RebeccasReads

Approaching Neverland: A Memoir of Epic Tragedy & Happily Ever After

“Approaching Neverland: A Memoir of Epic Tragedy & Happily Ever After” by Peggy Kennedy promises to deliver a haunting portrayal of the author’s traumatic childhood. The book was supposed to tell the tale of a family tragedy, her mother’s mental Illness and how it affected the family.

The book is set in the mid-sixties to early nineties in California. Mental illness, in the early dates, was a greatly misunderstood disease. There were no proper medications as there are today. They used shock therapy and drugs that would never see the light of day in our times. The author’s mother, Barbara, and her father, Jack, appear to have differing levels of mental illness, with Peggy having the greater problem.  Barbara had to be institutionalized a few times during Peggy’s childhood. Since the children were not allowed into the hospital, it was a huge strain on them and Jack.

I believe that the author could have fleshed out the trauma of the hospitalizations better. At times it actually sounded that they were better off without the mother being there. In the good times, when Barbara took her medications properly, the story sounds like any other home in Calfifornia during the 60’s.

The author’s siblings play a huge role in her life, but you get the sense of out-of-sight, out-of-mind with this family until there is an emergency. Then it is all hands on deck. Peggy, being the youngest, spends more time with her parents than the others who have all moved away. The author tells of her very close and seemingly normal relationship with her mother.

Yes, this family has a number of tragedies amongst the siblings but this book does not feel as a tragedy occurred. There have been spates of memoirs lately about children brought up in difficult situations with odd sometimes mentally ill parents. “Approaching Neverland: A Memoir of Epic Tragedy & Happily Ever After” does not hold up against the better ones published.

Others may see the book differently. This is an adult book for adult readers who like this type of memoir. I think if the story was beefed up a little and did not have so much time passing between the dated chapters, it would be a better read.

Approaching Neverland: A Memoir of Epic Tragedy & Happily Ever After
Peggy Kennedy
iUniverse (2009)
ISBN 9781440126130
Reviewed by Tish Obal for Rebecca's Reads (06/09)

The Case of the Missing Servant: A Vish Puri Mystery

I have been an aficionado of detective stories, mysteries and thrillers since my childhood. As a child I was enamored by the detective stories of Enid Blyton ("Famous Five," "Five Find,"etc.); in the pre- teen years, Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew were my staple diet. I graduated to Agatha Christie and Arthur Conan Doyle in my teen years- and later Sam Spade (Dashiell Hammett), Phillip Marlow (Raymond Chandler), and more recently Alex Cross (James Patterson) became my reading companions as far as detective stories are concerned. For me detective stories always meant "looking towards the West." At the same time I gave a clean goby to the novels which originated from my homeland. It should be remembered that the first detective story originated from India (in the 1st Century A.D. Sudraka’s Mricchakatika is regarded as the first detective story)….but for reasons even unknown to me- I just refused to read detective novels set in India. All this changed a couple of years back when I saw an Indo-Angolan movie starring Naseerudin Shah. I believe the name of the movie was "The Perfect Murder" and Shah starred as an ace police detective- Inspector Ghote….based on the Inspector Ghote series of novels written by H.R.F. Keating. I began reading the Keating works and also other books written by Indian authors. I began to realize what I was missing- but Keating still reigned supreme in Indian detective novel writing, followed by Paul Mann with his lawyer George Sansi novels.

It is at this juncture that I got my hands on "The Case of the Missing Servant." And to put it mildly, this one is one engrossing and scintillating read….a book which captures the charm, charisma and quaintness of Indian culture in all its diversity.

A very refreshing read; I was hooked within pages into the work. Vish Puri, proprietor of The Most Private Investigative Agency, is India’s numero- uno private detective. His fame has spread across the country and the way he has solved crimes would make even his mentor, the great Chanakya, proud. Vish Puri thinks himself to be the successor of the legacy of Chanakya….but off late the cases coming his way are more concerning marital infidelities, jealous wives keeping a tab on their husbands etc. And it was with great relief that lawyer Ajay Kasliwal comes to his life. The ace lawyer seeks Puri’s help for he believes that he might soon be arrested in connection with the murder of his maid servant. Kasliwal insists that the girl has gone missing but wants Puri to find the girl before any untoward incident happens. At the same time Puri also has another case in his hand -- the case of a brigadier who has enlisted Puri to dig up dirt in any way or other of his granddaughter’s prospective groom. How Puri manages to solve both cases forms the crux of the novel. Helping Puri are his octogenarian mother (Mummyji), and his sidekicks Flush, Tubelight and handbrake. What follows is a fast-paced narration filled with suspense laced with humour- that makes "The Case of the Missing Servant" one cool read…… or rather to put it Puri-wise- "Juicy chicken pakora jaise ek novel."

The Case of the Missing Servant: A Vish Puri Mystery
Tarquin Hall
Simon & Schuster (2009)
ISBN 9781416583684
Reviewed by Narayan Radhakrishnan for Rebecca’s Reads (6/09)

An Irishwoman’s Tale: A Novel

You are sure to be moved by Patti Lacy’s touching novel "An Irishwoman’s Tale." At the age of five, young Mary is forced to go to America and live with complete strangers for reasons never explained. Her earliest memories are those of being sent away, unwanted; of ugly faces around an oak table splashing tea about, discussing her fate as if she was not even there.

She grows up in America with her cold adoptive family: her father a philandering mayor, and her mother, a bristling and distant woman. And the ties to Ireland never cease to quit in her heart. So much of Mary’s life is dependent on these unanswered questions. Why did her mother send her away? Who was her real father? Why did God allow it all to happen in the first place? She feels that for her life to be more complete or at least more tolerable, she must know the truth about her past. What she finds is that the truth hurts, and it is necessary to face in order to heal the pain. Mary does face her own demons and conquers them with the help of God.

Lacy’s writing is exquisite. She masters the oppressive character of the adoptive mother. Her descriptions of the Irish landscape, culture, and her use of the dialect make me imagine I am actually in Ireland, standing at the cliff’s edge, eating cabbage soup, fighting the bitter cold, and then coming face to face with the woman who sent me away: "Mary couldn’t reconcile this woman with the one she’d imagined for so long, the one for whom she’d lugged the box of memories across the Atlantic. One special item, worse for wear after the decade, was a Valentine, foil hearts pasted onto a picture cut out of one of Anne’s old Good Housekeepings. Mary had labeled the creation My Real Mom. One look at the bleary eyes across the table told Mary that the picture had been a lie." Her words demonstrate beautifully the trials of a lost soul yearning for acceptance and resolution.

Although, after the turning point, the book segues into a Christian proclamation, I believe that anyone, regardless of religious background, will find this book heartrending, but inspiring and full of hope. Delve into this richly-crafted novel, "An Irishwoman’s Tale" by Patti Lacy, and discover how a suppressed woman emerges with incredible strength and finds the acceptance she has long desired.

An Irishwoman’s Tale: A Novel
Patti Lacy
Kregel Publications (2008)
ISBN 9780825429873
Reviewed by Jeneke Lesak for Rebecca’s Reads (6/09)

Final Finesse

"Final Finesse" details the frustration of Samantha Reid, the White House Deputy Director for Homeland Security, as she tries to figure out who is bombing US pipelines. Along the way she meets up with an old crush who now works for the oil company that seems to be targeted. Together they work against the combative forces within the multiple agencies in the US Government.

The chapters are choppy and bounce the reader between too many storylines and characters. As you read it is sometime difficult to remember which characters are doing what. Many characters are introduced only to be abandoned without much thought and one is left to wonder if this was truly a necessary part of the story. The characters that are developed have gaping holes that make them boring rather than intriguing. More time is spent trying to impress the reader with the fineries of the White House cafeteria than giving a compelling story.

The story itself is interesting, leading the reader to wonder if such attacks could really happen. As someone attacks US oil pipelines, the bureaucracy within the Government is displayed in a way that only and insider can truly speak to. Who has jurisdiction, what can be done without violating rights, etc., all touch on a part of the country that we often forget about. The inner workings are fascinating and make for an excellent story.

The secondary storylines leave much to be desired. I felt as though the author wanted to incorporate a Harlequin Romance novel into the story but couldn’t determine the best way to go about it. The book goes from compelling and intriguing to wishy-washy numerous times. Too many names and titles are thrown at the reader and referenced making it a bit hard to follow at times.

For a quick read that is mildly entertaining, "Final Finesse" by Karna Small Bodman is a good choice.

Final Finesse
Karna Small Bodman
Forge Books (2009)
ISBN 9780765322524
Reviewed by Melissa Koltes for Rebecca’s Reads (6/09)

The Long Desperate Road

On the day that I first sat down to read "The Long Desperate Road" by Willie Cordell I only intended to read a couple of the short 1-2 page chapters and then put the book down to read more later. However, I ended up reading close to half of the four hundred and ninety-two page book in one sitting. Every time I finished one of the stories I kept telling myself just one more, just one more. I found Cordell’s memoir to be very powerful, engaging and one that I did not want to put down!

This biography/autobiography tells the life stories of both Willie Cordell and her mother, Mary Jane Burgess. In the 1940’s, Burgess (Mama) was abandoned by her children’s father and left to raise her very young children on her own. Fearing that the children would be taken and placed in an orphanage, Mama fled to a hideout. "She was eight months pregnant with number five, and the oldest child was only six years old. She had not a dime in her pocket. She had no automobile and would not have known how to drive it if she had. She didn’t know exactly where she was taking us or how she would feed us when she got there. She had her children safely with her, and that was all that mattered at the time." (p. xi)

Reading about the family’s struggles and triumphs truly makes for an interesting read. Cordell has so many different stories to tell and writes in a way that really gets your attention. I recommend "The Long Desperate Road" to anyone who enjoys biographies/autobiographies/memoirs. I also would like to note that at the beginning of the book Cordell mentions that the proceeds from this book will be put toward her five grandchildren’s education. Her grandchildren are blessed to have such a caring and generous grandmother!

The Long Desperate Road
Willie Cordell
iUniverse (2009)
ISBN 9780595498499
Reviewed by Kam Aures for Rebeccasreads.com (06/09)

Living Consciously, Dying Gracefully: A Journey With Cancer and Beyond

"Living Consciously, Dying Gracefully: A Journey With Cancer and Beyond" is a timely memoir of a woman who was loved not only by her family but the community she lived in. This book shares the wisdom of living and dying well, both spiritually and medically. The authors went on this journey through Diane’s last days and stayed the course of her choices of how she would die. One of the authors is her sister-in-law and she had access to Diane’s journals. You will be able to read outtakes of these journals throughout the book.

Diane and her husband, Bill, are medical professionals and often use holistic remedies. This is an amazing peek into a woman's life just as she receives the news of her diagnosis of breast cancer. After much thought and research, they choose a mixture of orthodox medicine and holistic therapies. They consciously go about their lives after her five year mark and then comes metastasis. This book makes me wonder, when did death become the big secret it is today? When did it become something we don't prepare for and plan for or talk about?

Diane planned everything once she knew that all treatment would be stopped. She planned the music that would be playing in her bedroom, who would be there, what PJ's she would have on. She also planned who would bathe her body and dress her after she died. She was not to be embalmed. The wake was to be held immediately after her death. There would be a memorial service several days later.

This book feels like a wakeup call to reclaim an important part of our lives that we shy away from. As a retired RN who has dealt with death for over 30 years, I feel comfortable talking about how to plan one’s own choices for their final days. This book includes a number of guides that are helpful in the planning. "Living Consciously, Dying Gracefully: A Journey With Cancer and Beyond " by Nancy Manahan & Becky Bohan should be a must read for healthcare professionals, funeral directors, and anyone who wants or needs to plan their final days.

In my opinion, this is one of the best books around discussing death in a new, yet old fashioned way. I have already begun to write up my own plan. The authors succeeded in writing a touching and intimate look at very private time in a life. One would think that his book would be sad but I came away from it exhilarated to know that the end of life can be as beautiful as the beginning, as it should be.

Living Consciously, Dying Gracefully: A Journey With Cancer and Beyond
Nancy Manahan & Becky Bohan
Beaver’s Pond Press (2008)
ISBN 9781592981793
Reviewed by Tish Obal for RebeccaReads (5/09)

Scream For Me

If you like a good, attention grabbing suspense story and think that you are pretty good at figuring it all out shortly into the story – then you will have to think again. This is a well written involving story that will keep you from putting the book down. Starting out seemingly obviously, just when you think that you have figured it all out, a "typical" storyline with an obvious ending and stereotype bad guy, you will most definitely be pleasantly surprised.

When the story starts in "Scream For Me" by Karen Rose, you immediately feel a defensive connection to the main character, Alex as nosy gossipy old women whisper about her, where she can hear them, about the horrible murder of her twin, the suicide of her mother and her own attempt at suicide after discovering her mothers body.

Throughout the whole story you feel sorry for her, but there is also that little niggling doubt in the back of your mind about just how innocent and sane she might actually be. Jump to now, 13 years later, and quickly into the story we will have a name as he cheerfully dumps a body where he knows it will soon be discovered. This body and how it is found will hold a strong resemblance to her twin's murder from years before So, we are off to a fast start with a known mass murderer. Throw into the mix a sudden unexpected call from the social services department in another town letting Alex know that her stepsister, whom she hasn't heard from in 5 years, was missing and could she come and pick up the daughter. The daughter is a little girl that Alex didn't even know existed. The male main character is, of course, a lawman. Special Agent Daniel Vartanian, who has enough ghosts and mass murderers in his own families past to confuse you, tries to be the best good cop he can and has a vulnerability that makes you want to be there to comfort him.

This all seems like a standard, easily figured out storyline, but hold on for a ride because it's not what you are expecting. I found the writing to be very interesting and gripping, making me want to know more. I will definitely be looking for this authors name next time I want a good book to read.

Scream For Me
Karen Rose
Hachette Book Group (2009)
ISBN 9780446616928
Reviewed by Sally Gorsuch for RebeccasReads (06/09

Wife Goes On

Leslie Lehr
Kinsington (2008)
ISBN 9780758222411
Reviewed by Tina Avon for RebeccasReads (5/09)

Wife Goes On (which I think is such a clever, clever title) is chick lit with a definite and clear message: life DOES go on after divorce and heartbreak, and author Leslie Lehr has done a wonderful job of conveying a message of hope and a "can do" attitude in her new novel.

As we open the first chapter, we find Diane, one of our main characters, in her "soon to be ex house" with her "ex husband" as they both settle some last minute details, which includes having sex with each other for the last time, or as Diane refers to it "he was an ass... but it was nice to see him on his knees...”  I loved it!!!  

Along with Diane, we will come to meet three other ladies, Lana, Bonnie and Annette, who find themselves in the various stages of divorce or contemplation of it, along with the various stages of grief that come with the breaking up of a relationship. Along the way, these four ladies meet and end up close friends who will depend on each other to get through these difficult times and to, perhaps, find some optimism for the future and maybe find love, or at the very least some good sex sometime in the near future.

I liked it that the author created 4 entirely different characters, with their own personalities and particular methods of reacting or not to the situations that are thrown at them. This made for a very interesting read, and gave me a much better understanding of where each woman came from.    Lehr has a great way of creating and developing very distinct personalities, while at the same time, connecting them to each other, which is touching and, at times, downright silly and funny.   There is also a lot of humor and tons and tons of sex in this book (some of which was a little edgy, but longggggg overdue in novels, in my opinion).

One of the problems I had with this book is the fact that I am not a big fan of the "alternate voices" medium of writing.  I prefer to have the book narrated by one main character, but in this one, we get to read/hear each characters own point of view in alternating chapters.  It did remove some of the fun for me, as it felt as though I had to keep re-adjusting to a new voice every time (this was particularly difficult in the beginning as we "meet" each woman).

I also thought some of the scenarios where a little too out there at times. I know that chick lit is known for this, but I could have used a little less of this in the novel.  Still, I have to say that despite these issues, I really loved the message of empowerment this book sends out: "you don't need a man to be happy, but its nice to have!”   A fun read and a definite "yeah" for all the women who have, today, made the decision to walk away from an unhappy marriage.

The Great Funk: Styles of the Shaggy, Sexy, Shameless 1970s

Thomas Hine
Farrar, Straus and Giroux (2009)
ISBN 9780374531676
Reviewed by Abby Major for RebeccasReads (5/09)

Over the past two years, 13 people have gone “missing” from cruise ships.  Most of these cases turn out to be suicides; however, with a staggering 20 million passengers during that time period, thirteen hardly seems like a large amount.  Without a crime scene, body, or witnesses, how could someone ever know whether it was a suicide or perhaps something more sinister?  Dwight Norris breaches this very topic in his novel, “The Gentleman Host: A Cruise Ship Nightmare.” 

A gentleman host is a true profession.  I had never heard of it before, but I looked it up after reading this novel to find that it really exists!  An overwhelming number of guests on these cruises are single, middle-aged women.  When it comes time for dinner and dancing, they are usually left without a partner.  Cruise lines began “hiring” single men, aged 40-70, who are good dancers to be available to these women for the purpose of dancing and dining. 

In Dwight Norris’s novel, one particular gentleman host is far from a true gentleman!  During his cruises, he treats the ladies kindly and does everything for them that he is asked, but on the last night, one of the unsuspecting women will find themselves overboard – left to fend for themselves in the deep, dark ocean.

His crimes go unnoticed for nearly 20 years, until retired detective Sam Murphy catches on to a strange pattern of middle-aged women going missing on the last day of their cruises.  He calls up his old partner, Dusty Flanagan, to help him discover whether these accidents are truly accidents or if there is some foul play involved.   With some good detective work, help from friends, and sheer luck, they find the host.  As the host’s final ship sets sail, he’s on board with some people who are on to his game – waiting for him to make his move.

This is a classic crime thriller with a serious twist.  Look into the mind and past of a serial killer, who doesn’t really think he’s doing anything wrong.  It is hard to believe how easy it would be to get away with this!  You will think twice before taking your next cruise!

The Gentleman Host: A Cruise Ship Nightmare

Dwight Norris
iUniverse (2008)
ISBN 9780595525904
Reviewed by Abby Major for RebeccasReads (5/09)

Over the past two years, 13 people have gone “missing” from cruise ships.  Most of these cases turn out to be suicides; however, with a staggering 20 million passengers during that time period, thirteen hardly seems like a large amount.  Without a crime scene, body, or witnesses, how could someone ever know whether it was a suicide or perhaps something more sinister?  Dwight Norris breaches this very topic in his novel, “The Gentleman Host: A Cruise Ship Nightmare.” 

A gentleman host is a true profession.  I had never heard of it before, but I looked it up after reading this novel to find that it really exists!  An overwhelming number of guests on these cruises are single, middle-aged women.  When it comes time for dinner and dancing, they are usually left without a partner.  Cruise lines began “hiring” single men, aged 40-70, who are good dancers to be available to these women for the purpose of dancing and dining. 

In Dwight Norris’s novel, one particular gentleman host is far from a true gentleman!  During his cruises, he treats the ladies kindly and does everything for them that he is asked, but on the last night, one of the unsuspecting women will find themselves overboard – left to fend for themselves in the deep, dark ocean.

His crimes go unnoticed for nearly 20 years, until retired detective Sam Murphy catches on to a strange pattern of middle-aged women going missing on the last day of their cruises.  He calls up his old partner, Dusty Flanagan, to help him discover whether these accidents are truly accidents or if there is some foul play involved.   With some good detective work, help from friends, and sheer luck, they find the host.  As the host’s final ship sets sail, he’s on board with some people who are on to his game – waiting for him to make his move.

This is a classic crime thriller with a serious twist.  Look into the mind and past of a serial killer, who doesn’t really think he’s doing anything wrong.  It is hard to believe how easy it would be to get away with this!  You will think twice before taking your next cruise!

Standing the Watch

R.J. Brown
Big River Press (2008)
ISBN 9780979874437
Reviewed by Kam Aures for RebeccasReads (5/09)

In “Standing the Watch: The Greatest Gift,” Rebecca Brown shares her memories of the home death of her father-in-law, Lincoln “Poppa” Brown.  Rebecca met her husband David after she returned from England to The Pacific Northwest.  At the beginning of their relationship, David had told Rebecca about how he had promised his father that he would “take care of him for the rest of his life, and to let him die at home.” (p.25)  Rebecca realized that not only was she gaining a husband, but she was also getting “another chance at having a father.” (p.26)  Her own father had passed away when she was still a child.

As the story unfolds, we watch as Lincoln’s health deteriorates and preparations for a home death begin.  The reader is then with Rebecca and family for the whole intimate, emotional process.  “Poppa” was a lucky man to have such a caring family.

Before reading “Standing the Watch: The Greatest Gift” I had never really heard much, if any, detail about home death, and I found Brown’s recollections to be fascinating reading.  Although quite emotional, the story was extremely heartwarming as well.  She pens her memories in a manner that will hold the reader’s unwavering attention from start to finish.

I believe that “Standing the Watch: The Greatest Gift” would be a beneficial read to anyone with aging parents who is concerned about what is to come, is considering a home death, or is undecided about what they are going to do.  Brown has written a powerful book that most certainly would be a great help to many people in aiding in their decision-making process.  Even if you aren’t even remotely close to having to prepare for the death of a family member, Brown’s story is still an interesting read and I highly recommend it! 

Something of the Turtle

Sandra Clayton
Wheatmark (2009)
ISBN 9781604940664
Reviewed by Kam Aures for RebeccasReads (5/09)

“Something of the Turtle” is Sandra Clayton’s follow-up to her first memoir, “Dolphins Under My Bed.”  This newest installment began with David and Sandra selling their home and downsizing to living on a forty-foot foot, the Voyager.  One of the hardest parts of this whole process for them is parting with their possessions.  Many of the items in their home had sentimental value and it was very difficult to get rid of them.  The selling of their home also turned out to be a little trickier than they first suspected, as there were a few snags along the way.  Once everything was finally settled, they embarked on the next chapter of their life, living aboard the Voyager.

I found Clayton’s story to be very fascinating and enjoyed reading about the different type of lifestyle that they lead.  The Claytons have certainly adopted a non-conventional way of living.  Living on the boat seems to be so relaxing and they must have such a feeling of freedom.  Don’t get me wrong though, it is not all fun and games.  There are certain situations that can be a little harrowing on a boat, such as when severe weather strikes.  While we, meaning those who live in houses, can seek shelter in a safe, dry place, those living on boats do not have that luxury. 

Clayton’s memoir is a story about just what you can do if you feel strongly enough about doing it.  Her writing is very captivating and I enjoyed reading about all of the places that they have been.  It was interesting to take a look at the world from their point of view.  I recommend “Something of the Turtle” for those who enjoy memoirs/autobiographies, travel books, or those who want to learn about what living on a boat is like.  

Property Of: A Novel

Alice Hoffman
Farrar, Straus and Giroux (2009)
ISBN 9780374531836
Reviewed by Kam Aures for RebeccasReads (5/09)

“Property Of” was first published in the year 1977 and was Alice Hoffman’s first novel.  This 2009 edition contains a new introduction written by the author that explains to us just how the book “Property Of” came to be.  The book itself tells the story of a young girl who, like most of the town, is in love with McKay, the president of the local gang, The Orphans.  She finds a way into his life, but resists becoming "Property of the Orphans,” a group of girls who belong to the gang members. 

Although the book deals with some dark subject matter such as gang life, promiscuity, heroin and other drug use, and death, I did find the writing to be very intriguing and engaging.  Once I started reading I was unable to tear myself away from the characters.  I had concerns in the beginning that the writing would be dated and that I wouldn’t be able to relate to the characters and plot, but I found the book easy to read and actually enjoyed the parts that were a little dated.   

This is the first book that I have read written by this particular author.  I was familiar with the author’s name, particularly because one of her novels was named an Oprah’s Book Club selection, but I had just never gotten around to reading one of her books.  What a better way though than to start right at the beginning with her first!  I highly enjoyed “Property Of” and I definitely will be seeking out more of Hoffman’s books to read in the future. 

One Deadly Sin

Annie Solomon
Forever (2009)
ISBN 9780446178440
Reviewed by Abby Major for RebeccasReads (5/09)

As a child, Eden Swanford’s father was found at the bottom of a quarry, broken and dead.  Her mother was never the same afterward, and spent the last years of her life in a mental institution.   Haunted by her past, Edie is determined to find the cause of her father’s suicide.  On her Aunt’s deathbed, she is finally given a small piece of information – a list of names.  The names are of influential men from the small town where she grew up and her father took his life.

Determined to get answers, and maybe a little revenge, Eden returns to her hometown twenty years after her father’s apparent suicide with a new name (Edie Swann).  She also brings with her little black angel statues that resemble the giant, imposing gargoyle on her father’s tombstone.  She starts delivering each of the men on her list an angel statue, which stirs up old memories and shakes them up.  Something that they wanted to cover up twenty years ago is threatening to be revealed and ruin their prosperous lives.

It all comes to a head when the men Edie has been sending her black angels to start turning up dead.  Is it all a coincidence or is there something more sinister going on in the town of Redbud?  Her angels become the number one piece of evidence in the men’s murders, but she didn’t do it!  Her romantic interest, the Chief of Police Holt Drennen, is turning into her worst nightmare as everything unravels in front of her.   Will Holt believe that she’s innocent?  Will he help her clear her name and get to the bottom of her father’s suicide?

As I read this book, I kept thinking I knew who did it.  At first I was sure it was one person, and then I was sure it was another.  Well, in the end, I was completely wrong and had no idea what was coming.  However, I thought that the ending was a little contrived.  It seemed too coincidental.  Overall though, it is a great book.

I know it is cliché to say, but this book is definitely a page-turner!  I had a hard time putting it down.  For people who aren’t into romance novels, don’t let the label of “Romantic Suspense” turn you away!  It is 90% suspense and 10% romance.  I would recommend this book to anyone who likes mystery/suspense novels.  Enjoy!

The Food of a Younger Land

I found the story behind "The Food of a Younger Land" by Mark Kurlansky to be very interesting. Apparently, back in the 1930’s, President Roosevelt created the Federal Writers’ Project of the WPA in an effort to create work for authors. Writers were sent throughout the country to document the eating habits of local people. The project was entitled "America Eats" and was never followed to completion because of the war. Bestselling author Mark Kurlansky found and dusted off these old WPA files, pulled out most interesting selections out of mountains of manuscript, and created the book "The Food of a Younger Land." Interjected in numerous spots throughout the book is the author’s own commentary which provides the reader with more information about the subject matter at hand.

I really enjoyed getting this glimpse of America back when "food was seasonal, regional, and traditional." So much has changed in the days of freezers and restaurants. In my opinion, this is a good thing, especially considering most of the main dishes eaten in the past in the area where I am from.

One of the most interesting parts of the book to me was the section of Colorado superstitions. Some I had heard of, others I had not. My favorite of those listed was "If you put a piece of wedding-cake under your pillow for seven consecutive nights, on the seventh you will dream of your future husband." From superstitions, to recipes, to poetry, to stories, this compilation of documents is a fascinating look at the past that any foodie is sure to enjoy!

The Food of a Younger Land
Mark Kurlansky
Riverhead Books (2009)
ISBN 9781594488658
Reviewed by Kam Aures for Rebeccasreads.com (06/09)

India's Immortal Comic Books: Gods, Kings, and Other Heroes

Karline McLain
Indiana University Press (2009)
ISBN 9780253220523
Reviewed by Andrey Bilko for RebeccasReads (5/09)

“India’s Immortal Comic Books” is ultimately a textbook for a college course dealing with cultural studies of India. Nonetheless, it can be enjoyed as a casual read by people interested in Indian culture or those interested in the role of comic books abroad. It is structured like a textbook, very detailed text with limited illustrations. It is fairly engaging and very well written.

The book starts off discussing the role of comics in India. It describes how new generations of Indian youth were rediscovering their roots and traditions through the pages of Indian comic book series called Amar Chitra Katha, and other factors like Western influences seen in Indian comics. The book does a great job dissecting the importance of comics in people’s lives. Parts of personal interviews are included, making the text feel more realistic and more engaging to the reader.

Then, the book talks about the creator of Indian comics, Anant Pai; portrayal of women and female heroines; incorporation of sacred Hindu stories; portrayal of Muslims; and Mahatma Gandhi as a comic book hero. It is clear that by following along with the comic book series, one can easily learn about many aspects of Indian culture and history, in a more fun and visual way, then a regular textbook. And this is the ultimate goal of the book - to show how much can be learned from comics, if the reader actually takes the time and digs a little deeper once in a while. It is fascinating how much tangible information is included in these graphic stories. Many comics focus on religious Hindu stories about gods like Krishna and Rama, while others deal with more contemporary issues like India’s fight for independence and Mahatma Gandhi’s role in it. These comics show that fun can be combined with education, and that there are tricks in making children learn about their heritage. This book provides great insight into Indian culture. The illustrations present in the text make reading more enjoyable. However, I wish there were more illustrations, especially since the subject is comics, pictures are vital. I would love to see more color cutouts of original comics.

Harvest of Souls

Michael Wayne
E-BookTime, LLC (2009)
ISBN 9781598249606
Reviewed by Abby Major for RebeccasReads (5/09)

A Halloween party at an abandoned building in the town of Mercy Falls, Minnesota leads to tragedy when a fire starts and a 17-year-old boy loses his life.  The surviving teenagers move on with their lives in the small town.

Twenty years later, Eve Lohmiller and 3 of her friends go to the cemetery with a spirit board to contact the spirit of the dead boy.   They get a message – “RMBRME”.  Next thing you know, people start dying.  Is it the spirit of Jeremy Unruh that is killing the children of the survivors from the fire where he died 20 years earlier?  If it isn’t, then who is?  Some masked man with a hatchet is terrorizing the town, making the people fear for their lives.  Will they find the answer before all of the towns’ children are dead?

Michael Wayne’s story is a scary thriller that keeps you on the edge of the seat.  The murders and the scenes where the corpses are recovered are like something out of a blockbuster horror flick.  The ending definitely threw me for a loop.  Every other page is another twist or turn in the plot and you never know where you’ll end up until you get there.  One criticism I will add is that the ending twist is somewhat unbelievable.  I would like to think if I were put in Diane’s position, I would’ve been able to tell!   I can’t say any more without giving away the ending.

I recommend this book for fans of the horror genre.  Don’t let the fact that the book is about teenagers throw you off - this is not a Young Adult novel!  The murder scenes are very graphic in nature and are probably not appropriate for children under the age of 16.

Guardian of Lies: A Paul Madriani Novel

Steve Martini
William Morrow (2009)
ISBN 9780061230905
Reviewed by Narayan Radhakrishnan for RebeccasReads (5/09)

Paul Madriani is back, and he is in scintillating form.  After investigating deep into the nuances of the American Constitution and the issue of slavery with “Shadow of Power,” Madriani is now called on to defend another case, which, again, might have international ramifications, with “Guardian of Lies.”

The novel starts in typical Hollywood movie style with an assassin whom we know as ‘The Mexicutioner’ plotting the perfect murder. In another part of the building 26-year-old Costa Rican beauty Katia is planning to escape from the clutches of her lover, the 72-year-old coin collector, Emerson Pike. She plans, just not to flee…. but also to steal some rare coins which Pike possess. Katia escapes, but within hours of Katia’s escape, Emerson Pike is found murdered. And Katia is now charged not with theft, but with murder.

And it is this case that Madriani has to defend. And the problem Madriani has is that he doesn’t fully believe in his client’s total innocence. Madriani has to rake up his mind to come up with a perfect defense that would secure justice for the girl. Madriani’s investigation takes him to the shady world of eccentric and maniacal coin collectors with action ranging from California to Costa Rica. He also finds that there is something more to Emerson Pike than what meets the eye.

What follows is traditional Madriani suspense fare, and as usual this Madriani (to put it in a cliché) left me both shaken and stirred. Recommended, highly recommended.

Gray Apocalypse

James Murdoch
Demand Publications (2009)
ISBN 9780966443097
Reviewed by Kam Aures for RebeccasReads (5/09)

“Gray Apocalypse” instantly grabbed my attention in the first few pages.  There was no easing into the novel slowly, the action started immediately.  “Kendon felt his head was about to explode, as if all of the neural connections of his brain were in revolt.  He waited for Meller to exhale, then covered his mouth with his right hand.  With the thumb and forefinger of the other hand, he pinched Meller’s nostrils together.  He propped his forearm on Meller’s ribcage and pushed down with all his weight to keep him from drawing in air.  It took all of Kendon’s strength of will to continue, a will steeled by the knowledge of what was in store for the world if he failed.” (p.18)

The basic premise of the book is that a huge asteroid is headed toward Earth guided by the Breeder Grays, an alien species.  Kendon has to try to locate a hidden weapon that is designed to deflect the asteroid.  Kendon has limited time to find this weapon and in order to find it he needs to gain the trust of the woman whose father he just killed.  For those who love a lot of action in their books, then “Gray Apocalypse” should certainly be on your reading list.  The book moves along at a fast pace and is filled with suspense.  It is a very difficult novel to put down; you will just want to keep reading another page, and another, and another.    

I was thoroughly entertained by James Murdoch’s debut novel and I think that anyone who is a fan of science fiction and suspenseful thrillers would enjoy this book.  I surely expect to see more from this new author in the future!

Fifty Confessions

Paul Kiritsis
iUniverse.com (2009)
ISBN 9781440124495
Reviewed by Kam Aures for RebeccasReads (5/09)

“Fifty Confessions” is Paul Kiritsis’s third book of poetry.  This newest offering begins with an Author’s Note that reveals quite a bit of the author’s personal life, kind of like a confession in itself.  He tells us how he has been stricken with some sort of ailment, even becoming bedridden at one point, but the medical community is unable to determine the underlying cause of his symptoms.  Struggling with this issue, Kiritsis has been trying to regain some sense of normalcy in his life and has immersed himself in writing more than ever before.

Kiritsis’s book is divided into six different sections:  The Ancient Enemy, Behold My Wealth, Actions and Reactions, In the Aftermath, Myths and Ruminations, and The Savage Past.  The author states that fifty of his confessions are to be revealed in the book.  However, then he goes on to say, “But whether or not they’re completely honest is another affair, isn’t it?” (p. 11) At first I didn’t like this fact about the book because I figure that if you are confessing something, then why not do it for real and not throw in fiction along with it.  However, as I read further into the book I kind of enjoyed the element of mystery surrounding the confessions and wondering where they were true or not.

Most of the writing in the book is dark, with a lot of negative undertones.  Most particularly under attack are the members of the medical community.  One of the poems that still remains lodged in my mind is the one entitled “The Physician.”  I think that this poem is pretty representative of Kiritsis’s style, so I will include that one in my review and allow you to make the determination as to whether or not the author’s writing would appeal to you. 

“The Physician” reads as follows:

“You told the patient
That there was nothing wrong,
Except in his mind,
And then went home
To enjoy a candlelit dinner for two.

Six months later,
You were sorry that the patient
Had died from virulent cancer…

…And then went home
To enjoy a candlelit dinner for two.” (p.43)

All in all, I found “Fifty Confessions” to be a raw, interesting read.  Kiritsis has a very unique writing style and I was very drawn in to his work.  I also applaud the author for exposing so much about himself in his author’s note and in his poetry.  Kiritsis’s writing will stay lodged in your mind long after you are finished reading the words on paper.