What Are We Reading And Reviewing in April 2021?

Tell us what your reading plans are for April.

📌 - ★
Carol' s Reads For April
📌Bloodline – Jess Lourey – 4.5★
📌Body and Soul – Aiden Bates – Washington - 5★
📌Darkfall –Dean Koontz – New York -4★
📌Whispers in The Night – Brandon Massey, Tananarive Due & Others – 4.5★
📌An Unconventional Union – Scotty Cade – Georgia/Massachusetts - 4.5★
📌The Lucky Ones – Mark Edwards – 5★
📌Come Closer – Sara Gran - 4★
📌Knobs – Scotty Cade – 5★
📌Win – Harlan Coben – New York/New Jersey - 5+★
📌Later – Stephen King – New York -5★
📌Better Than People – Roan Parrish – Oregon – 5★
📌The Whispering House – Elizabeth Brooks – England - 3★
📌The Lost Village – Camilla Sten – Sweden - 5★
📌Not Dark Yet - Peter Robinson – England - 4★
📌Lost Boy Found – Kristen Alexander – (Louisiana) - 3.5★
📌The Moonlight Child – Karen McQuestion -5★
📌Haunted Blood - Elik Katzav – Israel -5★
📌Winter Kill - Josh Lanyon -5★
📌Tear Me Apart - J.T. Ellison - (Tennessee) -5★
📌Fire and Granite - Andrew Grey - (Pennsylvania/Maryland) -★
📌Fire and Agate - Andrew Grey - (Pennsylvania) -4.5★
📌Fire and Obsidian - Andrew Grey -4.5★ (Pennsylvania)
📌Fire and Onyx - Andrew Grey - 4.5★ (Pennsylvania)
📌Fire and Diamonds - Andrew Grey - 5★ (Pennsylvania)
📌They Disappeared – Rick Mofina – (Montana/New York) - 5★
📌Two Truths and A Lie – Ellen McGarrahan - (Florida) – 3.5★
📌Blood Done Sign My Name - Timothy B. Tyson – 3★ (North Carolina)
📌The Missing Ones – Patricia Gibney (Ireland) 3.5★
📌Silent Child - Sarah Denzel (England) – 4★
📌My Brother's Best Friend - Aiden Bates & Ali Lyda (Washington) – 4.5★
📌Her Dark Lies - J.T. Ellison - 4★ (Italy)
📌Burnished By Fire - Andrew Grey - 4★ (Florida)
📌Clock Dance - Anne Tyler - 3★ (Maryland)
📌Cop Out - K.C. Burn - 5★

Mystery

🎭 Below Zero - C. J. Box - 4 Stars - 4/16/21 - Wyoming
🎭 Bubbles Unbound - Sarah Strohmeyer - 3 Stars - 4/10/21 - Pennsylvania
🎭 Doctor of Thessaly - Anne Zouradi - 4 Stars - 4/9/21 - Greece
🎭 Frankenstein, Prodigal Son - Dean Koontz - 4 Stars - 4/17/21 - New Orleans, Louisiana
🎭 Guidebook to Murder - Lynn Cahoon - 3.5 Stars 4/27/21 - California
🎭 Her Final Confession - Lisa Regan - 4.5 Stars - 4/7/21 - Pennsylvania
🎭 Hi FIve - Joe Ide - 4 Stars - 4/1/21 - California
🎭 Last Rituals - Yrsa Sigurdadottir - 4 Stars - 4/5/21 - Iceland
🎭 Liar - Nora Roberts - 4 Stars - 4/21/21 - Tennessee
🎭 Mexican Gothic - Silvia Moreno Garcia - 4 Stars - 4/19/21 - Mexico
🎭 Mrs. Pollifax and the Whirling Dervish - 3.5 Stars - 4/25/21 - Morocco
🎭 Noble Radiance - Donna Leon - 4/5 Stars - 4/18/21 - Venice, Italy
🎭 Prince Joe - Suzanne Brockmann - 3.5 Stars - 4/23/21 - USA somewhere
🎭 Sanatorium - Sarah Pearse - 3.5 Stars - 4/13/21 - Switzerland
🎭 Scandal Above Stairs - Jennifer Ashley - 4 Stars 4/14/21 - England
🎭 Sinner - Amanda Stevens - 4.5 Stars - 4/12/21 - South Carolina
🎭 Sleep Well My Lady - Kwei Quartey- 4.5 Stars - 4/11/21 - Ghana
🎭 Something About You - Julie James - 3.5 Stars - 4/4/21 - Chicago, Illinois
🎭 Thursday Murder Club - Richard Osman - 5 Stars - 4/30/21 - England
🎭 Windigo Island - William Kent Krueger - 4.5 Stars - 4/28/21 - Minnesota

Other

🎭 Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte - 5 Stars - 4/16/21 - England
🎭 Saffron Gate - Linda Holeman - 4 Stars - 4/8/21 - Morrocco
🎭 Sentinel - Anna Hackett - 3.5 Stars - 4/26/21 - fictional planet of Cathargo
🎭 Small Sacrifices - Ann Rule - 5 Stars - 4/24/21 - Eugene, Oregon
🎭 Snow Child - Eowyn Ivey - 5 Stars - 4/2/21 - Alaska
🎭 Vacationers - Emma Straub - 3 Stars - 4/22/21 - Mallorca

An Unconventional Union - Scotty Cade (Georgia /Massachusetts)
Unconventional Union series Book #2
4.5 - ★
Kincaid International Corporation’s CEO, Webber Kincaid, and his executive assistant, Tristan Moreau, have just returned from a Caribbean business trip gone horribly right. After years of hiding their love for each other, they finally came clean and discovered KIC’s chief financial officer has been up to some shady business transactions. Now that they’re back, Tristan and Webber must expose the CFO’s indiscretions and save Webber’s reputation, since he’s ultimately responsible for his CFO’s actions. With Tristan by his side, Webber faces KIC’s board of directors and a looming investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission and Department of Justice. With all the uncertainty surrounding them, Webber and Tristan rely on the strength of their connection. Together, they plan an intimate wedding on the island of Martha’s Vineyard. But despite their love for one another, Webber and Tristan quickly realize they have some hurdles to cross before they can start their unexpected new life.

One of the things I like about Scotty Cade’s books is that he never lets his characters suffer life’s misfortunate for very long…unless they are actually the bad guy. I’m still searching for the first book so since there are only 2 books thus far…I will know that everything is going to work out for Webber and Tristan. I hope that Scotty Cade has at least one more book in the series so that the ending won’t be left on the note that this one ended on. In spite of what has been hinted at…this book is just filled with joy and appreciation that these two characters have because they are together, finally.

Knobs – Scotty Cade – (South Carolina)
5★
Angus Conrad (Gus) McRae is a privileged Charlestonian following family tradition and attending the Citadel, harboring big dreams of a military career. With the infamous Hell Week behind him, he quickly realizes being a Knob (a freshman cadet) is just as tough—especially for a man like Gus who must keep his sexuality a secret. Then a sudden dorm reassignment lands him with a roommate in the form of one of the football team’s top players—working-class jock Stewart Adam (Sam) Morley—and life gets increasingly complicated. Gus can’t imagine a man like Sam as gay, yet there’s something between them—exchanged glances, the occasional innuendo. Sexual tensions rise, leaving them more than friends but less than lovers. Gus and Sam know there’s too much to lose and they must keep their attraction hidden. If they fail, they risk destroying their hopes and dreams for a prosperous future in a military world that’s not yet ready to accommodate masculine gay men.

This was a book that evoked a slew of emotions. Everything from frustration with the existing mind set to warm fuzzy feelings for the two guys that were as different as night and day…but knew they were absolutely perfect for one another no matter what the school, their families, or society thought or the rules that were placed to keep them apart. I didn’t understand the treatment that all of the lower classman received without provocation or warning from a selected group approved by the academy. I suppose they had an explanation but they certainly weren’t forthcoming. I was very impressed that the author didn’t just write a love story about a military academy as well known as it’s sister school, West Point. He traveled to Charleston and was allowed to observe and form this story around his observations. Never once did I find anything that indicated that the story reflected his feelings about the policies in place or the attitude of the school. He just wrote a warm, beautiful story about two men that were willing to take their chances. The public opinions and the government policies concerning gays in the military have changed but those changes evidently didn't apply to the academies. I loved Gus and Sam and the ending was perfect. I did wonder where Mr. Cade was going to take this story but he didn’t disappoint in the least.

Bloodline- Jess Lourey - (Minnesota)
4.5★
Perfect town…Perfect homes…Perfect families. It’s enough to drive some women mad…In a tale inspired by real events; pregnant journalist Joan Harken is cautiously excited to follow her fiancé back to his Minnesota hometown. After spending a childhood on the move and chasing the screams and swirls of news-rich city life, she’s eager to settle down. Lilydale’s motto, “Come Home Forever,” couldn’t be more inviting. and yet, something is off in the picture-perfect village. The friendliness borders on intrusive. Joan can’t shake the feeling that every move she makes is being tracked. An archaic organization still seems to hold the town in thrall. So does the sinister secret of a little boy who vanished decades ago. And unless Joan is imagining things, a frighteningly familiar figure from her past is on watch in the shadows. Her fiancé tells her she’s being paranoid. He might be right. Then again, she might have moved to the deadliest small town on earth.

This dark thriller is based on a true event complete with small town secrets…occult rituals…the disappearance of a child and a community fueled cover-up. The reader will learn the dark secret of a child gone missing and some very weird undercurrents that are everyday life in this small American town of Lilydale, Minnesota. The further you read, the darker the twists. The neighborhood is tight knit and Joan is not quite comfortable with events that play out. In fact, as a reporter, she finds a dark and sinister history that threatens her and her child leaving her to wonder who she can trust.

Darkfall – Dean Koontz – (New York)
4★
A blizzard brings a city to a standstill and ushers in an evil that defies imagination.
Winter gripped the city. Terror gripped it, too. They found four corpses in four days, each more hideous than the last. At first the cops thought they were dealing with a psychopath. But soon they heard eerie sounds in the ventilation system—and saw unearthly silver eyes in the snow-slashed night. In a city paralyzed by a blizzard, something watches, something stalks.

This was a reread for me as I read it when it first came out 14 years ago. I’m happy to see that it is just as good or as bad as it was then. The bad: The same thing bothered me yet today that bothered me all those years ago was that I didn’t understand how the father…a policeman no less…does nothing when he knows his children are being threatened. He just continues with his investigation efforts without asking help from fellow officers. The relative he assumed they would be safe with was barely able to care for herself let alone two children. That didn’t make sense to me then and made even less sense to me today. The Good: It was an intriguing storyline with a “bad thing” that was totally creepy and unpredictable…and it did have a terrifying satisfactory climax.

Body And Soul - Aiden Bates – (Washington)
Vanguard Tower series Book #3
5★
"Brax is too young,...too vulnerable…too perfect. My dominant nature craves someone to care for…someone to command. Brax could be that guy if the circumstances weren’t all wrong. His brothers would kill me if I hurt him. So would my FBI partner. That doesn’t mean I can stay away. The young artist is everything I want in a partner. And when danger comes for him, I need to keep him safe .But how can I keep him forever? I’ll never be good enough. My brothers got me off the streets, but Ry doesn’t know the truth. I’m dirty. I’ve done things I’m not proud of. Things none of my former boyfriends could see past. Why would Ry be any different? He sees the world in black and white. I know where I stand But he looks at me with a heat I can’t ignore. And when I’m in danger, he keeps me safe. Will he accept me when he learns the truth" ?

Aiden Bates has fast become one of my favorite authors. These books are not going to be for everyone, but he has again created another book in this series with believable, likeable, but damaged characters. Brax has a lot of personal issues…way more than a man of 24 should ever have. Ry is totally career, (FBI), focused and is very unforgiving of those that commit wrongs. These two appear so wrong, but yet so right, for each other. This story has some violence… a great deal of strong family ties…and some laughs. It deals with trauma and the effects and healing process is very emotional but keeps the reader glued to the pages and wanting more. Despite some of the darker aspects, I often found myself often smiling since Brax is a truly sweet, loving and bright character.

Come Closer - Sara Gran (New York)
3 ★
A recurrent, unidentifiable noise in her apartment. A memo to her boss that's replaced by obscene insults. Amanda—a successful architect in a happy marriage—finds her life going off kilter by degrees. She starts smoking again, and one night for no reason, without even the knowledge that she's doing it, she burns her husband with a cigarette. At night she dreams of a beautiful woman with pointed teeth on the shore of a blood-red sea. The new voice in Amanda's head, the one that tells her to steal things and talk to strange men in bars, is strange and frightening, and Amanda struggles to wrest back control of her life. A book on demon possession suggests that the figure on the shore could be the demon Naamah, known to scholars of the Kabbalah as the second wife of Adam, who stole into his dreams and tricked him into fathering her child. Whatever the case, as the violence of her erratic behavior increases, Amanda knows that she must act to put her life right, or see it destroyed.

This book is a very short, quick read...more of a novella. I have to say that it was fun, but predictable. It was engrossing… but seriously lacking in character development. It's very typical of it's genre. It was somewhat creepy because of Amanda's complete lack of control over her situation. However, most readers are going to need more. It had the potential to be a great little horror novel…but unfortunately it just wasn't long enough to really get very deep into the characters or their thoughts or feelings…not even for the demon herself.

Win – Harlan Coben (New Jersey/New York)
5+
Over twenty years ago, the heiress Patricia Lockwood was abducted during a robbery of her family's estate, then locked inside an isolated cabin for months. Patricia escaped, but so did her captors — and the items stolen from her family were never recovered. Until now. On the Upper West Side, a recluse is found murdered in his penthouse apartment, alongside two objects of note: a stolen Vermeer painting and a leather suitcase bearing the initials WHL3. For the first time in years, the authorities have a lead — not only on Patricia's kidnapping, but also on another FBI cold case — with the suitcase and painting both pointing them toward one man. Windsor Horne Lockwood III — or Win, as his few friends call him — doesn't know how his suitcase and his family's stolen painting ended up with a dead man. But his interest is piqued, especially when the FBI tells him that the man who kidnapped his cousin was also behind an act of domestic terrorism — and that the conspirators may still be at large. The two cases have baffled the FBI for decades, but Win has three things the FBI doesn't: a personal connection to the case; an ungodly fortune; and his own unique brand of justice.

I usually just grab new books by favorite authors when they first come out and can beat the other lovers of my favorite series off with a big stick. If that fails…I just somewhat patiently await my turn…but this one??? No way was I waiting and taking a chance on getting it first. I put my name on the list for it right up there at the top when I first heard it was going to be Win’s story, almost a year ago. I can in all honesty say that it has easily been one of…if not The most, anticipated reads of the year….perhaps of my entire life! If you’ve read any of Harlan Myron Bolitar series, you know (and probably love) Win…Windsor Horne Lockwood III. At last a book that had Win at its center, and it didn’t disappoint. Win is rich, handsome, cunning, and manipulative and…lethal. Think of him as being a little like Bruce Wayne without the Batmobile. I’m glad Harlan Coben waited to feature Win in his own story. As result he did an outstanding job of writing a twisty, fun thriller that keeps readers on their toes. If this series is new to you I’d recommend giving one or two of the Myron Bolitar books a try first, so you have a chance to become acquainted with Win and his friends before reading his story. Thank you, Harlan Coben, for this treat.

>12 Carol420: I hope to read this soon. I'm anxious to see a story that features him rather than Myron for a change.

>13 Olivermagnus: It's all Win in all his glory:)

Fire and Agate - Andrew Grey (Pennsylvania)
Carlisle Deputies series Book #3
4.5★
When Chris Anducci is moved off jail duty and into the sheriff’s office, he doesn’t expect his first assignment to be protecting a witness against a human trafficking ring. Knowing the new sheriff doesn’t abide screwups, Chris reluctantly agrees to work the case. Pavle Kasun has spent the last four years of his life at the mercy of others. When an opportunity presented itself, he took it, resulting in his rescue. Now the safe houses he’s placed in are being threatened and he needs protection if he is to have any sort of chance at a life. Chris opens his home to Pavle, but he doesn’t expect Pavle and his story to get under his skin… and stay there. Soon they discover they have more in common than either of them thought. Slowly Pavle comes out of his shell and Chris finds someone who touches his heart. But as the men looking for Pavle close in, they will stop at nothing to get him out of the way. But even if Chris can keep him safe, he might not be able to protect his heart if Pavle moves back home.

Chris and Pavle couldn’t have been more opposite of one another if they had tried….plus the fact that Chris kept forgetting that Pavle didn’t understand what some English phrases actually meant made me want to shake him and scream, “Just tell him what you mean”!!! Their story is a foray into potentially high drama from a twisted plot to a simmering…conflicted… but eventually a heartfelt romance between the two of them. I love the way Andrew Grey never lets past characters be forgotten. He always pulls in characters from the previous Carlisle Cops and The Carlisle Deputies books into each of the current books. The stories are very character driven and the reader quickly begins to think of them all as friends so it’s really nice to see them all together again if only for a few pages. These series are both extremely interesting and very well written…with just the right amount of angst, comfort, and suspense. Thank you, Mr. Grey for another remarkable story. It’s diffidently one that I will want to reread. No wonder my two friends think they will never see their books again :)

Not Dark Yet - Peter Robinson (England)
Inspector Banks series Book #27
4★
When property developer Connor Clive Blaydon is found dead, Detective Chief Inspector Alan Banks and his Yorkshire team dive into the investigation. As luck would have it, someone had installed a cache of spy-cams all around his luxurious home. The team hopes that they’ll find answers—and the culprit—among the video recordings. Instead of discovering Connor’s murderer, however, the grainy and blurred footage reveals another crime: a brutal rape. If they can discover the woman’s identity, it could lead to more than justice for the victim; it could change everything the police think they know about Connor and why anyone would want him dead. Meanwhile, tensions are rising between Banks and his friend, Zelda. A super recognizer—able to recognize faces significantly better than most people—Zelda is determined to bring the men who abused her to justice. But stirring up the murky waters of the past will put her in far greater danger than ever before, and Banks worries that he won’t be able to stop her from plunging too deep before it’s too late.

It has a rather complicated plot. When you take into consideration that the author has inserted many passages into an otherwise interesting storyline that describes scenery, meals, and musical selections, although still "interesting"...they seemed to be tedious and unnecessarily. The usual characters…Alan, Annie, and Gerry were their usual captivating and capable selves, but not much was touched on about their personal lives which is usually a big part of this series. This was only addressed and touched on in passing. While after reading what I have said, it seems trivial. However for myself, it caused this remarkable police procedural series to lack the depth, subtlety, and superior writing that has made the earlier Inspector Banks books such very good reading.

The Lucky Ones – Mark Edwards (England)
5★
When a woman’s body is found in the grounds of a ruined priory, Detective Imogen Evans realizes she is dealing with a serial killer—a killer whose victims appear to die in a state of bliss, eyes open, smiles forever frozen on their faces. A few miles away, single dad Ben Hofland believes his fortunes are changing at last. Forced to move back to the sleepy village where he grew up following the breakdown of his marriage, Ben finally finds work. What’s more, the bullies who have been terrorizing his son, Ollie, disappear. For the first time in months, Ben feels lucky. But he is unaware that someone is watching him and Ollie…someone who wants nothing but happiness for Ben. Happiness…and death.

Mark Edwards is one of my favorite authors. His stories are always well told and his characters always make you comfortable in their presence. They aren’t all good people…some are bad and some are down right evil. If you already love Edwards' work, you're definitely going to love this one. If this is your first one…you’ll be searching for all his others. The only small fault that I could see with “The Lucky Ones” was that parts of it was a little long winded and slow getting to the point. The reader will find everything that makes for a good “who-done it”. A sense of mystery and police chase style actions… anxiety you can feel for the character of Ben as he realizes that he's in terrifying danger…anger that is as real as it gets as he realizes what he failed to notice in his son, Ollie. Overall…a very realistic psychological thriller that you will want to finish in one sitting. Oh well…who needs to eat or sleep?

The City by Dean Koontz 4★
Jonah Kirk's childhood has been punctuated by extraordinary moments - like the time a generous stranger helped him realize his dream of learning the piano. Nothing is more important to him than his family and friends, and the electrifying power of music.
Ok
But now Jonah has a terrifying secret. And it sets him on a collision course with a group of dangerous people who will change his life forever. For one bright morning, a single earth-shattering event will show Jonah that in his city, good is entwined with malice, and sometimes the dark side of humanity triumphs. But it will also teach him that courage and honour are found in the most unexpected places, and the way forward lies buried deep inside the heart.

If he can just survive to find it...

Dean Koontz is one of those authors who could write a book about grass and it would still be interesting. When I bought the book it was with hesitation. Thought it would be the first time I would be disappointed by the master. Turned out I was wrong AGAIN. Koontz writes this book steeped in nostalgia. It connected with me throughout the pages. Made me think of my youth. Optimism and goodness are feelings that underlie this novel. How a guy who has written so many great books can stay so grounded is beyond me. The main character is an adult who recounts about an event from his youth. As a musically talented boy who develops friendships across the color spectrum with a parent and grandparents who influence and instil in him the ideals to be the best, as opposed to the most successful, person he can be. This event is secondary to the maturation of this person. I will not let another preconceived notion about Koontz stop me from reading whatever he happens to write about.

Hell with the Lid Blown Off by Donis Casey
#7 Alafair Tucker Mysteries
c. 2014
4 *s

It was tornado season in Boynton, Oklahoma, 1917. The summer was starting out hot and dry for the Tucker family. Alafair's middle daughter, Ruth, was staying at and teaching piano at Miz McKenzie's house on the outskirts of town. While walking Ruth was accosted by local bully Jubal Beldon and his posse of brothers. Trent Calder, deputy, decided to keep an eye on Ruth to keep her safe, especially since he discovered that he was very partial to Ruth's quiet and kind ways. Miz McKenzie's grandson, Wallace, and a traveling friend, Randall, stopped by Miz McKenzie's house to visit for a few days before heading toward Colorado. At a church picnic, Wallace and Jubal had words. That night a tornado blew through the area. It destroyed farms, livestock, and people. Alafair's son stumbled upon an unrecognizable body as he was trying to make his way to Boynton to check on family. While trying to deal with family difficulties, Alafair became interested as to the identity of the man her son had found, and also the manner of death. Was the man a victim of the tornado, or was he murdered?

This is the 7th novel in the Alafair Tucker Mystery series. it written from many points of view, but once accustomed to the format, it was an easy read. The characters are people whom I would really like to have met.

Tear Me Apart - J.T. Ellison - (Tennessee)
5★

The powerful story of a mother willing to do anything to protect her daughter even as their carefully constructed world unravels around them. One moment will change their lives forever... Competitive skier Mindy Wright is a superstar in the making until a spectacular downhill crash threatens not just her racing career but her life. During surgery, doctors discover she's suffering from a severe form of leukemia, and a stem cell transplant is her only hope. But when her parents are tested, a frightening truth emerges. Mindy is not their daughter. Who knows the answers? The race to save Mindy's life means unraveling years of lies. Was she accidentally switched at birth or is there something more sinister at play? The search for the truth will tear a family apart...and someone is going to deadly extremes to protect the family's deepest secrets. With vivid movement through time, Tear Me Apart examines the impact layer after layer of lies and betrayal has on two families, the secrets they guard, and the desperate fight to hide the darkness within.

A skier with a broken leg and a surprise diagnosis of leukemia sends the family on a frantic search for a stem cell donor. Lives are never the same for this family as secrets are discovered that say nothing is what it seems. The total meltdown of one of the characters was very well thought out. She had received one piece of bad news after the other and slowly felt like she was losing everything. The psychological impact was very accurately written I thoroughly enjoyed the story.

Better Than People – Roan Parrish – (Wyoming)
Garnet Run series Book #1
4★

Simon Burke always preferred animals to people. When the countdown to adopting his own dog is unexpectedly put on hold, Simon turns to the PetShare app to find the fluffy TLC he’s been missing. Meeting a grumpy children’s book illustrator who needs a dog walker isn’t easy for the man whose persistent anxiety has colored his whole life, but Jack Matheson’s menagerie is just what Simon needs. Four dogs, three cats…but who’s counting? Jack’s pack of rescue pets is the only company he needs. But when a bad fall leaves him with a broken leg, Jack is forced to admit he needs help. That the help comes in the form of the most beautiful man he’s ever seen is a complicated, glorious surprise. Being with Jack—talking, walking, making out—is a game changer for Simon. And Simon’s company certainly…eases the pain of recovery for Jack. But making a real relationship work once Jack’s cast comes off will mean compromise, understanding and lots of love.

Again I read book #2 before book #1 but I enjoyed meeting these two guys in the second book so knew when I received the box with this one right on top that I would meet the brother and his partner from the first one. WIN! WIN!!. Cats were the dominate species in the second book so it’s only fair that dogs get their chance here. Jack can’t turn anything away from his door that needs care. Simon has a social anxiety that typically leaves him isolated from the outside world…sometimes unable to be around people at all or communicate with them. He’s not dumb by any means…just suffers from something that many people suffer from…a form of PTSD. Meeting Jack…a children’s book author…and of course Jack’s dogs and cats… gave Simon hope for a better life, though it was painful to see him try to cope with the entire idea and see that he was so afraid he would fail. Animals don’t judge you…they love you for who you are. Jack…to Simon’s surprise…doesn’t judge him either…he just finds that he has lost his heart to this gentle, broken man. Together they set out to build a life that fits “Better Than People” for both of them.

My Brother’s Best Friend – Aiden Bates & Ali Lyda
Caldwell Brothers, Brotherly Love series Book #1
4.5★

Friends and brothers are off limits. That’s always been the rule in our house. In a big family it’s the only way to keep the peace. That doesn’t stop my heart from belonging to Nico, my older brother’s best friend. I’ve been able to put aside my feelings for years, but now that I’m an intern at the law firm he owns, all those feelings are threatening to overflow.He says he doesn’t do relationships, and that work is all he has time for, but when things heat up between us I know I’ve found something worth fighting for. I’ll prove to Nico that I’m the guy for him. It’s time to throw out the old rules and make new ones of our own.

I love Aiden Bate’s writing style but while parts of this book were easy and enjoyable other parts were somewhat of a struggle. It could have been that this is the first of his books that I’ve read with a co-author whose writings I am unfamiliar with. The character of Jamie is a middle child of a family composed of a retired surgeon mother…a retired attorney father and a family of eight boys. Jamie wasn’t exactly unlikable…but he had to grow on you. His personality kept changing. Just when you thought he was going to be a good part of the story…he became slightly annoying. On the whole it was a good book… full of humor and family interaction. I absolutely loved Jamie’s family and can’t wait to read about the rest of these brothers.

Fire and Obsidian - Andrew Grey
Carlisle Deputies series Book # 4 – (Pennsylvania)
4.5★

Can a couple be more opposite than a thief and a cop? Or do they have more in common than they think? Mattias Dumont stole to survive. He was damn good at it. But there’s no such thing as a victimless crime, and when he saw how his theft hurt people, he resolved to change. Now he works as a consultant, and while helping to investigate a rash of burglaries, he crosses paths with James. Police Officer James Levinson doesn’t trust thieves, and that includes Mattias. James’s father stole to support himself, and James knows firsthand how that can destroy lives―it inspired him to go into law enforcement. Mattias is no different, from what he can tell… at first.  As they work together, Mattias and James realize there’s something deeper between them than just the physical attraction neither can deny. Given time, they might even grow to trust each other…unless the case they’re working on dredges up pasts both would rather forget.

Andrew Grey has thrown us something so very, very different that we usually get from this talented writer. Just reading the blurb will raise your level of disbelief and getting through the first chapter will convince you these two are really going to be way too much enemy material to ever get around to being friends, let alone eventual lovers. Neither man is wearing wings and a halo. We have to have some sympathy for their lives… but it’s difficult to see how Andrew Grey is going to being this off. He cleverly mixes their personal lives in a way that it does make logical sense and they fall in lust…I wouldn’t call it love at this point. The steps do begin to move toward commitment and love at a nice, even pace, There are quiet a few twists that takes place in solving the crime and Mattias and James come out ahead. Again it's great to see ‘old friends from previous books. In this case it’s Pierre and Clay. I wish the books were longer and that there were more in the series but I’ll take what I can get.

The Whispering House - Elizabeth Brooks (England)
3★
It was like holding a couple of jigsaw pieces in my palm, knowing there was a whole picture to be made, if I could only find the rest. Freya Lyell is struggling to move on from her sister Stella’s death five years ago. Visiting the bewitching Byrne Hall, only a few miles from the scene of the tragedy, she discovers a portrait of Stella―a portrait she had no idea existed, in a house Stella never set foot in. Or so she thought. Driven to find out more about her sister’s secrets, Freya is drawn into the world of Byrne Hall and its owners: charismatic artist Cory and his sinister, watchful mother. But as Freya lingers in this mysterious, centuries-old house, her relationship with Cory crosses the line into obsession and the darkness behind the locked doors of the estate threatens to spill out.

I did it again. Will I never learn? I chose this book based on the creepy cover. I was lucky that the story was okay…but it was so S –L-O- W …painfully so… and it unfolds using flashbacks and other wanderings. The author did do a marvelous job on description and atmosphere so 3 stars for that. I can’t give it anything higher because I could not connect with the characters. Frya didn’t get her act together until the book was nearly finished. We only learn what happened to Stella in very broad terms and Freya’s actions made no real sense at the end.

Her Dark Lies - J.T. Ellison - (Italy)
4★

Jutting from sparkling turquoise waters off the Italian coast, Isle Isola is an idyllic setting for a wedding. In the majestic cliff-top villa owned by the wealthy Compton family, up-and-coming artist Claire Hunter will marry handsome, charming Jack Compton, surrounded by close family, intimate friends…and a host of dark secrets. From the moment Claire sets foot on the island, something seems amiss. Skeletal remains have just been found. There are other, newer disturbances, too. Menacing texts. A ruined wedding dress. And one troubling shadow hanging over Claire’s otherwise blissful relationship—the strange mystery surrounding Jack’s first wife. Then a raging storm descends, the power goes out—and the real terror begins

A secluded island in Italy is the perfect backdrop for the perfect wedding...but of course everything is far from perfect. Artist Claire Hunter has met the man of her dreams... Jack Compton. Jack is hugely wealthy...handsome...charming...and the director of his family’s prominent charitable organization. Jack is drawn to Claire for her free spirit... her sparkling personality...and her impressionable talent as an artist. Together, the two seem to have it all… but everyone has secrets it seems and Jack and Claire’s secrets are about to catch up to them. As Jack and Claire depart Nashville, Tennessee for their wedding in Italy, they are unknowingly placing themselves on a collision course with danger. J.T. Ellison invites you to pack your bags and follow Claire and Jack to beautiful Isle Isola. This is one wedding you won’t soon forget.

>25 Carol420: I love mysteries set on remote islands or remote mountains with a storm that knocks out the power and internet and everyone is trapped. In real life, I would absolutely hate to be in that kind of situation so I'm not sure why I enjoy reading about that - ha! Because I do, I'm putting Her Dark Lies on my TBR list.

Old Bones by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Childs
3.5 ★

Nora Kelly, a young curator at the Santa Fe Institute of Archaeology, is approached by historian Clive Benton with a once-in-a-lifetime proposal: to lead a team in search of the so-called "Lost Camp" of the tragic Donner Party. This was a group of pioneers who became snow-bound in the California mountains in 1847, and succumbed to starvation, murder and cannibalism. Benton tells Kelly he has stumbled upon the long-sought diary of one of the victims, which has an enigmatic description of the Lost Camp. Nora agrees and as they uncover old bones, they expose the real truth of what happened, one that is far more shocking and bizarre than mere cannibalism.

I enjoyed the setting of most of the story which was in the rugged mountains at the dig site. The archeological details of the bones and other artifacts are interesting, if sometimes gruesome. The details of the Donner party are a mix of actual facts and things made up for the story but it sounded plausible. There was not a lot of suspense until near the end but it still kept me interested throughout. This was a good start to a new series and I plan to read more.

Down a Dark Road by Linda Castillo
3.5 ★

Eight years ago Joseph King was convicted of murdering his wife and sentenced to life in prison. He was a "fallen" Amish man and, according to local law enforcement, a known drug user with a violent temper. Then King escapes and shows up with a gun and kidnaps his five children from their Amish uncle's house. Fearing for the safety of the children, Chief of Police Kate Burkholder leaps into action, but her frantic search for a killer leads her into an ambush. When King releases her unharmed, asking her to prove his innocence, she begins to wonder whether the police are hiding something.

Kate knew Joseph as a childhood friend that she hadn’t seen in years. The story focuses a lot on memories she has of the Joseph she knew back then. This was a decent story but a bit slow until over halfway through. Was a bit disappointed when Kate went into a dangerous situation by herself twice when she didn’t have to. I still like Kate, and this story had it’s good moments, but I didn’t like it as much as a couple of her others.

The Lost Village - Camilla Sten (Sweden)
5 ★

Documentary filmmaker Alice Lindstedt has been obsessed with the vanishing residents of the old mining town, dubbed “The Lost Village,” since she was a little girl. In 1959, her grandmother’s entire family disappeared in this mysterious tragedy, and ever since, the unanswered questions surrounding the only two people who were left… a woman stoned to death in the town center and an abandoned newborn; have plagued her. She’s gathered a small crew of friends in the remote village to make a film about what really happened. But there will be no turning back. Not long after they’ve set up camp, mysterious things begin to happen. Equipment is destroyed. People go missing. As doubt breeds fear and their very minds begin to crack, one thing becomes startlingly clear to Alice: THEY ARE NOT ALONE!. They’re looking for the truth…But what if it finds them first?

My kind of book! If you are a fan of Shirley Jackson, you will absolutely love this book. In 1959, 900 villagers disappear. The question was naturally…. how can an entire village disappear without a trace? Alice Lindstedt…a filmmaker, is determined to learn the answer to the question at any cost. The entire population of the Swedish mining village Silveerjain vanished without a trace. As impossible as it may seem…only the body of an elderly woman and a living infant were later found in the village. The story is bizarre, yes, but it’s more than that for Alice: it’s a missing piece of her own family history that she is determined to uncover. Alice’s grandmother grew up in this very same town, and her entire family vanished along with almost all of the town’s residents on that fateful day many years ago. The hints of supernatural possibilities in the early pages of the book keep you reading and anxiously turning pages. Sten vividly describes the eerie silence of Silverjaim as she invites readers to explore its abandoned buildings and homes, and makes readers witness to the way in which time seems to have stood still in this community. Imagine walking into a home that has been abandoned for over 50 years… and yet it looks almost like its owner just stepped out for a moment, and would be back any second. This author takes the reader into the heart of this mystery and builds almost unbearable tension. it is absolutely a book that incorporates elements of horror and tragedy. This is a story with dark themes and events at its very core. I have to say that this is one of the best stories of this type that I have ever read. I would love to see the documentary.

Winter Kill – Josh Lanyon – (Oregon)
5★

Clever and ambitious, Special Agent Adam Darling (yeah, he's heard all the jokes before) was on the fast track to promotion and success until his mishandling of a high profile operation left one person dead and Adam "On the Beach." Now he's got a new partner, a new case, and a new chance to resurrect his career, hunting a legendary serial killer known as The Crow in a remote mountain resort in Oregon. Deputy Sheriff Robert Haskell may seem laid-back, but he's a tough and efficient cop -- and he's none too thrilled to see feebs on his turf -- even when one of the agents is smart, handsome, and probably gay. But a butchered body in a Native American museum is out of his small town department's league. For that matter, icy, uptight Adam Darling is out of Rob's league, but that doesn't mean Rob won't take his best shot.

Like most of Josh Lanyon’s books this is another very well plotted mystery with a little romance and lots of twist-and-turns. This author is so very good at hiding clues from her readers…yes I said “her”. The explosive beginning and hot-and-cold segues, which became rather frustrating, in the relationship between Rob and Adam leave you sitting out on a limb until the very end…and a very surprising end I might add. I found the information about the Native American culture of the Northwest absolutely fascinating along with learning about the attitudes of the usual bunch of stereotypical small-town characters. I hope she’s got another couple of adventures for Rob and Adam in the works.

Haunted Blood Elik Katzav – Israel
5★
David used to be a police detective before he was shamefully dismissed for claiming that a demon possessed an old priest. Now he is taking odd jobs as a private eye and investigating the disappearance of a missing boy. As his investigation progresses, he becomes certain that supernatural forces are involved. The theft of an ancient pagan god statue from a museum, a patient in a psych ward who claims she took part in secret sacrificial killings, and a ruthless cult leader who will stop at nothing, all allow David to understand evil things are coming his way. David must solve the mystery before the clock strikes zero. If he doesn’t find the boy, he will lose himself as well.

This is the first of anything I have ever read by this author. I probably would never have even found the book if it wasn’t for a challenge where I needed a book set in Israel. This is about as “Israel “as you can get. Despite the supernatural element…which also attracted me… the story actually deals more with rituals…demons… and fallen angels. The author makes it seem a natural everyday occurrence to the reader. You can truly feel for David and the frustration he goes through when he starts questioning everything. He is haunted by the memories of the case that made him lose his job at the Counter Cult Squad and he often returns to the same dark place. Then he decides to search for a missing boy and his life and ambitions suddenly change for the better. There were plenty of plot twists that I didn’t see coming and that added to the book's mystique. It’s one of those stories that come along once in a while that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end.  Five well earned stars and I’m hoping to find more by this author.

Fire and Onyx - Andrew Grey
Carlisle Deputies series Book #5 - (Pennsylvania)
4.5★

Undercover sheriff’s deputy Evan Whittaker is close to infiltrating a vicious local gang. He just needs to find an opening. Instead, he finds Wes Douglas, a web designer who is raising his irresponsible brother’s son. Wes agrees to help with a stakeout, but he pays the price when his home is destroyed in a shootout. Evan’s always been a loner, but when he invites Wes into his home, living together feels right, and the two men only grow closer as they adapt to each other’s lives and rhythms. A future as a family looks brighter by the day, but all of that could collapse when Wes’s brother—and his connection to the drug dealers—crashes into the life they’re carefully building.

This was a wonderful story about family by choice. Wes, Greyson and Evan were placed together by fate and through circumstances became a family. When your own family chooses not to love you, finding one that does always help. Wes gets a bird’s eye view of life as an undercover cop and the effect it has on those around them but if he wants a relationship with Wes then he has to find a way to deal with it. He fears for his brother and he fears for the man he is falling in love with and hopes they both come out safe and sound. I can honestly say that Mr. Grey has described undercover work in such a realistic way that I find it hard to believe anyone would be willing to do it. Once again I applaud Mr. Grey for a wonderful story filled with amazing characters. Why... why... are there only 5 or 6 books in these series?

Lost Boy Found - Kristen Alexander –(Louisiana)
3.5 ★
In 1913, on a summer's day at Half Moon Lake, Louisiana, four-year-old Sonny Davenport walks into the woods and never returns. The boy's mysterious disappearance from the family's lake house makes front-page news in their home town of Opelousas. John Henry and Mary Davenport are wealthy and influential, and will do anything to find their son. For two years, the Davenports search across the South, offer increasingly large rewards and struggle not to give in to despair. Then, at the moment when all hope seems lost, the boy is found in the company of a tramp. But is he truly Sonny Davenport? The circumstances of his discovery raise more questions than answers. And when Grace Mill, an unwed farm worker, travels from Alabama to lay claim to the child, newspapers, townsfolk, even the Davenports' own friends, take sides. As the tramp's kidnapping trial begins, and two desperate mothers fight for ownership of the boy, the people of Opelousas discover that truth is more complicated than they'd ever dreamed.

I thought the author wrote a heart wrenching story that was guaranteed to grab and hold the heart of every mother that reads this book. However the characters that were the heart of the story didn’t seem to be very well developed and these were the people that were going to make or break this story. The ending just fell short and the story felt incomplete. I realize that this was based on an actual event… the kidnapping of Bobby Dunbar…and I know sometimes real events don’t have real clear conclusions like fictional stories... but the reader was allowed to become entirely invested in these people and then was just left hanging. There are so many different conclusions that the story could have come to. It was too bad that it continued with deceit to the very end…still it was still a very worthwhile read.

Two Truths and A Lie - Ellen McGarrahan – (Florida)
3★
In 1990, Ellen McGarrahan was a young reporter for the Miami Herald when she covered the execution of Jesse Tafero, a man convicted of murdering two police officers. When it later emerged that Tafero may have been innocent, McGarrahan was appalled by her unquestioning acceptance of the state’s version of events. The revelation propelled her into a new career as a private investigator. Decades later, McGarrahan finally decides to find out the truth of what really happened in Florida. Her investigation plunges her back into the Miami of the 1960s and 1970s, a dangerous world of nightclubs, speed boats, and cartels, all awash in violence. She combs through stacks of court files and interviews everyone involved in the case. But even as McGarrahan circles closer to the truth, the story of guilt and innocence becomes more complex, and she gradually discovers that she hasn’t been alone in her need for closure. Because whenever a human life is forcibly taken—by bullet, or by electric chair—the reckoning is long and difficult for all.

The death penalty…that some states had and others still do, including Florida…is not something that almost every American is “on the fence” about. You are either for it or against it, and everyone has their own arguments to support their individual views. I am not going to make an argument for the support or the rejection of the death penalty itself in this review…so no matter how you feel…please read on. The author of this book thoroughly investigated what she was going to write about. She did this for 3 long years because a great deal of what she was discovering just didn’t mesh with what was presented in court and believed by the 12 good men and women that frankly was given a horrendous job that NO ONE should ever have to be exposed to. In addition to some stunning conclusion, she brings to the story a literary sense of its place in relation to the justice system and our society as a whole. If you think you are going to find a straight up rendition of the facts and only the facts…I can tell you …you are not. You will, however develop a great deal of sympathy for those 12 people that did have to assume that what they heard was the truth, the whole truth an nothing but the truth…but… it was not. You will also put yourself in that jury box from the safety of the words on a page that can be turned and a cover that can be closed. If you are inclined to have and give thoughtful consideration of all the elements contributing to a crime and its punishment, you will find that you and this author 100% share the idea of justice and wish it to be absolute…but again...it’s not.

The Moonlight Child – Karen McQuestion
5★
On a cold January night, Sharon Lemke heads outside to see a lunar eclipse when she notices something odd at the house behind her backyard. Through her neighbor's kitchen window, she sees what appears to be a little girl washing dishes late at night. But the Fleming family doesn't have a child that age, and even if they did, why would she be doing housework at this late hour? It would be easy for Sharon to just let this go, but when eighteen-year-old Niki, a former foster child, comes to live with Sharon, she notices suspicious activity at the Flemings' house as well. When calling social services doesn't result in swift action, the two decide to investigate on their own.

This was one absolutely captivating, intense, intriguing, and memorable story. It raises the question; how well do you know your neighbors? Sharon thought that she knew hers very well but when questioned they declared they absolutely didn’t have…nor had they ever had a daughter or any other female child…only a teenage boy. For Sharon the question now became how far would/should she go and what would she risk saving someone else’s child? A child that the neighbors say doesn’t even exist. If you love a real mystery that is deeply human with a host of secrets and outright lies as well as a truly harrowing, with issues ripped from the daily newspapers… this is your book. It will keep you awake right to the so satisfying ending.

Fire and Diamond - Andrew Grey (Pennsylvania)
Carlisle Deputies Series Book #6
5★
When Deputy Nick Senaster chastises a bunch of college kids at a bar, he doesn’t think anything of it, even if their leader is gorgeous. The guy is too young and way too cocky, and soon Nick has an emergency foster placement to focus on. His first job is ensuring ten-year-old Ethan knows someone cares for him. But Nick doesn’t realize Ethan is a package deal. When Alexander finds out his abusive stepfather, Dieter, has lost custody of his half-brother, he’s torn between relief and dread. Alexander can’t get custody until he can provide a home for his tiny family. In the meantime, at least Ethan’s foster father will let Alexander visit. So, of course the man turns out to be the cute but dour cop who gave Alexander a hard time. Soon Nick and Alexander discover they misjudged each other.

This one brings together Deputy Nick and his newly acquired 10-year-old foster child Ethan. Soon we see Ethan's step brother, Alexander, whom Nick had previously encountered in a silly episode in a bar, enter the scene. I absolutely have enjoyed every one of Andrew Grey's Carlisle series... both the “Cops” and the “Deputies”. This one is no exception. As usual he has given a sweet love story...a well written family situation that works out for all involved...and a feeling that we would love to have these characters as friends and neighbors. Andrew Grey delivers and I certainly hope he finds another cop in Carlisle to keep this series going. It can’t be that hard.

Blood Done Sign My Name - Timothy B. Tyson (North Carolina)
3★
On May 11, 1970, Henry Marrow, a twenty-three-year-old black veteran, walked into a crossroads store owned by Robert Teel and came out running. Teel and two of his sons chased and beat Marrow, then killed him in public as he pleaded for his life.  Like many small Southern towns, Oxford had barely been touched by the civil rights movement. But in the wake of the killing, young African Americans took to the streets. While lawyers battled in the courthouse, the Klan raged in the shadows and black Vietnam veterans torched the town’s tobacco warehouses. Tyson’s father, the pastor of Oxford’s all-white Methodist church, urged the town to come to terms with its bloody racial history. In the end, however, the Tyson family was forced to move away.  Tim Tyson’s gripping narrative brings gritty blues truth and soaring gospel vision to a shocking episode of our history.

This book is very interesting in what it is. I can’t say that it is… or will...or ever would be one of my favorites…or that I would want to read it again...but it IS honest and brutal about the nature of the historical interactions between black and white races. I grew up in the deep south in the 50’s and 60’s and can sadly say that it is indeed honest in the author’s assessment of the racial situation. Be aware that some of the content is extremely graphic and the story will not be suitable for everyone by any stretch of the imagination. The story is Tim Tyson’s account of going back and confronting many of his memories of this event and looking at them through the eyes of an adult instead of those of a child. It's a well written account and good as far as the writing is concerned but sad and tragic beyond measure in the reality. As I said it will NOT be for everyone.

Burnished By Fire - Andrew Grey (Pennsylvania/ Port Canaveral)
By Fire series Book #3
4★
Firefighters Lee Stanton and Dirk Krause need a vacation. Work seems to have other ideas: they spend the day before their holiday begins battling a fire that claims three lives. Thankfully, Lee and Dirk will have a whole week on the high seas to recover. They’re having a wonderful time—until they spot Dirk’s miserable, closed-minded father on the ship. Between his father’s presence and his guilt over the lives he couldn’t save, Dirk feels sure his romantic cruise is going to tank. But then he saves another passenger’s life—and maybe he can salvage something else too.

I really like this author but I do wish his books were a bit longer....well actually a lot longer. This one could have benefited from a little more excitement in the plot...but it turned out to be a slow, sweet story that saw the two guys relaxing and just having fun while meeting new people Too bad that Dirk’s jerk of a father had to show up....but there were issues that needed to be worked out between father and son also. What are the chances of that ever really happening? Dirk thought never...but he underestimated the power of love. A more than satisfactory ending to the story of Dirk and Lee. Write longer books Mr. Grey!

They Disappeared - Rick Mofina – Montana/New York
5★

Jeff Griffin, a mechanic, and his wife, Sarah, travel from Montana to Manhattan to give their nine-year-old son, Cole, his dream vacation as they secretly face the heart-wrenching turmoil that has them teetering on divorce. In the wake of their heartbreak, a mother and son disappear… While sightseeing near Times Square, Jeff steps into a store to buy batteries for their camera—but upon returning to the street he finds that Sarah and Cole have vanished. A frantic father searches for clues as time ticks down… Battling his anguish and police suspicions, Jeff fights to rescue Sarah and Cole. He knows now that the love he and Sarah have is worth saving. But he could lose the chance to tell her amid growing fears that they have become entangled in an unfolding plot that could have global consequences.

I haven’t read a Rick Mofina book in quiet some time. I have no excuse as I have always liked this author. I ran across this one at my local library and remembered just how good this author is and was very excited to be getting reacquainted. It was very suspenseful…sometimes almost too much so. You felt so many emotions for this father and husband as he searched for his lost family with little help from the police that was more than willing early on to make him their main and only suspect. Not only does he have to deal with the police blowing him off…he also has to cope with Federal authorities that do little more than the local police. Gather the supplies you will need to survive and make yourself comfortable in the best seat in your house… because once you begin this story you won’t want to stop….for anything.

Silent Child - Sarah Denzil – (England)
4★
In the summer of 2006, Emma Price watched helplessly as her six-year-old son's red coat was fished out of the River Ouse. It was the tragic story of the year - a little boy, Aiden, wandered away from school during a terrible flood, fell into the river, and drowned. His body was never recovered. Ten years later, Emma has finally rediscovered the joy in life. She's married, pregnant, and in control again... ... until Aiden returns. Too traumatized to speak, he raises endless questions and answers none. Only his body tells the story of his decade-long disappearance. The historic broken bones and injuries cast a mere glimpse into the horrors Aiden has experienced. Aiden never drowned. Aiden was taken. As Emma attempts to reconnect with her now teenage son, she must unmask the monster who took him away from her. But who, in their tiny village, could be capable of such a crime? It's Aiden who has the answers, but he cannot tell her the unspeakable.

It’s a dark story…a graphic story…a story with details that many will find uncomfortable…but in spite of those things…if you enjoy a dark, gripping mystery...what you won’t be able to do is put it down. Usually I can name the “bad guy” within a few chapters, but not true with this one. All of the characters were written to play their roles well and there is a truly unexpected twist that really surprised me. The only criticism I have concerning this book is that at the end there was suddenly a score of really bad, criminal type people. It just seemed to me to be seemed to be way too many undesirables for a village as small as this one was portrayed to be. I have recently read another book by this author which I thoroughly enjoyed and the same is true for this one.

Heat Under Fire - Andrew Grey
By Fire series book #4
4★

Justin Briggs can shout out directions all day on his job as a traffic cop, but put him in front of a hot guy, specifically firefighter Rock Sparks, and he clams up. Rock finds Justin confusing. While saving a busload of children hanging off the edge of a highway overpass, the cute rookie is cool and confident. But when Rock tries to chat him up, he stutters and chokes. Frustrated, Rock teases Justin, and boy, is his temper hot. Though Rock and Justin share a steamy kiss, Justin keeps his distance, still tongue-tied. Then, when Justin is injured on the job, Rock takes him to the hospital, and some of the barriers start to crumble. But getting his enigmatic boyfriend to open up brings up more questions about Justin's past.

Love this author but some of his books are way, way too short. You just meet the characters and learn about them...get to like some of them, and next thing you know they're gone. It's usually happy ever after...but still gone. The two guys in this one were sweet and you had to root for them. The mother and the sisters of one of them was absolutely horrid. Glad we didn't have to see anymore of them. Write longer books, please, Mr. Grey.

The Last Odyssey by James Rollins 4★
The hunt for Tartarus or Greek hell, ensues as an ancient map with a mysterious silver Daedalus key are found in a shipwreck deep in the middle of an icy glacier. James Rollins’ The Last Odyssey is a race to the finish as the Sons of Moses chase down Sigma Force, each trying to find the gates of hell first. In a storyline that resembles segments from The Odyssey, each group comes into contact with many trials and ancient mythical beasts, such as a Cyclops and Scylla and Charybdis.

Dr. Elena Cargill, a nautical archaeologist, finds herself captured by the Sons of Moses. She must use her ingenuity and knowledge of ancient Greek myths in order to prevent them from reading an ancient map and uncovering the entrance to hell. The Sons of Moses have researched for hundreds of years the inventions created by the people of this legendary land, and they are eager to harness that technology for themselves. Sigma Force, an American special ops military team, runs to Elena’s aid using a map invented by Leonardo da Vinci to find this mythical land first. Bronze mechanical animals fueled by the mythical Medea’s oil add another enemy that both teams must take down to get to their ultimate goal. Which team will get there first? Will Elena be saved? Or will the bronze mythical beasts destroy them all?

The Last Odyssey felt like James Rollins had packaged up a nice little gift for me. Combining all of my favorite things such as mythology, history, and action-packed adventure, The Last Odyssey felt like a grown-up version of The Goonies. There were quite a few areas of cheesy lines where I had to roll my eyes a bit, but overall the action of the story kept it moving. I felt part of the race with both teams to find this hidden world and see for myself what wonderful imaginative inventions they might uncover.

The Malta Exchange by Steve Berry
Cotton Malone mystery
c.2019
3 *s

Hmph. This is the second Cotton Malone mystery in a row which I haven't really gotten into. I'm not sure if it's the subject matter, or the fact that many normal characters were simply not in this book. The gist of the story was that the Pope has died, and the Cardinals were getting ready for the conclave to elect a new Pope. A very conservative cardinal from Malta decided that he wanted to be elected. In doing so he enlisted the aid of his identical twin brother, who was a warrior monk Knight of Malta. They wanted to find a lost document written by Constantine the Great, which would ensure the election. The document was last seen 700 years ago, and could prove that the Catholic church was build upon manmade lies instead of Divine law. Cotton Malone had been hired by M16 to find documents hidden by Mussolini near the end of WWII, among them there might be clues to the whereabouts of the Constantine document.

The Missing Ones – Patricia Gibney (Ireland)
Detective Lottie Parker series Book #1
3.5★

Investigating two different murders with one thing in common - the same rough tattoo on both victims' legs - DI Lottie Parkers leads converge on a former children’s home and unsolved murders from decades ago.

I loved the description of the storyline. The characters were very good but I had some trouble with the timeline layout. I found it to be chaotic and hard to follow sometimes. I also couldn’t quite get acquainted with Lottie, and being the character that was going to carry this series forward…I really wanted to like her more. Maybe she will grow and develop as the series progresses. It did have some interesting twists and turns and I am hoping that the little flaws will smooth themselves out eventually as I believe that this series does have something going for it and the author shows a great deal of talent for telling a tale. I have to remember that I didn’t like J.D. Robb’s Eve Dallas much in book 1 and 2 and here I am 52 books later.

The Survivor's Club by Lisa Gardner
4 ★

A rapist left an indelible mark on three women's lives. All three women hated him and wanted him dead. When he is murdered on his way to trial the police must figure out which of the three women murdered him.

This story had a complicated plot that was interesting and a bit of a stretch but entertaining anyway. There was a lot about the suffering of the women who were attacked by the rapist but it was mostly believable, if somewhat graphic at times, and drew me in. A number of surprising things happened which made the police urgently work to figure out what was going on. This was a good thriller with a lot of suspense.

Clock Dance - Anne Tyler (Maryland)
3★
Willa Drake has had three opportunities to start her life over: in 1967, as a schoolgirl whose mother has suddenly disappeared; in 1977, when considering a marriage proposal; and in 1997, as a young widow trying to hold her family together. So she is surprised when in 2017 she is given one last chance to change everything, after receiving a startling phone call from a stranger. Without fully understanding why, she flies across the country to Baltimore to help a young woman she's never met. This impulsive decision, maybe the first one she’s consciously made in her life, will lead Willa into uncharted territory—surrounded by eccentric neighbors who treat each other like family, she finds solace and fulfillment in unexpected places.

I know it was supposed to tell a fascinating story of Willa waking up and rediscovering her life based on the past occurrences that she had experienced. I said "supposed to" because I just couldn't become invested in her life journey. From childhood until she was 60, Willa had allowed everyone else to define her life. Her defining moments were ones in which she consistently remained passive... only giving parts of herself up for the often selfish needs of others. By the time Willa began to show a little backbone...I had given up on her. It wasn't a bad story...it was a bad character who didn't even make bad decisions. She made absolutely NO decisions. One thing I did find enjoyable was the quirky group of neighbors that Willa finally found herself a welcome part of. These characters were original and real.

All Men Fear Me by Donis Casey
Alafair Tucker Mystery
c. 2015
5 *s

This book resonated with me. It was hard to read, yet hard to put down. Alafair Tucker and her family are dealing with the ramifications of the US going to war. Alafair's oldest son Gee Dub, a student at A and M, may be going off to fight. Pro and anti war sentiments are running high in their small 1,500 population rural Oklahoma town. The state and federal government is passing down mandates that regulate what can be eaten on certain days, what can be bought and sold in stores, and even has rules about what is patriotic and what is treason. Alafair's son-in-law is a naturalized US citizen from Germany. Anybody in town with a German last name or a foreign accent is constantly being hounded by the CD office (Council of Defense) as well as being terrorized by the Knights of Liberty (black robed organization similar to the KKK). Alafair's younger brother Robin strolls into town, having just been released fro lockup down in New Mexico for being a IWW Union organizer. Alafair's younger son has taken a part time job at the local brick factory, a factory which has a government contract. And, Nick Smith, a union buster/the devil, as quietly come to town, fomenting hate and unrest in an already paranoid population. A local rabble rouser and member of the Knights is found murdered. Alafair is working hard to keep her family safe, as she deals with "public opinion." As a government poster in the Post Office proclaims: " Public Opinion... All Men Fear Me." This was an unnerving book. Socialist and Patriotic sentiments are at war, much like in today's society. Alafair felt like her safe and secure world was falling apart.

The Zig Zag Girl by Elly Griffiths
3.5 ★

Brighton, 1950. The body of a girl is found cut into three pieces. Detective Inspector Edgar Stephens is convinced the killer is mimicking a famous magic trick--the Zig Zag Girl. The inventor of the trick, Max Mephisto, is an old war friend of Edgar's. The dead girl turns out to be Ethel, one of his best assistants to date. He's soon at Edgar's side, hunting for Ethel's killer. Another death, another magic trick: Edgar and Max are sure the answer to the murders lies in their army days.

This was a decent story with well-developed relationships between the characters. I liked that a few of the magic tricks were explained as to how they were done. There wasn’t much suspense but there was a bit of humor throughout. It was a nice read.