In 2013, BLOG TO GIVE: VILLALOBOS RESCUE CENTER

BLOG TO GIVE

 

Villalobos Rescue Center

About a month ago, my buddy and fellow blogger, Deanna Fisher with Dee's Book Blog, posted that in 2013, she would be donating dollars for each post she does. She was seeking out ideas for what organizations to donate dollars and she would then verify through Charity Navigator.  As I thought about what she was planning to do, I was in awe at her generosity and I knew I wanted to do the same thing for both my book blog and my food blog, The Pub and Grub Forum.

Unlike The Pub and Grub Forum, this year, I have selected one charity to donate my funds. That charity is Villalobos Rescue Center (a 501c3 Organization).  If any of you are unfamiliar with Villalobos Rescue Center, they are the Pit Bull rescue behind the television show, Pit Bull and Parolees on Animal Planet. VRC, based out of New Orleans, is owned and managed by Tia Torres with a sanctuary in Roswell, New Mexico for dogs who can’t be placed in forever homes, yet live out their lives free and happy. Although it is a Pit Bull Rescue, it seems that there are just as many non-Pit Bull puppies looking for forever homes on their Villalobos Rescue Center website.

I have numerous reasons why I have chosen Villalobos Rescue Center:

First, I am a pit bull lover. This is a beautiful and misunderstood breed that those with malice in their heart justify cruelty and abuse of an animal that wants nothing more than to give them love.  I don’t know how to say it any other way.

Second, I whole-heartedly believe in the rescue’s mission statement of SAVING MAN AND MAN’S BEST FRIEND.  The general feeling that I receive whenever I read or watch anything on this organization is that it is a "hands up" not a hand out feeling which fits into my life belief system. As I have heard Tia voice on the show many a time regarding the support she gives to the parolees she hires “I give enough rope either for them to hang themselves or to pull themselves out.” That is the ultimate to me in free will and being responsible for one’s life choices.

 
Third, I believe in Tia’s philosophy of hiring parolees as support staff to the rescue.  In an age of prison overcrowding, we as a society need to address the recidivism rate, particularly that of non-violent offenders, coming out of our prison system to prevent reoffending. Unlike the better chunk of society that speaks on this topic as a dinner party discussion or educational lecture, Tia has repeatedly put her money where her mouth is.  We as a society need to step up and take her lead.

So, this year, for each book review I post on A BOOK AND A REVIEW, I will donate $1 (remember, I am doing 2 blogs) to Villalobos Rescue Center.  I hope you stop by and make comments….then check out Villalobos Rescue Center and give Tia some more or maybe even look for a forever friend!
 
Thinking of other ways to help VRC in 2013?

Here is a link to VRC’s Amazon.com Wish list: http://amzn.to/Rq0XiT

 

The Confidant by Helene Gremillon

Book: The Confidant: A Novel

Author: Helene Gremillon

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Camilla receives a letter in installments while grieving the death of her mother. At first, she thinks that someone is sending her a manuscript in the most unusual manner to catch her attention. Soon, that intrigue turns to horror as she realizes she might not be who she thinks she is.

My rating: 3 Stars

My opinion: While for the most part I found the story to be fascinating; it was painfully predictable. I knew what was going to happen. Why it was going to happen. The outcome of what was going to happen.  I just didn't see really anything stand out about this novel.

Source:  Library      

Would I recommend? : I would have in the beginning. After I finished reading the novel....alas, no.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand Alone

 

Cover of Snow by Jenny Milchman

Book: Cover of Snow

Author: Jenny Milchman

Release date (if applicable): January 15, 2013

Synopsis: Nora Hamilton thinks that she is living the idyllic life in upstate New York until she wakes up one morning to find her husband, a police officer with the local police department has committed suicide. Not believing it, Nora sets out to investigate exactly what and why she has lost her husband. Was her life quite as idyllic as she thought it was? What exactly does the snowy winters and Adirondack mountains hide? Is it better for Nora to leave it buried in the snow?

My rating: 3 Stars

My opinion: Although the storyline to this debut was very good, I did have the feeling that it was a debut. One of my pet peeves is when a publisher sets an author up for a crash by comparing their works to other successful authors in the same genre and that is what happened with this book when the author was compared to the works of Chris Bohjalian, Gillian Flynn and Nancy Pickard.

Furthermore, I felt there were definitely sections where the author dragged the story a bit...not to the point where I found myself distracted, but to the point where my overall feeling was that it could have been tightened up a bit.

Source: Publisher for Review       

Would I recommend? : Yes

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand Alone

The Freedom Answer Book: How the Government is Taking Away Your Constitutional Freedoms by Judge Andrew Napolitano

Book: The Freedom Answer Book: How the Government is Taking Away Your Constitutional Freedoms

Author: Judge Andrew Napolitano

Release date (if applicable): January 15, 2013

Synopsis: Judge Andrew Napolitano, a constitutional scholar and former NJ Superior Court Justice, discusses ways that the government is infringing on the freedoms given to us by our Founding Fathers through the Constitution of the United States.

My rating: I wish I could give it more than 5 stars!

My opinion: OK..I am a bit biased, but I love Judge Andrew Napolitano. Otherwise I try to keep this blog out of the political zone. But, Judge Andrew Napolitano has a way of coming in with a "no nonsense", take no prisoners, say it outright, no sugar coating manner about him. Furthermore, he doesn't hold back political punches at either party who are both guilty and feel justification at using the Constitution to further their own political ambitions versus the protection that it was developed as a way to protect Americans from their government.

On that note, I believe I have read every book of Judge Napolitano's. His typical writing style is very dry and academic in its' approach which makes for very long, but necessary reading. This was not the case with this book. He was much lighter in his writing style. Almost as though he did a 180 degree turn in his writing style!  It was to the point that I thought it might be written for high school or early collegiate reading. As I delved in deeper to the book, it was evident that this was not the case. In my opinion, this is a must read for every American. Furthermore, as Judge Napolitano is a staunch Libertarian, I think that this is a book that individuals from every political party known to the United States will be able to take something from.

On a final note, this was not a huge book. I think it was less than 150 pages. The book flowed like water due to the Judge's concise style of writing though.

Source: Netgalley       

Would I recommend? : I think I covered that in my opinion of the book.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand Alone

Broken Pieces: Essays Inspired by Life by Rachel Thompson

Book: Broken Pieces: Essays Inspired by Life

Author: Rachel Thompson

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: As I am having difficulties describing this book, I decided to let the author's description do it for me.

Welcome to bestselling author Rachel Thompson's newest work! Vastly different in tone from her previous essay collections A Walk In The Snark and The Mancode: Exposed, BROKEN PIECES is a collection of pieces inspired by life: love, loss, abuse, trust, grief, and ultimately, love again. This is NOT a humor book! It IS a book about relationships, a study of women, a book with heart.

My rating: 4 Stars

My opinion: As someone who has known Rachel for almost a year in a professional setting, I have been amazed by her aura. A funny, sarcastic, bright and dynamic individual, Rachel is one that never ceases to dazzle.

I was shocked going into this novel because it showed a totally different side to this author. One that left me asking questions. I found it to be thought provoking in the sense that the essays were palpable with emotions that ranged the gamut. I really don't think there isn't a woman who can read some of these essays and not identify with occurrences in her own life.

On a final note, I will say that I found myself reflecting (even after finishing)  on this one novel than her other two novels due to its' grittiness and just simple raw emotion.

Source: Beta read for author        

Would I recommend? : Yes

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand Alone

 

Garment of Shadows (Mary Russell Book 12) by Laurie R. King

Book: Garment of Shadows (Mary Russell Book 12)

Author: Laurie R. King

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Mary Russell Holmes and Sherlock Holmes are back in the 12th installment of LRK's best selling series. This time they are found in Morocco with Mary waking up with amnesia and blood on her hands. Sherlock is unable to locate her while dealing with pressing issues of his own, namely a war about to occur. Can Sherlock find Mary and help her unlock the key as to what happened prior to her waking up "with blood on her hands?"

My rating: 2.5 Stars (3 stars on Amazon and Goodreads)

My opinion: While I am a HUGE fan of the Mary Russell series, I simply wasn't a fan of this book. For lovers of historical fiction/mystery, the Mary Russell Holmes series is a must read.

On that note, I found myself very bored not only with the setting of this novel, but with the flow of the novel. The storyline was incredibly slow moving compared to others in the series and I didn't find the characters, minus Holmes and Mary, really approachable or devloped. The friend who actually recommended this series to me, I think,  summed it up beautifully when she stated "there was too much politics in this book and not enough action."

On that note and the reason it was bumped up to 3 stars versus down to 2 stars was of Ms. King's impeccable research into her books. This book was no exception. I always come out learning more about a period of time when Ms. King writes about it. In my opinion, it makes a book much more authentic and Ms. King always takes her readers on that journey. Also, Ms. King has mastered the art of writing in the language of the time, which brings a sense of authenticity to the novel, as well.

Source:  Library     

Would I recommend? : I would recommend the series. I would only recommend this book to continue to understand the relationship between Holmes and Mary for later books to occur in the series.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Part of Series

 

Farewell to Freedom: A Novel by Sara Blaedel

Book: Farewell To Freedom: A Novel (Louise Rick #4)

Author: Sara Blaedel

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Louise Rick is called in to investigate the brutal death of a woman found with her throat slit. At the same time, Camilla Lind's son witnesses a new born being abandoned in a church. Do the two incidents have anything in common? When more deaths occur, Louise must determine if they have any connection to a sex trafficking sex ring occurring underground in Denmark?

My rating: 4 Stars

My opinion: Although this isn't my favorite book by Ms. Blaedel, this one is right up there. She manages to weave to very intricate storylines and bring them together at the end brilliantly. We are also allowed to continue to study the complex relationship between Rick and Lind.  One final thing that I love about the writing of Ms. Blaedel, unlike her contemporaries,  is that her storylines tend to focus on issues relating to the societal victimization of women, but handles them in a fashion that helps to bring light, such as sex trafficking, instead of glorifying it.  

Source:   Library and Netgalley     

Would I recommend? : Yes, with each publication, this is quickly becoming among one of my favorite Nordic Noir series.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Part of Series-In my opinion, books should be read in order to understand the relationships in the book.

 

A Rendezvous To Die For by Bette McMahon

Book: A Rendezvous To Die For

Author: Betty McMahon

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Cassandra Cassidy, a wedding and news photographer, leaves the Big Apple for a quieter lifestyle. When her main competitor is found with a hatchet in his head, Cassandra becomes the main suspect. Desperate to clear her name, she uncovers things that were not meant to be uncovered. When bodies start stacking up, will Cassandra be one of them or just end up in jail for a murder she didn't commit.

My rating: 4 Stars

My opinion: I enjoyed this (light) cozy mystery. Although, I am, in general, not a fan of the cozy genre and think that they come off as much too sticky sweet; I love when an author can build a more substantial mystery or deeper characters. That is exactly what Ms. McMahon accomplished in A Rendezvous to Die For. This book was really inviting in her approach and writing. To boot, the characters were really down to earth and approachable. Finally, I loved the setting.

This is easily a character/setting that I could see develop into a series similar to something like MURDER SHE WROTE.

Source:   Author for Review     

Would I recommend? : Yes, to fans of the cozy mysteries and/or lighter mysteries. If you are a fan of heavier mysteries with more intense writing, you might find this book a bit too light.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand Alone

 

The Demonologist by Andrew Pyper

Book: The Demonologist

Author: Andrew Pyper

Release date (if applicable): March 5, 2013

Synopsis: Columbia Lit professor, David Ullman, has a specialty in Milton's Paradise Lost, but doesn't believe in what he teaches. When a beautiful woman approaches him with an offer he can't refuse, he takes his knowledge to Venice to offer his expertise. With his 12 year old daughter in tow, Professor Ullman lands in Italy and is eager to look at a new life. All does not go well though and EVERYTHING the professor had thought to be true within his mind.

My rating: 4 Stars

My opinion: This book started off incredibly creepy in my opinion. I was almost reminded of the movie THE EXORCISM OF EMILY ROSE in the scenery and tension that the author masterfully built up. One could feel the fear or incomprehension of the changing of perception within the character written in the pages, which I absolutely loved. I must say that I was really disappointed with the ending though. There was almost a silliness to the ending or that it was simply being wrapped up to get the book finished. It was really baffling given the effort that the author did to build up the story.

Source: Edelweiss for publisher        

Would I recommend? : Yeah, I love books like this. I would also love to see others feelings about the ending or if I am alone in that. Overall, I thought it was a fantastic book. I wouldn't be surprised to see it made into a movie.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand Alone

 

Looking for last minute Christmas gifts???

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I am proud to be taking part of a blog tour today. I have read several of the authors who are participating in this blog tour and love their work. I think that they are the epitome of what I love about "down to grassroots" writing. The books are tops in their story lines, as well as their quality, without the big sticker price of their traditionally published counterparts. At this time, when you are looking for perfect little stocking stuffers, grab a handful of these and let your gift recipients think and thank you all year long!

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Young Adult:

Romance

                                                                  4 stars from this reviewer!




Mystery/Thriller

                                                                    5 stars from this reviewer!

                                                            
                                                                 In the process of reviewing this
                                                                             & LOVING IT!

Literature/Fiction

Sci-Fi/Fantasy

Be sure to head over to Buymereadme.com and grab some books at discounted prices for all those readers on your gift list.

My Favorite Christmas Memory

I am so excited to participate in author Terri G. Long’s “Meet the Family Blog Hop” today. The Christmas season is one of my favorite times of the year and I have so many fond memories going back to my childhood that I was excited to reflect on them for this bog.

 

One of my first memories and happiest memories was when I was about 8 years old; I was fanatic about outer space, particularly, Mars. I have ALWAYS had an adventurous spirit and our solar system just fed into that. My mother would take me to the Adler Planetarium and I couldn’t get enough of it, particularly their show that looked at the stars through the night. I could just sit there and get lost in the show.

 Anyhow, I woke up early (as usual) on Christmas day, incredibly excited (as usual) and snuck into our family room where our Christmas tree was. It was dark in the room and as my eyes adjusted to the dark, I made out the shadow of a telescope. My 8 year old mind went crazy. I was so excited that I couldn’t contain it no matter how hard I tried. I flew into my parent’s bedroom and jumped on their bed. Waking both of them, I yelled about how Santa had brought me a telescope. Well, needless to say, that woke up the rest of the house and we continued open up our gifts, I found that the telescope came with a book about Mars and a certificate to a class that the Adler Planetarium was teaching on, yep, Mars!

As I got older, I learned that my poor father had been playing Santa’s helper that night. He had just been able to get to sleep about an hour and a half before I sprung on him while he was sleeping.

The Chronicles of Downton Abbey: A New Era by Jessica Fellowes and Matthew Sturgis

Book: The Chronicles of Downton Abbey: A New Era

Author: Jessica Fellowes and Matthew Sturgis

Release date (if applicable): Released

Synopsis: Fellowes is back with a primer focused on the storyline of THE much loved Downton Abbey and its' upcoming season as it relates to British aristocracy history. This book focuses on famous aristocracy of the 1920's.

My rating: Nutin' but 5 stars for this bad boy! I wish my ratings went higher!

My opinion: Fellowes has definitely inherited her Uncle's perfection gene. when it comes to the arts! Although this book was much more written word, she continues to do a rockin' job at explaining the history of England's upper crust homes, as well as giving examples of those from that period of time which Downton is focusing on. This release focuses on the 1920's.

** Thanks to Evangeline  on Goodreads and fellow DA addict for correcting me on the Fellowes family tree!!**

Source: Library       

Would I recommend? : Why yes I sure would...and for fans of Downton Abbey (particularly during its' hiatus), IT IS A MUST!! This has helped to curb my withdrawl symptoms for a bit.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand Alone

Blessed Are Those Who Thirst: A Hanne Wilhemsen Novel #2 by Anne Holt

Book: Blessed Are Those Who Thirst: A Hanne Wilhelmsen Novel (#2)

Author: Anne Holt

Release date (if applicable): December 18, 2012

Synopsis: Hanne is back when a rash of bloody crimes, including the brutal rape of a 24 year old, sends the police force scurring to solve the crimes. Can Hanne solve the rape before the rape victim and her guilt ridden father do their own detective work to get justice?

My rating: 3 Stars

My opinion: Although I felt this novel was better than the first in the series, BLIND GODDESS, I am still unable to "connect" to the characters or the storylines. I just can't get as passionate and am not as "sucked in" as I have been with other Nordic Noir authors. On that note, Holt's storylines are good, in this reviewer's humble opinion, but are just written a tad more superficial than other authors in her same genre.

Source:   Publisher for review     

Would I recommend? : I would still recommend Holt's work, but maybe not as emphatically as other Nordic Noir authors.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Part of Series

Dragontamer's Daughters Part 2: Stormcaller

Book: Dragontamer's Daughters Part 2: Stormcaller

Author: Kenton Kilgore

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: The series continues with the healing of the dragon Pearl. With her healing, it is difficult for the sisters, Isabella and Alijandra to keep her a secret and people want Pearl for their own purposes. Can the sisters keep Pearl and their family safe?

My rating: 5 Stars

My opinion: This series just really made my heart happy and my mouth smile! I must say that I continue to love this little series targeted towards a pre-teen to early teen audience. What a wonderful, CLEAN and engrossing introduction this series is to the genre of dystopian literature. This author has done such a light, inviting and fun storyline with wonderful characters and supporting scenery which is done so vividly to encourage children to use their imaginations. That is one of the things that I have been loving about dystopian literature. In my humble opinion, this has been so lacking in contemporary literature targeted towards our youth and it was just what made my heart sing in reading this series.

I must admit to the reader of this review that this was a series I nearly passed on when I was asked to review it due to the genre it fit into and not knowing if there were specifics to reviewing this genre, I reviewed it as a parent looking at a book for a child.

Source: Author for review        

Would I recommend? : Most definitely...in fact, I will be purchasing it as a gift for a preteen family member.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Part of series.

One Blood by Qwantu Amaru

Book: One Blood

Author: Qwantu Amaru

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: What happens when you use a pre-Civil War family curse to get what you want? Louisiana governor Randy Lafitte finds out. His son is killed in a gun accident and his daughter has just been kidnapped by someone with an agenda other than money. Can Randy save her in time or will she become another victim of the curse? 

My rating: 2 Stars

My opinion: Although I felt the underlying storyline to this book was interesting, this is a relatively new author and I found that the writing threw me off. He tended to jump around in his writing which made it difficult to follow at times. I even had several moments in the reading of this novel that I had to go back and reread sections to ensure I was following the storyline correctly. Second, there were scenes in the book that I just found implausible (don't be asking me for any spoilers though!) that weren't attritubuted to "the curse" so that kind of turned me off to the book. Overall, though, minus the points I just focused on, I found the overall story to be pretty creepy. I just couldn't get past the current style of writing.

Source: Author for Review       

Would I recommend? : Yes, I still would to the right reader. This book has won numerous awards.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand Alone

The Prophet by Ethan Cross

Book: The Prophet

Author: Ethan Cross

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: There is a new serial killer on the loose known as the Anarchist for how he kills his victims. The Anarchist isn't alone in his kills though...he is controlled by the mastermind...The Prophet.

It is up to Marcus Williams, an agent of The Shepherd Organization, an covert group of the DOJ, who don't necessarily follow the rules in catching violent criminals, to unwind the puzzle and catch both the Anarchist and the Prophet. He is also haunted by the demons from his first case involving serial killer, Frances Ackerman, Jr. who seems to have achieved a celebrity status.

My rating: 4 Stars

My opinion: I was kind of shocked by this novel. Most serial killer novels are more graphic than this novel was and I felt this novel had more of a psychological component to it. Although I missed the graphic aspects the crimes, I must admit that this novel was refreshing. It was much more of a "thinker" and "solver" book than what I was prepared for. I was also impressed by the writing, as well, as the author laid out the mystery superbly. I will definitely seek out more from this author.  

I must admit that I had the same enthusiasm as I had for the early James Patterson ALEX CROSS novels. It has been a very long time since I have had that type of excitement for a novel or that I would even compare two novelists.

Note: This is a second book in the series. I didn't read the first book prior to reading this one, but I would recommend that readers read the first book, The Shepherd, prior to reading this one. My belief is that it probably gives an introduction as to The Shepherd Organization and the relationship between the two main characters, Frances Ackerman, Jr and Marcus Williams,  in the first novel, which I believe would have bumped this up to 5 stars for me.

Source:   Netgalley for publisher     

Would I recommend? : Yes

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Part of Series

 

Trust Your Eyes by Linwood Barclay

Book: Trust Your Eyes

Author: Linwood Barclay

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Schizophrenic and agoraphobic Thomas Kilbride is obsessed with an online mapping program and emailing President Clinton. When Thomas sends one to many emails to the CIA and President Clinton, the FBI get involved. Thomas' brother, Ray, must step in and provide the daily care for Thomas and becomes close to one of the FBI. Then, Thomas witnesses a murder while surfing around on Whirl360 (similar to Google Earth). As the hit person is trying to clean up her mistake, she becomes aware that Thomas is out there and needs to silence him as well. Can Ray get Thomas to leave his room or are they sitting ducks to a hit woman who doesn't like witnesses?

My rating: 4.5 Stars

My opinion: I think one of the reviewers nailed it when he compared it to a modern version of Hitchcock's famous film REAR WINDOW. As usual, I loved Barclay's build-up and the unique storyline that this book had compared to other books of his..

I must admit that I am a huge Linwood Barclay fan...have been since I read the first book I had picked up by him. Although it did take me a little bit more time to get into this one, once I did, I couldn't put it down. This book has the typical characteristics of dynamic, engrossing storyline and multidimensional characters.

Source: Library        

Would I recommend? : Yes

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand alone

 

Spirit of Lost Angels by Liza Perrat

Book: Spirit of Lost Angels

Author: Liza Perrat

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Victoire Charpentier, a young, innocent peasant girl, learns the differences in the class system in 1700's France when tragedy strikes and her father is killed by a nobleman's coach. Years later, her midwife/abortionist mother is killed for witchcraft.  Before her death, her mother gives Victoire a beautiful angel talisman necklace. Destitute, this forces Victoire into a life of servitude and unspeakable abuses from her noble employer. Leaving her with a hatred for nobility, Victoire joins the French Revolution to exact her revenge. How will a meetings and subsequent friendships with  the great Monseur Thomas Jefferson and author Mary Wallstone, add to her feelings? Can things always be so black and white or is forgiveness possible even in times of revolution?

My rating: My goodness, 5 STARS!

My opinion: I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE when a book sucks me in and is so engrossing that I get ticked when I have to put it down. That was Ms. Perrat's debut novel SPIRIT OF ANGELS. First, I was enthralled with the innocence of Victoire and felt her pain when tragedy struck her and her family. Ms. Perrat continues this excellence in the descriptiveness of the French countryside and the "entertainment" preferences for the French nobility. As a reader, it made me feel as though I was being written into the pages of the book. I simply love when that happens.

I always say to people that those who refuse to read indie published books lose out on dynamic novels and this book is definitely an example of why I feel that way. I would not be surprised if this is a book I find in the collection of a large publishing house in the future.

Source:   Author for Review    

Would I recommend? : Most definitely. Not only that, I can't wait to read more from this dynamic author if this is an example of a debut.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand alone

 

A Killer in the Wind by Andrew Klavan

Book: A Killer in the Wind

Author: Andrew Klavan

Release date (if applicable): January 8, 2013

Synopsis: Dan Champion, former vice cop for the NYPD, is still scarred after uncovering a sex slave ring run by a woman known as Fat Woman. Resorting to a life of drugs producing hallucinations, Champion tries to live a quieter life as a small town detective.

The past is coming to haunt him again when the body of a young woman washes ashore in the town he works for. As Champion uncovers the past of the woman, his past is coming to haunt him. How deep does this past go and is Champion more involved in this than simply being a detective trying to uncover the death of this young woman?

My rating: 4.5 Stars

My opinion: Holy cow, Batman...this book rocked. It was a slower read to me because the author had intricately woven hallucinations/the past and the present MASTERFULLY.

I found this book somewhat reminiscent of one of my favorite Val McDermid books, A PLACE OF EXECUTION, in its' shocking twists and deep, deep character development.

I became familiar with this author through his appearances on Red Eye with Greg Gutfeld and his posts on Breitbart.com. NEVER did I think his talent to write would have been this deep, this intense that would leave me mouth opened at the end!

Bravo, Mr. Klavan, Bravo!! I can't wait to read more by you!

Source:  Netgalley for publisher      

Would I recommend? : Heck yeah!

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand alone, but really, really hope that Mr. Klavan makes this a series.

Spoonful by Chris Mendius

Book: Spoonful

Author: Chris Mendius

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Michael Lair, an addict who doesn't know the meaning of an honest day's work, is always looking for the next petty crime to commit just to survive. The cast of characters he surrounds himself with don't exactly lend themselves to leading a boy scout life either. From the artist by day, stripper by night to his heroin partner who seeks out the petty crimes for Michael to partake in.

When Michael decides he wants to be on the selling side of the drug world and finds two Northwestern students naive to go into selling cocaine with him. As he starts to be successful, he decides to play the stockmarket. Could he be turning over a new leaf or is the worse yet to come?

My rating: 2 Stars

My opinion: I could never quite warm up to this novel. Although the writing in the book was wonderful, I just really didn't enjoy the storyline nor ANY of the characters. Although, the storyline was pretty dark, I did enjoy the dark, sarcastic humor that went along with Michael's world.  I do have to admit that as a former addictions counselor, Mendius NAILED the scene. So, it is a relatively realistic read as to the "culture".

I think another issue that I had with this book is that the addictions world seems to be the "in topic" this year. I have read/reviewed roughly a dozen novels which surrounds this gritty world in this year alone. It is just my feeling that he didn't quite separate it from the multitudes of other books written on the same topic.

If you are offended by gratuitous language, sexual scenes or drug use, Spoonful IS NOT for you. As the culture itself, the book is laden with all 3 things.

Source: Publisher for Review       

Would I recommend? : Not unless someone specifically likes that genre.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand Alone

 

Guestlist by Jay Fingers

Book: Guestlist

Author: Jay Fingers

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Juliet Feliz is bored with her life decides to pack up her life and move to New York City. She finds herself repeating the same patterns of clubbing and all that it entails, some which can be considered quite dangerous, until she meets a club promoter by the name of Napoleon Fey.

Napoleon introduces Juliet to a much more exquisite level of clubs which are much more exclusive and rich. With that introduction comes a love "square" between Juliet, Napoleon, Ava (who has a crush on Napoleon) and Marcel Swann (who has it in for Ava). Can't forget the other cast of characters who add into this wild ride.

Is the clubbing life as beautiful as the people who play in it or is it just as ugly as some of the things those beautiful people do?

My rating: 4 Stars ETA (11/20/12) 4.5 Stars

My opinion: I have to admit that I was really pleasantly surprised by this book. Due to its' subject matter, I thought I would focus on the writing styles of the author for my review, but found myself very quickly drawn into the story. The author's debut novel is fast paced and full of drama (in a positive sense) that really makes the story fly by. I think there are young adults who enjoy the clubbing lifestyle that will really get sucked into the storyline.

On a side note, I must state that offensive language both swear word based and racially based really fly in this book. If you are offended by this type of language, I wouldn't recommend you read this book. It is imperative, to the storyline, that it be included in this book. Even with knowing that, there were moments that I know that even I had some difficulties.

ETA (11/20/12) It is very rare that I go back and change my review once it is written, but with Guestlist, I found myself continuously thinking about this book long after I finished it. Guestlist is one of those books that if read superficially or skimmed, I think the reader will miss the depths of this book. In my opinion,  like an onion with layers, it is imperative that the reader read beneath the surface and get down to the core of this novel. As I reflected on the path of the story, I saw the psychological aspects of a group of "beautiful" individuals who, beneath the surface, weren't so beautiful and how their environment gave permission to act in a destructive manner both as individuals and as a group. Do I think that this was the author's intentions? I can't say. I can only tell the reader of this review that as I reflected on this book, this was my takeaway.  

Source: Author for Review       

Would I recommend? : Yes, to the right audience. Maybe those in the later young adult genre due to the topic and language. I think those readers who aren't easily offended by language would find this book enjoyable as well.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand Alone