Hurricane in Paradise by Deborah Brown

Hurricane in Paradise by Deborah Brown
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

As an almost native Floridian, I can certainly relate to the experience of a hurricane coming through and the need to evacuate. In Hurricane in Paradise by Deborah Brown, not only does the main character Mad have to deal with evacuating from a storm, she also have to weather crazy things like murder, a missing brother, and all kinds of utter chaos. The setting for the book is the Florida Keys and Brown certainly knows how to imbue her story with all things Florida. With an easy, breezy style, Brown captivates with a well rounded story that features squatters who take over Mad's cottage and other seemingly impossible to deal with scenarios. Written to include an oddball cast, Brown doesn't waste words with overly descriptive passages, but keeps the pace of action fast to keep the story moving along. A fun, light, read for those who want a little bit of Florida sunshine along with murder and mayhem.

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The Goddesses by Swan Huntley

The Goddesses by Swan Huntley
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I had previously read We Could Be Beautiful by Swan Huntley and was anxious to read her follow up novel, The Goddesses. In this one, we follow Nancy and her husband Chuck, and their two twin sons on their move to Hawaii from San Diego. It is supposed to be a fresh start for them, Chuck has a new job with Costco, and Nancy is a relatively happy homemaker, although Chuck admitted to cheating on her, hence the fresh start. Nancy enrolls in a yoga class, because well, that's what one does in Kona. There she meets Ana, and the manipulative roller coaster ride begins. Ana starts to take over Nancy's life, inserting herself, and generally becoming an overwhelming force. Ultimately, she even moves into Nancy's home, which I found absolutely amazing, but Nancy would do anything for Ana. Mistake,mistake, mistake. This was an okay book for me. Right at the start, it was fairly obvious that Ana was a highly unstable, manipulative character, much more nuanced and complicated than Nancy. I felt Nancy was under-written, she didn't have much personality at all. But maybe that was the point. She was completely moldable. It sort of felt improbable that a grown woman could be so easily manipulated and played by another grown woman, but alas, it happened in this story. Just so-so for me. Netgalley.com kindly provided me a free copy of this book.

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Bound by Fate by Amy Knickerbocker

Bound By Fate by Amy Knickerbocker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Romantic sparks fly in Bound by Fate by Amy Knickerbocker, a paranormal romance that will delight and entertain the reader. We first meet Toran, a demon with poisoned energy. Toran must subdue this energy by finding his "faine", an energy vampire who feeds on that energy. Luckily enough for Toran, he meets Liv in Las Vegas at a UFC fight. Liv is the faine he is looking for, and Toran squires her away in a somewhat violent whirlwind, and the romance ensues. Together they begin a rollicking adventure in order to fulfill their respective destinies. The author has done a wonderful job in creating a mythical world, Mythos, which is actually several different worlds or "els", running concurrent to each other. The real world or human life is blended seamlessly into these other realms for a fascinating paranormal romantic story. Great storyline; looking forward to the next installment in the series.
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A Chick in the Cockpit: My Life Up in the Air by Erika Armstrong

A Chick in the Cockpit: My Life Up in the Air by Erika Armstrong
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Chick in the Cockpit: My Life Up in the Air by Erika Armstrong is much more than a simple re-telling of what it is like to be a female pilot in a male dominated industry. About a third of the way through the book, it gets much more interesting than that. Armstrong tells a strong personal story that involves domestic abuse, and how she gets out of a terribly abusive and dangerous marriage. Written from the heart in plain language, Armstrong details the way her two lives, one as a professional pilot, the other more personal side as a wife, cross over and intertwine. This book is the story of a woman who forged a career despite rampant discrimination, and also overcame personal challenges. A highly inspirational read, would recommend for a glimpse into the aviation industry coupled with personal drama.

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When Reality Bites: How Denial Helps and What to do When it Hurts by Holly Parker

When Reality Bites: How Denial Helps and What to Do When It Hurts by Holly Parker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When Reality Bites: How Denial Helps and What to do When it Hurts by Holly Parker is a comprehensive look at all aspects of denial. One night, Parker was having dinner with her husband in an elegant restaurant and didn't feel well, denied feeling unwell to herself, yet moments later fainted. This is a simple example of what most people do every day, deny reality, deny what is actually happening. Parker clearly and succinctly explains how to recognize denial, accept it, and even use it to your advantage. Written in a light and easy tone, Parker is never condescending, but rather encouraging to the reader. While denial in and of itself can lead to damaging behaviors and outcomes, the right balance of denial and acceptance, according to Parker, can lead to a better life all around. With plenty of exercises and questions for the reader to answer throughout the book, Parker has offered the reader practical solutions to manage difficult and challenging times.

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The Lesser Bohemians by Eimear McBride

Yikes!  While the style of writing was certainly unique, the story itself was not. Here we have a young girl, naïve to be sure, who meets an older man and has an affair. That's the story in a nutshell.  A mess of a book written in a completely sloppy style, apparently writers cannot put together complete sentences. These same writers become quite famous and popular somehow. For me, this was a totally wasted effort. Meh and even more meh.

Trust in the Unseen (The Edge of the Known, Book Two) by Seth Mullins

Trust in the Unseen by Seth Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Trust in the Unseen (The Edge of the Known Book Two) by Seth Mullins is a magical journey narrated by the protagonist, Brandon Chane. A follow up to his first book, What Casts the Shadow, Mullins continues to pull the reader in with mystical, magical writing. Brandon Chane is tormented not only by his mind this time, but after a difficult breakup, he is on the verge of a breakdown. Mullins has such a creative way with language that fully explores his characters' emotions, examining every nuance of sadness and humanity. Brandon must follow his dream of pursuing musical success with his band, Edge of the Known, and in doing so, listens to and manages his inner demons, with the help of Saul, who seems to be a spirit-guide. This spiritual transformation not only helps Brandon reclaim his sanity, but appeals to the masses who enjoy his music. Highly recommend not only for the spiritual journey of the main character but for the quality of the writing, which was lyrical.

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Exiles: A Mystery in Paris by Lawrence J. Epstein

Exiles: A Mystery in Paris by Lawrence J. Epstein
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Exiles: A Mystery in Paris (The Daniel Levin Mysteries Book 1)by Lawrence J. Epstein was a true eye opener. Filled with unforgettable characters and writers of the 1920's in Paris, this is a well written book that pulls the reader in through easy to read language and an unsolved murder at the outset of the novel. Young Daniel Levin has moved to Paris to become a writer and ends up living above a famous bookstore, Shakespeare and Company. The owner of the bookstore, Syliva Beach, has endeavored to support Daniel, albeit breifly, so that he might begin his writing career. Full of great characterizations such as a young Hemingway on the brink of publishing genius, Gertrude Stein and even Fitzgerald, this book embodies the romance and intrique of the famous Lost Generation. Combine that backdrop with a murder opposite the Shakespeare and Company bookstore and you have an amazing reading experience. Not only is Daniel the protagonist, overcoming his recent war experience, but he must also watch his back before getting too romantically involved with one of the suspects. I look forward to reading more from this author in the next installment in the series. Highly recommend. I received a free copy of this book from Bookplex.com in exchange for an honest review.

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Danny Chaucer's Flying Saucer by Christopher Peter

Danny Chaucer's Flying Saucer by Christopher Peter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When the author gives his protagonist Danny a famous writer's last name, Chaucer, I know the book is going to be entertaining. Danny Chaucer's Flying Saucer by Christopher Peter is an adorable read for the tween set with flying saucers, bullying and a dead end town. Danny is left lonely when his best friend moves to Scotland, but soon finds himself mesmerized by the possibility of alien spaceships landing nearby. Danny and Natalie Ford, a girl in his class who is the constant target of bullying, form an unlikely friendship. Danny and his new friend want to uncover the mystery of the flying saucer; this may be the strangest thing ever to happen in their small town. A creative cast of well developed characters pulls the plot along smoothly, Captain Frost, Uncle Colin, but especially the Brain on Board, which was perfection with a cockney accent to boot. A great start to the series with wonderful characters in Danny and Nat.

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Audrey of Farmerton by M.Gregg Roe

Audrey of Farmerton by M. Gregg Roe
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Audrey of Famerton (Andoran's Realm Book 1) by M. Gregg Roe follows the story of 17 year old Audrey, a young girl with a seemingly impossible dream, to escape her dull, boring village. A coming of age story, we meet Audrey, who lives in Andoran's Realm, and who desperately wants to head to the big City, or the witches City as it is known. What follows is a series of adventures, plenty of magic, odd characters, some not human, and a strange living situation. A captivating, escapist adventure that is written smoothly and magically by Roe through the voice of a young, uneducated peasant girl. A worthwhile addition to the fantasy genre that will appeal to young readers; an excellent debut novel.

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Fallen Star by Allison Morse

Fallen Star by Allison Morse
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Fallen Star by Allison Morse is set in the turbulent world of 1970's Hollywood. Kate Bloom, a youngish, aspiring documentary filmmaker is the granddaughter of a famous 1940's Hollywood film star, Gloria Reardon, who was murdered. Kate sets out to figure out just what happened and uncovers the clue she might need, an old film canister that might contain enough information to finally solve the mystery. Working with Dylan, an esteemed film restorer, they endeavor to put together the pieces of the puzzle, but may actually be putting themselves in harms way. While some of the characters were unlikeable, Morse pulls off this novel with panache and style, capturing the essence of the 1970's mixed with a bit of intrigue and mystery. A must read for film buffs and mystery lovers.

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Secrets to Shine Through the Noise: GPS to Amplify Your Brand and Find the Path to the Life You Want by Akasha Garnier

Secrets to Shine Through the Noise: GPS to Amplify Your Brand and Find the Path to the Life You Want by Akasha Garnier
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Secrets to Shine Through the Noise: GPS to Amplify Your Brand and Find the Path to the Life You Want by Akasha Garnier is a vibrant personal tale that tells of the author's struggles and victories on the path to success. This book puts a new twist on the standard motivational story, by advising the reader to follow their dreams, and find their personal GPS. With high levels of enthusiasm the author compels the reader to reach for more, to shine through the noise. With some practical applications like a series of questions to ask yourself and a few motivational quotes sprinkled throughout, Akasha helps the reader put a plan in place to create not only a dynamic brand, but a dynamic life. Creatively presented, this a must read for anyone who needs some motivation.

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Diary of an Immortal (1945-1959) by David J. Castello

The Diary of an Immortal by David J. Castello
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When a WWII expert and history buff writes a novel about a life-changing chemical formula that promises immortality, prepare yourself. With the first person narration of Steven Ronson, the author David Castello creates a mesmerizing tale of war, the future, and a magic formula that allows it's users to live forever. Steven seems destined to discover exactly what this magical formula is, where it originates and if it really works. With graphically written details about Steven's time on the battlefield as a medic to his playing the sax in New York City and beyond, the writing is impeccable, engrossing and leaves the reader wanting to move on through the story. Highly recommend for fans of history and fantasy as well.

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Blink by K.L. Slater

Blink by K.L. Slater
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

K.L. Slater has done it again with her latest book, Blink. From a creepy beginning to the twisty end, this book keeps the reader on the edge of his or her seat. Hang on for the ride. Toni, the main character has recently lost her husband in a war accident, and is looking to start over. Toni and her little daughter Evie, relocate to a new, not so nice neighborhood and begin to put their lives back together. After enrolling Evie in the local school, Toni gets herself a part time job at a real estate office, while Toni's mum helps to look after Evie. Through a dazzling display of disturbing incidents, the author clearly imparts a sense of danger surrounding Toni and her little family. Couple that with Toni's almost addiction to happy pills left over from her husband, and you have a tense thriller that is frayed at the edges. Toni has trouble discerning reality in her own clouded mind. This novel capitalizes on the concepts of revenge and payback, while the twist is impeccable and neatly wraps up the story. Netgalley.com kindly provided me a free copy of this book for an honest review.

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The Thirst by Jo Nesbo

As a huge fan of Jo Nesbo, I am hugely looking forward to the next installment in the Harry Hole series. Can't wait! Bring on number 11. Not the final cover.

Synopsis: "In Police—the last novel featuring Jo Nesbø’s hard-bitten, maverick Oslo detective—a killer wreaking revenge on the police had Harry Hole fighting for the safety of the people closest to him. Now, in The Thirst, the story continues as Harry is inextricably drawn back into the Oslo police force. A serial murderer has begun targeting Tinder daters—a murderer whose MO reignites Harry’s hunt for a nemesis of his past."

The Gift by Louise Jensen

The Gift by Louise Jensen is the follow up novel to her phenomenal success, The Sister. I had high hopes for The Gift, but I felt, on a few levels it fell short. Jenna the main character is in dire need of a heart transplant, and a donor finally becomes available. The donor heart is from a young woman named Callie. After Jenna has her transplant and begins the healing journey, she begins to experience something called cellular memory, i.e., she can feel some of the same emotions the donor felt, wants to eat the same foods, very strong strange dreams, etc. This was something I wasn't completely aware of, and for that reason, it was sort of interesting. Beyond that, Jenna becomes determined to meet the donor's family, even though she is strongly advised against doing so, even by her therapist. It just doesn't seem like a good idea, and I do concur with that. However, that finding of, and getting to know the donor's family is an integral, if flawed part of this story. A false premise so to speak. Jenna became obsessed with Callie, obsessed with finding out how she died, and ultimately solving a great mystery. While a strong story on the surface, I could not overcome that storyline bias, and also found the writing needed some more editing for the book to read more smoothly.

Sweet Barbarian by Jayla Jasso

Sweet Barbarian by Jayla Jasso
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Sweet Barbarian by Jayla Jasso is a sexy romp that is part fantasy novel, part English lesson and part cooking direction. With the opening scene of Valimir being sent on his merry way to another time dimension, the novel gets off to an intriguing start. Fortunately for Val, he finds himself in the woods behind Karly's house in Colorado, who takes him in, tends to his wounds from battle and begins the arduous task of teaching him English. There are a lot of funny scenes in this book especially when Karly has to describe certain bodily functions. This novel is a cozy read at times albeit with a lot of sexual overtones, sometimes graphic, but ultimately is a sweet love story between the two characters. A good escape type of fantasy read that will captivate and entertain.

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Confess by Colleen Hoover

Confess by Colleen Hoover
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Caveat- I am not familiar with this author at all. Just happened to see this book in the library and picked it up. It actually sounded more like a mystery than a romance to me. Anyway... I had to stop reading after about mid-way through the book. While I truly enjoyed the premise of the book, the confessions that were a catalyst for art by Owen, and the art was actually quite good, I don't know, it just didn't hold enough depth for me. Auburn the other protagonist was just so shallowly written, so naïve and fell in love with Owen so instantly, well, it felt forced and completely unrealistic. They were enraptured with each other in a matter of hours. Owen was borderline stalker-ish to me. So Owen had a BIG secret, woohoo, who doesn't at some point? I kept waiting and waiting for some form of excitement, resolution, something to propel the story forward, but it meandered along into nothing.

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Thoughts and Prayers for Ft. Lauderdale

Not a book review today. This hits close to home. Praying for all of those impacted by the shooting in Ft. Lauderdale today. What a crazy world we live in.

The Power of Seventy by Gerard Colenbrander

The Power Of Seventy by Gerard Colenbrander
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The Power of Seventy by Gerard Colenbrander is a story that follows the reunion of three old friends, each with their own interesting histories and various life stories. Going back 50 years together, Rusty, Jaco, and Ralph have a lot of ground to cover when they do get together. When it is discovered that one of them several years before discovered a rather tidy amount of precious stones and metal from war torn Central Africa, the hunt is back on to re-claim the treasure. The trip of a lifetime begins for the three buddies, who embark on an almost impossible mission. With a lot of levity, some amphibious gyro copters and a little luck, this easy, spirited blend of fact and fiction makes for a light, entertaining diversion. Set in the Belgian Congo, this story will grab the attention of thrill seeking readers.

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The Woman Next Door by Cass Green

The Woman Next Door by Cass Green
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The Woman Next Door by Cass Green is a book that I had high expectations for. I couldn't wait to delve in and see what the fuss was all about. Sadly, I was a bit disappointed. I try not to read all of the reviews before I read a book because I may inadvertently form a bit of prejudice one way or another. However, this book sounded so consistently good, I had to give it a try. The story is about neighbors who have lived next to each other for a while. They each have their secrets, their good and bad points, and their respective histories. Melissa, the youngish, perfectly coifed neighbor has a bit of a sad background; one which she has been determined to overcome, and Hester, who appears to be written as a shrewish, over-involved pensioner. I felt these characters were stereotypes and not terribly original. Anyway, the story begins and we have a murder on our hands, and the protracted lengths the characters go through to deal with said murder. The story at this point drags on and on. The disposing of the body could have been handled in a few pages, but went into utterly needless detail and took forever. The car ride that never ends so to speak. There was a small twist to the storyline that was not totally unpredictable, but good enough. I would call this novel more of a bizarre character study than a psychological thriller.

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Something Olde by Denis Jay Klein

Something Olde: Book One of The Divel Chronicles Series by Denis Jay Klein
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Something Olde: Book One of the Divel Chronicles by Denis Jay Klein is a great start to this new series. Klein has a well defined writing style that begins with the first chapter, namely when he describes Clark Dearborne's reticence in opening up a brown paper wrapped package. What the package contains might be only the second most famous triangle in Bermuda; a jeweled triangle that is. Clark is forced to make a defining decision in his life; remain a good guy who follows the law, or open up the package and start down a precarious path. Temptation wins out in this case, and Clark begins a journey that may help him recoup his absconded retirement money and live a life of luxury. There is plenty of mystery, along with a touch of humor and history to keep the story moving along at a good pace.

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Pages in the Wind -Sally Saylor De Smet

Pages in the Wind by Sally Saylor De Smet
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Pages in the Wind by Sally Saylor DeSmet is a difficult read. Not hard to read, but hard to digest. The book follows the story of Emily, who is in prison for murdering her father; and the shrink who is trying to work with her through regression to remember what exactly happened during that fateful event. The characters are wonderfully drawn and evoke so many different emotions. I felt so bad for Emily, the abuse, the overly strict parents, just everything was, difficult. All in all a good read, but the reader must be able to stomach almost constant abuse and negativity. Not for the faint-hearted. Thank you to the author for a free copy of this book.

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Summit Lake by Charlie Donlea

Summit Lake by Charlie Donlea is a good entry level debut mystery. A horrifying murder of a smart, beautiful, young law student, Becca, sets the stage for the mystery in Summit Lake, a small town in the Blue Ridge mountains. An investigative reporter named Kelsey, who writes for Events magazine, based in Miami, is sent to cover the story and ferret out any information she can find. Kelsey herself, has some things to deal with, namely her own recent brush with a brutal attack. Her trip to Summit Lake could be seen as a type of therapy, which along with her jogging, may be just what is needed. Kelsey becomes embroiled in the local town, listens to much gossip, gets semi-involved with a doctor, and receives plenty of access to police information from the police chief. This dance does require a little suspension of disbelief from the reader. The actions taken by many characters didn't seem likely, but oh well. Told through two different frames of reference, this is a fairly well crafted mystery, with enough character development to be appealing. The twist at the end was slightly not-twisty, but worked fine in the end. I look forward to reading more from Charlie Donlea, this is a solid, if underperforming novel. I kindly thank Netgalley.com for an advance copy.