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Midwest Book Review
Apr 4, 2013, 12:46:18 PM4/4/13
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The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
Cadaver Blues
J. E. Fishman
Stonegate Ink
c/o Shelton Interactive
3006 Bee Caves Rd., Building A, Suite 300
Austin, TX 78746
9781938426650, $12.95, www.stonegateink.com
The charm of a nice rack can take us on an enlightening voyage. "Cadaver Blues" follows debt man at the bottom of his life Phouc Goldberg as Mindy enters his life and has requests for him, and quickly learns she has more to show him than boobs. Learning about the world in a whole new way, "Cadaver Blues" is a humorous and intriguing novel of finding a new spark in life through a little curiosity.
Falling off the Wind
Richard Meibers
Martin & Lawrence Press
43 Nod Road, Groton, MA 01450
9780982073285, $14.95, www.martinandlawrencepress.com
Spurned and accused, it can be a long road to put life back together. "Falling Off the Wind" is a novel from Richard Meibers as he presents an intriguing break down of Clement Schuetz's life. An accusation of murder and a his ship, he tries to fix everything and may find love anew in the process. "Falling Off the Wind" is a twisting and riveting read, not to be missed for those seeking works of modern fiction.
A Killer's Grace
Ronald Chapman
Seeing True Press
300 South Street, Unit 213, Simpsonville, SC 29681
9780615642611, $12.95, www.AKillersGrace.com
What drives a murder to kill? "A Killer's Grace" is a novel following Kevin Pitcairn, a journalist who tries to find the meaning of the letters sent to him by a serial killer, and trying to understand the deeper evil men are capable of, and how there may be redemption in spite of this evil. "A Killer's Grace" is an exciting thriller that should be hard to put down until the story is done.
Crisis of Faith
Eliza Wood
Kaye & Mills
8840 Wilshire Boulevard, Third Floor
Beverly Hills, CA 90211-2606
9781938341014, $24.95, www.progressplanet.com
Christian fundamentalism grows more intense, and who says they will not be tempted by the methods of their Islamic cousins? "Crisis of Faith" is a thriller following a country in crisis, as a new American president, faced with the rising crisis of fundamentalism turned violent and a slew of other problems weighing heavily on the country, must face down the Christian faith in America and try to understand its involvements in America's problems. "Crisis of Faith" is a controversial and insightful twist of religion and politics, much recommended.
Remember Me, Vendetta
Carlos Alexander Murray
Bittersweet Publishing
PO box 11936, Merrillville, IN 46411
9780984497801, $18.95, www.bittersweetpublishing.com
Something to retire with is what many seek, even in the drug business. "Remember Me, Vendetta" is a contemporary thriller following drug dealer Carlos Andretti as he tries to make one more big run at the top to try to get out of the business. But even in that run, he sees the harm the business causes, and makes "Remember Me, Vendetta" is an exciting read cover to cover.
The Ice Woman Assignment
Austin S. Camacho
Intrigue Publishing
10200 Twisted Stalk Ct., Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
9780979478888, $14.95, www.intriguepublishing.com
A powerful new drug entering the scene is a new market for the criminal overlords to take over. "The Ice Woman Assignment" is a thriller following psychically linked business partners Morgan Stark and Felicity O'Brien as they enter a security venture and find themselves against the rise of Ice, a drug being trafficked by a pair of brothers with their own psychic gifts. "The Ice Woman Assignment" is a keenly exciting adventure, highly recommended.
It Takes Two to Strangle
Stephen Kaminski
Cozy Cat Press
2452 Reflections Dr., Aurora, IL 60502
9780988194311, $14.95, www.amazon.com
Being murdered once implies a strongly negative relationship, but murder twice is just excessive. "It Takes Two to Strangle" is a mystery following Damon Lassard and his detective friend Gerry Sloman as they find the owner of a carnival dead, with extra brutality leveled at him. Finding those responsible won't be easy as one must balance life along with living. "It Takes Two to Strangle" is a humorous and exciting read that should prove very hard to put down, recommended.
Bruthas
J. L. Whitehead
Four Brothers Publications
PO Box 92, Collingswood, NJ 08108
978083801009, $15.00, www.fourbrotherspublications.com
Brotherhood is strong, but how far can those bonds go? "Bruthas" " is a novel of three siblings coping with the many faces of Philadelphia, with three different paths. From high level professionals to those struggling with who they are, the main focus on the action is brother Nate's struggles with the underworld that has consumed the neighborhood of 'The Block'. An exciting story with plenty of twists and turns, "Bruthas" is a fine addition to those who enjoy crime fiction with a nod to literary works.
Beta: Project Avatar
A. M. D. Hays
Diadeua
PO Box 88454, Honolulu, HI 96830
9780985418205, $25.99, www.amazon.com
Technology grows ever more powerful, and may overpower us. "Beta: Project Avatar" is a military thriller about the deadly fallout of a cutting-edge military program that went too far. Cryptographer Dee Lockwood has to act fast to break the codes of the AI of Project Avatar, else many lives will be lost in the process. Riveting reading that will prove very hard to put down, "Beta: Project Avatar" is an excellent and much recommended addition to thriller collections.
A Dream of Daring
Gen LaGreca
Winged Victory Press
PO Box 16730, Chicago, IL 60616-0730
9780974457963, $16.95, www.wingedvictorypress.com
Old ways do not fade into the night quietly. "A Dream of Daring" is a novel set on the dawn of the industrial revolution. Tom Edmunton builds a proto-tractor, and tries to bring a world of change about Louisiana with his invention. But the whiplash is hard, as a loved one is killed, and his invention is stolen. Faced with a crossroads and the charms of multiple women, "A Dream of Daring" is an enticing blend of mystery and romance, much recommended reading.
The Lie-Catcher in the Primate House
Lindsay Crane
Print and Pixel Books
PO Box 1397, Lafayette, CA 94949
9780983305194, $8.95, www.printandpixelbooks.com
Trafficking animals is a whole new cruelty. "The Lie-Catcher in the Primate House" is a thriller from Lindsay Crane as deception detecting specialist Julie Heidebrecht discovers those who are smuggling endangered animals across international borders with cruel intentions. With danger lurking at every turn for her, can she find those responsible for they endanger both animal and human lives? "The Lie-Catcher in the Primate House" is an exciting thriller that should be hard to put down.
Lilith
Toby Tate
DarkFuse
PO Box 338, North Webster, IN 46555
9781937771515, $16.99, www.darkfuse.com
What do you do when your enemy is something you can't truly understand? "Lilith" is a psychological thriller from Toby Tate as he tells the story of Hunter and Lisa, reporters aboard the USS Gerald Ford who learn of an unexpected and incomprehensible force that is stewing above their ship that comes along as a Hurricane in North Carolina. Their may be a fight, and the pair don't fully understand why or how there can be victory. "Lilith" is a strong addition to horror fiction collections, recommended.
Provocateur
Charles D. Martin
Chaney-Hall Publishing
660 Newport Center Drive, Suite 1220
Newport Beach, CA 92660
9780985198404, $23.95, www.provocateurbook.com
Coming from nothing means you have nothing to lose. "Provocateur" follows Nadia, a young Russian woman who comes to America through less than standard means, and ends up with a very unique career in tempting the big wigs of many targets for a private special ops company that uses her talents very creatively. "Provocateur" is a suspenseful thriller that should prove very hard to put down, highly recommended.
Lies of Convenience
M. M. Gornell
Champlain Avenue Books, Inc.
2360 Corporate Circle Drive, Suite 400
Henderson, NV 89074
9780985500801, $13.99, www.amazon.com
For family, we find ourselves willing to endure the worst. "Lies of Convenience" follows Margot, a Midwestern woman who moves to the Mojave desert to meet with her niece. Pressures from the harsh environment of the desert, as well as the people in it, are a heavy burden; she struggles to cope with the weight of it, and protect her niece. "Lies of Convenience" is a blend of drama and mystery, much recommended.
Crogian
John Leahy
Necro Publications
5139 Maxon Territory, Sanford, FL 32771
9781478224891, $12.95, www.necropublications.com
Secrets lie beneath the world that if uncovered, may very well damn us all. "Crogian" is a horror adventure from John Leahy, the fifth book in his Fresh Flesh Series following Ken Forde, a farmer who is on the frontlines as chemicals and dark secrets go awry, threatening the wipe out civilization as they know it. "Crogian" is a riveting thriller that should prove hard to put down.
Aqua Regia
Enrique Henri
Granny's Books Publishing
1152 Hwy 70A, Wilson, OK 73463
9780981861159, $15.99, www.amazon.com
The path from a cruel life is a difficult road to travel. "Aqua Regia" is a novel following Enos Butler, a man who has to deal with the growing and troubled nature of his life to rise up through the ranks of the world in this no-holds-barred thriller that spares nothing on action adventure and everything else in its story. For those who like world traveling thrillers, "Aqua Regia" may be a choice and much recommended pick, not to be overlooked.
Saving Grace
Pamela Fagan Hutchins
Skipjack Publishing
PO Box 31160, Houston, TX 77231
9780988234802, $18.95, www.skipjackpublishing.com
Getting away from it all is easier said than done. "Saving Grace" is the story of attorney Katie Connell who wants to leave her career behind for a bit when it all goes to hell. But in the islands of St. Marcos, she finds many more problems from voodoo, to infidelity, and even violence. "Saving Grace" is a riveting drama with plenty of twists and turns for an exciting read, highly recommended.
Dead in the Water
Dana Stabenow
Poisoned Pen Press
6962 E. First Ave., #103, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
9781464200830, $24.95, www.poisonedpenpress.com
Dead in the Water provides the third Kate Shugak novel blending mystery and adventure, and is set in a stark Alaska rural community in the far north in October, where two crewmen of a crabbing boat are missing and presumed dead. The area offers many possibilities for murder or accident - but Kate suspects foul play, and finds herself working undercover as a crab fisherman to reveal the truth. With its action-packed text and powerful survey of Alaska politics and social life, this is a fine mystery filled with satisfying twists and turns, not to be missed!
Mr. Monk Gets Even
Lee Goldberg
Obsidian Mystery
c/o Penguin Group (USA)
375 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014
9780451239150, $23.95, www.penguin.com
MR. MONK GETS EVEN offers another original mystery novel to add to the ever-expanding line of Mr. Monk sagas. It's the fifteenth in the series and here tells of a stumbling block as a man Monk has identified in a string of accidental deaths and suicides is killed. Add to that the escape of one of his prisoners - with one Captain Stottlemeyer as an accomplice - and detective Monk is faced with a series of personal and professional challenges that test not only his skills, but his entire belief system. Collections seeing prior popularity with the charismatic detective that is Mr. Monk will want to add this latest, which does not disappoint.
Found Guilty at Five
Ann Purser
Berkeley Prime Crime
c/o Penguin Group (USA)
375 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014
9780425252826, $24.95, www.penguin.com
Found Guilty at Five provides a fine Lois Meade mystery, the fifth in the series which features an updated working-class Miss Marple-type character, and here tells of a daughter's wedding, a mysterious cellist who goes missing, and a string of murders which may have just increased by one. Fans of British mysteries, in particular, will appreciate the flavor, tone and setting of FOUND GUILTY AT FIVE. The string of musical thefts creates a satisfying plot with many unexpected moments: perfect for avid mystery readers.
By the Balls, 15th anniversary edition
Jim Pasoe & Tom Fassbender
Akashic Books
PO Box 1456, New York, NY 10009
9781617751592, $16.95, www.akashicbooks.com
By the Balls: The Complete Collection celebrates the 15th anniversary edition of the Bowling Alley Murder Mystery and introduces the character of detective Ben Drake to new readers. It includes the main bowling alley murder mystery story that created the crime fiction house Ugly Town, arrives in a special 15th anniversary edition package to include the two underground cult novels and two new short stories, and is a recommended pick for short story fans who enjoy the classic Hammett and Raymond Chandler genres. Detective Ben Drake loves small cigars and big fights - and women in trouble. His adventures and puzzling cases involve many instances of criminal angst in this riveting account, perfect for fans of hardboiled detective reading.
The Stonecutter
Camilla Lackberg
The Free Press
c/o Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020
9781451621860, $15.99, www.simonandschuster.com
The Stonecutter provides a fine novel featuring the third installment in her series, and is especially recommended for prior fans who will avidly follow the ongoing story of Patrik and his girlfriend Erica, a crime-solving duo who celebrate their first child even as a suspicious drowning claims the young daughter of one of their close friends. An investigation into a rural fishing village unearths a long-held, close-kept secret that if revealed could tear the town apart; for generations have worked hard to prevent discovery. Fans of solid detective fiction will find this an involving read.
Hammett Unwritten
Owen Fitzstephen
Lisa Michalski
Seventh Street Books
c/o Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive
Amherst, NY 14228
9781616147143, $13.95, www.prometheusbooks.com
Many of the events that happen in our lives will make for a heck of a story later on. "Hammett Unwritten: A Novel" stars the famed noir writer Dashiell Hammett, following the author in his pre-writing years as a private investigator. Following the writer as he copes with the strange events that occur in the parallel to his famed works, "Hammett Unwritten" proves to be a creative and enticing twist of fact and fiction, very much recommended reading throughout.
The Missing Italian Girl
Barbara Corrado Pope
Pegasus Books
80 Broad Street, 5th Floor
New York, NY 10004
9781605984087, $25.95, www.pegasusbooks.com
Evil lurks in the chaotic times of turn of the century Paris. "The Missing Italian Girl" is a mystery novel surrounding 1897 Paris. Bernard Martin, a magistrate along with his wife Clarie, delve into the outskirts and dark streets of the French city in order to find the identity of a killer lurking through the city as well as the chaos brewing with an under-appreciated working class. "The Missing Italian Girl" is a strong addition to historical mystery and fiction collections.
Knuckleduster
Andrew Post
Medallion Press, Inc.
100 South River Street
Aurora, IL 60506
9781605424934, $14.95, www.medallionpress.com
To survive and do what we think is right, we often need to make so many sacrifices. "Knuckleduster" follows Brody Calhoun, a man discharged from the military, injured and needing carotene lenses to see anything. His pay comes from vigilante work from battered women as he hunts down cruel husbands and claims vengeance for them. But in the process, he places himself on the wrong side of the law, even if his intentions are good. "Knuckleduster" is an exciting thriller with plenty of twists and turns, highly recommended.
Galaxy Press
7051 Hollywood Boulevard, Suite 200
Hollywood, CA 90028
www.galaxypress.com
Galaxy Press is the quintessential niche publisher in that they are dedicated to bringing the 'Golden Age' of pulp magazine stories and tales of L. Ron Hubbard to a new and appreciative generation of readers. Utilizing original pulp magazine illustrations the produce affordable paperback copies that showcase one of the most imaginative writers of the 1930s and 40s. For example, L. Ron Hubbard's "The Tramp" (9781592123322, $9.95) originally published in the November 1938 issue of 'Astounding Science Fiction' and "The Crossroads" (9781591213681, $9.95) that is drawn from the February 1941 issue of a pulp magazine called 'Unknown'. Both these superbly reproduced stories are enhanced with the inclusion of a glossary, and two special articles: 'L. Ron Hubbard in the Golden Age of Pulp Fiction' and 'The Stories from the Golden Age'. Also of considerable note is the Galaxy Press series of multi-cast audio book adaptations of L. Ron Hubbard's pulp magazine stories. Two particularly outstanding examples are a fantasy set in the world of the circus titled 'If I Were You' (9781592122905, $9.95) which also includes a second fantasy yarn brought to life called 'The Last Drop'; and "Danger In The Dark" (9781592122400, $9.95) set on a remote Pacific island where a man must defeat a god to save the people from annihilation. This vividly presented multicast audio production is augmented with the inclusion of two shorter fantasy tales: 'The Room' and 'He Didn't Like Cats'. Of special note in all Galaxy Press audio book productions is the utilization of music and sound effects to heighten a true 'theatre of the mind' experience for the listener. A complete listing of all of the L. Ron Hubbard stories published and produced are to be found on the Galaxy Press web site at www.goldenstories.com.
Poisoned Pen Press
6962 E. First Ave., #103
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
www.poisonedpenpress.com
Kerry Greenwood's UNNATURAL HABITS (9781464201233, $24.95) provides a fine Phryne Fisher mystery and is set in 1929 Australia, where little girls are going missing and people are nervous. A pushy girl reporter, Polly, decides to investigate, and vanishes herself. It's up to Phryne and her sidekick Dot to find Polly and learn what has happened to all the missing girls - a journey which involves convents, murder and more in a satisfying and gripping saga perfect for any murder mystery library. Vicki Delany's MORE THAN SORROW (9781590589854, $24.95) tells of one Hannah, who is recuperating from a traumatic brain injury and is haunted by her memories. Her recovery is taking place on her sister's small farm in Canada, where she finds friendships and is drawn into a mystery from the past when she experiences visions of a woman in the dark root cellar. When her friend vanishes, Hannah must gain the courage and ability to solve the mystery in this different and grippingly unpredictable story, perfect for any mystery holding.
Berkeley Prime Crime
c/o Penguin Group (USA)
375 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
www.penguin.com
Earlene Fowler's THE ROAD TO CARDINAL VALLEY (9780425252840, $25.95) provides a sequel to The Saddlemaker's Wife but stands alone as a fine read for newcomers also, telling of Ruby's return to Cardinal, California to help her alcoholic brother Nash. When Nash is in a terrible accident, Ruby must consult her estranged mother, who has been harboring a terrible secret. The exposure of this secret will change - and challenge - all their lives in this riveting novel, perfect for any general lending library. Margaret Coel's THE EAGLE CATCHER: A WIND RIVER RESERVATION MYSTERY (9780425262740, $15.00) is the first book in the Wind River Reservation mystery series and is presented in trade paperback for the first time. The murder of an Arapaho tribal chairman involves his nephew and Father John O'Malley, a Jesuit priest who doesn't believe the nephew is a murderer. O'Malley's investigations will reveal a side of Arapaho life that is largely unknown to outsiders - and will also reveal a dangerous game packed with unexpected twists and turns and intrigue. Newcomers to the series who enjoy Native American fiction will find this a winning mystery.
EDITOR'S NOTE:
The Midwest Book Review is an organization of volunteers committed to promoting literacy, library usage, and small press publishing. We accept no funds from authors or publishers. Full permission is given to post any of these reviews on thematically appropriate websites, newsgroups, listserves, internet discussion groups, organizational newsletters, or to interested individuals. Please give the Midwest Book Review a credit line when doing so.
The Midwest Book Review publishes the monthly book review magazines "California Bookwatch", "Internet Bookwatch", "Children's Bookwatch", "MBR Bookwatch", "Reviewer's Bookwatch", and "Small Press Bookwatch". All are available for free on the Midwest Book Review website at www (dot) midwestbookreview (dot) com
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
Cadaver Blues
J. E. Fishman
Stonegate Ink
c/o Shelton Interactive
3006 Bee Caves Rd., Building A, Suite 300
Austin, TX 78746
9781938426650, $12.95, www.stonegateink.com
The charm of a nice rack can take us on an enlightening voyage. "Cadaver Blues" follows debt man at the bottom of his life Phouc Goldberg as Mindy enters his life and has requests for him, and quickly learns she has more to show him than boobs. Learning about the world in a whole new way, "Cadaver Blues" is a humorous and intriguing novel of finding a new spark in life through a little curiosity.
Falling off the Wind
Richard Meibers
Martin & Lawrence Press
43 Nod Road, Groton, MA 01450
9780982073285, $14.95, www.martinandlawrencepress.com
Spurned and accused, it can be a long road to put life back together. "Falling Off the Wind" is a novel from Richard Meibers as he presents an intriguing break down of Clement Schuetz's life. An accusation of murder and a his ship, he tries to fix everything and may find love anew in the process. "Falling Off the Wind" is a twisting and riveting read, not to be missed for those seeking works of modern fiction.
A Killer's Grace
Ronald Chapman
Seeing True Press
300 South Street, Unit 213, Simpsonville, SC 29681
9780615642611, $12.95, www.AKillersGrace.com
What drives a murder to kill? "A Killer's Grace" is a novel following Kevin Pitcairn, a journalist who tries to find the meaning of the letters sent to him by a serial killer, and trying to understand the deeper evil men are capable of, and how there may be redemption in spite of this evil. "A Killer's Grace" is an exciting thriller that should be hard to put down until the story is done.
Crisis of Faith
Eliza Wood
Kaye & Mills
8840 Wilshire Boulevard, Third Floor
Beverly Hills, CA 90211-2606
9781938341014, $24.95, www.progressplanet.com
Christian fundamentalism grows more intense, and who says they will not be tempted by the methods of their Islamic cousins? "Crisis of Faith" is a thriller following a country in crisis, as a new American president, faced with the rising crisis of fundamentalism turned violent and a slew of other problems weighing heavily on the country, must face down the Christian faith in America and try to understand its involvements in America's problems. "Crisis of Faith" is a controversial and insightful twist of religion and politics, much recommended.
Remember Me, Vendetta
Carlos Alexander Murray
Bittersweet Publishing
PO box 11936, Merrillville, IN 46411
9780984497801, $18.95, www.bittersweetpublishing.com
Something to retire with is what many seek, even in the drug business. "Remember Me, Vendetta" is a contemporary thriller following drug dealer Carlos Andretti as he tries to make one more big run at the top to try to get out of the business. But even in that run, he sees the harm the business causes, and makes "Remember Me, Vendetta" is an exciting read cover to cover.
The Ice Woman Assignment
Austin S. Camacho
Intrigue Publishing
10200 Twisted Stalk Ct., Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
9780979478888, $14.95, www.intriguepublishing.com
A powerful new drug entering the scene is a new market for the criminal overlords to take over. "The Ice Woman Assignment" is a thriller following psychically linked business partners Morgan Stark and Felicity O'Brien as they enter a security venture and find themselves against the rise of Ice, a drug being trafficked by a pair of brothers with their own psychic gifts. "The Ice Woman Assignment" is a keenly exciting adventure, highly recommended.
It Takes Two to Strangle
Stephen Kaminski
Cozy Cat Press
2452 Reflections Dr., Aurora, IL 60502
9780988194311, $14.95, www.amazon.com
Being murdered once implies a strongly negative relationship, but murder twice is just excessive. "It Takes Two to Strangle" is a mystery following Damon Lassard and his detective friend Gerry Sloman as they find the owner of a carnival dead, with extra brutality leveled at him. Finding those responsible won't be easy as one must balance life along with living. "It Takes Two to Strangle" is a humorous and exciting read that should prove very hard to put down, recommended.
Bruthas
J. L. Whitehead
Four Brothers Publications
PO Box 92, Collingswood, NJ 08108
978083801009, $15.00, www.fourbrotherspublications.com
Brotherhood is strong, but how far can those bonds go? "Bruthas" " is a novel of three siblings coping with the many faces of Philadelphia, with three different paths. From high level professionals to those struggling with who they are, the main focus on the action is brother Nate's struggles with the underworld that has consumed the neighborhood of 'The Block'. An exciting story with plenty of twists and turns, "Bruthas" is a fine addition to those who enjoy crime fiction with a nod to literary works.
Beta: Project Avatar
A. M. D. Hays
Diadeua
PO Box 88454, Honolulu, HI 96830
9780985418205, $25.99, www.amazon.com
Technology grows ever more powerful, and may overpower us. "Beta: Project Avatar" is a military thriller about the deadly fallout of a cutting-edge military program that went too far. Cryptographer Dee Lockwood has to act fast to break the codes of the AI of Project Avatar, else many lives will be lost in the process. Riveting reading that will prove very hard to put down, "Beta: Project Avatar" is an excellent and much recommended addition to thriller collections.
A Dream of Daring
Gen LaGreca
Winged Victory Press
PO Box 16730, Chicago, IL 60616-0730
9780974457963, $16.95, www.wingedvictorypress.com
Old ways do not fade into the night quietly. "A Dream of Daring" is a novel set on the dawn of the industrial revolution. Tom Edmunton builds a proto-tractor, and tries to bring a world of change about Louisiana with his invention. But the whiplash is hard, as a loved one is killed, and his invention is stolen. Faced with a crossroads and the charms of multiple women, "A Dream of Daring" is an enticing blend of mystery and romance, much recommended reading.
The Lie-Catcher in the Primate House
Lindsay Crane
Print and Pixel Books
PO Box 1397, Lafayette, CA 94949
9780983305194, $8.95, www.printandpixelbooks.com
Trafficking animals is a whole new cruelty. "The Lie-Catcher in the Primate House" is a thriller from Lindsay Crane as deception detecting specialist Julie Heidebrecht discovers those who are smuggling endangered animals across international borders with cruel intentions. With danger lurking at every turn for her, can she find those responsible for they endanger both animal and human lives? "The Lie-Catcher in the Primate House" is an exciting thriller that should be hard to put down.
Lilith
Toby Tate
DarkFuse
PO Box 338, North Webster, IN 46555
9781937771515, $16.99, www.darkfuse.com
What do you do when your enemy is something you can't truly understand? "Lilith" is a psychological thriller from Toby Tate as he tells the story of Hunter and Lisa, reporters aboard the USS Gerald Ford who learn of an unexpected and incomprehensible force that is stewing above their ship that comes along as a Hurricane in North Carolina. Their may be a fight, and the pair don't fully understand why or how there can be victory. "Lilith" is a strong addition to horror fiction collections, recommended.
Provocateur
Charles D. Martin
Chaney-Hall Publishing
660 Newport Center Drive, Suite 1220
Newport Beach, CA 92660
9780985198404, $23.95, www.provocateurbook.com
Coming from nothing means you have nothing to lose. "Provocateur" follows Nadia, a young Russian woman who comes to America through less than standard means, and ends up with a very unique career in tempting the big wigs of many targets for a private special ops company that uses her talents very creatively. "Provocateur" is a suspenseful thriller that should prove very hard to put down, highly recommended.
Lies of Convenience
M. M. Gornell
Champlain Avenue Books, Inc.
2360 Corporate Circle Drive, Suite 400
Henderson, NV 89074
9780985500801, $13.99, www.amazon.com
For family, we find ourselves willing to endure the worst. "Lies of Convenience" follows Margot, a Midwestern woman who moves to the Mojave desert to meet with her niece. Pressures from the harsh environment of the desert, as well as the people in it, are a heavy burden; she struggles to cope with the weight of it, and protect her niece. "Lies of Convenience" is a blend of drama and mystery, much recommended.
Crogian
John Leahy
Necro Publications
5139 Maxon Territory, Sanford, FL 32771
9781478224891, $12.95, www.necropublications.com
Secrets lie beneath the world that if uncovered, may very well damn us all. "Crogian" is a horror adventure from John Leahy, the fifth book in his Fresh Flesh Series following Ken Forde, a farmer who is on the frontlines as chemicals and dark secrets go awry, threatening the wipe out civilization as they know it. "Crogian" is a riveting thriller that should prove hard to put down.
Aqua Regia
Enrique Henri
Granny's Books Publishing
1152 Hwy 70A, Wilson, OK 73463
9780981861159, $15.99, www.amazon.com
The path from a cruel life is a difficult road to travel. "Aqua Regia" is a novel following Enos Butler, a man who has to deal with the growing and troubled nature of his life to rise up through the ranks of the world in this no-holds-barred thriller that spares nothing on action adventure and everything else in its story. For those who like world traveling thrillers, "Aqua Regia" may be a choice and much recommended pick, not to be overlooked.
Saving Grace
Pamela Fagan Hutchins
Skipjack Publishing
PO Box 31160, Houston, TX 77231
9780988234802, $18.95, www.skipjackpublishing.com
Getting away from it all is easier said than done. "Saving Grace" is the story of attorney Katie Connell who wants to leave her career behind for a bit when it all goes to hell. But in the islands of St. Marcos, she finds many more problems from voodoo, to infidelity, and even violence. "Saving Grace" is a riveting drama with plenty of twists and turns for an exciting read, highly recommended.
Dead in the Water
Dana Stabenow
Poisoned Pen Press
6962 E. First Ave., #103, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
9781464200830, $24.95, www.poisonedpenpress.com
Dead in the Water provides the third Kate Shugak novel blending mystery and adventure, and is set in a stark Alaska rural community in the far north in October, where two crewmen of a crabbing boat are missing and presumed dead. The area offers many possibilities for murder or accident - but Kate suspects foul play, and finds herself working undercover as a crab fisherman to reveal the truth. With its action-packed text and powerful survey of Alaska politics and social life, this is a fine mystery filled with satisfying twists and turns, not to be missed!
Mr. Monk Gets Even
Lee Goldberg
Obsidian Mystery
c/o Penguin Group (USA)
375 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014
9780451239150, $23.95, www.penguin.com
MR. MONK GETS EVEN offers another original mystery novel to add to the ever-expanding line of Mr. Monk sagas. It's the fifteenth in the series and here tells of a stumbling block as a man Monk has identified in a string of accidental deaths and suicides is killed. Add to that the escape of one of his prisoners - with one Captain Stottlemeyer as an accomplice - and detective Monk is faced with a series of personal and professional challenges that test not only his skills, but his entire belief system. Collections seeing prior popularity with the charismatic detective that is Mr. Monk will want to add this latest, which does not disappoint.
Found Guilty at Five
Ann Purser
Berkeley Prime Crime
c/o Penguin Group (USA)
375 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014
9780425252826, $24.95, www.penguin.com
Found Guilty at Five provides a fine Lois Meade mystery, the fifth in the series which features an updated working-class Miss Marple-type character, and here tells of a daughter's wedding, a mysterious cellist who goes missing, and a string of murders which may have just increased by one. Fans of British mysteries, in particular, will appreciate the flavor, tone and setting of FOUND GUILTY AT FIVE. The string of musical thefts creates a satisfying plot with many unexpected moments: perfect for avid mystery readers.
By the Balls, 15th anniversary edition
Jim Pasoe & Tom Fassbender
Akashic Books
PO Box 1456, New York, NY 10009
9781617751592, $16.95, www.akashicbooks.com
By the Balls: The Complete Collection celebrates the 15th anniversary edition of the Bowling Alley Murder Mystery and introduces the character of detective Ben Drake to new readers. It includes the main bowling alley murder mystery story that created the crime fiction house Ugly Town, arrives in a special 15th anniversary edition package to include the two underground cult novels and two new short stories, and is a recommended pick for short story fans who enjoy the classic Hammett and Raymond Chandler genres. Detective Ben Drake loves small cigars and big fights - and women in trouble. His adventures and puzzling cases involve many instances of criminal angst in this riveting account, perfect for fans of hardboiled detective reading.
The Stonecutter
Camilla Lackberg
The Free Press
c/o Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020
9781451621860, $15.99, www.simonandschuster.com
The Stonecutter provides a fine novel featuring the third installment in her series, and is especially recommended for prior fans who will avidly follow the ongoing story of Patrik and his girlfriend Erica, a crime-solving duo who celebrate their first child even as a suspicious drowning claims the young daughter of one of their close friends. An investigation into a rural fishing village unearths a long-held, close-kept secret that if revealed could tear the town apart; for generations have worked hard to prevent discovery. Fans of solid detective fiction will find this an involving read.
Hammett Unwritten
Owen Fitzstephen
Lisa Michalski
Seventh Street Books
c/o Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive
Amherst, NY 14228
9781616147143, $13.95, www.prometheusbooks.com
Many of the events that happen in our lives will make for a heck of a story later on. "Hammett Unwritten: A Novel" stars the famed noir writer Dashiell Hammett, following the author in his pre-writing years as a private investigator. Following the writer as he copes with the strange events that occur in the parallel to his famed works, "Hammett Unwritten" proves to be a creative and enticing twist of fact and fiction, very much recommended reading throughout.
The Missing Italian Girl
Barbara Corrado Pope
Pegasus Books
80 Broad Street, 5th Floor
New York, NY 10004
9781605984087, $25.95, www.pegasusbooks.com
Evil lurks in the chaotic times of turn of the century Paris. "The Missing Italian Girl" is a mystery novel surrounding 1897 Paris. Bernard Martin, a magistrate along with his wife Clarie, delve into the outskirts and dark streets of the French city in order to find the identity of a killer lurking through the city as well as the chaos brewing with an under-appreciated working class. "The Missing Italian Girl" is a strong addition to historical mystery and fiction collections.
Knuckleduster
Andrew Post
Medallion Press, Inc.
100 South River Street
Aurora, IL 60506
9781605424934, $14.95, www.medallionpress.com
To survive and do what we think is right, we often need to make so many sacrifices. "Knuckleduster" follows Brody Calhoun, a man discharged from the military, injured and needing carotene lenses to see anything. His pay comes from vigilante work from battered women as he hunts down cruel husbands and claims vengeance for them. But in the process, he places himself on the wrong side of the law, even if his intentions are good. "Knuckleduster" is an exciting thriller with plenty of twists and turns, highly recommended.
Galaxy Press
7051 Hollywood Boulevard, Suite 200
Hollywood, CA 90028
www.galaxypress.com
Galaxy Press is the quintessential niche publisher in that they are dedicated to bringing the 'Golden Age' of pulp magazine stories and tales of L. Ron Hubbard to a new and appreciative generation of readers. Utilizing original pulp magazine illustrations the produce affordable paperback copies that showcase one of the most imaginative writers of the 1930s and 40s. For example, L. Ron Hubbard's "The Tramp" (9781592123322, $9.95) originally published in the November 1938 issue of 'Astounding Science Fiction' and "The Crossroads" (9781591213681, $9.95) that is drawn from the February 1941 issue of a pulp magazine called 'Unknown'. Both these superbly reproduced stories are enhanced with the inclusion of a glossary, and two special articles: 'L. Ron Hubbard in the Golden Age of Pulp Fiction' and 'The Stories from the Golden Age'. Also of considerable note is the Galaxy Press series of multi-cast audio book adaptations of L. Ron Hubbard's pulp magazine stories. Two particularly outstanding examples are a fantasy set in the world of the circus titled 'If I Were You' (9781592122905, $9.95) which also includes a second fantasy yarn brought to life called 'The Last Drop'; and "Danger In The Dark" (9781592122400, $9.95) set on a remote Pacific island where a man must defeat a god to save the people from annihilation. This vividly presented multicast audio production is augmented with the inclusion of two shorter fantasy tales: 'The Room' and 'He Didn't Like Cats'. Of special note in all Galaxy Press audio book productions is the utilization of music and sound effects to heighten a true 'theatre of the mind' experience for the listener. A complete listing of all of the L. Ron Hubbard stories published and produced are to be found on the Galaxy Press web site at www.goldenstories.com.
Poisoned Pen Press
6962 E. First Ave., #103
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
www.poisonedpenpress.com
Kerry Greenwood's UNNATURAL HABITS (9781464201233, $24.95) provides a fine Phryne Fisher mystery and is set in 1929 Australia, where little girls are going missing and people are nervous. A pushy girl reporter, Polly, decides to investigate, and vanishes herself. It's up to Phryne and her sidekick Dot to find Polly and learn what has happened to all the missing girls - a journey which involves convents, murder and more in a satisfying and gripping saga perfect for any murder mystery library. Vicki Delany's MORE THAN SORROW (9781590589854, $24.95) tells of one Hannah, who is recuperating from a traumatic brain injury and is haunted by her memories. Her recovery is taking place on her sister's small farm in Canada, where she finds friendships and is drawn into a mystery from the past when she experiences visions of a woman in the dark root cellar. When her friend vanishes, Hannah must gain the courage and ability to solve the mystery in this different and grippingly unpredictable story, perfect for any mystery holding.
Berkeley Prime Crime
c/o Penguin Group (USA)
375 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
www.penguin.com
Earlene Fowler's THE ROAD TO CARDINAL VALLEY (9780425252840, $25.95) provides a sequel to The Saddlemaker's Wife but stands alone as a fine read for newcomers also, telling of Ruby's return to Cardinal, California to help her alcoholic brother Nash. When Nash is in a terrible accident, Ruby must consult her estranged mother, who has been harboring a terrible secret. The exposure of this secret will change - and challenge - all their lives in this riveting novel, perfect for any general lending library. Margaret Coel's THE EAGLE CATCHER: A WIND RIVER RESERVATION MYSTERY (9780425262740, $15.00) is the first book in the Wind River Reservation mystery series and is presented in trade paperback for the first time. The murder of an Arapaho tribal chairman involves his nephew and Father John O'Malley, a Jesuit priest who doesn't believe the nephew is a murderer. O'Malley's investigations will reveal a side of Arapaho life that is largely unknown to outsiders - and will also reveal a dangerous game packed with unexpected twists and turns and intrigue. Newcomers to the series who enjoy Native American fiction will find this a winning mystery.
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Midwest Book Review
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