The English Boys by Julia Thomas

The English Boys by Julia Thomas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was pleasantly surprised by this debut novel from Julia Thomas. The English Boys: A Mystery reads like a classic mystery novel; I really appreciated that. It was well structured and had a good balance between alternating the past and the present time. The writing flowed very well, the characters were well described and quite complex, and the mystery itself was good. I look forward to reading more from Julia Thomas. A solid debut novel.

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Molto Mayhem by Deanne Wilsted

Molto Mayhem by Deanne Wilsted
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I absolutely love reading novels that are based in Italy. Molto Mayhem by Deanne Wilsted is a cozy book that follows Lucia on a return trip to Italy fifteen years after the tragic death of her parents. There she is supposed to learn the art of Italian cooking, but may actually learn a lot about life instead. The author does a wonderful job of conveying the beauty of the area, the incredible food and sometimes crazy atmosphere that is Italian life. The story flowed well from one chapter to the next and Lucia is an excellently written character. There were bits of humor dotted here and there throughout the book, with little bits of dialogue that Lucia would question; her relatives all seemed to mangle quotes from the Godfather, etc. All in all, a solid and entertaining read.

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The Turtan Trilogy by John P. Rosenman

The Turtan Trilogy: 3 Full-length Sci-Fi Romance Novels Box Set by John B. Rosenman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Turtan Trilogy by John B. Rosenman is a set of three full length science-fiction/romance novels. This creative set is a great example of writing compelling and interesting characters and strange aliens, along with some romance and seduction. Turtan the main character is strongly written, and is the Inspector of the Cross Empire, who travels through time and space to find the perfect weapon to defeat the Cen, who are a cruel alien race. Turtan travels through suspended animation of approximately 4,000 years, which means his life passes him by during many stages, and he loses much family along the way. He says there is some recompense for that, but his character does bear a bit of sadness as a burden. Well written, with plenty of action and sexual situations that were believable. A must read for science fiction fans.

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Inspired by Paris-Jordan Phillips

Inspired by Paris: Why Borrowing from the French Is Better Than Being French by Jordan Phillips
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Inspired by Paris: Why Borrowing from the French is Better Than Being French by New York City author Jordan Phillips is a light look at the French lifestyle. The author appears to split her time between New York and Paris and just happens to love all things French. This is a humorous look at the perceived French mystique- and goes on to unearth the actuality of being French. She explains the difference between the perception of France, one that is sophisticated and quaint with small bistros and romantic marriage proposals along the Seine, to the real France, where many have a sullied attitude, one that is mired in negativity and disdain. An interesting take on the distinctions between reality and fact when it comes to France. Written in light prose, this is an easy read and a pleasant diversion.

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