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May 2022 MBR The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
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Midwest Book Review
Jun 1, 2022, 10:23:27 AM6/1/22
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The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
A Gathering Storm
David E. Feldman
EFace Media
9780578358994, $11.95
https://www.amazon.com/Gathering-Storm-Gripping-Mystery-Thriller/dp/0578358999
A Gathering Storm is the second book in David E. Feldman's Dora Ellison mystery series. Dora is enrolled in the police academy, but is struggling with her experience, independent spirit, and the rigors of an instructional approach that would place her efforts and problem solving skills in a routine police procedural box. Her prior success in solving a local corruption case isn't helping her present milieu as a student who is supposed to be subservient to more experienced instructors.
It also doesn't help that Dora is pulled into yet another mystery when Jesse Burrell, the brother of a city council member, vanishes hours after a family gathering and is murdered. As Dora's unofficial probe into the murder brings her in conflict with police department official procedures, she finds herself navigating a fine line between her convictions and standard operating procedures. Further complicating matters is the fact that the victim's brother-in-law Rudy may hold a clue to events that he doesn't even know he possesses.
David E. Feldman writes a fine mystery that revolves as much around family relationships and personal and professional clashes as it does on a murder puzzle that challenges Dora on many different levels. There's an unusual romance, too many possible perps, and Jesse's own life, which also holds clues about what really happened. Developing all these threads in one mystery involves a dance between subplots and character-building - one that Feldman deftly performs as he leads readers to question not only Dora's modus operandi, but the victim's relationships and choices.
From instructors who reject Dora's abilities and consider her protests "backtalk" to Dora's penchant for refusing to give up when the going gets tough, readers will be immersed both in her personal revelations and trials and the professional conundrums she faces in pursuing the truth against all odds. Murder mystery readers interested in a full-flavored story that embraces not just a whodunit but the evolving trends of Dora's life will find A Gathering Storm both a worthy compliment to its predecessor and an excellent stand-alone read.
Dora's pursuit of her life purpose and passion is a draw that will attract beyond the usual genre audience, as well: "She loved police work. She loved solving crimes. In a way, she had always known that. She loved puzzles that manifested in real life, and she loved delivering justice where it was needed. Where she was needed."
Desert Getaway
Michael Craft
Brash Books
www.brash-books.com
9781954841161 $18.99 pbk
B09PSN4KJ1 $5.99 Kindle
https://www.amazon.com/Desert-Getaway-Dante-Jazz-Mystery/dp/1954841167
Dante O'Donnell made the wrong relationship choices and followed the wrong dreams. Now he makes ends meet as a concierge for a vacation rental outfit in Palm Springs. Jazz Friendly is an ex-cop whose career was challenged not just by racism, but by her own addiction. Now she's honing her skills in a new career, as a private eye. Both are starting over. The last thing they need is each other.
For one thing, they are polar opposites in race, sexual orientation, and temperament. What they do share is a new beginning and new aspirations... and being misfits who aren't yet in solid positions in their revised lives. They also share a common goal when circumstances draw them together over the puzzling murder of the director of a local art museum.
Motivated by their jobs and special interests to become involved in the investigation that follows, Jazz and Dante find their clashing lives at odds even as their objectives dovetail in strange ways. In the typical mystery genre read, the investigation often is the major draw of the story.
In Desert Getaway, it's the often-stormy relationship between these two investigators which drive the action and drama. This makes for a psychologically astute inspection that will especially please readers who want their stories motivated by emotion and stimulus beyond perp and victim relationships.
Author Michael Craft's ability to inject humor into the intrigue provides comic relief at unexpected moments as each character employs their typical modus operandi to inspect possibilities, often injecting snarky observations of each other into the process: "When I switched on my computer, I spotted an email from Jazz, which was unusual, as she seemed to prefer phoning. Opening it, I found that she had sent me an enlarged screen grab from the video of the presumed hit man who had apparently drowned Noreen - a naughty pool boy, indeed. Jazz wrote, "Arcie says this was digitally enhanced. Still looks like crap. Call me." When she answered my call, she said, "Where were you all day?" "Working." "Banging another client?" She broke into a belly laugh. "Now, don't you start. I've been taking care of business. And you?"
As the first-person narrative traverses the possibilities of money laundering, real estate and banking deals, and the lives of various staff members of M3A who attended the pool party (including Hannah, the soft-spoken wife of CFO Howard Quince), the intrigue strengthens with too many suspects, secrets, and possible motives for murder. Jazz and Dante are challenged at many crossroads by not just the characters they interview and consider, but each another and their disparate viewpoints.
Craft brings these personalities and perspectives to life in a murder mystery which captures the underside of Palm Springs life and its art world, bringing into question the possibility of justice for the victims and a friendship which evolves from seemingly dissimilar roots. Readers who are interested in the interactions and shared objectives of a misfit team that must draw together the threads of many special interests to uncover the truth will find Desert Getaway a compelling romp through fiascos, fairy-tale lives, and organized crime.
Poison at the Village Show
Catherine Coles
www.catherinecoles.com
Boldwood Books
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781804150597, $TBA, Large Print, PB, 340pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/title.php?sqlCmd=isbn%3D9781804150597
Synopsis: Westleham Village 1947. With the war finally over the residents of Westleham village are trying to reclaim a sense of normality and the upcoming village show is proving to be a popular event!
Newcomer, Martha Miller, has high hopes for the village show. Since her husband Stan left for work one day and never returned, some of the villagers have treated Martha with suspicion - why would a good man like Stan simply up and leave? Was it something Martha did? All Martha knows is that she's hoping that she can win people over and hopefully they'll buy her delicious homemade plum gin, too and she'll be able to make ends meet. But as glasses of Martha's gin are passed around, disaster strikes.
Alice Warren, Chairwoman of the village show slumps to the ground after taking a sip. It's clear she's been poisoned! Martha is shocked, but not surprised, when fingers of suspicion once again point her way. Determined to prove her innocence, Martha sets about trying to find the real culprit. But who would kill Alice and why? Ably helped by the new vicar, Luke Walker, Martha quickly tries to get to the bottom of this mystery. But with the villagers closing ranks it quickly becomes apparent that the only person with a motive is Martha herself... Will Luke and Martha discover who is behind the poisoning before it's too late?
Critique: With her 'whodunnit' literary skills at the level of an Agatha Christie or a G. K. Chesterton, novelist Cathrerine Coles's "Poison at the Village Show" has all the qualities expected of an English mystery. This large print paperback edition of "Poison at the Village" is pure mystery buff entertainment and is recommended for both personal reading lists and community library Mystery/Suspense collections.
Editorial Note: Catherine writes cosy mysteries that take place in the English countryside. Her extremely popular Tommy & Evelyn Christie mysteries are set in 1920s North Yorkshire. Her new series, the Martha Miller cosy mysteries, are set in the years following the Second World War in Berkshire. She maintains a website at www.catherinecoles.com
The Cold Killer
Ross Greenwood
Boldwood Books
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781800484733, $TBA, PB, 538pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/title.php?sqlCmd=isbn%3D9781800484733
Synopsis: When a tired old inmate is found dead in his cell, the prison is obligated to investigate and so DI Barton attends. The men he interviews have been convicted of some of the worst things a human being can do, but it appears likely that the death was due to natural causes.
When the house of the dead man is burgled and that crime is followed by a suspicious fire, Barton desperately needs to speak to his widow, but she's nowhere to be found. In the space of twenty-four hours, everyone he wants to talk to has vanished. Then he receives some post which makes him believe he could be the next to disappear.
In just a few days, Barton's investigation goes full circle, through a series of brutal murders, back to the prison. There's a shocking development which even he could never have imagined, and all signs are pointing to the fact that he's made a terrible mistake. There's a violent killer on the loose, who wants everyone to learn that it's hard to live when you deserve to die.
Critique: Combing a 'whodunnity' with a killer thriller of a suspense novel, the large print paperback edition of novelist Ross Greenwood's "The Cold Killer" is a riveting great read, a 'must' for all dedicated prison fiction fans, and especially recommended for community library Mystery/Suspense fiction collections.
Murder at the Abbey
Frances Evesham
https://francesevesham.com
Boldwood Books
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781800480544, $TBA, Large Print, PB, 396pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/title.php?sqlCmd=isbn%3D9781800480544
Synopsis; An unsolved murder echoes down the corridors of Cleeve Abbey for years. The Exham-on-Sea's History Society's annual summer picnic comes to an abrupt end when human bones are discovered in Washford River, beside historic Cleeve Abbey. Thrilled to find evidence of a possible centuries-old murder mystery, the members of the society organise a ghost-hunting night in the ruins of Cleeve Abbey, despite amateur sleuth Libby Forest's reservations.
Libby is a woman of many talents, a baker, chocolatier, even a reluctant sleuth, but she's no fan of the supernatural and her doubts are justified when a friend is attacked under cover of darkness at the ghost-hunt. Distressed and angry, Libby sets out with her new husband Max and their two dogs Bear and Shipley to uncover the connection between the murder of a sixteenth century monk and a present-day attack in picturesque Somerset.
With friends and neighbours as suspects, Libby and Max close in on the culprit only to find that others are still in danger. There's no time to lose as the sins of the past threaten lives in the community.
Critique: An Exham-On-Sea murder mystery by veteran novelist Frances Evesham, "Murder at the Abbey" another of her deftly crafted 'whodunnit' style mysteries for her growing legions of fans. This large print paperback edition from Boldwood Books is particularly recommended for community library Mystery/Suspense collections -- and a 'must' for dedicated mystery buffs in general, and the growing legions of Frances Evesham fans in particular.
Surfeit of Suspects
George Bellairs
https://www.georgebellairs.com
Charnwood Large Print
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781444848939, $TBA, Large Print, PB, 234pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/title.php?sqlCmd=isbn%3D9781444848939
Synopsis: Following a mysterious explosion, the offices of the Excelsior Joinery Company are no more: three directors are killed, and the peace of a quiet town in Surrey lies in ruins. When the supposed cause of a faulty gas-main is dismissed, and evidence of dynamite revealed, Superintendent Littlejohn of Scotland Yard is summoned to the scene. But beneath the sleepy veneer of Evingden lies a hotbed of deep-seated grievances. Confounding Littlejohn's investigation is an impressive cast of suspicious persons, each concealing their own axe to grind.
Critique: A true mystery lover's delight with its roster of memorable characters and a plot that has more twists and turns than a Coney Island roller coaster, this large print paperback edition of "Surfeit of Suspects" by George Bellairs is a truly fun puzzle of a read right down to the unexpected climax. The stuff of which BBC mystery movies are made, "Surfeit of Suspects" is very highly recommended for community library Mystery/Suspense collections and the personal reading lists of dedicated British Detective & English Mystery fans.
Editorial Note: George Bellairs was the pseudonym of Harold Blundell (1902-1982). He was, by day, a Manchester bank manager with close connections to the University of Manchester. He is often referred to as the English Simenon, as his detective stories combine wicked crimes and classic police procedurals, set in small British communities. There is a George Bellairs website at https://www.georgebellairs.com
The Shop on Royal Street
Karen White
Berkley Books
c/o Penguin Group (USA)
www.penguin.com
9780593334584, $27.00, HC, 384pp
https://www.amazon.com/Shop-Royal-Street/dp/0593334582
Synopsis: After a difficult detour on her road to adulthood, Nola Trenholm is looking to begin anew in New Orleans, and what better way to start her future than with her first house? But the historic fixer-upper she buys comes with even more work than she anticipated when the house's previous occupants don't seem to be ready to depart.
Although she can't communicate with ghosts like her stepmother can, luckily Nola knows someone in New Orleans who is able to -- even if he's the last person on earth she wants anything to do with ever again. Beau Ryan comes with his own dark past (a past that involves the disappearance of his sister and parents during Hurricane Katrina) and he's connected to the unsolved murder of a woman who once lived in the old Creole cottage Nola is determined to make her own -- whether the resident restless spirits agree or not!
Critique: Clever, original, entertaining, "The Shop On Royal Street" is a cosy mystery fans pure delight from cover to cover. A deftly crafted blend of mystery, romance, and the metaphysical, "The Shop On Royal Street" is a fun read from cover to cover and unreservedly recommended for community library Contemporary Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated mystery buffs that "The Shop On Royal Street" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99). It should be noted by librarians that there is also a large print paperback edition of "The Shop On Royal Street" available (Random House Large Print, 9780593556382, $29.00, 544pp).
Editorial Note: An established author, Karen White maintains an informative website at www.karen-white.com and can be connect with on social media at: Facebook: Facebook.com/karenwhiteauthor, Twitter: @KarenWhiteWrite, Instagram: @KarenWhiteWrite and Pinterest: KarenWhiteBooks
Sunset Blues
Bob Adamov
www.BobAdamov.com
Packard Island Publishing
https://packardislandpublishing.com
9798985359305, $28.00, HC, 224pp
https://www.amazon.com/Sunset-Blues-Emerson-Moore-14/dp/B09SBV549Q
Synopsis: A mysterious explosion destroys the bayfront home of investigative reporter Emerson Moore's Aunt Anne in Put-in-Bay. His aunt has vanished. Was she kidnapped? Is there a connection to the nefarious activities by Russians running London-style taxis on Lake Erie's South Bass Island and in Key West? Is her apparent abduction part of a vendetta against Moore?
Moore initially enlists island entertainer Mike "Mad Dog" Adams to help uncover the clues to finding his aunt. Their search takes them from a major scuffle in Detroit with drug lord Ruslan Zharkov to Key West where they recruit a team of easily sidetracked and hilarious reprobates led by local mischief-maker Chuck Meier.
As the tension mounts and the net tightens, Moore has the unsettling feeling that the worst has befallen his aunt. Along the way, Moore uncovers a shocking surprise as to who was behind her disappearance -- it was indeed someone who has a score to settle with Moore. With the clock ticking, the stakes are stacked against successfully finding her alive. As Moore struggles emotionally just to get through each day with little progress, he finds himself on a collision course with the cunning Zharkov.
Critique: With the publication of "Sunset Blues", was again author and novelist Bob Adamov demonstrates that he is a master of the fast-paced, action-packed, mystery adventure, complete with ambushes, deadly shootouts, betrayal, cruelty and cast of truly memorable characters. Simply stated, "Sunset Blues" is especially and unreservedly recommended for the personal reading lists of action-adventure mystery buffs and a welcome addition to community library Contemporary Mystery/Suspense collections.
Editorial Note: More information about Bob Adamov and his Emerson Moore mystery adventure series can be found on his personal website at www.BobAdamov.com
Murder on Madison Square
Victoria Thompson
Berkley Prime Crime
c/o Penguin Group (USA)
www.penguin.com
9780593337066, $26.00, HC, 352pp
https://www.amazon.com/Murder-Madison-Square-Gaslight-Mystery/dp/0593337069
Synopsis: Former policeman Frank Malloy is frustrated when a woman requests his private detective services to implicate her wealthy husband in adultery, the only legal grounds for divorce in New York state. Although Mrs. Bing seems genuinely distressed about her marriage and desperate to end it, she refuses to tell Frank the reason she absolutely must divorce her husband and admits she has no legal grounds. Frank explains he won't manufacture evidence for her and sends her on her way.
The following week, Frank and Sarah happen to be attending the first ever auto show in Madison Square Garden when they meet the woman's husband, Alfred Bing, who has invested in a company that produces one of the electric motorcars on display. A few days later, the newspapers report that millionaire Alvin Bing has been found dead, pinned beneath one of the wheels of his very own motorcar. But who was driving it? The obvious suspect is Mrs. Bing, but Frank and Sarah find that nothing is as it seems in their puzzling, dangerous search for truth.
Critique: Some writers just seem to have a natural talent for deftly crafting a riveting 'whodunnit' style of mystery novel that keeps satisfied mystery buffs looking eagerly toward their next book. Award winning mystery novelist Victoria Thompson is just such a writer. Her latest novel, "Murder on Madison Square", is part of her simply outstanding 'A Gaslight Mystery' series and will prove to be an enthusiastically popular addition to community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should also be noted for their personal reading lists by the growing legions of Victoria Thompson fans that "Murder on Madison Square" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).
Editorial Note: Victoria Thompson writes the Edgar and Agatha Award nominated Gaslight Mystery Series, a collection of mysteries set in turn-of-the-century New York City and featuring midwife Sarah Brandt. She is also the author of the Sue Grafton Award nominated Counterfeit Lady Series of mysteries set in early twentieth century New York City and featuring con artist Elizabeth Miles. She also teaches in the Seton Hill University master's program in writing popular fiction.
Bear Witness
Lark O. Jensen
Crooked Lane Books
2 Park Avenue, 10th floor, New York, NY 10016
www.crookedlanebooks.com
9781643858968, $26.99, HC, 320pp
https://www.amazon.com/Bear-Witness-Alaska-Untamed-Mystery/dp/1643858963
Synopsis: No nine-to-five cubicle career will suit Stacie Calder -- as a naturalist, she much prefers working in the great outdoors. Specifically, the spacious and spectacular Alaskan wilderness, whose rugged charms she shares with sightseers on the top deck of the tour boat where she works. But one May afternoon, Stacie's passengers see more than glittering glaciers, frolicking harbor seals, climbing bears and soaring seabirds -- they also witness a man lying dead in the frigid Alaskan waters. And it seems quite likely that someone gave him a fatal push.
Stacie didn't know the unfortunate victim, but he sure wanted to know a lot about her. He spent most of his final afternoon bombarding her with questions quite awkward to answer. And when he wasn't in her hair, he was arguing incessantly with the boat's beleaguered crew. Which makes for a suspect list about as long as the passenger manifest. Furthermore, as police helicopters relentlessly circle her boat in search of any clues, Stacie is shaken to find herself on that suspect list.
Before the tour boat reaches shore Stacie (accompanied by her beautiful blue-eyed husky, Sasha) must deduce just who sent the testy tourist tumbling into the turgid waters and have the authorities take custody. Because if she can't, then the killer might aim a fatal ice-cold stare at Stacie!
Critique: An impressively crafted 'whodunnit' mystery with more unexpected plot twists and turns that a Coney Island roller coaster, "Bear Witness" by Lark O. Jensen is a mystery buffs delight from first page to last. Original, compelling, entertaining throughout, "Bear Witness" is a very highly recommended and certain to be enduringly popular addition to community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of all dedicated mystery fans that "Bear Witness" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99).
Editorial Note: Lark O. Jensen has published 53 books so far, including mysteries and romantic novels. She has written several cozy mystery series including the Barkery & Biscuits Mysteries and Superstition Mysteries for Midnight Ink, and the Kendra Ballantyne, Pet-Sitter Mysteries and Pet Rescue Mysteries for Berkley Prime Crime. She also writes romances for Harlequin, including Harlequin Romantic Suspense. Her latest romance ficton release is Colton First Responder, for Harlequin Romantic Suspense.
Magic, Lies, and Deadly Pies
Misha Popp
https://www.mishapopp.com
Crooked Lane Books
2 Park Avenue, 10th floor, New York, NY 10016
www.crookedlanebooks.com
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781643859958, $26.99, HC, 336pp
https://www.amazon.com/Magic-Lies-Deadly-Mushoku-Tensei/dp/1643859951
Synopsis: The first time Daisy Ellery killed a man with a pie, it was an accident. Now, it's her calling. Daisy bakes sweet vengeance into her pastries, which she and her dog Zoe deliver to the men who've done dirty deeds to the town's women. But if she can't solve the one crime that's not of her own baking, she'll be out of the pie pan and into the oven.
Parking her Pies Before Guys mobile bakery van outside the local diner, Daisy is informed by Frank, the crusty diner owner, that someone's been prowling around the van -- and not just to inhale the delectable aroma. Already on thin icing with Frank, she finds a letter on her door, threatening to reveal her unsavory secret sideline of pie a la murder.
Blackmail? But who whipped up this half-baked plot to cut a slice out of Daisy's business? Purple-haired campus do-gooder Melly? Noel, the tender (if flaky) farm boy? Or one of the abusive men who prefer their pie without a deadly scoop of payback?
The upcoming statewide pie contest could be Daisy's big chance to help wronged women everywhere -- that is, if she doesn't meet a sticky end first. Because Daisy knows the blackmailer won't stop until her business is in crumbles.
Critique: Introducing unique and original protagonist in a unique and original mystery, "Magic, Lies, and Deadly Pies" by new novelist Misha Popp is unabashed fun on the printed page and will have a wide appeal, not only for veteran mystery buffs, but for anyone that appreciates irony, whimsey, and lethal pastries! While also available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Dreamscape, 9781666581331, $22.99, CD), "Magic, Lies, and Deadly Pies" is highly recommended for community library Contemporary Mystery/Suspense collections.
Editorial Note: Misha Popp enjoys writing about murdery women and over-the-top baked goods. She has launched a personal website at https://www.mishapopp.com
The Shadow of Memory
Connie Berry
www.connieberry.com
Crooked Lane Books
2 Park Avenue, 10th floor, New York, NY 10016
www.crookedlanebooks.com
9781643859088, $26.99, HC, 352pp
https://www.amazon.com/Shadow-Memory-Kate-Hamilton-Mystery/dp/1643859080
Synopsis: As Kate Hamilton plans her upcoming wedding to Detective Inspector Tom Mallory, she is also assisting her colleague Ivor Tweedy with a project at the Netherfield Sanatorium, which is being converted into luxury townhouses. Kate and Ivor must appraise a fifteenth-century painting and verify that its provenance is the Dutch master Jan Van Eyck. But when retired criminal inspector Will Parker is found dead, Kate learns that the halls of the sanatorium housed much more than priceless art.
Kate is surprised to learn that Will had been the first boyfriend of her friend Vivian Bunn, who hasn't seen him in fifty-eight years. At a seaside holiday camp over sixty years ago, Will, Vivian, and three other teens broke into an abandoned house where a doctor and his wife had died under bizarre circumstances two years earlier. Now, when a second member of the childhood gang dies unexpectedly, and then a third, it becomes clear that the teens had discovered more in the house than they had realized.
Had Will returned to warn his old love? When Kate makes a shocking connection between a sixty-year-old murder and the long-buried secrets of the sanatorium, she suddenly understands that time is running out for Vivian -- and anyone connected to her!
Critique: The stuff of which television's Hallmark Chanel Mystery Movies are made, "The Shadow of Memory" by veteran mystery writer Connie Berry is the latest volume in the author's Kate Hamilton Mystery series. Deftly crafted, inherently compelling, a real page turner of a read from cover to cover, "The Shadow of Memory" is unreservedly recommended for community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the growing legions of Connie Berry fans that "The Shadow of Memory" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99).
Editorial Note: Connie Berry is the author of the Kate Hamilton Mysteries, set in the UK and featuring an American antiques dealer with a gift for solving crimes. Like her protagonist, Connie was raised by antiques dealers who instilled in her a passion for history, fine art, and travel. In 2019 Connie won the IPPY Gold Medal for Mystery and was a finalist for the Agatha Award's Best Debut. She's a member of Mystery Writers of America and is on the board of the Guppies and her local Sisters in Crime chapter. She also maintains a personal and professional website www.connieberry.com
One of Us Is Dead
Jeneva Rose
https://www.jenevarose.com
Blackstone Publishing
31 Mistletoe Road, Ashland, OR 97520
www.BlackstoneAudio.com
9798200706846, $28.99, HC, 318pp
https://www.amazon.com/One-Us-Dead-Jeneva-Rose/dp/B09BDRZR42
Synopsis: With the publication of her latest novel, author Jeneva Rose would like you to eet the women of Buckhead -- a community of expensive cars, huge houses, and competitive friendships.
Shannon was once the queen bee of Buckhead. But she's been unceremoniously dumped by Bryce, her politician husband. When Bryce replaces her with a much younger woman, Shannon sets out to take revenge...
Crystal has stepped into Shannon's old shoes. A young, innocent Texan girl, she simply has no idea what she's up against...
Olivia has waited years to take Shannon's crown as the unofficial queen of Buckhead. Finally, her moment has come. But to take her rightful place, she will need to use every backstabbing, manipulative, underhand trick in the book...
Jenny owns Glow, the most exclusive salon in town. Jenny knows all her clients' secrets and darkest desires. But will she ever tell?
Who amongst these women will be clever enough to survive Buckhead -- and who will wind up dead? They say that friendships can be complex, but no one said it could ever be this deadly.
Critique: A deftly crafted blend of women's friendships, rivalries, ambitions, and suspense, "One of Us is Dead" is a riveting and entertaining read from first page to last. While also available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.69) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (9798200705955, $31.95, MP3-CD), "One of Us is Dead" will prove to be a welcome and popular addition to community library Contemprorary Mystery/Suspense collections.
Editorial Note: Jeneva Rose is also the author of The Perfect Marriage, which has been published in nearly a dozen languages and optioned for film. She maintains a website at https://www.jenevarose.com
The Echoes
Jess Montgomery
Minotaur Books
c/o St. Martin's Publishing Group
www.minotaurbooks.com
9781250623423, $27.99, HC, 288pp
https://www.amazon.com/Echoes-Kinship-4-Jess-Montgomery/dp/1250623421
Synopsis: As July 4, 1928 approaches, Sheriff Lily Ross and her family look forward to the opening of an amusement park in a nearby town, created by World War I military veteran and lumber mill owner Chalmer Fitzpatrick. When Lily is alerted to the possible drowning of a girl, she goes to investigate, and discovers schisms going back several generations, in an ongoing dispute over the land on which Fitzpatrick has built the park.
Lily's family life is soon rattled, too, with the revelation that before he died, her brother had a daughter, Esme, with a woman in France, and arrangements have been made for Esme to immigrate to the U.S. to live with them. But Esme never makes it to Kinship, and soon Lily discovers that she has been kidnaped. Not only that, but a young woman is indeed found murdered in the fishing pond on Fitzpatrick's property, at the same time that a baby is left on his doorstep.
As the two crimes interweave, Lily must confront the question of what makes family: can we trust those we love? And what do we share, and what do we keep secret?
Critique: Original, deftly crafted, inherently engaging, populated with memorable characters and more plot twists and turns than a carnival roller coaster, "The Echoes" by Jess Montgomery is a simply riveting read by an accomplished novelist and will prove to be a particularly welcome addition to community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of all crime fiction fans that "The Echoes" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).
Editorial Note: Jess Montgomery writes the Writer's Digest magazine column, "Level Up Your Writing (Life)" and was formerly the "Literary Life" columnist for the Dayton Daily News. Based on early chapters of the first book in the Kinship Series, The Widows, Jess was awarded an Ohio Arts Council individual artist's grant for literary arts and named the John E. Nance Writer-in-Residence at Thurber House in Columbus. She also hosts the podcast, "Tea with Jess: Chatting with Authors & Artists."
Wild Creek Whispers
Cindy Keen Reynders
www.cindykeenreynders.com
Camel Press
6524 NE 181st Street, STE #2, Kenmore, WA 98028
www.camelpress.com
9781942078524, $16.95, PB, 256pp
https://www.amazon.com/Wild-Creek-Whispers-Cindy-Reynders/dp/1942078528
Synopsis: Wyoming private investigator Reese Golden has been hired by a distraught mother to find her missing 4-year-old daughter. This is no small task, considering that the child has been missing for weeks and has seemingly vanished into thin air.
Unfortunately, the police and the FBI haven't been able to come up with any leads. Reese, a former police detective, was shot on the job, which led to her departure from the force. She is still rebuilding confidence in her abilities, and hesitates to take on the case, but she cannot in good conscience deny the woman's plea for help.
Reese uses her gut instincts to research and follow leads that point to the missing girl's whereabouts. Despite the threats against her life, she travels into the backcountry wilderness and the heights of mountain passes to try and locate the child.
Although Reese's attempts to bring the missing girl home to her family prove to be a major challenge, one that is fraught with danger and intrigue, she fights against the odds to stay on her course. With a child's life at stake, she refuses to back down.
Not only does Reese discover the truth about herself, she discovers the lengths to which human nature will drive individuals who are desperate to have what they want, no matter the cost.
Critique: Some mystery authors seem to have a natural flair for originality combined with the kind of narrative driven storytelling that simply and fully engage the reader's total attention from cover to cover. Novelist Cindy Keen Reynders is just such an author and her latest novel, "Wild Creek Whipsers" is a masterpiece of suspense and 'whodunnit' fiction. While especially and unreservedly recommended for community library Contemporary Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated mystery fans that "Wild Creek Whispers" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.99).
Editorial Note: Cindy Keen Reynders is the author of the Saucy Lucy series books (The Saucy Lucy Murders, Paws-itively Guilty and A Killer Slice). Solstice Publishing recently released her paranormal romance The Seven-Year Witch, A Witch at Midnight and Witch Tease. Over the years, Cindy has won or placed in different writing contests. She has also written for and edited many newsletters. Additionally, she has sold several non-fiction magazine articles to "True West" and "Wild West." She maintains a website at www.cindykeenreynders.com
Metropolis
B. A. Shapiro
Algonquin Books
PO Box 2225, Chapel Hill, NC 27515-2225
www.algonquin.com
www.blackstoneaudio.com
9781616209582, $27.95, HC, 368pp
https://www.amazon.com/Metropolis-Novel-B-Shapiro/dp/1616209585
Synopsis: Was it really an accident? Was it suicide? A murder? Six mysterious characters, who rent units in, or are connected to, the self-storage facility, must now reevaluate their lives.
Serge is an unstable but brilliant street photographer who lives in his unit, which overflows with thousands of undeveloped pictures; Zach is the building's owner who develops Serge's photos as he searches for clues to the accident; Marta is an undocumented immigrant who is finishing her dissertation and hiding from ICE; Liddy is an abused wife and mother who recreates her children's bedroom in her unit; Jason has left his corporate firm and now practices law from his storage unit; and Rose is the office manager who takes kickbacks to let renters live in the building and has her own complicated family history.
All six of these characters have a variety of backgrounds: they are different races; they practice different religions; they're young and they're not so young; they are rich, poor, and somewhere in the middle. As they dip in and out of one another's lives, fight circumstances that are within and also beyond their control, and try to discover the details of the accident, in his new novel, "Meteropolis", author B. A. Shapiro both dismantles the myth of the American dream and builds tension to an exciting climax.
Critique: Skillfully crafted with memorable characters, "Metropolis" is a riveting psychological thriller of a read from cover to cover. Raising crime fiction to an impressively high literary level, "Metropolis" is especially and unreservedly recommended for community library Contemporary Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Metropolis" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.17) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Audio, 9798200880874, $41.99, CD).
Margaret Truman's Murder at the CDC
Margaret Truman, author
Jon Land, author
Forge
c/o Tor/Forge Books
www.tor-forge.com
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781250238894, $27.99, HC, 304pp
https://www.amazon.com/Margaret-Trumans-Murder-CDC-Capital/dp/1250238897
Synopsis: 2017: A military transport on a secret run to dispose of its deadly contents vanishes without a trace. A mass shooting on the steps of the Capitol nearly claims the life of Robert Brixton's grandson. No stranger to high-stakes investigations, Brixton embarks on a trail to uncover the motive behind the shooting. On the way he finds himself probing the attempted murder of the daughter his best friend, who works at the Washington offices of the CDC.
The connection between the mass shooting and Alexandra's poisoning lies in that long-lost military transport that has been recovered by forces determined to change America forever. Those forces are led by radical separatist leader Deacon Frank Wilhyte, whose goal is nothing short of bringing on a second Civil War.
Brixton joins forces with Kelly Lofton, a former Baltimore homicide detective. She has her own reasons for wanting to find the truth behind the shooting on the Capitol steps, and is the only person with the direct knowledge Brixton needs. But chasing the truth places them in the cross-hairs of both Wilhyte's legions and his Washington enablers.
Critique: Building on the literary legacy of Margaret Truman, author Jon Land has added a new and much appreciated addition to the Capital Crimes mystery series with the publication of "Margaret Truman's Murder at the CDC". While very highly recommended for community library Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of political thriller fiction that "Margaret Truman's Murder at the CDC" is also available in a digital book format ($14.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Dreamscape Media, 9781662068270, $59.99, CD).
Editorial Note #1: Margaret Truman (February 17, 1924 - January 29, 2008) won faithful readers with her works of biography and fiction, particularly her Capital Crimes mysteries. Her novels let readers into the corridors of power and privilege, and poverty and pageantry, in the nation's capital. She was the author of many nonfiction books, including The President's House, in which she shared some of the secrets and history of the White House, where, as the daughter of President Harry Truman, she once resided.
Editorial Note #2: Jon Land is the USA Today bestselling author of more than fifty books, over ten of which feature Texas Ranger Caitlin Strong. The critically acclaimed series has won more than a dozen awards, including the 2019 International Book Award for Best Thriller for Strong as Steel. He is also the author of Chasing the Dragon, a detailed account of the War on Drugs written with one of the most celebrated DEA agents of all time. A graduate of Brown University, Land lives in Providence, Rhode Island and received the 2019 Rhode Island Authors Legacy Award for his lifetime of literary achievements.
The Walled Garden
Robin Marrar Maass
https://robinfmaass.com
SparkPress
https://gosparkpress.com
9781684631315, $16.95, PB, 344pp
https://www.amazon.com/Walled-Garden-Robin-Farrar-Maass/dp/1684631319
Synopsis: American grad student Lucy Silver arrives in England hoping to solve a longstanding literary mystery, write her dissertation, and finish her graduate studies in a blaze of academic glory. But as Lucy starts to piece together the correspondence between her late grandmother and Elizabeth Blackspear, the famous poet and garden writer who's the subject of Lucy's dissertation, she discovers puzzling coded references in the letters -- and when an elderly English aristocrat with a secret connection to Elizabeth offers Lucy access to a neglected walled garden on his estate, the mystery deepens.
As spring turns to summer in Bolton Lacey, Lucy finds herself fighting the Blackspear Gardens' director's attempt to deny her access to vital documents in the archives -- and trying not to fall in love with an attractive Scottish contractor.
In the midst of this turmoil, she stumbles upon an illicit plot to turn the historic gardens into a theme park, and becomes determined to stop it. As she races against time to save the gardens, Lucy's search for the truth about Elizabeth's life leads her to a French convent where she uncovers explosive evidence that will change her life and the lives of everyone around her, ultimately revealing a home (and an inheritance) more incredible than anything she could ever have imagined!
Critique: All the more impressive when considering that "The Walled Garden" is author Robin Farrar Maass' debut as a novelist, this remarkably well crafted and fully engaging story that deftly combines an historical mystery with elements of a coming of age saga and of college romance. A perfect choice for a summer recreational novel, and also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.49), "The Walled Garden" is an original, entertaining, and unreservedly recommended addition to community library collections.
Kingdom of Bones
James Rollins
William Morrow & Company
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
www.harpercollins.com
9780062892980, $28.99, HC, 464pp
https://www.amazon.com/Kingdom-Bones-Thriller-Sigma-Novels/dp/0062892983
Synopsis: It all begins in Africa. A United Nations relief team in a small village in the Congo makes an alarming discovery. An unknown force is leveling the evolutionary playing field. Men, women, and children have been reduced to a dull, catatonic state. The environment surrounding them (plants and animals) has grown more cunning and predatory, evolving at an exponential pace. The insidious phenomenon is spreading from a cursed site in the jungle (known to locals as the Kingdom of Bones) and is now sweeping across Africa, threatening the rest of the world.
What has made the biosphere run amok? Is it a natural event? Or more terrifyingly, did someone engineer it?
Commander Gray Pierce and Sigma Force are prepared for the extraordinary and have kept the world safe, vigilance for which they have paid a tragic personal price. Yet, even these brilliant and seasoned scientific warriors do not understand what is behind this frightening development -- or know how to stop it. As they race to find answers, the members of Sigma quickly realize they have become the prey.
To head off global catastrophe, Sigma Force must risk their lives to uncover the shattering secret at the heart of the African continent -- a truth that will illuminate who we are as a species and where we may be headed sooner than we know because Mother Nature (red in tooth and claw) is turning against humankind, propelling the entire world into the Kingdom of Bones.
Critique: A simply riveting combination of suspense thriller, action-adventure, and near future science fiction, "Kingdom of Bones" is an absolute 'must read' for the legions of James Rollins fans. The stuff of which block-buster movies are made, "Kingdom of Bones" is especially recommended for community library Contemporary Fiction collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Kingdom of Bones" is also available in a mass market paperback edition (9780062892997, $9.99), and in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99). Librarians should be aware that there is a large print paperback edition of "Kingdom of Bones" (HarperLuxe, 9780062893000, $30.99, 704pp).
Editorial Note: James Rollins is the author of several international thriller novels that have been translated into more than forty languages. In each novel, acclaimed for its originality, Rollins unveils unseen worlds, scientific breakthroughs, and historical secrets -- and he does it all at breakneck speed and with stunning insight.
Slay The Dragon
William McGinnis
Whitewater Press
9781733654784, $15.95, PB, 294pp
https://www.amazon.com/Slay-Dragon-Adam-Weldon-Thriller/dp/173365478X
Synopsis: A police officer is brutally murdered in a "mostly peaceful" Oakland protest. City hall shuts down any serious investigation of the heinous crime. Ex-Navy SEAL Adam Weldon and his cop buddy BC take up the search for the killers only to find themselves hunted, outmatched, and at risk of being killed at any moment.
As they fight for their lives, Adam and BC discover the horrible truth: The murder is part of a relentless, 40-year, "unrestricted warfare" assault on America by an implacable, seemingly all powerful foe. A sovereign state with vast resources -- including database files on virtually everyone and the ability to track and kill anyone anywhere at any time. A sovereign state determined to bring America to its knees and to become itself the dominant power in the world.
Can Adam and his team (and American democracy itself) survive?
Critique: A simply riveting read from cover to cover, and the stuff from which action/adventure movies are made, "Slay The Dragon" is a non-stop suspense thriller of a read that is laced with memorable characters and a plot line that has more ups and downs than a Coney Island roller coaster. While highly recommended for community library Contemporary Espionage &Suspense Thriller collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Slay The Dragon" is also available in an inexpensive digital book format (Kindle, $0.99).
Editorial Note: William McGinnis has written numerous books including "Gold Bay: An Adam Weldon Mystery Thriller"; "Whitewater: A Thriller"; "Whitewater Rafting"; "The Guide's Guide Augmented: Reflections on Guiding Professional River Trips"; and "Sailing the Greek Islands: Dancing with Cyclops".
Before & After
Jamison Thomas Meyer
Dorrance Publishing Company
585 Alpha Drive, Suite 103, Pittsburgh, PA 15238
www.dorrancepublishing.com
9781637643549, $31.00, HC, 360pp
https://www.amazon.com/Before-After-Jamison-Thomas-Meyer/dp/1637643543
Synopsis: In the middle of the night, as the stars creep across the sky, Sam wakes to discover himself lying on a dock. He has no recollection of where he is or how he got there - nor does he know the identity of the dead woman lying next to him.
Sam, confused and lost, must hurry to figure out who this woman is, and how she died. Was she murdered? Should he go to the authorities and risk being a suspect? But before he can decide what to do with his future, he must work to uncover his past, and the events leading up to the mysterious woman's death. Who is she? More importantly, who is he?
In the midst of all these questions, a blooming love affair with a young man, who may actually be part of his past.
Critique: An inherently absorbing novel of psychological suspense and mystery, "Before & After" by Jamison Thomas Meyer is all the more impressive when considering that it is the author's debut as a novelist. "Before & After" is a true page-turner of a read with memorable crafted characters, unexpected plot twists, and an inherently fascinating, unexpected conclusion. While highly recommended, especially for community library Contemporary Mystery/Suspense and Crime Fiction collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated mystery buffs that "Before & After" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note: A self-described bibliophile, Jamison Thomas Meyer has long had a love of literature and has spent much of his life writing. He wrote his first short story in fourth grade and his first novella as a high school freshman.
Secret Society: All We Have Is Us
Miasha
Kingston Imperial
9781954220508, $14.95, PB, 176pp
https://www.amazon.com/Secret-Society-All-We-Have/dp/1954220502
Synopsis: Celess and Tina are two young women at the top of their game. They've got the looks and the bodies to attract attention from men wherever they go -- and they work it. From New York to Philly to Vegas, they hit all the clubs and every big party dressed to kill. And they don't pay for a thing -- not with men like O, Tariq, and James lining up to buy them designer clothes, the hottest jewelry, and luxury cars.
But their fast paced lives are about to catch up with them. The two share a devastating secret, and when it's revealed, Celess will need every ounce of her street smarts to survive.
Critique: A riveting novel that combines elements of erotic suspense with a mystery thriller, "Secret Society: All We Have Is Us" is a deftly crafted and entertaining read for mature readers only. Highly recommended, and of particularly special interest for an African-American readership, it should be noted that "Secret Society: All We Have Is Us" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note: Miasha's debut novel was "Secret Society: A Novel" (2006). In the years that followed, she released two more Secret Society series books, respectively titled "Never Enough" and "Til Death". Cited as "A Writer to Watch" by Publisher's Weekly, Miasha was featured in national magazines like Essence, VIBE, Philadelphia Magazine, Jet and Elle (as the first urban literature author to grace the pages). Her presence was felt even stronger when she released her top-selling sophomore novel, "Diary of a Mistress" (2006). In 2007, Miasha released her third title, "Mommy's Angel". Less than a year later, Miasha released "Sistah for Sale", a cinematic read about a girl growing up in Miami's sex trade. In addition to releasing seven titles under Simon and Schuster, Miasha contributed to Diamond Playgirls, an anthology published by Kensington Books.
EDITOR'S NOTE:
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Anyone wanting to submit books for review consideration can send them to:
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Midwest Book Review
278 Orchard Drive
Oregon, WI 53575-1129
To submit reviews of any fiction or non-fiction books, email them to Frugalmuse (at) aol (dot) com (Be sure to include the book title, author, publisher, publisher address, publisher website/phone number, 13-digit ISBN number, and list price).
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Midwest Book Review
A Gathering Storm
David E. Feldman
EFace Media
9780578358994, $11.95
https://www.amazon.com/Gathering-Storm-Gripping-Mystery-Thriller/dp/0578358999
A Gathering Storm is the second book in David E. Feldman's Dora Ellison mystery series. Dora is enrolled in the police academy, but is struggling with her experience, independent spirit, and the rigors of an instructional approach that would place her efforts and problem solving skills in a routine police procedural box. Her prior success in solving a local corruption case isn't helping her present milieu as a student who is supposed to be subservient to more experienced instructors.
It also doesn't help that Dora is pulled into yet another mystery when Jesse Burrell, the brother of a city council member, vanishes hours after a family gathering and is murdered. As Dora's unofficial probe into the murder brings her in conflict with police department official procedures, she finds herself navigating a fine line between her convictions and standard operating procedures. Further complicating matters is the fact that the victim's brother-in-law Rudy may hold a clue to events that he doesn't even know he possesses.
David E. Feldman writes a fine mystery that revolves as much around family relationships and personal and professional clashes as it does on a murder puzzle that challenges Dora on many different levels. There's an unusual romance, too many possible perps, and Jesse's own life, which also holds clues about what really happened. Developing all these threads in one mystery involves a dance between subplots and character-building - one that Feldman deftly performs as he leads readers to question not only Dora's modus operandi, but the victim's relationships and choices.
From instructors who reject Dora's abilities and consider her protests "backtalk" to Dora's penchant for refusing to give up when the going gets tough, readers will be immersed both in her personal revelations and trials and the professional conundrums she faces in pursuing the truth against all odds. Murder mystery readers interested in a full-flavored story that embraces not just a whodunit but the evolving trends of Dora's life will find A Gathering Storm both a worthy compliment to its predecessor and an excellent stand-alone read.
Dora's pursuit of her life purpose and passion is a draw that will attract beyond the usual genre audience, as well: "She loved police work. She loved solving crimes. In a way, she had always known that. She loved puzzles that manifested in real life, and she loved delivering justice where it was needed. Where she was needed."
Desert Getaway
Michael Craft
Brash Books
www.brash-books.com
9781954841161 $18.99 pbk
B09PSN4KJ1 $5.99 Kindle
https://www.amazon.com/Desert-Getaway-Dante-Jazz-Mystery/dp/1954841167
Dante O'Donnell made the wrong relationship choices and followed the wrong dreams. Now he makes ends meet as a concierge for a vacation rental outfit in Palm Springs. Jazz Friendly is an ex-cop whose career was challenged not just by racism, but by her own addiction. Now she's honing her skills in a new career, as a private eye. Both are starting over. The last thing they need is each other.
For one thing, they are polar opposites in race, sexual orientation, and temperament. What they do share is a new beginning and new aspirations... and being misfits who aren't yet in solid positions in their revised lives. They also share a common goal when circumstances draw them together over the puzzling murder of the director of a local art museum.
Motivated by their jobs and special interests to become involved in the investigation that follows, Jazz and Dante find their clashing lives at odds even as their objectives dovetail in strange ways. In the typical mystery genre read, the investigation often is the major draw of the story.
In Desert Getaway, it's the often-stormy relationship between these two investigators which drive the action and drama. This makes for a psychologically astute inspection that will especially please readers who want their stories motivated by emotion and stimulus beyond perp and victim relationships.
Author Michael Craft's ability to inject humor into the intrigue provides comic relief at unexpected moments as each character employs their typical modus operandi to inspect possibilities, often injecting snarky observations of each other into the process: "When I switched on my computer, I spotted an email from Jazz, which was unusual, as she seemed to prefer phoning. Opening it, I found that she had sent me an enlarged screen grab from the video of the presumed hit man who had apparently drowned Noreen - a naughty pool boy, indeed. Jazz wrote, "Arcie says this was digitally enhanced. Still looks like crap. Call me." When she answered my call, she said, "Where were you all day?" "Working." "Banging another client?" She broke into a belly laugh. "Now, don't you start. I've been taking care of business. And you?"
As the first-person narrative traverses the possibilities of money laundering, real estate and banking deals, and the lives of various staff members of M3A who attended the pool party (including Hannah, the soft-spoken wife of CFO Howard Quince), the intrigue strengthens with too many suspects, secrets, and possible motives for murder. Jazz and Dante are challenged at many crossroads by not just the characters they interview and consider, but each another and their disparate viewpoints.
Craft brings these personalities and perspectives to life in a murder mystery which captures the underside of Palm Springs life and its art world, bringing into question the possibility of justice for the victims and a friendship which evolves from seemingly dissimilar roots. Readers who are interested in the interactions and shared objectives of a misfit team that must draw together the threads of many special interests to uncover the truth will find Desert Getaway a compelling romp through fiascos, fairy-tale lives, and organized crime.
Poison at the Village Show
Catherine Coles
www.catherinecoles.com
Boldwood Books
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781804150597, $TBA, Large Print, PB, 340pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/title.php?sqlCmd=isbn%3D9781804150597
Synopsis: Westleham Village 1947. With the war finally over the residents of Westleham village are trying to reclaim a sense of normality and the upcoming village show is proving to be a popular event!
Newcomer, Martha Miller, has high hopes for the village show. Since her husband Stan left for work one day and never returned, some of the villagers have treated Martha with suspicion - why would a good man like Stan simply up and leave? Was it something Martha did? All Martha knows is that she's hoping that she can win people over and hopefully they'll buy her delicious homemade plum gin, too and she'll be able to make ends meet. But as glasses of Martha's gin are passed around, disaster strikes.
Alice Warren, Chairwoman of the village show slumps to the ground after taking a sip. It's clear she's been poisoned! Martha is shocked, but not surprised, when fingers of suspicion once again point her way. Determined to prove her innocence, Martha sets about trying to find the real culprit. But who would kill Alice and why? Ably helped by the new vicar, Luke Walker, Martha quickly tries to get to the bottom of this mystery. But with the villagers closing ranks it quickly becomes apparent that the only person with a motive is Martha herself... Will Luke and Martha discover who is behind the poisoning before it's too late?
Critique: With her 'whodunnit' literary skills at the level of an Agatha Christie or a G. K. Chesterton, novelist Cathrerine Coles's "Poison at the Village Show" has all the qualities expected of an English mystery. This large print paperback edition of "Poison at the Village" is pure mystery buff entertainment and is recommended for both personal reading lists and community library Mystery/Suspense collections.
Editorial Note: Catherine writes cosy mysteries that take place in the English countryside. Her extremely popular Tommy & Evelyn Christie mysteries are set in 1920s North Yorkshire. Her new series, the Martha Miller cosy mysteries, are set in the years following the Second World War in Berkshire. She maintains a website at www.catherinecoles.com
The Cold Killer
Ross Greenwood
Boldwood Books
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781800484733, $TBA, PB, 538pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/title.php?sqlCmd=isbn%3D9781800484733
Synopsis: When a tired old inmate is found dead in his cell, the prison is obligated to investigate and so DI Barton attends. The men he interviews have been convicted of some of the worst things a human being can do, but it appears likely that the death was due to natural causes.
When the house of the dead man is burgled and that crime is followed by a suspicious fire, Barton desperately needs to speak to his widow, but she's nowhere to be found. In the space of twenty-four hours, everyone he wants to talk to has vanished. Then he receives some post which makes him believe he could be the next to disappear.
In just a few days, Barton's investigation goes full circle, through a series of brutal murders, back to the prison. There's a shocking development which even he could never have imagined, and all signs are pointing to the fact that he's made a terrible mistake. There's a violent killer on the loose, who wants everyone to learn that it's hard to live when you deserve to die.
Critique: Combing a 'whodunnity' with a killer thriller of a suspense novel, the large print paperback edition of novelist Ross Greenwood's "The Cold Killer" is a riveting great read, a 'must' for all dedicated prison fiction fans, and especially recommended for community library Mystery/Suspense fiction collections.
Murder at the Abbey
Frances Evesham
https://francesevesham.com
Boldwood Books
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781800480544, $TBA, Large Print, PB, 396pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/title.php?sqlCmd=isbn%3D9781800480544
Synopsis; An unsolved murder echoes down the corridors of Cleeve Abbey for years. The Exham-on-Sea's History Society's annual summer picnic comes to an abrupt end when human bones are discovered in Washford River, beside historic Cleeve Abbey. Thrilled to find evidence of a possible centuries-old murder mystery, the members of the society organise a ghost-hunting night in the ruins of Cleeve Abbey, despite amateur sleuth Libby Forest's reservations.
Libby is a woman of many talents, a baker, chocolatier, even a reluctant sleuth, but she's no fan of the supernatural and her doubts are justified when a friend is attacked under cover of darkness at the ghost-hunt. Distressed and angry, Libby sets out with her new husband Max and their two dogs Bear and Shipley to uncover the connection between the murder of a sixteenth century monk and a present-day attack in picturesque Somerset.
With friends and neighbours as suspects, Libby and Max close in on the culprit only to find that others are still in danger. There's no time to lose as the sins of the past threaten lives in the community.
Critique: An Exham-On-Sea murder mystery by veteran novelist Frances Evesham, "Murder at the Abbey" another of her deftly crafted 'whodunnit' style mysteries for her growing legions of fans. This large print paperback edition from Boldwood Books is particularly recommended for community library Mystery/Suspense collections -- and a 'must' for dedicated mystery buffs in general, and the growing legions of Frances Evesham fans in particular.
Surfeit of Suspects
George Bellairs
https://www.georgebellairs.com
Charnwood Large Print
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781444848939, $TBA, Large Print, PB, 234pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/title.php?sqlCmd=isbn%3D9781444848939
Synopsis: Following a mysterious explosion, the offices of the Excelsior Joinery Company are no more: three directors are killed, and the peace of a quiet town in Surrey lies in ruins. When the supposed cause of a faulty gas-main is dismissed, and evidence of dynamite revealed, Superintendent Littlejohn of Scotland Yard is summoned to the scene. But beneath the sleepy veneer of Evingden lies a hotbed of deep-seated grievances. Confounding Littlejohn's investigation is an impressive cast of suspicious persons, each concealing their own axe to grind.
Critique: A true mystery lover's delight with its roster of memorable characters and a plot that has more twists and turns than a Coney Island roller coaster, this large print paperback edition of "Surfeit of Suspects" by George Bellairs is a truly fun puzzle of a read right down to the unexpected climax. The stuff of which BBC mystery movies are made, "Surfeit of Suspects" is very highly recommended for community library Mystery/Suspense collections and the personal reading lists of dedicated British Detective & English Mystery fans.
Editorial Note: George Bellairs was the pseudonym of Harold Blundell (1902-1982). He was, by day, a Manchester bank manager with close connections to the University of Manchester. He is often referred to as the English Simenon, as his detective stories combine wicked crimes and classic police procedurals, set in small British communities. There is a George Bellairs website at https://www.georgebellairs.com
The Shop on Royal Street
Karen White
Berkley Books
c/o Penguin Group (USA)
www.penguin.com
9780593334584, $27.00, HC, 384pp
https://www.amazon.com/Shop-Royal-Street/dp/0593334582
Synopsis: After a difficult detour on her road to adulthood, Nola Trenholm is looking to begin anew in New Orleans, and what better way to start her future than with her first house? But the historic fixer-upper she buys comes with even more work than she anticipated when the house's previous occupants don't seem to be ready to depart.
Although she can't communicate with ghosts like her stepmother can, luckily Nola knows someone in New Orleans who is able to -- even if he's the last person on earth she wants anything to do with ever again. Beau Ryan comes with his own dark past (a past that involves the disappearance of his sister and parents during Hurricane Katrina) and he's connected to the unsolved murder of a woman who once lived in the old Creole cottage Nola is determined to make her own -- whether the resident restless spirits agree or not!
Critique: Clever, original, entertaining, "The Shop On Royal Street" is a cosy mystery fans pure delight from cover to cover. A deftly crafted blend of mystery, romance, and the metaphysical, "The Shop On Royal Street" is a fun read from cover to cover and unreservedly recommended for community library Contemporary Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated mystery buffs that "The Shop On Royal Street" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99). It should be noted by librarians that there is also a large print paperback edition of "The Shop On Royal Street" available (Random House Large Print, 9780593556382, $29.00, 544pp).
Editorial Note: An established author, Karen White maintains an informative website at www.karen-white.com and can be connect with on social media at: Facebook: Facebook.com/karenwhiteauthor, Twitter: @KarenWhiteWrite, Instagram: @KarenWhiteWrite and Pinterest: KarenWhiteBooks
Sunset Blues
Bob Adamov
www.BobAdamov.com
Packard Island Publishing
https://packardislandpublishing.com
9798985359305, $28.00, HC, 224pp
https://www.amazon.com/Sunset-Blues-Emerson-Moore-14/dp/B09SBV549Q
Synopsis: A mysterious explosion destroys the bayfront home of investigative reporter Emerson Moore's Aunt Anne in Put-in-Bay. His aunt has vanished. Was she kidnapped? Is there a connection to the nefarious activities by Russians running London-style taxis on Lake Erie's South Bass Island and in Key West? Is her apparent abduction part of a vendetta against Moore?
Moore initially enlists island entertainer Mike "Mad Dog" Adams to help uncover the clues to finding his aunt. Their search takes them from a major scuffle in Detroit with drug lord Ruslan Zharkov to Key West where they recruit a team of easily sidetracked and hilarious reprobates led by local mischief-maker Chuck Meier.
As the tension mounts and the net tightens, Moore has the unsettling feeling that the worst has befallen his aunt. Along the way, Moore uncovers a shocking surprise as to who was behind her disappearance -- it was indeed someone who has a score to settle with Moore. With the clock ticking, the stakes are stacked against successfully finding her alive. As Moore struggles emotionally just to get through each day with little progress, he finds himself on a collision course with the cunning Zharkov.
Critique: With the publication of "Sunset Blues", was again author and novelist Bob Adamov demonstrates that he is a master of the fast-paced, action-packed, mystery adventure, complete with ambushes, deadly shootouts, betrayal, cruelty and cast of truly memorable characters. Simply stated, "Sunset Blues" is especially and unreservedly recommended for the personal reading lists of action-adventure mystery buffs and a welcome addition to community library Contemporary Mystery/Suspense collections.
Editorial Note: More information about Bob Adamov and his Emerson Moore mystery adventure series can be found on his personal website at www.BobAdamov.com
Murder on Madison Square
Victoria Thompson
Berkley Prime Crime
c/o Penguin Group (USA)
www.penguin.com
9780593337066, $26.00, HC, 352pp
https://www.amazon.com/Murder-Madison-Square-Gaslight-Mystery/dp/0593337069
Synopsis: Former policeman Frank Malloy is frustrated when a woman requests his private detective services to implicate her wealthy husband in adultery, the only legal grounds for divorce in New York state. Although Mrs. Bing seems genuinely distressed about her marriage and desperate to end it, she refuses to tell Frank the reason she absolutely must divorce her husband and admits she has no legal grounds. Frank explains he won't manufacture evidence for her and sends her on her way.
The following week, Frank and Sarah happen to be attending the first ever auto show in Madison Square Garden when they meet the woman's husband, Alfred Bing, who has invested in a company that produces one of the electric motorcars on display. A few days later, the newspapers report that millionaire Alvin Bing has been found dead, pinned beneath one of the wheels of his very own motorcar. But who was driving it? The obvious suspect is Mrs. Bing, but Frank and Sarah find that nothing is as it seems in their puzzling, dangerous search for truth.
Critique: Some writers just seem to have a natural talent for deftly crafting a riveting 'whodunnit' style of mystery novel that keeps satisfied mystery buffs looking eagerly toward their next book. Award winning mystery novelist Victoria Thompson is just such a writer. Her latest novel, "Murder on Madison Square", is part of her simply outstanding 'A Gaslight Mystery' series and will prove to be an enthusiastically popular addition to community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should also be noted for their personal reading lists by the growing legions of Victoria Thompson fans that "Murder on Madison Square" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).
Editorial Note: Victoria Thompson writes the Edgar and Agatha Award nominated Gaslight Mystery Series, a collection of mysteries set in turn-of-the-century New York City and featuring midwife Sarah Brandt. She is also the author of the Sue Grafton Award nominated Counterfeit Lady Series of mysteries set in early twentieth century New York City and featuring con artist Elizabeth Miles. She also teaches in the Seton Hill University master's program in writing popular fiction.
Bear Witness
Lark O. Jensen
Crooked Lane Books
2 Park Avenue, 10th floor, New York, NY 10016
www.crookedlanebooks.com
9781643858968, $26.99, HC, 320pp
https://www.amazon.com/Bear-Witness-Alaska-Untamed-Mystery/dp/1643858963
Synopsis: No nine-to-five cubicle career will suit Stacie Calder -- as a naturalist, she much prefers working in the great outdoors. Specifically, the spacious and spectacular Alaskan wilderness, whose rugged charms she shares with sightseers on the top deck of the tour boat where she works. But one May afternoon, Stacie's passengers see more than glittering glaciers, frolicking harbor seals, climbing bears and soaring seabirds -- they also witness a man lying dead in the frigid Alaskan waters. And it seems quite likely that someone gave him a fatal push.
Stacie didn't know the unfortunate victim, but he sure wanted to know a lot about her. He spent most of his final afternoon bombarding her with questions quite awkward to answer. And when he wasn't in her hair, he was arguing incessantly with the boat's beleaguered crew. Which makes for a suspect list about as long as the passenger manifest. Furthermore, as police helicopters relentlessly circle her boat in search of any clues, Stacie is shaken to find herself on that suspect list.
Before the tour boat reaches shore Stacie (accompanied by her beautiful blue-eyed husky, Sasha) must deduce just who sent the testy tourist tumbling into the turgid waters and have the authorities take custody. Because if she can't, then the killer might aim a fatal ice-cold stare at Stacie!
Critique: An impressively crafted 'whodunnit' mystery with more unexpected plot twists and turns that a Coney Island roller coaster, "Bear Witness" by Lark O. Jensen is a mystery buffs delight from first page to last. Original, compelling, entertaining throughout, "Bear Witness" is a very highly recommended and certain to be enduringly popular addition to community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of all dedicated mystery fans that "Bear Witness" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99).
Editorial Note: Lark O. Jensen has published 53 books so far, including mysteries and romantic novels. She has written several cozy mystery series including the Barkery & Biscuits Mysteries and Superstition Mysteries for Midnight Ink, and the Kendra Ballantyne, Pet-Sitter Mysteries and Pet Rescue Mysteries for Berkley Prime Crime. She also writes romances for Harlequin, including Harlequin Romantic Suspense. Her latest romance ficton release is Colton First Responder, for Harlequin Romantic Suspense.
Magic, Lies, and Deadly Pies
Misha Popp
https://www.mishapopp.com
Crooked Lane Books
2 Park Avenue, 10th floor, New York, NY 10016
www.crookedlanebooks.com
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781643859958, $26.99, HC, 336pp
https://www.amazon.com/Magic-Lies-Deadly-Mushoku-Tensei/dp/1643859951
Synopsis: The first time Daisy Ellery killed a man with a pie, it was an accident. Now, it's her calling. Daisy bakes sweet vengeance into her pastries, which she and her dog Zoe deliver to the men who've done dirty deeds to the town's women. But if she can't solve the one crime that's not of her own baking, she'll be out of the pie pan and into the oven.
Parking her Pies Before Guys mobile bakery van outside the local diner, Daisy is informed by Frank, the crusty diner owner, that someone's been prowling around the van -- and not just to inhale the delectable aroma. Already on thin icing with Frank, she finds a letter on her door, threatening to reveal her unsavory secret sideline of pie a la murder.
Blackmail? But who whipped up this half-baked plot to cut a slice out of Daisy's business? Purple-haired campus do-gooder Melly? Noel, the tender (if flaky) farm boy? Or one of the abusive men who prefer their pie without a deadly scoop of payback?
The upcoming statewide pie contest could be Daisy's big chance to help wronged women everywhere -- that is, if she doesn't meet a sticky end first. Because Daisy knows the blackmailer won't stop until her business is in crumbles.
Critique: Introducing unique and original protagonist in a unique and original mystery, "Magic, Lies, and Deadly Pies" by new novelist Misha Popp is unabashed fun on the printed page and will have a wide appeal, not only for veteran mystery buffs, but for anyone that appreciates irony, whimsey, and lethal pastries! While also available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Dreamscape, 9781666581331, $22.99, CD), "Magic, Lies, and Deadly Pies" is highly recommended for community library Contemporary Mystery/Suspense collections.
Editorial Note: Misha Popp enjoys writing about murdery women and over-the-top baked goods. She has launched a personal website at https://www.mishapopp.com
The Shadow of Memory
Connie Berry
www.connieberry.com
Crooked Lane Books
2 Park Avenue, 10th floor, New York, NY 10016
www.crookedlanebooks.com
9781643859088, $26.99, HC, 352pp
https://www.amazon.com/Shadow-Memory-Kate-Hamilton-Mystery/dp/1643859080
Synopsis: As Kate Hamilton plans her upcoming wedding to Detective Inspector Tom Mallory, she is also assisting her colleague Ivor Tweedy with a project at the Netherfield Sanatorium, which is being converted into luxury townhouses. Kate and Ivor must appraise a fifteenth-century painting and verify that its provenance is the Dutch master Jan Van Eyck. But when retired criminal inspector Will Parker is found dead, Kate learns that the halls of the sanatorium housed much more than priceless art.
Kate is surprised to learn that Will had been the first boyfriend of her friend Vivian Bunn, who hasn't seen him in fifty-eight years. At a seaside holiday camp over sixty years ago, Will, Vivian, and three other teens broke into an abandoned house where a doctor and his wife had died under bizarre circumstances two years earlier. Now, when a second member of the childhood gang dies unexpectedly, and then a third, it becomes clear that the teens had discovered more in the house than they had realized.
Had Will returned to warn his old love? When Kate makes a shocking connection between a sixty-year-old murder and the long-buried secrets of the sanatorium, she suddenly understands that time is running out for Vivian -- and anyone connected to her!
Critique: The stuff of which television's Hallmark Chanel Mystery Movies are made, "The Shadow of Memory" by veteran mystery writer Connie Berry is the latest volume in the author's Kate Hamilton Mystery series. Deftly crafted, inherently compelling, a real page turner of a read from cover to cover, "The Shadow of Memory" is unreservedly recommended for community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the growing legions of Connie Berry fans that "The Shadow of Memory" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99).
Editorial Note: Connie Berry is the author of the Kate Hamilton Mysteries, set in the UK and featuring an American antiques dealer with a gift for solving crimes. Like her protagonist, Connie was raised by antiques dealers who instilled in her a passion for history, fine art, and travel. In 2019 Connie won the IPPY Gold Medal for Mystery and was a finalist for the Agatha Award's Best Debut. She's a member of Mystery Writers of America and is on the board of the Guppies and her local Sisters in Crime chapter. She also maintains a personal and professional website www.connieberry.com
One of Us Is Dead
Jeneva Rose
https://www.jenevarose.com
Blackstone Publishing
31 Mistletoe Road, Ashland, OR 97520
www.BlackstoneAudio.com
9798200706846, $28.99, HC, 318pp
https://www.amazon.com/One-Us-Dead-Jeneva-Rose/dp/B09BDRZR42
Synopsis: With the publication of her latest novel, author Jeneva Rose would like you to eet the women of Buckhead -- a community of expensive cars, huge houses, and competitive friendships.
Shannon was once the queen bee of Buckhead. But she's been unceremoniously dumped by Bryce, her politician husband. When Bryce replaces her with a much younger woman, Shannon sets out to take revenge...
Crystal has stepped into Shannon's old shoes. A young, innocent Texan girl, she simply has no idea what she's up against...
Olivia has waited years to take Shannon's crown as the unofficial queen of Buckhead. Finally, her moment has come. But to take her rightful place, she will need to use every backstabbing, manipulative, underhand trick in the book...
Jenny owns Glow, the most exclusive salon in town. Jenny knows all her clients' secrets and darkest desires. But will she ever tell?
Who amongst these women will be clever enough to survive Buckhead -- and who will wind up dead? They say that friendships can be complex, but no one said it could ever be this deadly.
Critique: A deftly crafted blend of women's friendships, rivalries, ambitions, and suspense, "One of Us is Dead" is a riveting and entertaining read from first page to last. While also available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.69) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (9798200705955, $31.95, MP3-CD), "One of Us is Dead" will prove to be a welcome and popular addition to community library Contemprorary Mystery/Suspense collections.
Editorial Note: Jeneva Rose is also the author of The Perfect Marriage, which has been published in nearly a dozen languages and optioned for film. She maintains a website at https://www.jenevarose.com
The Echoes
Jess Montgomery
Minotaur Books
c/o St. Martin's Publishing Group
www.minotaurbooks.com
9781250623423, $27.99, HC, 288pp
https://www.amazon.com/Echoes-Kinship-4-Jess-Montgomery/dp/1250623421
Synopsis: As July 4, 1928 approaches, Sheriff Lily Ross and her family look forward to the opening of an amusement park in a nearby town, created by World War I military veteran and lumber mill owner Chalmer Fitzpatrick. When Lily is alerted to the possible drowning of a girl, she goes to investigate, and discovers schisms going back several generations, in an ongoing dispute over the land on which Fitzpatrick has built the park.
Lily's family life is soon rattled, too, with the revelation that before he died, her brother had a daughter, Esme, with a woman in France, and arrangements have been made for Esme to immigrate to the U.S. to live with them. But Esme never makes it to Kinship, and soon Lily discovers that she has been kidnaped. Not only that, but a young woman is indeed found murdered in the fishing pond on Fitzpatrick's property, at the same time that a baby is left on his doorstep.
As the two crimes interweave, Lily must confront the question of what makes family: can we trust those we love? And what do we share, and what do we keep secret?
Critique: Original, deftly crafted, inherently engaging, populated with memorable characters and more plot twists and turns than a carnival roller coaster, "The Echoes" by Jess Montgomery is a simply riveting read by an accomplished novelist and will prove to be a particularly welcome addition to community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of all crime fiction fans that "The Echoes" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).
Editorial Note: Jess Montgomery writes the Writer's Digest magazine column, "Level Up Your Writing (Life)" and was formerly the "Literary Life" columnist for the Dayton Daily News. Based on early chapters of the first book in the Kinship Series, The Widows, Jess was awarded an Ohio Arts Council individual artist's grant for literary arts and named the John E. Nance Writer-in-Residence at Thurber House in Columbus. She also hosts the podcast, "Tea with Jess: Chatting with Authors & Artists."
Wild Creek Whispers
Cindy Keen Reynders
www.cindykeenreynders.com
Camel Press
6524 NE 181st Street, STE #2, Kenmore, WA 98028
www.camelpress.com
9781942078524, $16.95, PB, 256pp
https://www.amazon.com/Wild-Creek-Whispers-Cindy-Reynders/dp/1942078528
Synopsis: Wyoming private investigator Reese Golden has been hired by a distraught mother to find her missing 4-year-old daughter. This is no small task, considering that the child has been missing for weeks and has seemingly vanished into thin air.
Unfortunately, the police and the FBI haven't been able to come up with any leads. Reese, a former police detective, was shot on the job, which led to her departure from the force. She is still rebuilding confidence in her abilities, and hesitates to take on the case, but she cannot in good conscience deny the woman's plea for help.
Reese uses her gut instincts to research and follow leads that point to the missing girl's whereabouts. Despite the threats against her life, she travels into the backcountry wilderness and the heights of mountain passes to try and locate the child.
Although Reese's attempts to bring the missing girl home to her family prove to be a major challenge, one that is fraught with danger and intrigue, she fights against the odds to stay on her course. With a child's life at stake, she refuses to back down.
Not only does Reese discover the truth about herself, she discovers the lengths to which human nature will drive individuals who are desperate to have what they want, no matter the cost.
Critique: Some mystery authors seem to have a natural flair for originality combined with the kind of narrative driven storytelling that simply and fully engage the reader's total attention from cover to cover. Novelist Cindy Keen Reynders is just such an author and her latest novel, "Wild Creek Whipsers" is a masterpiece of suspense and 'whodunnit' fiction. While especially and unreservedly recommended for community library Contemporary Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated mystery fans that "Wild Creek Whispers" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.99).
Editorial Note: Cindy Keen Reynders is the author of the Saucy Lucy series books (The Saucy Lucy Murders, Paws-itively Guilty and A Killer Slice). Solstice Publishing recently released her paranormal romance The Seven-Year Witch, A Witch at Midnight and Witch Tease. Over the years, Cindy has won or placed in different writing contests. She has also written for and edited many newsletters. Additionally, she has sold several non-fiction magazine articles to "True West" and "Wild West." She maintains a website at www.cindykeenreynders.com
Metropolis
B. A. Shapiro
Algonquin Books
PO Box 2225, Chapel Hill, NC 27515-2225
www.algonquin.com
www.blackstoneaudio.com
9781616209582, $27.95, HC, 368pp
https://www.amazon.com/Metropolis-Novel-B-Shapiro/dp/1616209585
Synopsis: Was it really an accident? Was it suicide? A murder? Six mysterious characters, who rent units in, or are connected to, the self-storage facility, must now reevaluate their lives.
Serge is an unstable but brilliant street photographer who lives in his unit, which overflows with thousands of undeveloped pictures; Zach is the building's owner who develops Serge's photos as he searches for clues to the accident; Marta is an undocumented immigrant who is finishing her dissertation and hiding from ICE; Liddy is an abused wife and mother who recreates her children's bedroom in her unit; Jason has left his corporate firm and now practices law from his storage unit; and Rose is the office manager who takes kickbacks to let renters live in the building and has her own complicated family history.
All six of these characters have a variety of backgrounds: they are different races; they practice different religions; they're young and they're not so young; they are rich, poor, and somewhere in the middle. As they dip in and out of one another's lives, fight circumstances that are within and also beyond their control, and try to discover the details of the accident, in his new novel, "Meteropolis", author B. A. Shapiro both dismantles the myth of the American dream and builds tension to an exciting climax.
Critique: Skillfully crafted with memorable characters, "Metropolis" is a riveting psychological thriller of a read from cover to cover. Raising crime fiction to an impressively high literary level, "Metropolis" is especially and unreservedly recommended for community library Contemporary Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Metropolis" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.17) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Audio, 9798200880874, $41.99, CD).
Margaret Truman's Murder at the CDC
Margaret Truman, author
Jon Land, author
Forge
c/o Tor/Forge Books
www.tor-forge.com
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781250238894, $27.99, HC, 304pp
https://www.amazon.com/Margaret-Trumans-Murder-CDC-Capital/dp/1250238897
Synopsis: 2017: A military transport on a secret run to dispose of its deadly contents vanishes without a trace. A mass shooting on the steps of the Capitol nearly claims the life of Robert Brixton's grandson. No stranger to high-stakes investigations, Brixton embarks on a trail to uncover the motive behind the shooting. On the way he finds himself probing the attempted murder of the daughter his best friend, who works at the Washington offices of the CDC.
The connection between the mass shooting and Alexandra's poisoning lies in that long-lost military transport that has been recovered by forces determined to change America forever. Those forces are led by radical separatist leader Deacon Frank Wilhyte, whose goal is nothing short of bringing on a second Civil War.
Brixton joins forces with Kelly Lofton, a former Baltimore homicide detective. She has her own reasons for wanting to find the truth behind the shooting on the Capitol steps, and is the only person with the direct knowledge Brixton needs. But chasing the truth places them in the cross-hairs of both Wilhyte's legions and his Washington enablers.
Critique: Building on the literary legacy of Margaret Truman, author Jon Land has added a new and much appreciated addition to the Capital Crimes mystery series with the publication of "Margaret Truman's Murder at the CDC". While very highly recommended for community library Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of political thriller fiction that "Margaret Truman's Murder at the CDC" is also available in a digital book format ($14.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Dreamscape Media, 9781662068270, $59.99, CD).
Editorial Note #1: Margaret Truman (February 17, 1924 - January 29, 2008) won faithful readers with her works of biography and fiction, particularly her Capital Crimes mysteries. Her novels let readers into the corridors of power and privilege, and poverty and pageantry, in the nation's capital. She was the author of many nonfiction books, including The President's House, in which she shared some of the secrets and history of the White House, where, as the daughter of President Harry Truman, she once resided.
Editorial Note #2: Jon Land is the USA Today bestselling author of more than fifty books, over ten of which feature Texas Ranger Caitlin Strong. The critically acclaimed series has won more than a dozen awards, including the 2019 International Book Award for Best Thriller for Strong as Steel. He is also the author of Chasing the Dragon, a detailed account of the War on Drugs written with one of the most celebrated DEA agents of all time. A graduate of Brown University, Land lives in Providence, Rhode Island and received the 2019 Rhode Island Authors Legacy Award for his lifetime of literary achievements.
The Walled Garden
Robin Marrar Maass
https://robinfmaass.com
SparkPress
https://gosparkpress.com
9781684631315, $16.95, PB, 344pp
https://www.amazon.com/Walled-Garden-Robin-Farrar-Maass/dp/1684631319
Synopsis: American grad student Lucy Silver arrives in England hoping to solve a longstanding literary mystery, write her dissertation, and finish her graduate studies in a blaze of academic glory. But as Lucy starts to piece together the correspondence between her late grandmother and Elizabeth Blackspear, the famous poet and garden writer who's the subject of Lucy's dissertation, she discovers puzzling coded references in the letters -- and when an elderly English aristocrat with a secret connection to Elizabeth offers Lucy access to a neglected walled garden on his estate, the mystery deepens.
As spring turns to summer in Bolton Lacey, Lucy finds herself fighting the Blackspear Gardens' director's attempt to deny her access to vital documents in the archives -- and trying not to fall in love with an attractive Scottish contractor.
In the midst of this turmoil, she stumbles upon an illicit plot to turn the historic gardens into a theme park, and becomes determined to stop it. As she races against time to save the gardens, Lucy's search for the truth about Elizabeth's life leads her to a French convent where she uncovers explosive evidence that will change her life and the lives of everyone around her, ultimately revealing a home (and an inheritance) more incredible than anything she could ever have imagined!
Critique: All the more impressive when considering that "The Walled Garden" is author Robin Farrar Maass' debut as a novelist, this remarkably well crafted and fully engaging story that deftly combines an historical mystery with elements of a coming of age saga and of college romance. A perfect choice for a summer recreational novel, and also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.49), "The Walled Garden" is an original, entertaining, and unreservedly recommended addition to community library collections.
Kingdom of Bones
James Rollins
William Morrow & Company
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
www.harpercollins.com
9780062892980, $28.99, HC, 464pp
https://www.amazon.com/Kingdom-Bones-Thriller-Sigma-Novels/dp/0062892983
Synopsis: It all begins in Africa. A United Nations relief team in a small village in the Congo makes an alarming discovery. An unknown force is leveling the evolutionary playing field. Men, women, and children have been reduced to a dull, catatonic state. The environment surrounding them (plants and animals) has grown more cunning and predatory, evolving at an exponential pace. The insidious phenomenon is spreading from a cursed site in the jungle (known to locals as the Kingdom of Bones) and is now sweeping across Africa, threatening the rest of the world.
What has made the biosphere run amok? Is it a natural event? Or more terrifyingly, did someone engineer it?
Commander Gray Pierce and Sigma Force are prepared for the extraordinary and have kept the world safe, vigilance for which they have paid a tragic personal price. Yet, even these brilliant and seasoned scientific warriors do not understand what is behind this frightening development -- or know how to stop it. As they race to find answers, the members of Sigma quickly realize they have become the prey.
To head off global catastrophe, Sigma Force must risk their lives to uncover the shattering secret at the heart of the African continent -- a truth that will illuminate who we are as a species and where we may be headed sooner than we know because Mother Nature (red in tooth and claw) is turning against humankind, propelling the entire world into the Kingdom of Bones.
Critique: A simply riveting combination of suspense thriller, action-adventure, and near future science fiction, "Kingdom of Bones" is an absolute 'must read' for the legions of James Rollins fans. The stuff of which block-buster movies are made, "Kingdom of Bones" is especially recommended for community library Contemporary Fiction collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Kingdom of Bones" is also available in a mass market paperback edition (9780062892997, $9.99), and in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99). Librarians should be aware that there is a large print paperback edition of "Kingdom of Bones" (HarperLuxe, 9780062893000, $30.99, 704pp).
Editorial Note: James Rollins is the author of several international thriller novels that have been translated into more than forty languages. In each novel, acclaimed for its originality, Rollins unveils unseen worlds, scientific breakthroughs, and historical secrets -- and he does it all at breakneck speed and with stunning insight.
Slay The Dragon
William McGinnis
Whitewater Press
9781733654784, $15.95, PB, 294pp
https://www.amazon.com/Slay-Dragon-Adam-Weldon-Thriller/dp/173365478X
Synopsis: A police officer is brutally murdered in a "mostly peaceful" Oakland protest. City hall shuts down any serious investigation of the heinous crime. Ex-Navy SEAL Adam Weldon and his cop buddy BC take up the search for the killers only to find themselves hunted, outmatched, and at risk of being killed at any moment.
As they fight for their lives, Adam and BC discover the horrible truth: The murder is part of a relentless, 40-year, "unrestricted warfare" assault on America by an implacable, seemingly all powerful foe. A sovereign state with vast resources -- including database files on virtually everyone and the ability to track and kill anyone anywhere at any time. A sovereign state determined to bring America to its knees and to become itself the dominant power in the world.
Can Adam and his team (and American democracy itself) survive?
Critique: A simply riveting read from cover to cover, and the stuff from which action/adventure movies are made, "Slay The Dragon" is a non-stop suspense thriller of a read that is laced with memorable characters and a plot line that has more ups and downs than a Coney Island roller coaster. While highly recommended for community library Contemporary Espionage &Suspense Thriller collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Slay The Dragon" is also available in an inexpensive digital book format (Kindle, $0.99).
Editorial Note: William McGinnis has written numerous books including "Gold Bay: An Adam Weldon Mystery Thriller"; "Whitewater: A Thriller"; "Whitewater Rafting"; "The Guide's Guide Augmented: Reflections on Guiding Professional River Trips"; and "Sailing the Greek Islands: Dancing with Cyclops".
Before & After
Jamison Thomas Meyer
Dorrance Publishing Company
585 Alpha Drive, Suite 103, Pittsburgh, PA 15238
www.dorrancepublishing.com
9781637643549, $31.00, HC, 360pp
https://www.amazon.com/Before-After-Jamison-Thomas-Meyer/dp/1637643543
Synopsis: In the middle of the night, as the stars creep across the sky, Sam wakes to discover himself lying on a dock. He has no recollection of where he is or how he got there - nor does he know the identity of the dead woman lying next to him.
Sam, confused and lost, must hurry to figure out who this woman is, and how she died. Was she murdered? Should he go to the authorities and risk being a suspect? But before he can decide what to do with his future, he must work to uncover his past, and the events leading up to the mysterious woman's death. Who is she? More importantly, who is he?
In the midst of all these questions, a blooming love affair with a young man, who may actually be part of his past.
Critique: An inherently absorbing novel of psychological suspense and mystery, "Before & After" by Jamison Thomas Meyer is all the more impressive when considering that it is the author's debut as a novelist. "Before & After" is a true page-turner of a read with memorable crafted characters, unexpected plot twists, and an inherently fascinating, unexpected conclusion. While highly recommended, especially for community library Contemporary Mystery/Suspense and Crime Fiction collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated mystery buffs that "Before & After" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note: A self-described bibliophile, Jamison Thomas Meyer has long had a love of literature and has spent much of his life writing. He wrote his first short story in fourth grade and his first novella as a high school freshman.
Secret Society: All We Have Is Us
Miasha
Kingston Imperial
9781954220508, $14.95, PB, 176pp
https://www.amazon.com/Secret-Society-All-We-Have/dp/1954220502
Synopsis: Celess and Tina are two young women at the top of their game. They've got the looks and the bodies to attract attention from men wherever they go -- and they work it. From New York to Philly to Vegas, they hit all the clubs and every big party dressed to kill. And they don't pay for a thing -- not with men like O, Tariq, and James lining up to buy them designer clothes, the hottest jewelry, and luxury cars.
But their fast paced lives are about to catch up with them. The two share a devastating secret, and when it's revealed, Celess will need every ounce of her street smarts to survive.
Critique: A riveting novel that combines elements of erotic suspense with a mystery thriller, "Secret Society: All We Have Is Us" is a deftly crafted and entertaining read for mature readers only. Highly recommended, and of particularly special interest for an African-American readership, it should be noted that "Secret Society: All We Have Is Us" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note: Miasha's debut novel was "Secret Society: A Novel" (2006). In the years that followed, she released two more Secret Society series books, respectively titled "Never Enough" and "Til Death". Cited as "A Writer to Watch" by Publisher's Weekly, Miasha was featured in national magazines like Essence, VIBE, Philadelphia Magazine, Jet and Elle (as the first urban literature author to grace the pages). Her presence was felt even stronger when she released her top-selling sophomore novel, "Diary of a Mistress" (2006). In 2007, Miasha released her third title, "Mommy's Angel". Less than a year later, Miasha released "Sistah for Sale", a cinematic read about a girl growing up in Miami's sex trade. In addition to releasing seven titles under Simon and Schuster, Miasha contributed to Diamond Playgirls, an anthology published by Kensington Books.
EDITOR'S NOTE:
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