REVIEW: Deep Into the Dark

 Deep Into the Dark
Author: P.J. Tracy

I love the Monkeewrench series by P.J. Tracy, so just had to read this newest series! This book introduces LAPD Detective Margaret Nolan. Nolan recently lost her brother, who was killed in Afghanistan. So, she sympathizes with suspected murderer Sam Easton who suffers from severe PTSD after serving, and being badly injured, in Afghanistan. It's easy to try and pin murders on Easton -- he has blackouts, hallucinates and wakes almost every night screaming. But Nolan doesn't think Easton is a killer....she's looking deeper into a string of murders. When people close to Easton and a coworker start to turn up dead, the case gets more and more bizarre. 

I loved the twists and turns in this story! Although I had the killer figured out before the ending, I wasn't sure about the whys/hows until the very end. I like the characters and the grittiness of the plot. Nolan  and her fellow detectives have a very difficult job -- but they are up for the task! 

The writing is a bit different in this new series, but I like it! P.J. Tracy originally was the pen name of mother-daughter writing duo of P.J. and Traci Lambrecht. P.J. passed away in 2016, so Traci has carried on. 

I listened to the audio book version of this story. Narrated by Abby Craden, the audio is just short of 9 hours long. Craden does an excellent job of voice acting and brings the story to life! Very enjoyable listen! 

I have a review audio book of the second book in this series, Desolation Canyon. Can't wait to start listening! 

REVIEW: Suicide Forest

 Suicide Forest
Author: Jeremy Bates

I listened to this audio book months ago, but never wrote a review. Maybe it scared me so bad I just couldn't review it? :) That's my story and I'm sticking to it. 

The basics:  A group of friends travel to Japan to climb Mt. Fuji. When their climbing plans fall through, they decide to camp out in Aokigahara Forest instead. The infamous Suicide Forest. Legends state that the spirits of those who kill themselves in the forest are still there. Turns out, camping out in the ancient forest is a very, very bad idea! 

I listened to the audio book version of this story. Narrated by Joe Hempel, the audio is just over 10 hours. Hempel does a great job of voice acting. His performance brought this creepy story to life!

Definitely a creepy tale! The forest below Mt. Fuji looks ancient and beautiful in the photos I've seen....but I would never, ever, ever camp out there over night! Nope, nope, nope. Big large nope. 

Another great creepy story from Jeremy Bates! 

REVIEW: Monkeewrench

Monkeewrench
Author: P.J. Tracy

 I first read this book in October of 2018. Then I lost track of the series....coming back to start again, as I still remembered how much I liked this first book. 

Here is my initial  review from 2018:

A new computer game is out for beta testing. Serial Killer Detective is a new venture for Monkeewrench, a Minneapolis software company. The company has produced educational software for years and is attempting to expand into more adult video games. But a copy cat murderer starts killing people and posing the bodies just like the crime scenes depicted in the new game. The killer sends cryptic, threatening messages to the staff at Monkeewrench after each murder. Turns out the software nerds are hiding some pretty gruesome secrets from their past, but they join with police to investigate the case. It's no longer fun and games when someone loses their life for real..... Can they catch the killer before he re-enacts all 20 murders from the video game?

I love this book! The story grabbed my attention from the start, and I ended up binge reading it in one day. I couldn't stop reading! I like Grace McBride and her group of computer nerds. Their friendships are so strong that they are willing to risk their lives for each other. Families don't have to be biologically related! The Monkeewrench staff and police officers have to work together, despite each group distrusting the other. The plot was quite suspenseful, with plenty of interesting twistiness.

The Monkeewrench series has 9 books. The newest one just came out in September. I attempted to read and review it, as I didn't realize it was part of a series when I was offered a galley. This series really is one you have to read from the beginning for character development and past history. I was confused when trying to read The Guilty Dead without any prior knowledge. I am SO glad I backtracked to book 1 and gave this series a chance. I enjoyed this first book so much that I'm having a hard time waiting for book 2 to arrive at my local library....it has to transfer from another nearby library. So hard to wait 4 days to find out what happens to the staff at Monkeewrench next!

Flash forward to 2021 -- there are now 10 books in the series. This time around, I listened to the audio book. The audio is just over 11 hours and narrated by Buck Schirner. Schirner does a fabulous job of voice acting. Sometimes male narrators trying to voice women characters just fall short of the mark...but this narrator did a great job with all the characters, male and female. Nice voice. Good reading pace. Excellent voice acting. Loved it! He really brought the story to life! 

Fabulous story! I loved it just as much the second time! And this time I'm not losing track of this series amid other books on my TBR stack or review list! Gotta listen to them all! 1 down.....9 to go! 

REVIEW: The Scarry Inn

 The Scarry Inn
Author: Shirley McCann

Heidi is travelling with three friends at Christmas to go see her father and her new half-sister. A snow storm and car trouble waylay the group in a small town - Frighton, Az. They end up at a nearby motel called Scarry Inn. Supposedly they are the only guests, but the teens get suspicious. Turns out the Scarry Inn really is a scary place.... 

Nice suspense. A simple, enjoyable plot. This sort of story has been done before many times, but I still enjoy reading scary stories about people stuck in bad situations during snow storms! Very entertaining. I think this story must be YA horror as there wasn't anything too over the top...and no sex, no cussing, no flying guts or anything too much. 

I read this entire book while getting a pedicure at the local salon. Perfect length for easy reading. Good story, and some good scares. I will definitely read more by this author. 

This book is included in Kindle Unlimited, for those who subscribe. 

REVIEW: Bear a Wee Grudge

 Bear a Wee Grudge
Author: Meg Macy

Bear a Wee Grudge is the 5th book in the Shamelessly Adorable Teddy Bear Mystery series. This time around it's spring in Silver Hollow, MI and time for the Highland Fling Festival. Sasha Silverman runs the Silver Bear Shop & Factory, and as usual there will be a Silver Scottish themed bear for the festival. Things are awesome at the festival until some evil doer comes with an axe to grind (or throw, actually) and makes Sasha's father a murder suspect. 

I enjoy this series for the setting, characters and cute teddy bear side theme. There's a nice mix of mystery and humor as well. Just what I like in a cozy mystery! 

The mystery moves along at a nice pace in this newest installment. There were plenty of suspects and some great sleuthing moments. All in all, an entertaining reading experience! 

The cover art for this book is great as usual! So cute! 

I'm definitely hanging around for book 6...and the rest! 

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

REVIEW: Dark River Inn

 Dark River Inn
Author: JR Erickson

Dan, a police detective on suspension, has imploded his life. On his ex-wife's wedding day, he just has to get away so he travels to his brother's cabin near the Ohio River. Time to think. Time to relax. Time to forget. But he's not there even two whole days before he gets pulled into a mystery.....a girl who disappeared years before. What happened to Ivy Trent? 

This book is SO good!! I started reading on my PC while doing laundry. Over the course of the day I had to switch from PC to my Iphone to my Ipad....back and forth technology hopping. I read while standing in line at the grocery.....in a parking lot waiting for my son to get off work.....as I folded laundry....even while cooking dinner. This story sucked me right in and kept me reading until the last word. Loved it! 

This story is a mix of mystery and supernatural...with just a splash of romance added in. Well-written and quite suspenseful! This is the first book by JR Erickson that I've read, and I'm definitely reading more! Like...  All. The. Books.  Yep....I'm hooked.  Thanks for the great story, Jacki! 

There is a bonus epilogue to the story that readers can download (link included at the end of the story in the Kindle book), and a freebie story called Kerry Manor as well (link on author's website at http://jrericksonauthor.com/  ). Plus, the series is included in Kindle Unlimited for those who subscribe to that service.   

There are four books in the Troubled Spirits series so far. I've got book two - Helme House - queued up in my Kindle app already! Can't wait to start reading! 

REVIEW: Discovery

 Discovery
Author: Paul Rix

Discovery is the first book in the Mars Frontier series. A crew travels from Earth to set up the first exploration colony on Mars. They knew that survival was going to require dedication, work and sheer luck...but some of the challenges they face are things they never could have seen coming. And.....there's a traitor in their midst. Can they survive?

This story went in directions I didn't expect -- I love it when that happens! Very enjoyable read and I will definitely be reading more of this series by Paul Rix. I have to know what happens next! 

REVIEW: Christmas With the Cornish Girls

 Christmas With the Cornish Girls
Author: Betty Walker

The story of The Cornish Girls continues in this second book in the series. Christmas 1941. Eva, Lily and Rose work in a convalescent home for wounded soldiers. The war has had an effect on all aspects of life. But, the holidays are a season of light and hope even during wartime. 

These books would make an excellent PBS series. The stories remind me of The Land Girls or Home Fires. Enjoyable characters, dramatic events and heartwarming emotions. Once I started reading, I couldn't stop! I found myself sneaking moments of reading in whenever I could just to find out what happens next. I can only imagine what it was like for the people who actually experienced this era in world history. So much change, uncertainty, loss, violence and upheaval. It would have been so difficult to adapt and survive. But little bright spots like the holidays back then must have meant so much. 

Another great book by Betty Walker. Can't wait to read the next one! 

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

 

REVIEW: The Return of the Pharoah

 The Return of the Pharoah
Author: Nicholas Meyer

I have an entire bookshelf dedicated to the original stories,  retellings,  and new adventures of Sherlock Holmes. I just can't get enough of the character! My shelf, of course, has an old hardback copy of The Seven Percent Solution by this author. When I saw this new book by Meyer, I knew I had to read it. I enjoyed his 2019 book The Adventure of the Peculiar Protocols, and I enjoyed this new story too! 

It is 1910. Dr. Watson heads to Egypt with his wife, who suffers from Tuberculosis. While his wife is resting and receiving treatment, Watson unexpectedly bumps into his old friend, Sherlock Holmes. Holmes is investigating a case....and Watson (of course) gets sucked into it with him. With the help of a soon-to-be-famous archeologist, the two old friends are on the case! 

Loved this book! Lots of descriptions of Egypt, archaelogy in the early 1900s, the political climate at the time....all wrapped up within a great Sherlock investigation! 

I'm definitely on-board to read more of these Watson's Journals/Sherlock mystery tales by Nicholas Meyer. They have the feel of the originals by Arthur Conan Doyle and always keep my attention from start to finish! And, the front cover is awesome!

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

REVIEW: The Restoration

 The Restoration
Author: J.H. Moncrieff

Terri is divorced and sees her latest renovation project as a way to re-bond with her 10-year old daughter. They move into the old, crumbling 3-story brick manor house and immediately things start to go south. There's a reason why all of the prior contractors hired for this project left. The manor house is haunted!

This is the first book by J.H. Moncrieff that I've read. I will definitely be reading more! OMG -- this story is so atmospheric and creepy! And, it doesn't build slowly. Moncrieff whips out the horror immediately and keeps it at creep factor 10 all the way through the 200 pages. Some very creepy horror action....twists.....and lots of suspense! Great story! I love a good haunted house tale! 

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

REVIEW: Deep in the Woods

 Deep in the Woods
Author: Bryan Johnston

I am a huge true crime fan. TV shows, podcasts, books.....always into one story or another. I had never heard of this case -- the kidnapping of George Weyerhaeuser in 1935 -- before I listened to this audiobook. The story is very interesting and definitely kept my attention from start to finish! 

Narrated by Roger Wayne, the audio is just over 8.5 hours. Wayne does a great job of reading. He keeps a nice pace, and his voice is pleasant. He kept the story an entertaining listen. I really enjoyed this book! Johnston definitely did a lot of research into this case and covers it from beginning to end with much detail. This is the first book by Johnston that I've read. I will definitely be reading more! 

I'm not going to say anything about the case to avoid spoilers. There were definitely some events I didn't expect and can only guess at the extreme fear, stress and feelings of helplessness the parents must have experienced! 

**I listened to a review copy of this audiobook from Tantor Audio. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: Buried Memories

 Buried Memories
Author: Simon R. Green

Buried Memories is the 10th book in the Ishmael Jones series. I've been a big fan of this series since book one, and definitely onboard for more books! In this newest adventure, Ishmael is delving into his strange history. He has no memories prior to 1963 when his ship crash landed and made physical changes to him so he could blend in on Earth. He wants to know more....who and what he is, where he came from, and what he was doing when he crashed.  He travels to Norton Hedley, a village where one person might have some of the answers he seeks. But when he arrives, there has been a murder....and he ends up being the main suspect. 

Great new story in this series! I started reading my digital review copy....then snagged a copy of the audiobook on release day. I started over again to listen to the entire story! The audio, narrated by Gildart Jackson, is just over 7 hours long. Jackson does a great job of voice acting. It was an entertaining listening experience. 

I love this series....it's creepy, suspenseful and unusual. Simon R. Green is one of my favorite authors. Never disappointed! Can't wait for the next Ishmael Jones story!

**I voluntarily read a digital review copy of this book -- and bought the audiobook. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: Murder at Mallowan Hall

 Murder at Mallowan Hall
Author: Colleen Cambridge

Agatha Christie has been my favorite author since I was 9 years old and discovered Hercule Poirot. As a Christie lover, the concept of this novel made me jump at the chance to read it - what a fun idea for a series! The main character, Phyllida Bright, is the head housekeeper for Christie and her husband, Max Mallowan. Mallowan Hall is a large country manor and Phyllida runs the household efficiently. She is very protective of her employers and wants things to be just right at all times. A dead body in the library does tend to get things in an uproar, however.....

I love the 1930's setting for this novel, and although completely fictionalized the house, staff and setting sucked me into the story immediately. Can you imagine?? A cold blooded murder....in the library....at AGATHA CHRISTIE's house???  :) Perfect!! 

The story moves at a nice pace. There is plenty of sleuthing and lots of suspects. It was like being in a Christie novel featuring her own household staff. Fun! 

I read a digital review copy of this book, and also listened to the audiobook. Narrated by Jennifer M. Dixon, the audio is just short of 9.5 hours. Dixon has the perfect voice to narrate this book! Her voice acting performance was wonderful. A fun, interesting listening experience! 

I am definitely, 100%, no doubt whatsoever completely on board for more stories in this series! Can't wait!!

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

REVIEW: A Perfect Bind

 A Perfect Bind
Author: Dorothy St James

The new Beloved Bookroom cozy mystery series continues with this second book, A Perfect Bind. 

Tru Beckett is still maintaining her secret bookroom filled with much loved physical books after her library went digital only. But now on top of trying to hide the fact she has a hidden bookroom in the library, Tru is trying to discover who is breaking into the bookroom and vandalizing the books. Then a dead body is found behind the library. Tru is once again on the trail of a killer, hoping to keep her secret safe and discover if the vandal has something to do with the death. 

I enjoy this new series! It's always hard to protect a secret....even harder when dead bodies keep materializing to complicate things. This story was just as fun as the first book. The story moved at a nice pace, plus there was plenty of investigating and interesting character building. I like Tru as a main character. She loves books, freaks out at emergencies just enough to be amusing, and gets to serious work sleuthing when it comes down to ferreting out a killer. I'm definitely on board to read more books in this series! Always a fun read! 

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

REVIEW: Lightning Down (audio)

 Lightning Down (audiobook)
Author: Tom Clavin

I'm a history junkie and a big Tom Clavin fan. I loved his previous books on Wild Bill, Tombstone and Dodge City. So when I saw this WW II book pop up for review, I knew I needed to read this as well. What a story! I couldn't stop reading!

Lightning Down tells the story of Joe Moser. Moser was 22-years old when he bailed out of his airplane over France in WW II. He was captured by the Germans and sent to a concentration camp. Buchenwald....a notorious death camp. He was one of 170 airman imprisoned there. It was a fight for survival as conditions were incredibly horrific.

OMG -- this book is so good! Once I got sucked into the story of everything this man went through, I couldn't stop reading! I can't even imagine what he and the others at Buchenwald went through. And how so many did not make it out again.

I listened to the audiobook version of this newest book (as well as reading in my digital review copy). Narrated by George Newbern, the audio is just short of 8.5 hours long. Newbern does a great job of reading. His voice is pleasant and he reads at a nice pace. Very enjoyable listen! 

Another awesome book from Tom Clavin! I can tell his books are just going to be must-reads for me from here on out! I read early ARCs for review and then buy the audio book afterwards for every single one. Keep 'em comin, Tom!

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

REVIEW: Watching Darkness Fall

 Watching Darkness Fall
Author: David McKean

Watching Darkness Fall tells the story of the rise of the Third Reich from the perspectives of Joseph Kennedy, William Dodd, Breckinridge Long and William Bullitt,  US foreign ambassadors under FDR. David McKean, a former ambassador himself, lays out the history in an interesting, very detailed, informative way. 

I read this book slowly, stopping frequently to look things up so I understood the who, what and whys behind the early days of the Reich. I've read a lot about this era over the years, but still managed to learn many new facts from this book. This isn't a quick read -- there is a lot of detailed information. But it's well worth reading for those interested in what occurred. 

This is the first book I've read by David McKean. I'm definitely going to check out his other books. I like his writing style and he definitely knows his subject well! Detailed historical accounts can get a bit dry, but McKean kept it interesting throughout. Very informative!

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from St. Martin's Press. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: Dungeons & Dragons Academy - No Humans Allowed!

 Dungeons & Dragons Academy: No Humans Allowed
Author: Madeleine Roux    Illustrations: Timothy Probert

As a big fan of D&D, this middle grade story made me happy to my soul. The academy trains monsters and magical creatures. Zelli is a human. Her parents disguise her as a minotaur so that she can blend in with the other monstrous students. She does her best to not get noticed, but it's a bit difficult to hide what you really are, especially when attending classes like "The History of Horrible Humans.'' 

This book is just so much fun! The illustrations are wonderful, and the humorous adventure is entertaining. Perfect middle grade book! As an adult and RPG player, I enjoyed it too!

The fun story also has some important lessons on embracing differences and the importance of true friendships. 

Loved this book! 

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

REVIEW: Lightning Down

 Lightning Down
Author: Tom Clavin

I'm a history junkie and a big Tom Clavin fan. I loved his previous books on Wild Bill, Tombstone and Dodge City. So when I saw this WW II book pop up for review, I knew I needed to read this as well. What a story! I couldn't stop reading! 

Lightning Down tells the story of Joe Moser. Moser was 22-years old when he bailed out of his airplane over France in WW II. He was captured by the Germans and sent to a concentration camp. Buchenwald....a notorious death camp. He was one of 170 airman imprisoned there. It was a fight for survival as conditions were incredibly horrific. 

OMG -- this book is so good! Once I got sucked into the story of everything this man went through, I couldn't stop reading! I can't even imagine what he and the others at Buchenwald went through. And how so many did not make it out again. 

Another awesome book from Tom Clavin! I can tell his books are just going to be must-reads for me from here on out! I read early ARCs for review and then buy the audio book afterwards for every single one. Keep 'em comin, Tom! 

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

REVIEW: Getaway with Murder

 Getaway With Murder
Author: Diane Kelly

I love reading cozies set in western NC because I live here! So glad I read this one -- loved it! Great start to a new series. I'm definitely going to be reading this series!

The Basics: Misty Murphy turns 50...gets divorced....and buys an old inn sitting atop a mountain in Northwest NC. The inn needs a lot of work, but she finds a handyman in her price range to things up. Opening weekend the inn is full and everything looks great. Until.....

There is always an until....

Yep -- a murder. One dead yoga instructor and Misty's new business venture might just crumble around her ears. So she starts doing some sleuthing to find the killer. Can she discover who offed the yoga instructor before someone else is killed?

Such a fun story! I love the characters and the setting (of course). The chapters even have some thoughts from Misty's cat - Yeti is awesome! :) 

Glad I read this cozy. It made me smile the entire time. Nicely paced. Plenty of humor. Fun setting/premise. Great cover art. I will definitely stick with this series!

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

REVIEW: The Red Boat Fish Sauce Cookbook

 The Red Boat Fish Sauce Cookbook
Author: Cuong Pham, Tien Nguyen, Diep Tran

It isn't often that I actually sit down and read a cookbook...but I read this one! I loved the story about how Red Boat Fish Sauce got started, the intro about Vietnamese cooking and ingredients, and the family anecdotes and photos! 

My son and his wife have been living in Vietnam (she is a teacher there) for two years now and they always talk about how wonderful the food is. I have already ordered a physical copy of this book (comes out in October -- can't wait!) not only because it will allow me to try Vietnamese foods, but also because the instructions are clearly explained and the ingredients lists are easy to follow. I did not find a single ingredient that I couldn't find at a local store or Asian grocery. Yay! 

The recipes are gathered into chapters covering everything from breakfast dishes and party foods to stocks and desserts/drinks. The recipes are printed in an easily read font with lovely color photographs. The cooking instructions are simple, but clear. I have never cooked any Vietnamese dishes before...but I'm confident that this cookbook will help me do that with little problem. 

Lovely cookbook with varied recipes! I've already made a couple of dishes -- so good! Can't wait to get my physical copy! 

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

REVIEW: The Infant Spirits

 The Infant Spirits
Author: Janice Tremayne

This is the 4th book in the Haunting Clarisse series, but the stories can be read a stand-alones -- no real need to enjoy them in order. There are a couple mentions of prior stories, but no huge spoilers. 

As with all Janice Tremayne books, this story is well-written and quite spooky! Clarisse and Harry are tasked with looking for spirits at an asylum. The story moves at a nice pace and there are several great twists. I'm not going to say much about the plot itself as suspense/spooky tales are best with as little prior knowledge as possible. Spooky. Asylum. Ghosts. That's all I'm saying.

I like the characters and each story has a new spooky site or type of haunting to keep the stories fresh and creepy. 

Love this series! I read each installment as it comes out - can't wait to find out what horrors await in the next tale!!

REVIEW: Hooked on a Feline

 Hooked on a Feline
Author: Sofie Kelly

I've been reading this series faithfully since book 1. Hooked on a Feline is #13. I really, really enjoy this series! Cozy mystery....a couple magical cats....entertaining characters.....it all keeps me coming back each time a new book comes out! 

This time, it's summer in Mayville Heights and Librarian Kathleen Paulson is enjoying the reunion of a favorite local band. Everyone is! Until.....one of the band members is found dead. With a local favorite murdered, nothing could stop Kathleen from investigating....with the help of her two special kitties, of course!

I listened to the audio book version of this story. Narrated by Cassandra Campbell, the audio is just shy of 7.5 hours long. Easy listening length. I listened on my work commutes, and thoroughly enjoyed the story! 

Another fun cozy mystery in this series! I will definitely be back for #14!

REVIEW: Christmas Dessert Murder

 Christmas Dessert Murder
Author: Joanne Fluke

I love the Hannah Swensen series. I've been a reader since book one came out in 2000. It was literally the first cozy culinary mystery I ever read. I read every single book as soon as it comes out. And I've seen every Hallmark movie several times. Gotta get my Hannah fix! Each year there is usually a holiday story or novella at Christmas and a new book. This time, the holiday story is a reprint of two earlier books in the series. I have to say I was a bit disappointed to not get a new Hannah holiday treat. I don't necessarily dislike reprints, but if I was going to choose two earlier Hannah stories, it wouldn't have been these two. Just not my favorites....

This book includes: Christmas Caramel Murder (Book #20, published in 2016) and Christmas Cake Murder (Book #23, published in 2018). 

I'm a dedicated reader of this series. I will keep reading each new book until there aren't any more. The series went through a rough patch a couple years ago, but things seem to have improved. 

Readers will enjoy these two holiday cozy stories. The recipes sprinkled amid the stories are wonderful, as usual. And Hannah and her crew are awesome. I've been reading this series for more than 20 years -- what more can I say! :) I keep coming back again and again for Hannah, Mike, Norman and the whole gang....plus recipes from The Cookie Jar!

I, of course, reviewed both of these prior books when they came out. Here are those reviews: 

CHRISTMAS CARAMEL MURDER (Originally reviewed 2/2/2017)

Christmas Caramel Murder is the 20th book in the Hannah Swensen series. This story is a novella of only about 200 pages or so, including the recipes sprinkled throughout the book.

Hannah's new husband, Ross, asks her why The Cookie Jar won't be selling Christmas caramels for the holidays. Hannah replies that she and Lisa, her business partner and good friend, believe the candies they made last holiday season are bad luck. When she made them last Christmas, she found a bag of them near a dead body. Then she settles in to tell Ross the whole story of the murder case and a Christmas spirit that appeared to her.

This story at first reminded me a lot of a prior Hannah Swensen holiday novella, Candy Cane Murder. Hannah saw something in the snow and walked through the drifts down into a ditch and found a body. Both stories started out the same with a naughty Claus dead in the snow, but in Christmas Caramel Murder, it's the local slut who was playing Mrs. Claus in the Christmas play who got iced.

This story was short, but basically enjoyable. It's pretty much fluff with lots of recipes and subplot like what they are baking for the holidays, the broken popcorn machine at the high school and Norman's new huge television. The mystery is simple and not that involved. But, this is a cozy mystery....so fluff and light mystery is ok. That's how it's supposed to be. This would be a great cozy to read in front of the nice fire on Christmas Eve.

I was a little disappointed in this book. Mostly because it's so short. If you leave out the subplot unnecessary-to-the-mystery portions and the recipes, the mystery itself is maybe 50 pages tops. The rest is fluff stuff. And I found some parts of the plot to be just too cheesy -- like Hannah's father appearing as a ghost visiting her in the night to help her with the case. Really? At one point, he told her to throw a pen at him to prove he was a spirit. Umm....yeah. A bit too hokey for me. Plus, this story is told as a flashback to her new husband, Ross....the parts with Mike and Norman still acting all in love with her was just a bit weird since it was a story she was relating to her husband. I dunno....just seems like Joanne Fluke wrote this hurridly without paying too much attention. I feel like maybe she took the basic plot of Candy Cane Murder, replacing the victim with a woman and making little tweaks here and there to form a new story. Old hat. But.....the story would still be a nice cozy read during the holidays. It is what it is. After writing 21 books in this series, it might just be running out of steam a bit.

I'm surprised this wasn't another holiday collection like Candy Cane Murder that also included stories by Linda Levine and Leslie Meier. I could have justified the $20 price tag of the hardback book a little more if it had more than just the short, fluffy Hannah Christmas tale. But, it was an enjoyable read. I checked it out of the library, rather than buying it.

CHRISTMAS CAKE MURDER (Originally reviewed 8/2/2018)

I have been a fan of the Hannah Swensen series for years. Although there are a lot of culinary cozy series now, this series was one of the first. After 23 books, this series is still one of my favorites, despite some....disappointments....in the last couple of books (not going to say what so I don't spoil things for newer readers but those who have read the entire series know I'm talking about R.) This book is a prequel taking readers back to before Hannah opened her bakery, The Cookie Jar, ....so it circumvents the R debacle. I was so excited when I saw this available for review. A Hannah prequel! Yep -- I'm up for it!

I'm going to delve into what I love about this book first, then get to several problems I see. Always the good first! :)

I love the fact that the plot of this book is a bit different....a bit of a story inside a story. Hannah comes home after college, not sure what to do with the rest of her life. She settles back into life in Lake Eden, helping her mother and sisters after the recent death of her father. An elderly much-loved resident of the little MN town has fallen on hard times and is in the hospital recovering from a fall. Hannah and her mother discover that the woman has been living in squalor in the old theater building in town. They come up with a plan to recreate the annual Christmas Ball, an event that Essie remembers fondly. And, they go to the old building Essie has been living in to pack up some of her belongings to bring to the hospital. While looking for items Essie has requested, they find some old notebooks. Essie was writing a story. Hannah, her sisters and mother all get totally sucked into Essie's story, which turns out might be a real mystery about the past. So...a story within a story. Nice creative touch for a Hannah Swensen Christmas tale!

I liked the fact that this story was completely pre-love triangle. For those new to the series, through most of the series, Hannah was torn between two men in Lake Eden. Things just dragged on too long, and when it finally did resolve, it was disappointing. But, in this prequel tale, Hannah is busy deciding to open her bakery and coffee shop. No love triangle. No male competition. Not even Moishe, Hannah's kitty cat.

Lots of recipes! From pork roast to breakfast burritoes and peach pie to mint cookies, there is a recipe to tempt almost everybody!

There is some nice character development in this prequel. Dolores has just lost her husband and is having difficulty dealing with the loss. Hannah has just finished college and wants to change her life plan of teaching college to something she will actually enjoy -- baking. The story gives some nice insight into Hannah, her sisters and her mother. I'm invested in these characters after years of reading this series. It was nice to read about what things were like for them before Hannah opened The Cookie Jar.

Much as I love, love, love getting a Hannah-fix, I do have to give an honest review.... Some problems evident in the past several books in this series are still a problem with this one.
Clunky, clumsy dialogue. Overuse of characters' names. Over explanation of situations, or characters unnecessarily repeating conversations or situations to other characters. It's just different (and more amateurish) writing than what I'm used to from this series. I went to my library's digital site and downloaded an early book in the series to see if I'm imagining things.....and no, I stand by my analysis. The writing style is completely different, and much less polished than the rest of the series. The last 3 books have been problematic. Ghost writer? Different editor? Something has changed. I'm invested in this series after 23 books and years of reading, but I'm disappointed by the changes in quality of writing and in the characters' behavior.

But.....all in all....I love this series and the characters. This was a nice Christmas story with some new elements that I enjoyed. But I have to be honest and say that the story should have gone through another round of editing to tighten things up, bringing it up to the standard of the first 20 books or so of this series.

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

REVIEW: Nothing But Blackened Teeth

 Nothing But Blackened Teeth
Author: Cassandra Khaw

I knew that this story was going to be creepy.....but holy crap! This story is just downright horrific! Awesomely horrific!

A group of "friends'' -- really people who used to be friends but have basically destroyed their relationships through growing up, poor decisions, and thoughtlessness. The cohesiveness of young bonds broken by adulthood and change. But, they are together again. To celebrate a wedding. In the weirdest venue ever -- a dilapidated, remote Japanese mansion with a haunting, creepy history. Nadia & Faiz celebrating their love. Peter performing the ceremony. Lin and Cat rounding out the party. Nadia has always dreamed of a wedding in a haunted house....and Nadia gets what she wants. But, the house also wants...and what it wants is dark and gruesome. 

Wow. Just wow. This story is short, but it packs quite a supernatural punch in 100 pages. I could see this being a Japanese style horror movie. Wicked camera tricks. Black eyed spirits. Weird lighting and jerky movement. Perfect! 

Great story! This is the first story by Cassandra Khaw that I've read. I'm definitely going to read more! Loved it! The cover art is perfect!

10/2/2021 - As I read my early review copy of this book earlier this year, I kept thinking how awesome this spooky bit of folklore based horror would be in audio format. So....I snagged an early copy of the audio book. OMG -- so awesome!

The audio is just over 2.5 hours -- easy listening length. Narrated by Suehyla El-Attar, this is a great spooky story set in an abandoned mansion. Great job of voice acting. So glad I listened to this story after reading it. For whatever reason, horror stories hit harder with me when I'm listening to them....sort of like hearing ghost stories around a campfire! But.....while nestled comfy in my house with a cup of tea!

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Macmillan/Tor-Forge. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: Beyond the Veil

 Beyond the Veil
Author: Various, edited by Mark Morris

Beyond the Veil gathers 20 horror short stories. I had the best time reading this varied collection of creepiness! I love short story anthologies, especially scary ones. So, I took my time....savoring each story and just enjoying the horror. 

Most of these writers are unfamiliar to me, which put a bit more fun in the mix. I love trying out new-to-me authors and adding their books/stories to my TBR. New styles. New ideas. Different shades of horror. Loved it! 

My favorite story? So hard to choose one -- I enjoyed reading every single one. But if I have to pick one....I'd choose:  Arnie's Ashes by John Everson. I've read several of Everson's books....and this short story was short and creepy. Loved it! But, like I said, all of the stories in this book are good! 

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

REVIEW: Fan Fiction

Fan Fiction
Author: Brent Spiner

Ever been in the mood to read something different....something a bit off the usual beaten genre path? When I read the blurb for this book by Brent Spiner I was in that mood. I needed a bit of a genre palate cleanser....something odd....something wacky.....

And Spiner delivered just what I needed!

I read the first portion of this book in digital ARC format, then switched to the audio book. The story was fun to read ..... but even more fun having Brent Spiner read this tale of fame gone wrong. Had I not realized this tale was fictionalized to make it more entertaining, I would have been alarmed at the story. A stalker. Weird notes. Gross things in boxes. Fear. Body guards. STNG fans don't like to think about one of their fav actors being stalked by a wackadoo. But.....this book isn't alarming.....it's entertaining, witty and funny. And exactly what I expected from Mr. Spiner. I kept seeing the joyful look on his face in that episode of Big Bang Theory when he pulls open Sheldon Cooper's mint-in-package Wesley Crusher action figure saying "Remember how we used to make these things look like they were masturbating?''  LMAO.  I laughed my way through this entire book. 

I highly recommend this book / audio book for any Star Trek fan who doesn't take things too seriously. There's some great moments for Trek fans, but more of Brent Spiner just having fun telling a story. Just go with it.....

It's an easy reading or listening length. The audio is just short of 7 hours long and mostly narrated by Spiner, with drop-ins from fellow Star Trek actors and other familiar folks. 

Fun, entertaining....and very very different. Loved it! It was nice to see Data finally get that android cob out of his butt... ha ha

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book (and listened to the audiobook). All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: The Shadowless - The Dark Veil Opens

 The Shadowless: The Dark Veil Opens
Author: Christopher Schmitz

Three scientists are conducting a university study into an unknown entity. They know the creature is real. To prove it, they have to capture one, study it and learn how to contain it. What could possibly go wrong?  

Lots of things..... 

Loved this intro story to Christopher Schmitz's latest horror series! This is a prequel story to set the tone -- and boy...what a tone! The story kept my attention from start to finish. Horror with a splash of humor thrown in. Very entertaining! I can't wait to read the rest of this series!

There are three novellas in this series so far! I'm definitely reading the rest. I like Schmitz's writing style and plots. Already got Book 1 - Bloodguilt queued up in my Kindle app! Have to find out what happens next! Thanks a lot Schmitz for making me break my self-imposed book buying ban....I have no will power when it comes to excellent horror! 

REVIEW: Three Sisters

 Three Sisters
Author: Heather Morris

Three sisters are sent to Auschwitz. They promised their father earlier in life that they would always stay together. At the notorious death camp, they make another promise.....to stay alive. 

This book was hard to read at times, but beautiful, too. The sisters stay strong in the face of extreme hardship, buoyed up by their love for each other. So although this story was rough on me emotionally (I kept thinking of the stories passed down to me of relatives that died in the concentration camps), I'm so glad I read it! 

Three Sisters is the third book in the Tattooist of Auschwitz series. Every book has been outstanding! 

I read part of this book in ebook ARC format....then listened to the audio book. Narrated by Finty Williams, the audio is just over 13 hours long. Williams does a great job of voice acting. Very moving audio performance! 

Very thought provoking....emotional.....and beautiful! Glad I read/listened to this book!

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from St Martins Press (and Macmillan Audio). All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: The Dark Shadow

 The Dark Shadow: The Haunting of Bridge Manor part 2
Author: Marc Layton

This novella continues the dark story of The Lady of the Lake in The Haunting of Bridge Manor series. Rachel and Ben survived That Night and are living in Chicago with their Aunt Christine. They should be safe.... right? 

The Lady of the Lake isn't done with them yet! Rachel is having vivid nightmares and Ben is talking to invisible children. To everyone around them it seems they are having emotional trauma due to the events at the Manor....but it's way, way more than that!

Another creepy story from Marc Layton! I can't wait to read the final installment in the story: The Lady of the Lake! Got my ARC copy queued up on my Kindle so I can find out what happens to Rachel and Ben! 

I love the cover art for this novella! The story is an entertaining, quick read. Definitely has me eagerly waiting to find out what happens next! 

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

REVIEW: Slashing Through the Snow

 Slashing Through the Snow
Author: Jacqueline Frost

There's nothing like reading a Christmas themed cozy when it's close to 100 degrees outside! I read my review copy of this book in August....I turned my AC up in my reading room.....brewed some hot tea....sat in my favorite chair with my chihuahua... and let my mind sink into holiday mode!

I enjoyed returning to Mistletoe, Maine and the Christmas tree farm! Now, the farm has a new B&B, and Holly is excited to be running it. But there is always a Grinch lurking.....a B&B reviewer with a reputation as a harsh critic shows up to check out the new inn. Cleo the Evil Critic is true to form and behaves badly. When her dead body is discovered crammed into a toy drive donation box, there are plenty of suspects. Can Holly, along with her friends and family, discover the identity of the killer before anyone else dies or the holiday is ruined?

Another fun read in this series! The plot moves at a good pace, there is plenty of action/sleuthing, and the story is just plain fun! I'm definitely looking forward to 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 Wandering Earth

 The Wandering Earth
Author: Cixin Liu

After reading and loving The Three Body Problem, I definitely wanted to enjoy more stories by Cixin Liu. I love sci-fi, and these translated stories bring something different to the table than most of the modern Sci-Fi I read. 

The Wandering Earth is a collection of 11 stories. I first wanted to read this collection for the title story - The Wandering Earth - since a movie was made from this novella. I have a rule of always reading the book/story that a film is based on before watching the movie, and wanted to experience the story the way the author wrote it first before going to Netflix to watch the movie version. I heard the movie version was terrible so wanted to have an informed opinion. The reviews are correct -- the movie is terrible IMHO. Story is awesome....a bit absurd in spots but a great story nonetheless. The movie.....well.....watch it for yourself and see what you think. 

I'm glad I listened to this audio book in its entirety instead of just listening to the main story I wanted to hear. All 11 of these stories are an ode to the Earth. Some are related to each other, but all can be read as stand alone stories. The author's stories encompass some hard-hitting topics - the environment, culture, society, human nature, and science. 

Cixan Liu's writing is very thought provoking. It isn't the sort of sci-fi that involves robots and laser gun fights -- although I love that sort too. It's the sort of Sci-fi that makes one think about the place of human kind in the universe. The stories are varied...some are awesome, others a bit absurd....but all make the reader think deeper thoughts. At least I did. 

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

REVIEW: The Weekend Escape

 The Weekend Escape
Author: Rakie Bennett

Right off the bat I'm going to say that this story is nothing new. A tale of friends who go on a trip to somewhere remote as a fun excursion, a reunion, to have fun...but secrets/lies/jealousies/evil intentions change the trip from fun into pure terror. It's been done before....many, many times before....

But....I love that story line! So yep -- read this book, got sucked right into the drama and enjoyed every word! Because an island....a violent storm....six self-absorbed people with mucho past drama = perfect setting! 

It didn't take long for these six "friends" to start turning on each other. Once that started, I couldn't put the book down! I didn't really like any of the characters...but that's not really the point in a suspense novel like this one...right? I'm supposed to dislike them and get totally immersed in the drama, trying to discover which one is out to get the others. And I did. I kept finding myself imaging what I would do in such a situation....besides totally freak out. I think at the first injury/death/disappearance, I would just gather up food/water/a good book and lock myself in my room with the door barricaded and wait for the others to kill each other, hoping they would all just forget about me. Ha! 

Very entertaining and suspenseful story! I think the lesson I take away from it is to never go to an isolated island with people I haven't seen in 10 years. Nope. In all the books I've read with this plot, it never turned out well. Ever. 

This is the first book by Rakie Bennett that I've read. It appears The Weekend Escape is her first book unless she writes under another pen name. I'm definitely going to read her next book -- can't wait to find out what she comes up with next! 

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

REVIEW: The Woman at the Front

 The Woman at the Front
Author: Lecia Cornwall

In 1917, Eleanor Atherton is proud of graduating from medical school despite every obstacle (including her own family) that got in her way. Now she wants to go help the war effort. World War I is raging, and Eleanor wants to use her medical skills to help wounded soldiers, but women aren't allowed to be doctors at the front. A position as a private doctor to a wounded man gives Eleanor her chance. She's soon at the front in France, and learns what a horror war can be....

This is such a compelling story. Eleanor is a strong, courageous main character. I can only imagine how horrible it was to be at the front during WW I. This story brought some of the danger, violence and courage to life so that I could understand better what it would have been like to be there. 

I got sucked into this story immediately and enjoyed it! I thought at times that the horrible behavior of her family was a bit melodramatic, but I think that might be due to the fact it made me mad! And at times the plot was a bit more romantic than I would have liked. But all in all....I enjoyed the story. 

This is the first book by Lecia Cornwall that I've read. Her other books are mostly romance novels so I won't be reading those, but if she pens another story like this, I will definitely read it! 

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

REVIEW: What Lives in the Woods

 What Lives in the Woods
Author: Lindsay Currie

What a fun creepy story! Perfect for Halloween season, or anytime!

The Basics: Ginny Anderson wants to spend her summer relaxing, maybe writing a book and just being a kid. But her dad has other ideas. Her father restores houses....so he drags them all to Michigan for a month. Sight seeing? Nice hotels? A woodsy campground by a lake maybe? 

Nope. 

They get to stay in a run-down old mansion in the middle of nowhere. Woodmoor Manor. The house is 30 rooms of creepy shadows. Local lore tells tales of weird creatures in the woods around the house. It isn't the summer vacation she wanted, but Ginny decides to do some sleuthing into the creepy goings-on in and around Woodmoor! 

What a spooky-fun middle grade story! Very entertaining! The story is scary, but age appropriate scary. Nothing too bad. 

I wish I had gotten to spend a month in a creepy old house in the woods when I was young! Ginny is my kind of main character! She's an Agatha Christie fan so she goes at the mystery like Christie herself! :) 

Great book! 

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

REVIEW: Deadly Summer Nights

 Deadly Summer Nights
Author: Vicki Delany

Great start to a new cozy series by Vicki Delany! 

The Basics:  It's 1953. Elizabeth Grady's mom inherited a resort in the Catskills two years before and Elizabeth is doing her best to run the place. It's not always easy -- especially when a guest is found dead and a copy of  The Communist Manifesto is found in his cabin. Was a Russian spy lurking in the Catskills....is a nearby competing resort owner trying to close them down....or is another guest a murderer?

I enjoyed this story, although the constant 50's slang got a bit annoying at times. It just seemed a bit over-done. I loved the characters and it did invoke memories of some fun vacations when I was a kid. That was in the 80s and in the Ozarks....but the woodsy resort feel was at least similar in my mind. :) I was definitely reminded of the feel of the Trixie Belden books with a bit more adult vibe thrown in. 

Very enjoyable story! I'm definitely sticking around to read more of this series! 

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

REVIEW: Striking Range

 Striking Range
Author: Margaret Mizuschima

The Timber Creek K-9 series is one of my favorites! I love the setting, the characters and the plots! I have yet to be disappointed with this series. 

Striking Range is the 7th book in the series. The plot is fast-paced with lots of twists and sub-plots. Entertaining as usual! Mattie travels to question a suspect in a Colorado prison, but the prisoner dies leaving some mysterious clues in his cell. Add in a missing pregnant woman, puppies and a blizzard -- it all adds up to the usual great Timber Creek K-9 story! 

This newest book is one of my favorites in the series so far! The action was non-stop and I couldn't stop reading! I am eagerly awaiting the next book.

I read most of this story in digital ARC format, but waited to read the ending until the audio book became available then started over! For someone who used to dislike audio books, I have certainly come full circle -- I listen to so many now! Narrated by Nancy Wu, the audio is just under 10 hours long. Excellent listening experience as usual! 

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books (and listened to the audio book from Dreamscape Media). All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: Why We Fought

 Why We Fought
Author: Jerry Borrowman

I first saw this book just after binge watching Band of Brothers for the 5th or 6th time since it came out. I knew immediately this book would be perfect follow up reading. Why We Fought gathers seven stories of people who went above and beyond to assist the Allies during WWII. 

Most of the people I had never heard of before. Their stories are so interesting and definitely heroic. One story I had definitely heard before -- Marlene Dietrich. Borrowman definitely did in-depth research on all seven. The stories are detailed, informative and amazing!

This is the first book by Jerry Borrowman that I've read. He's written several military history books and even one about Hoover Dam. I'm definitely reading more of his books. I like his writing style. Sometimes history gets bogged down in facts and gets to be like reading a textbook. Borrowman keeps the topic interesting while still be incredibly informative. 

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

REVIEW: No Gods, No Monsters

 No Gods, No Monsters
Author: Cadwell Turnbull

Wow! This book is weird....but creepy-cool weird! I loved it! 

What would happen if monsters were suddenly and completely real? Myths, legends, strange gods....all those things your parents told you weren't in your closet, under your bed or outside at night.....   

It took me awhile to get into this audio book. The story switches from character to character and jumps perspectives without any warning. But that weird vibe of constantly switching directions fits with this story. Once I got into the rhythm of the tale, I was hooked! 

There's more to this story than just a monster tale though. It's not hard to see through the supernatural trappings and understand what the author is really getting at. 

So creative! So many facets to this book. It's definitely a story that warrants a second listen....and a third! This is the start to a series -- can't wait to find out happens next!

The audio is almost 10 hours long and narrated by Dion Graham. Excellent voice acting -- Graham did a wonderful job! Very entertaining -- and thought provoking -- listening experience!

**I voluntarily listened to a review audiobook from Blackstone Publishing. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: Horseman

 Horseman
Author: Christina Henry

Prequels, sequels, retellings.....most of the time they are hit or miss for me. I've had a few revisits to classic stories that I loved, but most are just disappointing, to be honest.  I decided to take a chance on this sequel to Washington Irving's Legend of Sleepy Hollow because the premise really sounded interesting. It was a good decision -- I really enjoyed this story! 

The Basics: 20 years have passed since Ichabod Crane disappeared from Sleepy Hollow. Brom Bones married Katrina Van Tassel and life went on. Strange things happen in the woods around the little village though. Bente Van Brunt, Brom's grandchild, ignores the legend, except for running through the woods with his friends playing Sleepy Hollow Boys. Bente - who prefers to be called Ben - just wants to be like Brom. Then one day, while running around in the woods, the boys find the body of a child....and the head is missing. Is the Horseman back? Or is there another evil lurking the woods around Sleepy Hollow?

I loved Ben as a character. Born a girl, but a boy at heart, Ben struggles to make his grandmother understand him...and to become the person he wants to be. Brom is larger than life, of course, just like in the original story. 

This tale is definitely written for a YA audience, but at 50+ I enjoyed it, too! It was interesting to revisit the story and characters from Irving's tale....this time with a real supernatural feel to it. 

Definitely a great book to read (or listen to) during Halloween season! It fit right into my spooky reads for October! 

The audio book is almost 9 hours long, and narrated by Em Grosland. Grosland does a great job of voice acting. She brings the story to life! I got about halfway through my digital ARC of this book and realized I wanted the audio book -- I love listening to spooky stories! And this one had enough supernatural events and suspense that I knew it would be a superb audio book! Bought the audio the  minute the book released! 

So, although at first I was a bit skeptical that anyone could do the original story justice, Christina Henry took the feel of the original and made it her own. Loved it! Now that I've read this book, I want to read Henry's story Captain Hook! And she has a story based on Alice in Wonderland, too! I obviously have a lot of reading to do! Yay!  Full stars from me -- this story is spooky and very entertaining! This would make an awesome movie! *hint hint* And the book cover art is AWESOME! 

**I voluntarily read a review copy (and bought/listened to the audio book) of this story from Berkley Publishing. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.** 

REVIEW: True Raiders

 True Raiders: The Untold Story of the 1909 Expedition
to Find the Lost Ark of the Covenant
Author: Brad Ricca

I love it when my favorite movies have a bit of truth in them! I'm a huge Raiders of the Lost Ark fan, so I grabbed up a review copy of this book the moment I knew it was coming out! And the true tale is even more adventurous and mystical than the Hollywood version!

1909. Monty Parker, a larger than life adventurous Brit, is dared to go on an expedition to find the Ark of the Covenant. Beautiful women. A mysterious scholar. Adventurous men. Even Psychics. And a secret archeological dig near Jerusalem. It is the stuff of Legend....and the telling of this story sucked me right in and kept my attention from start to finish! The history junkie in me was in complete heaven -- and no, I didn't see the Ark there. 

This book is phenomenal! Anyone who loves tales of archeological digs in the early 1900s and strange history will LOVE this book! Sometimes it completely factual that truth can be stranger than fiction! 

Love, love, love, LOVEEEEEEE this book! 

I read a portion of this book in ebook format, then switched to the audio book. The audio is just short of 10.5 hours long. Narrated by Stephanie Willis, the audio is an excellent listening experience. 

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book (and purchased the audio format) from St Martins Press. All opinions expressed (and exclamation points, Capital letters, etc) are entirely my own.**