REVIEW: Ghosts Unveiled

Ghosts Unveiled
Author: Kerrie Logan Hollihan

Ghosts Unveiled is the second book in the Creepy and True series. I absolutely loved the first book, Mummies Exposed, so jumped right on the chance to review the newest book. This newest book in the series is just as good as the first book. It has lots of photos and illustrations, tells interesting tales and explains a lot of terms and topics related to ghosts. Very interesting and engaging!

This book could easily be used in a classroom setting. It has a table of contents, a thorough index, glossary and notes section. Plus, it's written to appeal to middle grade level children....but not in a simplistic way. It's not simplified...but very engaging, using humor and plain language. My review copy had black and white photos, but the final version of the book will be full-color. This book is visually engaging and easy to read. It would appeal to curious, reluctant readers or would be excellent supplemental/entertaining reading for any student (or adults!) interested in the supernatural.

This is an excellent series! I'm definitely looking forward to the next book! Not sure what topic it will address, but I know it will be well done!

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Abrams Kids. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: Christmas Cupcake Murder

Christmas Cupcake Murder

Author: Joanne Fluke

I get really excited when the annual Christmas Hannah Swenson story comes out....or a new book in the series! I have been visiting Hannah & the crew in Lake Eden, MN since the first book in this series was published in 2000! While not the first culinary cozy series, this one is definitely my favorite....and one of the first!

A couple of the most recent books in the series were disappointing (changes in writing quality, bizarre plot choices....things just seemed off), but I am happy to say that things in Lake Eden appear to be coming back to their usual feel and quality. Although certain side plots (long time fans of this series know which side plot I am referring to) still has yet to be resolved. Hannah will make a decision someday. I hope....it's been 20 years...get on with it already, Hannah! lol And none of that stupid R-like stuff again! 

This story is sweet and fun to read! Hannah bakes holiday cookies and cupcakes....and the gang discovers a homeless man who has lost his memory and needs help. So, while Hannah does not find a dead body laying about this time, there is still an enjoyable mystery. Who is Joe? And why can't he remember who he is or how he came to Lake Eden? 

This story is the usual Christmas holiday filler story.....Joanne Fluke publishes a Christmas Hannah story each year. It's a shorter read than the novels in this series, but a very enjoyable holiday treat! The recipes included between chapters are varied.....everything from colorful pickles to cherry frosted cupcakes! Mmmmmmmm! And the recipes include cute little comments from Hannah and the gang. 

I was VERY happy to see that the next novel -- Triple Chocolate Cheesecake Murder -- is coming out in February 2021!!!! (I think I gained 3 lbs just reading the title though!) I wonder if The Decision will be made? or hinted at? Or discussed? Or.....anything???? I have a few months to ponder on that..... 

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Kensington. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. Even this one:  Hannah, make up your mind already!**

REVIEW: Fright Night

 Fright Night
Author: Maren Stoffels

As I write this it's the first few days of Fall 2020....  Halloween is my favorite holiday! I have always loved spooky stories, crisp fall evenings, roasting marshmallows around a fire and telling creepy tales. So, once Fall officially begins, I start looking for scary stories. Fright Night sounded like a great candidate to help kick off the Spooky Season!

I listened to the audiobook version of this story. Glad I did -- I loved this audio book! The use of multiple narrators really made the story come to life! And that's not always a good thing when it's a horror novel...even when it's a lighter YA one.

The basics: A group of friends decide to buy tickets to a local Fright Night event. At the same time, some troubled teens are working at the event. The two groups will come together with disastrous results. Dark pasts. Revenge. Misunderstandings. Evil. It's a Fright Night none of them will ever forget. 

All in all, the story was entertaining. There were a couple plot twists that seemed a bit forced, but it's a scary story. It's not meant to be deeply complex fiction. The story kept my attention from start to finish and posed a enjoyably dark premise. And, it made me think of the times I attended Scarowinds at Carowinds Amusement Park in Charlotte. Lots of costumed actors out to give scares -- and just a fun time! I'm sure that's the evening these characters were looking for -- and they definitely got scares....just a couple that were too realistic!

Fun listen! I look forward to more by this author!

REVIEW: To Sleep in a Sea of Stars

 To Sleep in a Sea of Stars
Author: Christopher Paolini

When I read that this book took Christopher Paolini 9 years to write, I realized he had put all of his creative effort into telling a story that really meant something to him. Nobody puts 9 years into something that is only a "story.'' I knew I had to read this book! I enjoyed his first books -- The Inheritance Cycle. And I love, love, LOVE science fiction. So I was hopeful that this book would really wow me....

And it did. 

OMG. I got pulled right into the characters, the action, the plot. I enjoyed reading my digital galley...got half way through....and started over again with the audio book version because this was a story that I wanted to HEAR told to me. Not just that....but I can listen more than I can sit down and read a physical copy due to commuting to work, household chores...you know, adulting. The audio book let me devour this story much faster than I could have reading the physical review copy....

The basics: Kira Navarez is a xenobiologist. She is assigned a routine survey mission, and dutifully goes about her job. But, then it all goes wrong....or right and then wrong from her point of view. She discovers an alien relic and is overjoyed, but that joy soon turns to horror as she has an encounter with something on the planet that will change her life forever. 

I'm not saying anything else about the plot! Read (or listen to) the book! If you enjoy sci-fi action or space operas -- you will love this book! 

The audio is 32 hours long -- but worth every minute. Jennifer Hale does a superb job of voice acting. Very enjoyable listen! The front cover art is phenomenal, too! 

This story is action packed, emotional, thought provoking and very very entertaining for this sci-fi fan! I can't wait to see what else Paolini is going to write! I hope I don't have 9 years to wait! But, even if I do, I will gladly read whatever he publishes next!

**I voluntarily read both the digital galley and the audiobook versions of this novel from Macmillan/Tor-Forge/Macmillan Audio for review purposes. All opinions expressed are entirely my  own.**

REVIEW: The Nesting

 The Nesting
Author: C.J. Cooke

I loved this book! My favorite sort of suspense story is gothic, dark and atmospheric -- and this tale pressed all those buttons. The basics have been done before -- a down-on-her-luck young woman takes a nanny position....tells some lies to get it, in fact. Lexi believes she can escape her darkness....but ends up in a strange house on a cliff with weird happenings going on....did she run from darkness only to find more dark? Did the children's mother commit suicide....or did something more gruesome happen? Is the house haunted? Are the people the ones haunted? 

There were some points where the story dragged a bit.... but I got sucked right back into the gothic pretty quickly. This is a perfect autumn, start of the ramp up to Halloween, sort of story. I propped myself up in bed with my trusted chihuahua by my side (I did not let her read the book with me -- too scary for her!), a cup of hot tea, and lovely gothic suspense! I was reminded of my teenage self devouring Victoria Holt books for the spooky, goth creepy house in the  middle of nowhere stories! I think that's why I still love stories like this today!! 

Very atmospheric, suspenseful and entertaining read! C.J. Cooke takes a plot that has been done many times and makes it her own. She breathes some life back into the nanny-in-the-spooky-house-with-weird-stuff tale -- kept me glued to my Ipad (digital galley) from start to finish! 

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Berkley Publishing. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. 

REVIEW: Cursed Objects

 Cursed Objects
Author: J.W. Ocker

From cursed dolls to legendary gems, J.W. Ocker tells the tale of many a scary, supposedly cursed, item in his book Cursed Objects. He recounts the legends, adds in other tidbits, cracks more than a few jokes....  He makes the stories entertaining, more than scary or creepy. And....he doesn't take the legends too seriously. If there is any factual information that the stories might be hinky or fake in any way, he shares that information, too. 

There were some items in this collection of stories that I was already familiar with -- the Hope Diamond, Annabelle the cursed doll, a cursed chair nobody can sit in -- but many were new to me. 

I listened to the audio version of this book. Narrated by Tim Campbell, the audio runs just over 5 hours long. Easy listening length. Campbell reads in a fun, upbeat way, bringing out the humor Ocker interjects while still sharing the creepy backstories of all sorts of items. The writing style, and Campbell's entertaining narration, made it easy to get through 5 hours of back to back tales of reported curses. 

Very entertaining audio book! Ocker obviously did a lot of research and spent a lot of time gathering so much information on so many cursed objects. I had fun listening to all of the stories!

This book is not heavy on spookiness or dark foreboding...Ocker interjects fun into the topic of legendary items that come with a blood price of some sort. For those who want a completely serious look at the cursed tales, then another book might be a better choice.  But for readers who want to know a well-rounded story about the curse legends (like the supposed curse on King Tut's tomb being fabricated by reporters after one media source was granted exclusive rights to the real story of the tomb's discovery) and enjoy a bit of humor thrown in the mix, this is a great trek through historical objects that might come with added hellish baggage. 

Full stars from me! Very entertaining!

**I voluntarily listened to a review copy of this audio book from Tantor Audio. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. This review is not cursed in any way..... or..... is it? (insert ominous music stab here...da dahhhhhhhh da) **

REVIEW: Anxious People

 Anxious People
Author: Fredrik Backman

It took me a few days after reading this novel to figure out how to write a review without giving too much away. You see, this is the sort of book you need to read with no preconceived ideas or spoilers....not because it gives the plot away, but just because it's so much better to have it all be a surprise. 

So, I'm going to review this book carefully.....and I'm not telling you anything about the plot.

Fredrik Backman never ceases to amaze me. The first book I read by Backman was Beartown. Then I figured the second book, Us Against You, couldn't possibly be as good....but it was. Then I read A Man Called Ove. I was prepared to be disappointed...but I loved that one too. When I read the blurb about Anxious People I really expected to find the plot annoying and tedious, but I remembered my surprise at the Beartown series and Ove....so I decided to chance it.

Glad I did. This book mixes deep emotions and humor....seriousness and comedy. Backman does it flawlessly. This was an emotional mind trip! And at the end, I wasn't sure if I should cry, laugh or just smile. 

Great book! With all the mess going on in 2020, I really needed this book. I need to listen to the audio book next...because this book deserves a second read. 

Another book I loved from Fredrik Backman! No more doubting him.....if he writes a book on car stereo installation I will read it with no second thoughts. I can't wait to see what he comes out with next!

See? I reviewed it without giving anything away! :) Yay me!

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Atria Books. All opinions expressed are entirely  my own.**

REVIEW: Fearless

 Fearless
Author: Allen Stroud

Humanity has spread into space. There are colonies on the moon, Mars....even Europa. To protect the outposts, resupply ships and travellers, there is a fleet that patrols space. Their job is to patrol, offer help to space freighters, conduct search & rescue missions when needed, and give aid to stranded or damaged ships. It's an important job -- without the resupply ships, the outposts would be completely cut off. Most of the time the work is routine.....until it isn't. When Captain Shann and her crew respond to a distress signal, things get dicey. One of her crew is murdered, and then the ship is attacked....    Their job just got very non-routine quite quickly!

This book has some awesome action scenes and definitely kept my attention. I love Captain Shann as a main character...she is intelligent and incredibly capable. The story is told from multiple points of view. Normally, I really don't care for that sort of plot -- but for this Space Opera, it worked perfectly. I can't wait until this comes out in audio format -- this is the perfect sci-fi novel to listen to! I loved reading it -- but I think I will enjoy it even more in audio!

This is the first book by Allen Stroud that I've read. I'm definitely going to be reading more. Best Sci-Fi adventure  I've read in quite awhile! I love the front cover art for this book....so awesome!

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Flame Tree Press. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: Misfits

 Misfits
Author: Hunter Shea

Every town has a creepy legend...a beast at the lake, a creature in the woods, a witch in The One House nobody will walk past....     And every town has that group of fringe kids....the group at the back of every school photo shoot....or just missing from the yearbook entirely. In the 90s grunge era, Milbury, Connecticut is no different. 

Local lore tells the tale of the Melon Heads.....walk down Dracula Drive after dark, and they might get you. And 5 kids in the fringe group....broken homes, stoners....Misfits. When one of them is raped, the close-knit group plots revenge. But revenge sometimes comes at a great price.....

This book is creepy....and really gross in places. But Hunter Shea managed to creep me out once again! He's scared me with giant rats, funky fungus and various other monsters....why not forest dwelling melon heads! 

Readers who enjoy campy creepy horror will love this book....just don't eat while you read. There are some gross parts...ha ha! 

Loved this one! I can't wait to see what Hunter Shea is gonna scare me with next! 

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Flame Tree Press. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: A Case of Cat and Mouse

 A Case of Cat and Mouse
Author: Sofie Kelly

Things are really hopping in Mayville Heights as the town readies itself for a reality baking show to come to town. Librarian Kathleen Paulson is busy, busy, busy as she works to help with historical research for the show. The whole town seems to be in on the event! But.....    (there is always a but when it's a cozy mystery!)

One of the judges is found dead. As if death by whipped cream isn't bad enough, there is no shortage of suspects because the dead woman was a real b ....   pill. (No cussing in cozy reviews ha ha)

Can Kathleen, with the help of her two awesomely magic cats Hercules and Owen, catch the killer before the festivities are completely ruined?? And....will her sleuthing end up getting her killed?

Awesome new book in the Magical Cats series! I love these books and eagerly await each new book or short story! Hercules and Owen are great -- their antics make these books fun! Kathleen is an intelligent and enjoyable main character. And I like all the background characters from Mayville Heights. 

The mystery and humor are entertaining. The story kept me engaged the entire time. There were more than enough suspects in the whipped creaming incident. All in all, an enjoyable read! I can't wait for the next book! 

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Berkley Publishing. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: Three Treats Too Many

 Three Treats Too Many
Author: Debra H. Goldstein

In this 3rd book in the Sarah Blair Mystery series, Sarah and her sister are still struggling to open their restaurant. This time inspection woes have delayed their dream project.....long enough for weasel-y rival Jane to pop back up to cause trouble. Jane opens a competing restaurant quite close to Sarah & Emily's delayed upscale eatery. When Jane's talented chef turns up dead, Sarah and her pals land in the soup again.... 

I love this series! It's always an enjoyable mix of murder mystery and humor. RahRah the siamese cat is of course a favorite character of mine. And I enjoy hating the daylights out of annoying Jane, as I am sure is the author's intention. There are times I want to hop into the book and just punch Jane. I would gladly smack her....but killing her chef is a pretty low blow. :)

Great read! I needed some cozy goodness with everything going on in my life. This book gave me a nice spot of humor and entertainment! I read my review copy and then also checked out the audio book on Scribd. I love listening to cozies....it makes my commute to work more interesting and it's just enjoyable to have a cute story read to me. Even though I knew how the plot turned out already, I still enjoyed listening to the audio. Emily Beresford narrates. She reads at a nice, steady pace and has a pleasant voice. The audio is just over 7.5 hours. All in all, a great listening experience!

Can't wait for the next book in this series! Oh, and there are recipes in the book as well! 

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Kensington. All opinions expressed are completely my own.**

REVIEW: Hanging Falls

 Hanging Falls
Author: Margaret Mizushima

Hanging Falls is the 6th book in the Timber Creek K-9 series. This series is one of my favorites! I eagerly await each new book in this series!

Mattie Cobb is a police officer in Timber Creek, CO. Her K-9 partner, Robo, is always at her side. They also hang out often with local Wildlife official Glenna and her dog, Moose. The action in this newest book starts immediately...no waiting! While on a trail run with the dogs, the two women find a body snagged in the branches of a tree near Hanging Falls. Not only does Mattie have to find out who the dead man is...but also how he got in the water, who was responsible and what he might have been doing there. It ends up being a very complex case involving a local religious cult. 

The story in this newest book is suspenseful and engrossing. There is some in-depth character development for Mattie in this newest book, plus a bit more focus on her love interest, Cole Walker, his veterinary practice and his daughters. Lots of Mattie & Robo action -- with some vital character and backstory developments! 

I read my review copy of this book....but then also checked the audio book out at my local public library when it came out. I love listening to this series on audio. I already knew how the case came out, but I wanted to be able to savor the story on a second read, rather than reading under a review deadline. The audio book is narrated by Nancy Wu. Wu does an excellent job of bringing the story and characters to life. She reads at a steady pace and has a pleasant voice. The audio is just a bit over 10 hours long. 

Awesome story! In print....and in audio! I love this series -- can't wait for the next book! 

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books...and also checked out the audio book from my local library. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: Middle School Bites

 Middle School Bites
Author: Steven Banks

For me, the second it hits September 1, it's Halloween season. I start reading any sort of spooky, monsterish sort of book I can get my hands on. Scary, funny, cute....I don't care what sort. If it's Halloween-y in any way -- it's at the top of my TBR. 

Since I just finished a pretty heavy adult horror novel, I decided to enjoy a middle grade audiobook to give my brain a bit of a break. Something cute, but still that touch of spooky :) Middle School Bites is perfect for a spooky read with a big dose of humor and cuteness!

Tom is just starting middle school. He's worried about the usual stuff -- bullies, being embarrassed, etc. But just before school starts, Tom gets bitten.....not once....but three times. How can a kid survive middle school if he's a Vam-Wolf-Zom?? It's a trifecta that Tom could never have planned for.....

What a cute book! It reminds me a lot of the Last Kids on Earth Series...but there is a reason for that. Robbie Daymond narrates the audiobooks for both series! I love his voice acting in the Last Kids books....and he was great on this one too! 

Fun series! I have the second book Middle School Bites: Tom Bites Back on hold at my public library. Can't wait to listen to it! There's a bit of a waiting list....but that just means other people are loving this series too! 

*I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Holiday House Publishing, and listened to an audio book copy from my public library. All opinions expressed are totally my own.**

REVIEW: Caught Dead Handed

 Caught Dead Handed
Author: Carol J. Perry

**I originally first reviewed this book in April 2020. Then I lost track of the series amid my ponderous TBR & Life Happening. While clicking through Scribd, I saw the series available to listen on audio,and decided to start at the beginning and read this series from the start -- perfect start to Halloween season!**

Here is my original review from April 2016 (additions following):

Lee Barrett has come home to Salem, Massachusetts with her sights set on a reporter's job at WICH-TV. When she shows up for her job interview, not only has the position already been filled, but she discovers the station's late-night psychic, Ariel Constellation, dead in Salem Harbor. Instead of a news anchor job, she finds herself filling the dead psychic's job -- introducing late night cheesy horror movies, and answering calls from viewers looking for psychic advice. She becomes Crystal Moon for the show, Nightshades. When another body is discovered and strange things start happening around the station, Lee becomes an amateur sleuth to discover the identity of the killer.

Caught Dead Handed is the first book in the Witch City Mystery series. There are 3 books in the series so far.

This book was a fun read! I love cozy mysteries, especially ones with cats. The main character, Lee, not only fills Ariel Constellation's job, but adopts her cat as well. The cat's name is Orion, which Lee changes to O'Ryan. The plot is a nice mix of mystery and humor. I liked the main character. She doesn't take herself too seriously. I mean how can you take yourself seriously when your job is to dress up in a gypsy costume and pretend to be psychic?

The twist in the plot wasn't a big surprise. I had it figured out a few chapters before it was revealed. But that didn't impede my enjoyment of the book. The writing, plot, and characters were all well done, maintaining my interest all the way to the end. I did feel that things wrapped up rather hurriedly at the end, but I can't fault a 400+ page cozy for moving too quickly. The pacing was very well done. I just felt the wrap-up was handled a bit too fast, with the mystery solved just a few pages from the end, without much information on what happened afterwards.

But, I guess all of that is in book 2.....which I will, of course, be reading. It doesn't take a psychic to figure that one out!

********

My 2020 re-read of this book:

I listened to this story in audio format. The audio is about six hours long, narrated by C.S.E. Cooney. She has a pleasant voice and reads at a good pace. The plot is cute and fun. I can't imagine being a late night horror host, but the main character, Lee, really rises to the occasion and gives it her best! This is definitely a great autumn/Halloween listen. I'm kicking off my season of all things witchy, scary and creepy with this cozy series. 

I'm definitely reading through all the books this time!

One thing I find annoying about Scribd -- this audio book on Scribd is the Abridged format. I didn't realize it until I got to the end. It seemed impossible that a 400+ page cozy could be read in six hours! I compared the running time with the same audio book on Audible. Scribd - 6 hours. Audible - 8 hrs 52 minutes.  I do not want to listen to audio books with 3 hours of the plot yanked out of them!! Several plot points I remembered from my first reading of the book are missing.....grrrrrr.

I'm on my 30-day free trial of Scribd. Not listing whether the audio books are abridged or unabridged, (and most audio cozy mysteries on the site appear to be abridged) may just be a deal breaker. I still have a few days to make up my mind......but the abridged issue has me leaning towards cancelling. 

REVIEW: The Genesis Game

 The Genesis Game
Author: Andrew O'Kelley
Narrator: Curt Bonnem

I'm a big fan of RPG games like D&D or Pathfinder. And activities like Escape Rooms and MagiQuest are sometimes pricey, but a lot of fun. Just imagine what it would be like if you entered a game....a Dungeon game in a mall....only to discover the game was real. And....you can't leave until someone finishes the game. Then imagine that you finished the game once....only to find out you made a mistake. The game was never about winning....it was about saving humanity. Now you have one more chance. That's it....one second chance to make better choices and save humanity. 

Black Seraph. One of the fallen is sent back. Way, way back to the beginning. He is once again a 12-year old boy, and he has to complete the dungeon all over again. With his dad and a group of other humans, who all believe he is a kid. 

What will happen inside the World Dungeon?

I had a great time listening to the audio book version of this story. It took me a bit to warm up to the main character, but once the story hit high gear and I understood the premise better, I was totally sucked into the plot. I wanted to know what happens to this group of people stuck in a dungeon world! 

The audio is just a tad over 7 hours. Easy listening length. I listened over a weekend while doing laundry and household chores. Curt Bonnem gives a good performance and there are some nice sound effects. He reads at a nice speed and has a pleasant, easily understandable voice -- which is very important for me because I have hearing loss. 

The story is engaging and develops at a nice pace. I liked the characters although it took me awhile to warm up to Seraph. 

I can't wait to read the next part of this story! 

**I voluntarily listened to a review copy of this audio book from Spectrum Audio. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: The Hollow Ones

The Hollow Ones
Author: Guillermo Del Toro
Narrator: Brittany Pressley

I wasn't sure what to expect from this newest book by Guillermo Del Toro. I loved The Shape of Water, but Pan's Labryinth (movie and book version) wasn't my thing at all. But....even if a Del Toro story isn't a personal favorite....it's always entertaining and well-done. So, I jumped at the chance to review this audio book. 

Every day for a week I listened to this story as I commuted to and from work. I know when an audio book grabs my attention because I can't leave the story once I reach work...I have to listen on breaks, at lunch, while filing, and at home while I do housework, cook dinner, etc. This book definitely grabbed my attention. I had to know what happened next! 

A rookie FBI agent forced to shoot her own partner. Several civilians turning strangely violent for no apparent reason. Rookie FBI agent Odessa Hardwicke knows there is something strange about her partner's violent outburst. She saw a shadowy presence leave his body after she killed him. As Odessa begins to wonder if she's losing her mind, she finds herself on the trail of a shadowy figure.....a man who may be hundreds of years old and hold the knowledge to defeat evil. 

An awesomely creepy and suspenseful read! I hope they make this into a movie! It is definitely a Del Toro story. It starts off with suspense, but then quickly delves into the strange and bizarre! But....I'm always up for strange and bizarre! I loved listening to this story. Chuck Hogan co-authored this book with Del Toro. He's written several books...I'm definitely going to check out more of his writing. And Del Toro.....well I will definitely be watching more of his movies (except for Pan's Labyrinth...ugh) and books!

Brittany Pressley does a great job of narrating. She has a pleasant, easily understandable voice and reads at a nice pace. All in all, a nice listening experience!

**I listened to a review copy of this audio book from Hachette Audio. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: Anxious People

Anxious People

Author: Fredrik Backman

It took me a few days after reading this novel to figure out how to write a review without giving too much away. You see, this is the sort of book you need to read with no preconceived ideas or spoilers....not because it gives the plot away, but just because it's so much better to have it all be a surprise. 

So, I'm going to review this book carefully.....and I'm not telling you anything about the plot.

Fredrik Backman never ceases to amaze me. The first book I read by Backman was Beartown. Then I figured the second book, Us Against You, couldn't possibly be as good....but it was. Then I read A Man Called Ove. I was prepared to be disappointed...but I loved that one too. When I read the blurb about Anxious People I really expected to find the plot annoying and tedious, but I remembered my surprise at the Beartown series and Ove....so I decided to chance it.

Glad I did. This book mixes deep emotions and humor....seriousness and comedy. Backman does it flawlessly. This was an emotional mind trip! And at the end, I wasn't sure if I should cry, laugh or just smile. 

Great book! With all the mess going on in 2020, I really needed this book. I need to listen to the audio book next...because this book deserves a second read. 

Another book I loved from Fredrik Backman! No more doubting him.....if he writes a book on car stereo installation I will read it with no second thoughts. I can't wait to see what he comes out with next!

See? I reviewed it without giving anything away! :) Yay me!

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Atria Books. All opinions expressed are entirely  my own.** 

REVIEW: Horus Rising

 Horus Rising
Author: Dan Abnett
Narrator: Toby Longworth

My husband and son play Warhammer 40K. I love to paint the miniatures, but have never really gotten into miniature games. Too many rules -- when a game requires entire books filled with rules and complicated army configurations, I just sort of walk away quietly while they aren't paying attention. :) This year -- since 2020 is such a S-Show -- they talked me into making my own army. I chose Death Guard and have been happily painting my models and learning to talk the talk....and trying to learn the rules. Strangely enough....I actually like it. (But don't tell them I said that, or they will be after me to make a 2nd army, add tanks, etc. I'm putting that off as long as possible. All I can do to learn the rules for ONE faction...let alone add-ons.)

I do realize this is a book review and that I should talk about the book. I'm getting to that...I promise. 

When I found out there were books based in the Warhammer universe with action packed tales involving the very armies I'm trying to understand, I decided that the books might very well be my gateway to giving a crap about learning all those rules. So I went online to find out which series I should start with as a noob (because there are LOTS of Warhammer books). A lovely YouTuber pointed me in the direction of the Horus Heresy books....with the Eisenhorn series following a close second. 

I let my son listen first.....he is now on book 4. And I just finished book 1 -- OMG! I loved this book from start to finish. Action. A lot of descriptive battle scenes. Great characters. And intrigue, treachery.....just lots of great stuff! And, now I get it -- the lore is important! 

Not only was this a great listen, but it's also made for lots of great discussions with my teenager. We take a long walk each night....and usually we end up talking about what I think about the characters, what I think might happen next, who my favorite characters are, etc etc. This coming from a 16-year old who normally does not like to read (dyslexia issues). Audio books have really opened up the world of reading for my son who has difficulty tracking printed words...so usually avoids reading. Now he requests books....so I purchase extra credits to make sure I can provide the books he wants. And I purchase books assigned at school in audio so he can listen as he reads....it makes a HUGE difference for him!

But...back to this book. Now that I've finished book 1, my husband is going to listen to it. I'm moving on to book 2....and my son is continuing with book 4. I love it when we all have a series to discuss! It used to be television shows that we all watched...but our TV watching is way down. I think I prefer book discussions to the television anyway! 

Definitely full stars from me -- loved it! There are lot of books in the Horus Heresy series, and off-shoots. Upwards of 60 books in total. It will take some time, but I will listen to them all! And my son was correct.....the story really has motivated me to learn the rules and field my models! 

REVIEW: The Deadly Hours

 The Deadly Hours
Authors: Various

I absolutely love the concept of this historical mystery story collection!! A cursed gold watch causes trouble as it passes from owner to owner over more than a century. Four owners -- four outstanding stories!

All of these writers (Susanna Kearsley, C.S. Harris, Anna Lee Huber and Christine Trent) were new-to-me authors. Not new as in I haven't heard of them...but new as in I haven't read anything by them. I have books from all four on my TBR list, but haven't gotten to them yet. This collection of stories made me move all those books closer to the top of my list! 

The stories start in 1733 and the watch makes it way to Edinburg, London and Kent over the years, with the fantastic ending coming in 1944. I love how all of the stories are so different, but all tied together by the gold watch. 

Normally I read books like this slowly, really savoring the differences in the stories, the awesome background story of the watch, and the plot nuances of each novella. I also take time to research the authors and add lots of new books/stories to my TBR stack. But because I was reading to write a review in a timely manner (All this covid19 stuff has my job revved up to insane, so my reading and writing time is really taking a hit this year), I had to hurry and spend much less time than I normally would on such a lovely book.  BUT, I solved this problem -- I pre-ordered my own copy of the audio book and I'm going to listen to my heart's content as slowly as I choose and then add lots of lovely books to my TBR stack after each tale is completed. 

Even with the somewhat rushed review read, I loved these four intertwined historical mystery stories. I couldn't pick a favorite -- all are wonderful stories. Well written, with interesting characters and period appropriate plots. I can tell I am going to enjoy reading more by all four writers! I'm on the lookout for more story collections woven together by a plot point like a cursed item -- that really added something extra to my reading enjoyment! 

Awesome read!

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Poisoned Pen Press. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: Vintage Crime

 Vintage Crime
Editor: Martin Edwards

I love a mystery story anthology! So many different stories -- different authors -- varied characters! Vintage Crime caught my eye at first because I absolutely LOVE the front cover! And then I peeked at the story list....a variety of who-dunnits from the 1950s to present written by some familiar names and several new-to-me authors! I knew a CWA anthology would be filled with outstanding writing! 

And I wasn't disappointed! 

Because Covid19 has absolutely kicked my job (social services) into high gear, my reading time is precious at the moment. Normally, I savor mystery anthologies -- I read one story at a time, think over my opinions, look up the author for a bit of research, add other books/stories from the author to my TBR list....and then move on to the next. But because I was reading a review copy, I felt a bit rushed. I loved each story but didn't have the time to really savor and research. I solved this problem by ordering a lovely hardback copy all my own just before I started writing this review....MINE!! And I can read it as slowly as I choose the second time.....Can't wait! 

I thought and thought and tried to pick a favorite story. Impossible. I enjoyed them all! And I'm not saying one word about what they were about...best to read mystery stories with no prior information. But I can say this -- I liked every author in this collection. Once I get my own copy, I have the feeling I'm going to be adding a lot of other books and stories to my already ponderous TBR list. I love how this collection spans several decades. It really brought home how mystery writing has evolved and changed since the 1950s! 

Lovely, lovely collection! Definitely has a home on my keeper shelf! 

**I read a review copy of this story collection from Flame Tree Press. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. I will say this -- I review many books for Flame Tree Press and have never been disappointed. Not one time! That opinion is also 100% my own!**

REVIEW: Short Horror Stories, Vol 1

 Short Horror Stories, Vol 1:
Scary Ghosts, Monsters, Paranormal & Supernatural
Author: Brendon Faife

I'm always on the look-out for interesting, quick reads on Kindle Unlimited. I'm especially drawn to short story anthologies. Mostly because I can easily finish a story or two while waiting on an appointment, over lunch, or while getting my hair cut or having my pedicure redone, but also because it's a great way to discover new-to-me authors. I enjoy having a bit of bibliophile fun while stuck away from home.....a new author, genre hopping, story collections, whatever strikes my fancy. There's a lot of book-fun to be had while sitting and waiting.... 

Because it's almost October -- and anything after September 1st I declare "Almost Halloween" because I love fall and all things Halloween and want to extend the season as much as possible -- while sitting in a lovely massaging pedicure chair soaking my toes, I wanted to read some horror stories. The front cover of this 5-story collection caught my eye immediately. Yep -- I knew it was The One. Downloaded....and proceeded to read....while a lovely man made my toes look gorgeous (sparkly autumn plum purple on toes and nails....love it!). 

The five stories in this collection all center around revenge. From murder and treachery to poaching and animal abuse, every Bad Guy in this collection deserves what they get. I enjoyed each story. The tales are short, easy reads. Nothing fancy, nothing really new....just a bit of creepiness and a strong sense of karma coming for wrong-doers in a big, oftentimes supernatural, way. By the time my toes were done (deluxe...so soak, file, scrub, gel/warm wrap, lotion, oil and toe nails....so about 40 minutes), I had read all five stories. So definitely fits my KU Away-from-home criteria. 

This is the first book by Brandon Faife that I have read. I like his writing style. The stories are simple, a bit distressing in a few places (animal abuse) but not overly graphic. None of the bad guys got away with their evil, nefarious shit. So totally satisfying! All in all a very enjoyable quick read! I'm anxious to read more by this author and see what other creepy tales he has penned! 

**I downloaded this story for free using Kindle Unlimited. The free borrow does not effect any of the opinions expressed in this review. All opinions shared are completely my own.**

REVIEW; Ink & Sigil

 Ink & Sigil
Author: Kevin Hearne

I was incredibly excited when I learned that Kevin Hearne was going to jump back into his Iron Druid world and publish a side story. Ink & Sigil immediately jumped onto my "I have to have this book'' list. I love the Iron Druid series, and I was very sad when the series concluded. I love Hearne's Seven Kennings series, but Atticus and Oberon hold a special place in my booklover's heart. I will always read a book set in their world, even if they aren't in it!

Al is both blessed and cursed.....literally. He uses his magical powers to protect this world, but it comes at a cost. Anyone who hears his voice will begin to hate him....really hate him. So he writes his words and uses technology instead of his voice. When his apprentice is killed, Al finds himself embroiled in a murder investigation. Its not easy to investigate a death in Scotland's magical underworld, but Al is determined to discover the truth.

I loved reading the story of another sigil agent. Al is a great character and Hearne is a great storyteller! I read my review copy and immediately purchased the audio book. I have all the Iron Druid books in audio format, so had to have this one as well! I can't wait to find out what is in store for Al and his magnificent moustache next!

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Random House publishing. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: The Cold Vanish

 The Cold Vanish
Author: Jon Billman

I'm obsessed with missing person stories.Television shows, podcasts, youtube videos....I'm not exactly sure what attracts me to tales of the disappeared, but I listen to many of them. I think it might be that I can't imagine never knowing....having someone close to me disappear and the idea of how shattering it would be to never know where they are and what happened. Even when remains are found, the whole story is rarely revealed. I can't imagine what it would be like to lose someone like that....a friend, a parent....a child. 

When I saw this book available for review, of course I jumped right on it. Yep -- definitely reading this one. And I'm glad I did. Billman not only shares details of multiple cases of missing persons in national parks, but he doesn't just focus on the missing and their families, but delves into those who search and law enforcement/park authorities. Can you imagine searching the wilderness for a lost child....only to find nothing? I can't imagine how difficult that must be for EMS, park rangers and police. Tracking dogs who can't find a scent trail....no evidence....and a lingering, heart-breaking mystery. 

Here one second....gone the next. And it could happen to anyone, even skilled outdoorsmen. Our national parks are beautiful, but these stories do shoot home the idea that hacking trails through it does not tame the wilderness. There are wild animals, and other dangers in any national park. So many people though....and so few answers. Even in vast miles of wilderness, it seems odd that people vanish so often.

Loved this book! Billman presents facts in an interesting way, and brings the stories of the vanished to life. I read my review copy, and then immediately bought the audio book. Hope to read more by this author!

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Grand Central Publishing. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: For Whom the Book Tolls

 For Whom the Book Tolls
Author: Laura Gail Black

Jenna  Quinn had a spot of trouble in Charlotte and her kindly uncle offered a new start in Hokes Folly, NC.  She jumped on the chance, of course. But...her bad luck followed her. Jenna's uncle is killed and the police think she might be a killer. 

I love the concept of small businesses with apartments above them! And I envied Jenna's inheritance of an entire shop filled with antique and interesting books! The murdered uncle part was not so good....but she rose to the occasion and made a pretty good amateur detective! All in all, a great start to a new series.

The mystery developed at a nice pace. I don't enjoy cozies that make me wait almost the entire book for the corpse.....this story gets down to business almost immediately. And despite using one cozy trope (property inheritance), it avoided the one I really dislike -- love triangles. As in most cozies, there were some quirky side characters and a cute cop. The background plot of a antiquarian bookshop that needs a bit of TLC was enjoyable. It added to the mystery rather than overshadowing that part of the plot. Very enjoyable cozy!

I'm definitely on-board for more Antique Bookshop mysteries and can't wait for the next book!

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books. All opinions expressed are entirely my own** 

REVIEW: The Raven

The Raven

Author: Jonathan Janz

How do you save the world when humanity is bent on destruction? You destroy the world. Unleash the Four Winds on humankind and let the monsters hidden in human DNA sort it out. It's the ultimate terrorist attack....

Yikes!

This story both thrilled and scared the crap out of me. But....derp. I should have looked closer at the front cover. Jonathan Janz written there in big huge letters. I should have known what I was in for.....

But Janz surprised me with this one. The Raven has a bit different feel from Janz's other books I've read -- The Sorrows, The Siren & The Specter. No holds barred for this one....awesome fantasy horror!

Woot!! Loved it! There's no slow build with this one.....the action (and carnage) starts right from the beginning. I binge read this at night -- and had to get up and turn the lights on. 

Is this the start of a series?? I hope so! Great premise for a horror series!

I can't wait to experience what Janz decides to scare me with next! Always a great horror read!

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Flame Tree Press. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: The Sentient

The Sentient

Author: Nadia Afifi

Wow....this book has a lot going on! Cults, cloning, space, memory reading, conspiracies.....it has a bit of everything! Amira is a neuroscientist who finds herself in the middle of a very controversial human cloning project. Two test subjects have died....and there are people conspiring to make sure the third does not birth the cloned baby she is carrying. Amira comes in to investigate the deaths and to protect the third test subject and discovers much deeper issues. 

This story packs in a lot of story elements and action. It's definitely never boring....I was glued to the page the entire time I was reading this book. So many interesting concepts and characters...and always something going on. At times the story did get a bit bogged down in everything it was trying to accomplish....just so much packed into one story -- religious cults and their effects on former members, the ethics of cloning humans, how strongly religious sects react to science....lots of big topics. But even with so much packed into one tale, the author manages to pull it off for the most part. I couldn't stop reading!

Awesome debut novel! I'm definitely looking forward to more by this new author! 

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Flame Tree Press. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.** 

REVIEW: A Night to Remember

 A Night to Remember
Author: Walter Lord

Today's cruise ships are basically floating cities. Able to carry more than 6000 people, the Oasis of the Seas (Royal Caribbean Line) is 5 times the size of the Titanic. But back in its day, more than 100 years ago, the Titanic was a wonder. It took thousands of men more than 2 years to build her. Titanic was 4 city blocks long and could carry more than 2,400 people. She was new....she was massive....and she was doomed. 2 years to build.....and the largest ship afloat in April 1912 took just under 3 hours to sink. 

Walter Lord tells the story of one of the most famous ocean disasters from before the ship struck an iceberg to the aftermath of the sinking. Walter Lord interviewed more than 60 survivors of the disaster to write the book. A Night to Remember was an instant bestseller in 1955. A film version was released in 1958. Lord even consulted on the filming of the 1997 movie Titanic. 

 I'm not sure why the fate of the Titanic is such a compelling story. It might be the huge loss of lives, the loss of such a grand ship on its first voyage, passengers with such disparate lives all doomed to the same fate....or a combination of all of it. First Class passenger John Jacob Astor, one of the wealthiest men in the world in 1912, drowned in the Atlantic alongside poor immigrants from steerage. It hits home when you compare ticket prices in today's money....those who paid the equivalent of $50,000 for a first class passage died alongside those who struggled to raise the $460 for a steerage ticket. Lord hits home with the difference in treatment of the classes on board when he points out that only one first class child died....but 52 children from steerage perished. Some passengers in steerage never even made it up to the boat deck for a chance of a seat in a lifeboat.  

I'm sure it's his interviews with so many survivors that makes this book so realistic. His descriptions are vivid and made me feel like I was almost there. I listened to the audio version of this book. A combination of Lord's story-telling and Fred Williams excellent narration kept me engrossed in the story from start to finish. I have read many many books on the Titanic, watched movies, listened to podcasts....for me, it's a story I just seem obsessed with. It's horrific...and mesmerizing at the same time. Lord makes the story about the people....not just the event. He tells the story of an Italian woman crying for her children on board the Carpathia, only to be reunited with them both; the first class passenger who  refused to leave  her Great Dane on board the ship so perished with her dog; and the stunned silence of the women in the lifeboats as they realized they had just witnessed more than 1000 people drown. It's about more than a luxurious boat that didn't survive its first Atlantic crossing.....it's about the loss of more than 1,500 people and the story of the last 3 hours of their lives. 

Great book! The audio (Blackstone) is just shy of 5 1/2 hours long. Fred Williams does a great job of narrating. He reads at a steady pace and has a nice voice. Very entertaining listening experience. 

Walter Lord also wrote books about Dunkirk and the attack on Pearl Harbor. I've got both on my TBR list now!

REVIEW: Ever After

Ever After

Author: Olivia Vieweg

Being a fan of all things zombie, I jumped at the chance to read this story by a new-to-me author/artist and the story premise sounded interesting. Vivi and Eva live in a walled city, safe from the zombies outside. Everyone has their job....including monitoring and repairing the fence. After an altercation with a zombie at the fence, Vivi and Eva escape the city on an automated cargo train. The train breaks down and they are stranded together between safe zones. They have more to face than zombies. Each girl is facing their demons. Vivi mourns the loss of her sister. And Eva comes to understand what transformation is in her future. 

I enjoyed the art in this graphic novel. It's intense and perfect for the story line. But the story lost me for the most part. There was no background on the zombies, what happened, or much at all on how the town came to be set up or how it works/who is in charge, etc. And at times, I couldn't quite grasp what was happening to the two main characters, especially at the end. Not sure if something was lost in translation or if the story was meant to be secondary to the art. 

I still enjoyed this graphic novel....but would have loved it with a bit more story and explanation of the situation. The cool art carried it for me though. I liked the use of color to make the girls stand out in the bleak, destroyed environment. The zombies are creepy...most looking like skeletonized ick. And the depiction of horde attacks were really cool!

This is the first graphic novel by Olivia Vieweg that I've read. I'm definitely going to check out more of her work! This one is a bit of a miss for me because I couldn't really follow the story line in places and some background is lacking....but the art is great! 

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this graphic novel. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: Scritch Scratch

Scritch Scratch

Author: Lindsay Currie

It all starts when Claire agrees to help her dad on a Chicago ghost tour. She isn't interested in the paranormal in any way. Claire is all about science, not spooks. But her dad runs a ghost tour company...and asks for her help. Reluctantly, she agrees. One Saturday night counting ghost fans to make sure everyone is on the bus won't kill her. But then she sees a sad little boy in the back of the bus....he's wearing very out of date clothing and just seems....odd. Claire can't remember counting him when the tour started....and he isn't there anymore when the night wraps up. Hmmm.....weird....but that should be the end of it, right? 

Wrong. 

Then the scratching sounds start. A quiet scratching inside the walls of her room. And her dresser is full of water. Claire has brought a ghost home with her! 

This book is just such an awesome middle grade level spooky read! It weaves real Chicago history in with the fiction. I have a list of real places and stories I just have to look up and read about now! The atmosphere and pacing are perfect. I liked the characters, and the premise. When I was in seventh grade, I most likely would have been embarrassed if my dad ran a ghost tour company, too! Claire learns some valuable lessons, becomes closer to her brother, and learns many lessons while investigating the spirit who followed her home. 

The cover art for this book is just fantastic! 

This is the first book by Lindsay Currie that I've read. I love ghost stories! And the fact that this tale includes actual history of the Chicago area made the book so much more interesting to me! I'm definitely going to read more by this author! 

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Sourcebooks. All opinions expressed are entirely my  own.**

Review: Brontë's Mistress

Brontë's Mistress

Author: Finola Austin

This isn't the usual sort of book that I read. But I'm trying to branch out and the premise sounded so interesting. I'm glad I decided to try something a little different. I thoroughly enjoyed this story!

Lydia Robinson has faced the recent death of her daughter and her mother. She's grieving and a very unhappy wife. Her mother in law is horrid....and her teenage daughters misbehave. Lydia wants something more in her life...and she finds just the thing with her son's tutor -- Bramwell Brontë. Bramwell's sister Anne is governess to Lydia's daughters. 

But.....the problem is....Lydia is married. The servants see and whisper about all goings on in the house. She is 43 and Bramwell is 25. Not only that but Bramwell's sisters know what is going on...and Lydia is afraid they will reveal what they know about the affair. 

Can this strong, outspoken woman weather the storms created by her passion for life, boredom with propriety and whispered gossip?? 

I couldn't help but feel sympathy for Lydia as I read this story. Women had very few choices in life at that time. She's stuck in her marriage....she's stuck in her societal role....and when she does try to find some passion in her life, she chooses the wrong person. Bramwell is creative and engaging, but unstable. Lydia has to make some rough decisions in order to have her entire life not implode. 

Very interesting, darkly passionate and emotional book. It makes me wonder what the real Bramwell was actually like. He always seems to be portrayed as a drunk and a mentally unstable person. He definitely gets left in the shadows of his famous literary sisters. 

I enjoyed this book! I look forward to more by this author!

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Atria Books. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: The Barnabus Project

The Barnabus Project

Author: Terry Fan, Eric Fan, Devin Fan

Way, Way, Way below the street, underneath a pet store that sells genetically engineered perfect pets, far below where nobody can see, lives Barnabus. He lives in a glass jar, a cute tiny elephant, along side other glass jars holding his friends. They are the failed experiments. The less-than-perfect pets. Not quite cute enough. Not quite fuzzy enough. Then men in green suits come and feed them, but also put big red stickers on their glass jars. 

Fail. 

That's what they call Barnabus and all his pals. Failures. 

But, Barnabus and his friends will all learn the power of friendship, sticking together through tough times and making the best of life. And.....the joys of not being perfect!! 

This book is wonderful! The artwork is gorgeous! And the moral lesson is awesome! Nobody has to be perfect. And those who aren't quite enough to some....can be wonderously awesome to others! Friends stick together and persevere, through good times and bad. Great children's book!! 

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Penguin Random House. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**