John Sandford's Wicked Prey is the latest of the "Prey" series featuring master investigator Lucas Davenport. As usual Sanford creates some incorrigible criminals intent on committing incredible and horrendous crimes.
The Republican Convention is gearing up in St. Paul, and a smart gang of professional thieves are planning a brilliant but brutal heist involving millions of dollars. Political lobbiests have come to town with huge amounts of cash, all off the books, to grease hands and make things happen. Finding and stealing the money involves careful strategy, but the robbers get off to a successful but violent start.
Lucas figures out who is committing these ingenious turned bloody heists, but finding them and putting a stop to their crime spree takes all his waking hours.
Unknown to Lucas, an ex-con in a wheelchair is angrily seeking revenge. Randy Whitcomb blames Lucas for the bullet that caused his paralysis, and plans to use Lucas's young teenaged daughter for his twisted version of justice. Daughter Letty, street wise and tough, actually figures out what Whitcomb is plotting on her own and goes after him herself.
Sanford can definitely give us insight into the minds of the criminals he creates. It is interesting to learn their background and how they reached the point where remorse is overshadowed by greed or revenge.
This novel involves the bottom-feeders of society, therefore their language involves every profanity imaginable. Also the sexual content is not of a pretty nature. I lost track of how many people were killed, some brutally and without cause. Sandford is a brilliant writer, knowledgable about the intricate details of crime investigation. The books moves along at a fast pace, moving back and forth from one character's movements to another. If you can move past the ugliness of the dark side of society, this is an excellentlly written book with carefully created characters and smooth flowing dialogue. On a scale of 1 to 10 I rate it a 6 1/2.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Tea Time for the Traditionally Built by Alexander McCall Smith
Just knowing there is a new tale involving the No.l Ladies Detective Agency of Botswana, Africa and Mma Ramotswe gives me a warm feeling in my soul. Tea Time for the Traditionally Built with its soft humor, human fraility, and unconditional love and loyalty will please readers of all preferences. The easy flow of plot and dialogue, and a mystery to be solved involving no bloodshed or diabolical intentions ,will leave you smiling when you finish.
Mma Ramotswe is approached by Mr. Molofololo, owner of a local professional soccer team. He wants to hire the Agency to figure out why his previously undefeated club is now on a losing streak. He suspects a team member is purposely causing the defeats. Mma Ramotswe, totally ignorant of anything sports related, has to be convinced to accept the case.
Along with fretting about the demise of her beloved white van, Mma Ramotswe's partner Mma Makutse suffers the indignity of having an integrity-lacking women set out to steal her fiance. These and other challenges are handled with some native wisdom and common sense.
The author also gently shows us how people of all cultures, class and lifestyles share the same problems, emotional reactions, and the ability to love and nurture.
Suitable for all ages, I found nothing to offend in this squeaky clean novel. One of my personal favorites of this season, on a scale of 1 to 10 I rate it a 9.
Mma Ramotswe is approached by Mr. Molofololo, owner of a local professional soccer team. He wants to hire the Agency to figure out why his previously undefeated club is now on a losing streak. He suspects a team member is purposely causing the defeats. Mma Ramotswe, totally ignorant of anything sports related, has to be convinced to accept the case.
Along with fretting about the demise of her beloved white van, Mma Ramotswe's partner Mma Makutse suffers the indignity of having an integrity-lacking women set out to steal her fiance. These and other challenges are handled with some native wisdom and common sense.
The author also gently shows us how people of all cultures, class and lifestyles share the same problems, emotional reactions, and the ability to love and nurture.
Suitable for all ages, I found nothing to offend in this squeaky clean novel. One of my personal favorites of this season, on a scale of 1 to 10 I rate it a 9.
Monday, May 11, 2009
8th Confession by James Patterson
When a new James Patterson novel hits the shelves, fans rush to buy or place their names on the local library wait list. I am one of those fans. Many of his past works can be considered some of the best crime fiction ever written. 8th Confession, however doesn't quite live up to his renown reputation. It felt hurridly thrown together, as if driven by a time deadline. Choppy dialogue, an uncompelling plot, and our usually lovable characters seeming a little out of sync, make this new novel unremarkable.
This is the eighth book involving the ever popular Women's Murder Club. In 8th Confession, detective Lindsey Boxer, coroner Dr. Claire Washburn, reporter Cindy Thomas, and A.D.A. Yuki Castellano return to solve the unrelated murders of an socialite couple, and an apparent homeless man.
While investigating Bagman's death, Cindy becomes personally involved with the plight of the homeless. It is only her passionate urging that keeps the case active.
Lindsey, on the other hand, is hot on the trail of a murderer who is targeting the rich and famous.
The girl's find plenty of romance, however. Well, maybe not Claire, who is very happily married. But even their hot sexual escapades seem a bit confusing.
Nothing in this book seems to hang together. I was almost relieved to read the last page. If your reading time is limited, this is one Patterson you might consider skipping. Hopefully he will put a little more time and effort into the next one. There is explicit sex and some gory crime details. On a scale of 1 to 10, I rate 8th Confession a 4.
This is the eighth book involving the ever popular Women's Murder Club. In 8th Confession, detective Lindsey Boxer, coroner Dr. Claire Washburn, reporter Cindy Thomas, and A.D.A. Yuki Castellano return to solve the unrelated murders of an socialite couple, and an apparent homeless man.
While investigating Bagman's death, Cindy becomes personally involved with the plight of the homeless. It is only her passionate urging that keeps the case active.
Lindsey, on the other hand, is hot on the trail of a murderer who is targeting the rich and famous.
The girl's find plenty of romance, however. Well, maybe not Claire, who is very happily married. But even their hot sexual escapades seem a bit confusing.
Nothing in this book seems to hang together. I was almost relieved to read the last page. If your reading time is limited, this is one Patterson you might consider skipping. Hopefully he will put a little more time and effort into the next one. There is explicit sex and some gory crime details. On a scale of 1 to 10, I rate 8th Confession a 4.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
First Family by David Baldacci
Former Secret Service agents Sean and Michelle are pressed into service as private investigators by none other than First Lady Jane Cox, wife of US President Dan Cox. Sean had been asked by Jane's sister-in-law Pam to meet with him, without disclosing any details. When Sean and Michelle arrive they find Pam dead, husband Tuck and children John and Colleen drugged, and oldest daughter Willa missing. Jane asks Sean to work with the government agencies to help find her niece.
As readers, we learn Willa and her apparent biological mother Diane are being held by Sam Quarry. The reasons he had these two kidnapped are unclear, but he obviously has serious issues from the past. On the surface Sam seems calm, controlled, even compassionate. We quickly realize that he can be deadly dangerous when things are not done his way. He has carefully mapped out every detail, and methodically puts into action his twisted plan.
Sean and Michelle have few clues to lead them to Willa. As they investigate, they uncover secrets that could cause fallout if known to the public. Through smart detecting and hard work they reveal facts that could lead them to the kidnapper. But can they get there before Sam initiates his dastardly plan.? The ending will make your heart race and your mind whirl.
There are so many twists and turns in this book, you will be kept guessing as to what is true and what is conjecture. Can anyone be trusted to be completely honest? Allow yourself plenty of time to read this one, because it is hard to put down. It's definetely one of my picks for must-read fiction of the current best sellers. It contains little or no offensive sexual content. There is some violence, but very few incidents of profanity. On a scale of 1 to 10 I rate First Family a 7.
As readers, we learn Willa and her apparent biological mother Diane are being held by Sam Quarry. The reasons he had these two kidnapped are unclear, but he obviously has serious issues from the past. On the surface Sam seems calm, controlled, even compassionate. We quickly realize that he can be deadly dangerous when things are not done his way. He has carefully mapped out every detail, and methodically puts into action his twisted plan.
Sean and Michelle have few clues to lead them to Willa. As they investigate, they uncover secrets that could cause fallout if known to the public. Through smart detecting and hard work they reveal facts that could lead them to the kidnapper. But can they get there before Sam initiates his dastardly plan.? The ending will make your heart race and your mind whirl.
There are so many twists and turns in this book, you will be kept guessing as to what is true and what is conjecture. Can anyone be trusted to be completely honest? Allow yourself plenty of time to read this one, because it is hard to put down. It's definetely one of my picks for must-read fiction of the current best sellers. It contains little or no offensive sexual content. There is some violence, but very few incidents of profanity. On a scale of 1 to 10 I rate First Family a 7.
Loitering With Intent by Stuart Woods.
Stone Barrington is back and rarin' to go in Loitering With Intent. Just dumped by his current squeeze (for her abusive ex-husband), he sees a chance for some quick dough and fun with a missing person job in the Florida Keys. He must locate young Evan Keating and convince him to sign papers allowing the sale of the family business. Finding Evan on Key West proves easy enough, but after a short conversation, Stone is coshed in the head and wakes up being treated by a beautiful Swedish doctor with whom he rapidly forms a relationship. Keeping up with Evan isn't a problem, but people start dying and what seems like a simple case turns complicated and dangerous. All signs point to a murder-for-hire plot, but figuring out who wants who dead is difficult. Stone and friend Dino put their lives on the line to get to the bottom of this twisted case.
Stuart Woods won't win any Pulitzer Prizes, but he can put a riveting tale together and keep the reader intrigued until the final page. Stone is smart, tough, and funny albeit a bit morally lacking. This book contains sexual content, violence and some rough language. On a scale of 1 to 10 I rate it a 6.
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Stuart Woods won't win any Pulitzer Prizes, but he can put a riveting tale together and keep the reader intrigued until the final page. Stone is smart, tough, and funny albeit a bit morally lacking. This book contains sexual content, violence and some rough language. On a scale of 1 to 10 I rate it a 6.
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Friday, May 1, 2009
Long Lost by Harlan Coben
In Long Lost, Harlan Coben brings back former star basketball player Myron Bolitar and takes readers on a wild international ride of adventure, suspense and romance. Myron receives an unexpected call from ex-lover Terese imploring him to come to Paris. Myron's current relationship with Ali suddenly hits the skids, and after an unfortunate altercation lands his opponent in the hospital, he decides a trip out of the country might be a wise move.
On his arrival in Paris, he is mysteriously interrogated by high-ranking French officials. Terese wants him to find her missing ex-husband. Unfortunately, the ex turns up dead, and very bad people seem to want Myron the same way.
Adding to the confusion, Myron begins to suspect that Terese's deceased daughter might be alive and well.
Matters get messier, but luckily Myron's pal and partner Win is around to help him out of some ugly situations.
Evil lurks everywhere and the conclusion to this quick paced tale will leave you reeling.
I personally wait impatiently for each of Coben's new works. This one didn't disappoint. Once started, Long Lost, is hard to put down. Characters Myron and Win are a little rough around the edges, but lovable. If you are making your summer reading list, this will make a great addition. Coben books do contain sexual content, violence and some occasional profanity. On a scale of 1 to 10, I rate it a 7.
On his arrival in Paris, he is mysteriously interrogated by high-ranking French officials. Terese wants him to find her missing ex-husband. Unfortunately, the ex turns up dead, and very bad people seem to want Myron the same way.
Adding to the confusion, Myron begins to suspect that Terese's deceased daughter might be alive and well.
Matters get messier, but luckily Myron's pal and partner Win is around to help him out of some ugly situations.
Evil lurks everywhere and the conclusion to this quick paced tale will leave you reeling.
I personally wait impatiently for each of Coben's new works. This one didn't disappoint. Once started, Long Lost, is hard to put down. Characters Myron and Win are a little rough around the edges, but lovable. If you are making your summer reading list, this will make a great addition. Coben books do contain sexual content, violence and some occasional profanity. On a scale of 1 to 10, I rate it a 7.
Handle With Care by Jodi Picoult
If you have read Jodi Picoult novels, you are aware how she draws all the characters into our hearts . We know, not just about them, but how they feel, think and react to the situations they face. We begin to view these circumstances from their eyes. Their conflicts with each other are so carefully created, we can empathize with all of their pain, frustration, and mental anguish. What could be construed as right or wrong becomes blurred, as we experience compassion for all those involved.
In her previous book, Not My Sister’s Keeper, the story is told through the thoughts and emotions of a family dealing with a child who develops a life-threatening disease. Again, in Handle with Care, we are presented journal-type entries allowing us to appreciate how the birth of a handicapped child affects the lives of all family members in different ways.
Willow, age five when we get to know her, was born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta . This tragic disease begins while the fetus develops, and causes bones to abnormally form. Tiny limbs or ribs start to fracture even before birth, and if the infant lives through delivery, continue to break throughout their lifetime. Any small incident can cause these breaks, as innocent as rolling over in bed or bumping into furniture. By the time she enters kindergarten, Willow had broken dozens of bones. Each necessitates, of course, medical treatment. A splint, more often than not, is part of her wardrobe.
Willow’s mother, Charlotte, can no longer continue her career as a pastry chef. Willow’s condition needs constant monitoring, as it is too dangerous to leave her with untrained help. Charlotte relies heavily on her friendship with Piper, who also is the obstetrician present at Willow’s delivery.
A highly anticipated vacation to Disney World becomes a nightmare. Willow slips and falls shortly after their arrival, breaking her leg. After hospital x-rays show numerous healing fractures, father Sean is arrested, and older daughter Amelia is taken by Child Services. The situation is eventually explained satisfactorily, but the family is traumatized and returns home without enjoying Disney World.
Sean, frustrated and angry, consults an attorney. He wants to sue all those involved with their ruined vacation; the hospital, police, child services and even Disney World. The attorney advises Sean that he sees no valid case. However, after reviewing Willow’s medical history, the attorney sees another possible lawsuit, that of Wrongful Birth.
A Wrongful Birth suit, they are told , can be brought when parents do not know about fetal complications until the pregnancy is too far along to abort.. In Willow’s case there was some indication of an abnormality in an early untrasound. However since no diagnosis was made, they were not aware of the problem until a much later untrasound showed multiple fractures. The premise of such a law suit infers that had they known the enormous stress and financial expense of raising such a child, they would have terminated the pregnancy. Bluntly speaking, Charlotte and Sean would be announcing to the legal world they wish Willow had never been born. It also means they would be suing Piper, Charlotte’s best friend.
Charlotte ultimately goes forward with the law suit alone, alienating almost everyone close to her. Her emotional battle and that of her family make for heart-wrenching reading.
In the area of best-selling fiction, Handle With Care rates high on my list. The characters are finely drawn and their actions understandable. This is not a fairy tale with a happily ever after ending, but certainly a poignant tale of normal people faced with an abnormal situation. For those with sensitive souls, I find nothing in the way of sordid sex, vulgar language, or violence to offend.
On my scale of 1 to 10, I rate this an 8 ½.
In her previous book, Not My Sister’s Keeper, the story is told through the thoughts and emotions of a family dealing with a child who develops a life-threatening disease. Again, in Handle with Care, we are presented journal-type entries allowing us to appreciate how the birth of a handicapped child affects the lives of all family members in different ways.
Willow, age five when we get to know her, was born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta . This tragic disease begins while the fetus develops, and causes bones to abnormally form. Tiny limbs or ribs start to fracture even before birth, and if the infant lives through delivery, continue to break throughout their lifetime. Any small incident can cause these breaks, as innocent as rolling over in bed or bumping into furniture. By the time she enters kindergarten, Willow had broken dozens of bones. Each necessitates, of course, medical treatment. A splint, more often than not, is part of her wardrobe.
Willow’s mother, Charlotte, can no longer continue her career as a pastry chef. Willow’s condition needs constant monitoring, as it is too dangerous to leave her with untrained help. Charlotte relies heavily on her friendship with Piper, who also is the obstetrician present at Willow’s delivery.
A highly anticipated vacation to Disney World becomes a nightmare. Willow slips and falls shortly after their arrival, breaking her leg. After hospital x-rays show numerous healing fractures, father Sean is arrested, and older daughter Amelia is taken by Child Services. The situation is eventually explained satisfactorily, but the family is traumatized and returns home without enjoying Disney World.
Sean, frustrated and angry, consults an attorney. He wants to sue all those involved with their ruined vacation; the hospital, police, child services and even Disney World. The attorney advises Sean that he sees no valid case. However, after reviewing Willow’s medical history, the attorney sees another possible lawsuit, that of Wrongful Birth.
A Wrongful Birth suit, they are told , can be brought when parents do not know about fetal complications until the pregnancy is too far along to abort.. In Willow’s case there was some indication of an abnormality in an early untrasound. However since no diagnosis was made, they were not aware of the problem until a much later untrasound showed multiple fractures. The premise of such a law suit infers that had they known the enormous stress and financial expense of raising such a child, they would have terminated the pregnancy. Bluntly speaking, Charlotte and Sean would be announcing to the legal world they wish Willow had never been born. It also means they would be suing Piper, Charlotte’s best friend.
Charlotte ultimately goes forward with the law suit alone, alienating almost everyone close to her. Her emotional battle and that of her family make for heart-wrenching reading.
In the area of best-selling fiction, Handle With Care rates high on my list. The characters are finely drawn and their actions understandable. This is not a fairy tale with a happily ever after ending, but certainly a poignant tale of normal people faced with an abnormal situation. For those with sensitive souls, I find nothing in the way of sordid sex, vulgar language, or violence to offend.
On my scale of 1 to 10, I rate this an 8 ½.
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