for healing.

Birthdays of a Princess is a chilling fictional read, but sadly, is also a real life actuality. Scary!! A white knuckle, edge of your seat read!!

REVIEW DISCLAIMER
This blog was founded on the premise to write honest reviews, to the best of my ability, no matter who from, where from and/or how the book was obtained, and will continue to do so, even if it is through PICT or PBP.

DISCLAIMER
I received a copy of this book, at no charge to me, in exchange for my honest review. No items that I receive are ever sold…they are kept by me, or given to family and/or friends.

(2013 Challenges: In A Name, EBook, Count The Ways, A-Z, Where Are You, Mystery/Suspense, FreeReads, Outdo Yourself, Read-A-Latte)

Author, Book Review

Review “Fairy May” by Jo Linsdell

CMash March 14, 2013 2 Comments

FAIRY MAY by Jo Linsdell
Published by CreateSpace Independent Publishing
Publication Date: Feb. 1, 2013
ISBN-10: 1481951424
ISBN-13: 978-1481951425
Pages: 32
Review Copy from: Author
Edition: ARC PDF
My Rating: 5

Crunch Time (A Goldy Bear Culinary Mystery #16)

Synopsis:

Fairy May dreams of one day becoming a tooth fairy but she struggles at school and always seems to get things wrong. With hard work and determination she prepares for her test. Will she realize her dream and become a tooth fairy?

My Thoughts and Opinion:

When my sons were young I would read to them every day, being it for pleasure and/or a learning tool. Books were an important element in their development and growth. We had fun books and then there were the “teaching” books on a particular subject for their appropriate age group. Some examples were books on sharing, being a big brother, starting school, potty training and even where do babies come from. And because it has been many years since I have had the opportunity to read such a book, I was delighted when the author asked me to read and review her book.

Fairy May is a story of a little fairy who’s dream is to become a tooth fairy. However, she is too young and inexperienced, but learns if she works hard, she could attain her goals.

This is a book that definitely would have been on our shelves when my boys were young. The message is of working hard to make dreams become reality. The illustrations, also by the author, were phenomenal and the colors appealing. I know that when the day comes, and I start a library for my grandchildren, this book will be on the shelf. I highly recommend this to all that have a little one in their lives.

(2013 Challenges: Count The Ways, A-Z, FreeReads, 52 in 52, Outdo Yourself, Read-A-Latte)

Author, Book Review, Partners In Crime Tours

Review A Bullet For Carlos by Giacomo Giammatteo

CMash February 5, 2013 2 Comments

A Bullet For Carlos
by Giacomo Giammatteo
Published by Inferno Publishing Company
Publication Date: October 18, 2012
ISBN-10: 0985030240
ISBN-13: 978-0985030247
Pages: 420
Review Copy from: Author
Edition: Kindle
My Rating: 5

Synopsis:
Detective Connie Giannelli’s life has been torn apart several times. First when her mother died and then years later when she found out her Uncle Dominic was in the mob. Her life is about to be shredded again, and this time it could destroy her.

Connie’s love of family and her badge are both threatened when an undercover drug bust leaves two cops dead and the drugs missing. Internal Affairs is looking for any excuse to take her badge, but she’s not worried about them finding the missing drugs—her secrets could prove to be far worse.

Now Connie’s racing against the clock to figure out who killed her partners and took the drugs—dirty cops or Uncle Dominic’s friends. And she has to do it before IA pins the whole damn thing on her.

My Thoughts and Opinion:
First I feel that I need to add a caveat. I started this blog as a personal journal of books read. When I went public with it, I vowed to write honest and credible reviews, no matter how I obtained the books. I still do and will continue to do, even if it is a book being toured with my VT companies, Partners In Crime Tours and Providence Book Promotions. With that said, my review for A Bullet For Carlos.

I am always a bit skeptical and anxious when reading a second novel by an author who’s debut novel blew me away like I was with Murder Takes Time. Is the second book going to as good or better or was the first book a “one hit wonder”? Can this male author pull off writing a novel with a female first person narrative? I only had to read a few pages to get my answers. Yes and Yes!

A Bullet For Carlos, the first book in the Blood Flows South Series, introduces us to Connie Giannelli, a gutsy “clean” cop who has some familial ties to the “mob”. Trying to clear her name, with a drug bust gone wrong, finds herself in another situation in trying to solve a cold case that involves a serial killer.

Within the first few pages, the story grabs hold of the reader and never lets go, including the ending, since this is the first book in the series. I am anxiously awaiting the next installment. The chapters alternate between characters with mini cliff hangers, which means it’s a “one more chapter read”, and then realizing one has read many chapters. The action is non stop! There are a several subplots, which the author masterfully interweaves and pulls together in a climaxing manner. Heart pounding suspense!!
There are quite a few characters, but I feel all are needed, to make the story realistic, along with some of the strong language and graphic violence.

Giacomo Giammatteo, has once again, proven that he is a gifted and accomplished story teller and author, unsurpassed!! Put him on your radar, I believe, he is headed to the top of the Best Sellers’ charts!!!!

DISCLAIMER
I received a copy of this book, at no charge to me,
in exchange for my honest review.
No items that I receive
are ever sold…they are kept by me,
or given to family and/or friends.
ADDENDUM
I do not have any affiliation with Amazon.com or
Barnes & Noble. I am an IndieBound affliate.
I am providing link(s) solely for visitors
that may be interested in purchasing this Book/EBook.