My Life Among the Underdogs: A Memoir by Tia Torres

Book: My Life Among the Underdogs: A Memoir

Author: Tia Torres

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Tia Torres, star of Animal Planet's Pit Bulls and Parolees and founder of Villalobos Rescue Center, enters the publishing world by partnering aspects of her life with the important dogs who helped her navigate them.

My rating: 5 Stars. Please see my opinion as to why I didn't earn one of my very rare 10/5 stars. 

My opinion: I knew this was going to be a great book and Ms. Torres did not disappoint. She selected stories to make one laugh in one chapter and cry in the next. Stories were written with vividness to bring the reader into the story. 

So, why the 5 stars versus a 10/5 stars that this book EASILY could have achieved? Ms. Torres took the time for us to get to know these dogs and to love them. For some reason, pictures of the dogs were not included in the book to seal the deal on that experience. Anyone who has watched the show since the beginning got to know Lucky, Bluie and, I believe, Monster. I would have loved to have seen the other dogs. To me, it would have made reader experience complete. I can't believe with the importance of these dogs in the lives of her family there would not be a ton of pictures to select from. 

Ms. Torres has gone above and beyond to show her talent as a writer. I really hope that this is seen as a stepping stone for more books on dogs from the rescue. I would LOVE to know the story behind her crazy hound Jethro and to use this platform to continue to be the spokeswoman for destroying the bias and bigotry against such a majestic and loving breed of dog as the Pit Bull. I have to say that I have a really strong suspicion she could write some killer fiction too. 

Source: Purchased

Would I recommend?:  Really? DUH! Already have numerous times over. This woman OOZES #womanpower packaged up in a talent for bringing for a killer book! 

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand alone with the hopes and prayers that she will use this opportunity to write more non-fiction and fiction. There are SO many paths she could take and she has proven herself an incredibly gifted writer. 

The Crooked Street: Frost Easton Book 3 by Brian Freeman

Book: The Crooked Street

Author: Brian Freeman

Release date (if applicable): January 29, 2019

Synopsis: Frost is back. This time crime has found him and died on his doorstep. A blast from Frost's past comes to his doorstep to die, but leaves him with one clue about who the killer is. As the bodies pile up, it is up to Frost to unwind a puzzle that takes him deep into a labyrinth of a depraved network of bad guys that make one question what is behind the public personas of those in the public eye you think you know so well. 

My rating: 5 Stars

My opinion: I grow to love Frost Easton more and more with each new release. Now, my heart will always belong to Jonathan Stride, but Frost proves to be just as great and deep of a character. In this novel, Mr. Freeman was able to weave a novel that I was unable to unwind and an ending that left my jaw dropped. I can count on one hand the authors able to do this.

Source: Author for review

Would I recommend?

I don't know how in the hell he does it, but, as usual, Brian Freeman kicks ass and takes names in his newest upcoming release. Brian Freeman is probably one of the most character driven authors I've ever read. You feel you get to know his characters as real human beings. As a result, catch up with books one and two in the Frost Easton series and pre-order this book on Amazon! Don't forget his stand alone books and (one of my fave series) Jonathan Stride for some good reading. There is a reason why this man is on my top 3 list of recommended authors (and probably number one) and I am a snobbish reader. I always say given that I am closer in his network that each new release will be my last review of this remarkable author, but every time I get wind of a new release of his, I am begging to be a reviewer. I seriously cannot figure out why Jonathan Stride has not been optioned for television/streaming yet.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Number 3 in series

I Will Find You: Solving Killer Cases from My Life Fighting Crime by Detective Lt. Joe Kenda

Book: I Will Find You: Solving Killer Cases from My Life Fighting Crime

Author: Detective Lt. Joe Kenda

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Kenda is gifting us with a book! Stories from his crime fighting days and his insights into the forensics field. Some have been featured on Homicide Hunter, but the majority are new to fans. 

My rating: 5 Stars EASILY

My opinion: I don't know how I missed this book was out. Love Kenda's sarcastic personality on Homicide Hunter? It is on steroids in this book. His sarcastic wit is such a treat. I found myself laughing out loud frequently while listening to it. We are given additional insight into his reactions to crimes that is simply unavailable due to the time constraints and keeping it an appropriate show for cable. This allows for a deeper understanding of our favorite Lieutenant. 

Source: Scribd

Would I recommend? Hell yes! Do yourself a favor and listen to it versus reading it. Having Kenda do the narration himself is such a treat. I seriously had moments that I was laughing to the point of crying.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand alone, but hoping there will be more to come.