Sunday Salon - Donna VanLiere, Guest Blogger

It's the perfect day, week, and season to welcome guest blogger Donna VanLiere.  What better time to welcome the author of The Christmas Journey than the week I'm running a contest to give away a copy of the book?  After you read Donna's post, I'll remind you how you can enter to win a copy of the book.  Welcome, Donna!

The Journey of The Christmas Journey

Donna VanLiere

http://www.donnavanliere.com/

Nearly twenty years ago I was asked to write something for a church Christmas banquet. I had never done anything like that before and really had no idea what to do. As the time grew closer and closer I began to get more than just a little anxious because it looked as if there was going to be a big hole in the programming! One afternoon, I set the mail on the kitchen counter and began to prepare dinner. Once it was underway I opened the mail and we had received the first Christmas card of the season. There was Mary and Joseph lounging in their Calvin Klein robes looking warm and happy in that brightly lit, cozy stable surrounded by Lamb Chop and other well groomed animals. I thought, “Who wouldn’t want to give birth there? That place looks great!”

It struck me then, as it continues to do today, that we somehow romanticize the journey that Mary and Joseph took and the subsequent birth of Christ. We’ve sanitized the cave and stripped the people involved of all fear, emotion and pain. At that point, I wanted to bring the story to life and give it texture, mood, emotion and smell. I read it as a narrative at that Christmas banquet and continue to do so for any group, organization or church that invites me. My editor asked to see The Christmas Journey narrative and felt she could make a beautiful gift book out of it. It is my hope that this short read will become part of the reader’s annual Christmas Eve tradition or a small part of their day on Christmas.

I hope you and your readers have a bright Christmas and amazing New Year!

Donna

Thank you, Donna.  Your story truly does remind us what that journey was probably like, without the glitz and glamour.

If you'd like to win a copy of The Christmas Journey, email me at lholstine@yahoo.com.   Your subject line shoud read, "Win The Christmas Journey."  Your message should include your mailing address. Entrants only in the U.S., please.


This contest ends Tuesday night, Dec. 14 at 6 PM MT. The winner will be selected by random number generator. I'll notify the winner, and Donna's publicist will mail out the book. Good luck!

Donna VanLiere's website is http://www.donnavanliere.com/


The Christmas Journey by Donna VanLiere. St. Martin's Press, ©2010. ISBN 9780312613 (hardcover), 96p.

Sunday Salon - A Chesapeake Shores Christmas by Sherryl Woods

Sherryl Woods' latest novel may be called A Chesapeake Shores Christmas, but, since it starts just before Thanksgiving, it's the perfect book for this Sunday.  It's one of those holiday books filled with romance and holiday celebrations, but it also shows the turmoil that may come to the forefront in families this time of year.

After twenty years of marriage Megan O'Brien left her controlling husband, Mick, who couldn't seem to understand that she wanted him at home in Chesapeake Shores instead of working as an architect, flying all over the country.  She planned to take their five children with her, but none of them wanted to be uprooted from their home in the charming seaside community their father built.

Neither Megan nor Mick ever fell out of love. They just couldn't live together.  Now, they're planning to marry again, with the blessings of all of their children, except one, Connor.  Connor never forgave his mother, and even became a divorce attorney, where he fights for the rights of men.  But, the O'Brien men have always been stubborn, as evidenced by Mick's long-standing fights with his brothers.  Even so, the holidays have always been sacred, and Mick's brothers always came home.  So, it comes as a shock to everyone when Connor and his father fight over the upcoming marriage, and Connor refuses to come back for Thanksgiving. 

Megan had hoped to come home as an equal partner in this marriage.  Now, she's reconsidering.  Does Mick really understand what she wants?  He still seems just as demanding, and has even pushed Connor away during a family holiday.  Is she really ready for a New Year's wedding with an O'Brien?  There's no time to think that far ahead, though, when Thanksgiving suddenly throws everyone a curve that wasn't anticipated. 

It seems that holidays can't be planned in the O'Brien family.  Sherryl Woods does everyone a favor in this novel, reminding us that holidays aren't perfect, and the course of love isn't always as smooth as so many Christmas novels indicate.  If you want to read about a large, argumentative, loving family, try Sherryl Woods' A Chesapeake Shores Christmas.  And, if you enjoy this story of the O'Briens, you'll want to watch for their next story, Driftwood Cottage, in April 2011.

Sherryl Woods' website is http://www.sherrylwoods.com/

A Chesapeake Shores Christmas by Sherryl Woods.   MIRA, ©2010. ISBN 9780778328520 (hardcover), 288p.

*****
FTC Full Disclosure - The publicist sent me a copy for possible review.

Sunday Salon - Christmas at Harrington's by Melody Carlson

Most holiday stories have happy endings, and Melody Carlson's Christmas at Harrington's is no exception.  But, this novel is a little unusual in its main character, an intriguing departure for these seasonal novels.

After eight years in prison, Lena Markham has been released.  Instead of heading home to Indiana, she told the social worker she wanted a new start.  With the promise of a place to live and a job at Harrington's Department Store, Lena took the bus to New Haven, a small town in northern Minnesota.  She had hoped for a seat by herself, but a well-dressed woman from New Haven, Moira Phillips, took the seat beside her, and proceeded to talk to her, and invite her to church.  As a former pastor's wife, and the daughter of a Bible-thumping strict father, Lena was a little reluctant to accept that invitation. 

The boarding house where Lena ended up wasn't quite what she expected, but she quickly made friends with a little girl, Jemima.  That friendship would change more lives than just theirs.  And, Jemima led her back to Moira Phillips, and a few clothes, including a red coat, that enabled her to go to Harrington's with confidence, knowing she had a promised job.  But, in the bad economy, Harrington's had to lay people off.  Fortunately, Ms. Harrington's daughter, Cassidy, saw Lena in that red coat, and suggested she become Mrs. Santa at the store.  And, it's a successful job, until Lena's past comes back to haunt her.

Melody Carlson's story is about a woman beaten down by people and life, who, with the help of a little encouragement and faith in God, finds the courage to move on.  And, I have to mention that one of those people who cheered Lena on is a librarian who accepts her despite her history.   Christmas at Harrington's is a story of hope and faith, a perfect little novel for the holiday season.

Melody Carlson's website is http://www.melodycarlson.com/.

Christmas at Harrington's by Melody Carlson.  Baker Publishing Group, ©2010. ISBN 9780800719258 (hardcover), 176p.

*****
FTC Full Disclosure - Library book

Sunday Salon - Unexpectedly Eighty and Other Adaptations by Judith Viorst

Judith Viorst's books of light poetry were always favorites of mine to use for Readers' Theatre.  There was often a poem that would work perfectly for an audience.  Her latest collection on life and aging is no exception.  Unexpectedly Eighty and Other Adaptations has some poems I can use use this week for my brown bag luncheon.

The verses might have a light tone, but everyone understands the serious nature of "Driving at Night," as people age, and friends all stop driving at night.  The poem, "Stopping by My Mirror on a Sunny Morning," might be addressed to eighty-year-olds, but any one of us who is aging might relate to it.  I'll probably read that one to my group, along with my favorite, "How I Know I'm Old."  It's a memory poem, reminiscing about what the writer remembers from youth.

Poetry seems perfect for Sunday Salon, a little light verse, with serious undertones.  And, this particular book, Judith Viorst's Unexpectedly Eighty and Other Adaptations will be perfect to use with my book group this week. 

Unexpectedly Eighty and Other Adaptations by Judith Viorst.  Simon &Schuster, ©2010. ISBN 9781439190296 (hardcover), 63p.

*****
FTC Full Disclosure - Library book

Death Notice by Todd Ritter

Sunday Salon provides the perfect opportunity to introduce debut authors.  And, I can think of some journalists who have successfully written crime fiction.  Michael Connelly, Brad Parks, and Hank Phillippi Ryan are names that immediately come to mind.  I know there are dozens of others.  Now, Todd Ritter has the opportunity to join their ranks with his mystery, Death Notice.

There had never been a murder in the quaint town of Perry Hollow, Pennsylvania.  Police chief Kat Campbell knew the history of the mill town, since her grandparents met at the lumber mill, and her father was once the police chief.  And, she recognized most of the residents of the small town.  So, Kat was as shocked as everyone else when a trucker found a coffin at the edge of town, with a local farmer in it.  The murder was horrible enough to call in the sheriff, who turned it over to the Pennsylvania Bureau of Criminal Investigation.  As head of the task force, Nick Donnelly suspected the death was at the hands of a serial killer dubbed "The Betsy Ross Killer," due to his skill in using a needle and thread on his victims.  But, even Nick wasn't prepared when Henry Goll walked in the door, with a warning.  Goll wrote the obituaries for the local newspaper, but he had never received a fax that predicted a death before.

Donnelly's task force was expected to handle the investigation.  However, Chief Campbell became a partner in the case when she insisted on protecting her town.  She pointed out she knew the citizens.  But, she couldn't protect everyone from a killer determined to spread terror.  And, she and Donnelly reluctantly accepted Goll as part of their case when the killer seemed to target him to receive messages.

Ritter avoids rookie mistakes in this compelling mystery.  Kat, Donnelly, and Goll are all fascinating characters with weaknesses that make them all the more interesting.  Kat, with a special needs child, is particularly aware of her complex role as a single mother and a police chief.  And, each time I thought I knew where the case was going, the author threw in a twist.  Those twists made perfect sense at the end of this successful debut. 

Since I often review cozy mysteries, I feel compelled to say some of the details in this book can be grisly.  But, it's a well-written crime novel, riveting enough that I read it in one sitting.  So, I'll put you on notice.  Todd Ritter's Death Notice will be joining the ranks of other successful first novels by journalists turned mystery writer.

If you're a fan of authors' websites, as I am, check out Todd Ritter's at http://www.toddritteronline.com/.

Death Notice by Todd Ritter.  St. Martin's Minotaur, ©2010. ISBN 9780312622800 (hardcover), 336p.


*****
FTC Full Disclosure - Library book

Sunday Salon- Did Not Survive by Ann Littlewood

Ann Littlewood follows up her dark, educational mystery, Night Kill, with another fascinating glimpse in to the world of zoos.  Since Littlewood worked as a zookeeper for twelve years, she knows the animals, the politics and intrigue, and the mysteries surrounding zoos and the animals.  Her latest mystery, Did Not Survive, captures all those elements in an absorbing story.

Zookeeper Iris Oakley found her husband's body in the lion enclosure at the Finley Memorial Zoo in Vancouver, Washington.  Six months later, she's working in birds because of her pregnancy, and she's on early morning duty when she hears an uproar in the elephant enclosure.  When she finds her boss lying in the enclosure, being mauled by Damrey, one of the elephants, she has no experience to try to save him.  Although she was able to move the elephants, she's sure Damrey tried to kill the foreman.

With the zoo in an uproar over the attack, and people out front picketing against elephants in zoos, Iris' friends turn to her to find out what's happening.  But, Iris has her own priorities, "Staying healthy, doing my job, and getting ready to deal with a baby."  However, events continue to spiral out of control, as zookeepers turn on each other, and Iris doesn't know who to trust.  It might not be a member of the elephant species that is the real killer.  The human species might be more deadly to Iris.

Once again, Ann Littlewood has placed Iris Oakley in jeopardy in an enthralling story that includes controversy over elephants, zoos, and endangered species, as well as the trafficking in animals.  And, I don't think Iris has anything to worry about with her mothering skills.  As the go-to person for all of her friends, she'll have that mothering bit down pat.  It's going to be interesting to see how capable she is at juggling her zoo job and motherhood.  I'm sure Ann Littlewood has plans for her in the follow-up to Did Not Survive.  Readers will be waiting.

Ann Littlewood's website is http://www.annlittlewood.com/

Did Not Survive by Ann Littlewood.  Poisoned Pen Press, ©2010. ISBN 9781590587454 (hardcover), 250p.

*****
FTC Full Disclosure - The author sent me a review copy, knowing she would be appearing for Authors @ The Teague on Oct. 18th.

Sunday Salon - The Damage Done by Hilary Davidson

Sunday Salon is the perfect place to introduce a debut novelist.  Hilary Davidson is a travel journalist, and the author of eighteen nonfiction books, but The Damage Done is her first crime novel.  She marks that debut with an emotional story of a lost woman searching for her missing sister.

Travel journalist Lily Moore had escaped to Barcelona because she could no longer cope with her sister, Claudia.  Claudia was an emotional heroin junkie, who knew how to push every one of Lily's buttons, beginning with guilt.  When she's called home to New York City, it's because Claudia's body has been found in the bathtub of Lily's apartment.

But when Lily goes to identify the body, she knows it's not Claudia.  So, where is her sister?  Who was the woman in the bathtub?  Who were the women who had showed up at the apartment, identifying Claudia, while seeming to know so much about Lily's family history?  Now, the police aren't looking for Claudia's murderer.  They're searching for a missing person, and Claudia must know something about the dead woman. 

Hilary Davidson's story reveals the complications of family relationships.  Love, hate, guilt, resentment can all be combined in the feelings about family.  And, Lily and Claudia share a history of family tragedy that united them, while it also drove them apart.  How does Lily describe Claudia?  "My sister, the magpie who had a thing for shiny jewelry, bad boyfriends, and hard drugs."  And, Lily feels compelled to search for her sister, and answers, while at the same time, she feels used.  "I was sure that my sister had deliberately lured me back into her web.  I was trapped as surely as if her hands were still closing around my throat." 

Lily is the daughter of an alcoholic, the sister of a junkie.  Her best friend, Jesse, safe because he is a gay man, knows her better than anyone.  "You want to protect your little sister.  You've been doing that your whole life....You never tell anyone the full story.  You'd rather keep it locked up."  Lily doesn't trust her own heart, and very few people.  That makes it difficult for her to accept help, even from the police.  And, her anger, and fear, are buried deep.

Hilary Davidson's debut, The Damage Done, is a powerful crime novel, the story of a missing woman.  But, it's so much more.   It's the story of all the damage done in family relationships, including the damage done by addiction.  Davidson's given us a profound story that shows the depth, the pain, and the collateral damage caused by addiction, problems that extend far beyond the person with the addiction. 

The Damage Done introduces readers to a powerful new voice in crime fiction.  Welcome, Hilary Davidson.

Hilary Davidson's website is http://www.hilarydavidson.com/, and her crime blog is at  http://blog.hilarydavidson.com/

The Damage Done by Hilary Davidson. Forge, ©2010. ISBN 9780765326973 (hardcover), 352p.

*****
FTC Full Disclosure - Both the publisher and the author sent me copies of the book, hoping I would read and review it. 

Sunday Salon - The Last Matryoshka by Joyce Yarrow

Joyce Yarrow brings back Jo Epstein, New York City private investigator and performance poet, in the sequel to Ask the Dead.  The Last Matryoshka starts out in Brighton Beach, and the Russian community there, but Jo will find she's in the greatest danger when she follows her case to Russia.

Jo's surprised to get a call from her stepfather, Nikolai, since they've never been close.  But, they both love Jo's mother, Ruth.  And, she's suspicious of Nikolai when he tells her some off-the-wall story about a murder in an elevator, and that he was set up so it looks like he killed a man.  He hires Jo to investigate, but the case quickly escalates when he receives a nesting doll, a Matryoshka, with a message inside.  "You ruined my sister.  Now you will suffer."  Jo knows Nikolai knows more than he's telling, but she's forced to work with the man she doesn't trust in a case that leads to undercover cops and fake fashions.  Finally, in order to protect her mother, she follows her stepfather, and the case, to Russia.  Why?  Her mom's husband is "Up to his neck in illegal activities and may or may not have been framed for murder."  But, it's family.

The Last Matryoshka is a multi-layered complicated story, best represented by those nesting dolls with one story inside another.  It's a story of family, Russian criminals known as the vory, and history.  Somewhere in Nikolai's Russian past is a story worth killing for, and Jo Epstein is determined to discover it.  She's an admirable character, an investigator willing to set aside her feelings to protect her mother.  It's not an easy story to read, with a full cast of undercover cops and Russian names.  But, it's a story that explores the past, Russia, and relatiionships.  You'll want to discover the secrets buried in The Last Matryoshka.

Joyce Yarrow's website is http://www.joyceyarrow.com/

The Last Matryoshka by Joyce Yarrow.  Five Star, ©2010. ISBN 9781594148873 (hardcover), 274p.

*****

FTC Full Disclosure - The author sent me an ARC, hoping I would review the book.

Sunday Salon - Mirror Image by Dennis Palumbo

Dennis Palumbo's debut mystery, Mirror Image, is a complex story of murder, mistaken and hidden identities.  Palumbo introduces Dr. Daniel Rinaldi, a clinical psychologist who gets in trouble for caring too much about his patients.  And, the book is complicated enough to keep the reader continually surprised.  Mirror Image is a successful first effort that will leave you wondering how Rinaldi could possibly have a second case as fascinating as this one.

Dr. Rinaldi finally thought he was making progress with a patient, Kevin Merrick, since Merrick was finally opening up to him.  At the same time, Kevin was starting to emulate Rinaldi, dressing like him, mirroring his actions, taking some of his possessions from his desk.  So, when Kevin was murdered after leaving a session, and he was wearing Rinaldi's jacket, no one was sure if the doctor or the patient was the intended target.  But the threats that followed indicated Rinaldi should have been the victim.

As a consultant for the Pittsburgh police, Rinaldi used his access to work on Kevin's case.  He felt guilty that his patient might have died in a case of mistaken identity.  But, when a doctor who was angry at Rinaldi is killed, the police start to suspect Daniel might be involved in the deaths.  As Rinaldi's life and career seem to spin out of control, only a sexy Assistant D.A. seems to be on Daniel's side.  There are powerful men out to destroy him, and he still doesn't know who might want him dead.

Dennis Palumbo is a licensed psychotherapist who brings his knowledge of clinical practice to this mystery involving a complicated man.  Daniel Rinaldi himself was a victim at one time.  His wife was killed when the couple was mugged.  He has a great deal of empathy with his patients, victims of violent crimes.  Now, even in the face of an ongoing investigation, his sympathy and feelings are still with his patients, and it's his search for answers as to their behavior that continues to force him deeper into the criminal investigation.  Daniel Rinaldi is a man whose passion for his patients, his friends, and his work is the moving force behind his actions.  In creating Daniel Rinaldi, Palumbo has given us an intelligent, passionate sleuth. It takes a strong man to dig himself so deeply into a twisted investigation.  Mirror Image is a successful debut because Dr. Daniel Rinaldi is a compassionate, fascinating character. 

Dennis Palumbo's website is http://www.dennispalumbo.com/

Mirror Image by Dennis Palumbo.  Poisoned Pen Press, ©2010. ISBN 9781590587508 (hardcover), 250p.

*****
FTC Full Disclosure - The author sent me a copy of the book, hoping I would review it.

Maybe This Time by Jennifer Crusie

It's hard to believe it's been six years since Jennifer Crusie has had a book out that she didn't co-write with another author.  Her books with Bob Mayer have been fun, but the last one wasn't as good as earlier efforts.  It was time for another solo effort, and it was worth waiting for Maybe This Time.  Crusie's books are always humorous with terrific mature heroines.  Sparks fly in the relationship with a sexy man.   And, for me, the Ohio settings are appealing as well.

When Andie Miller storms into her ex-husband's law office, she's been divorced from North Archer for years.  She plans to turn over ten years of uncashed alimony checks, and announce her engagement to a writer, but North's request stops her in her tracks.   He's the guardian of two orphaned children in southern Ohio, and he offers her $10,000 a month, plus expenses and room and board, to "fix" the children.   Alice had a psychotic break, and Carter was expelled from school for setting fires.  For Andie, a teacher, it was a sucker-punch.  She couldn't walk away from "Two helpless kids who'd lost everyone they loved, going crazy in the middle of nowhere." 

Andie found more than she bargained for.  When she called North from the house, she reported, "The kids have been through a lot, and this place is Amityville, the House of Usher, and Hill House combined so their environment isn't working in their favor, but they're very bright and very tough and they've had each other."  And, now they have Andie.  She's a fighter.  And, if she has to fight a crazy housekeeper, a scheming TV reporter, and ghosts to save those children, she will.  One ghost may do her best to take over Andie's will, but Andie has a secret weapon.  North still loves her, and he has her back.

Jennifer Crusie's built a reputation for fun romantic novels, often with some suspense.   Andie Miller, the former Andromeda Archer, is another Crusie character with grit and warmth, one that you just have to love.  Alice and Carter are fascinatinag characters.  Then throw in North Archer, his humorous brother, Southie, along with a psychic, a possessive ghost,  and a ghost buster, and there's an intriguing mix.  If you haven't read one of Crusie's novels, start with Maybe This Time.   What more do you want than ghosts, romance, and suspense?

Jennifer Crusie's website is http://www.jennycrusie.com/

Maybe This Time by Jennifer Crusie.  St. Martin's Press, ©2010. ISBN 9780312303785 (hardcover), 352p.

*****
FTC Full Disclosure - Jennifer Crusie's publicist sent me a copy of the book when I requested it.

Penguin (USA)'s Sept. Berkley Prime Crime & Obsidian

Enjoy!

A Little Book of Thank Yous by Addie Johnson

Last month, I reviewed Addie Johnson's Lemons to Lemonade, a book I criticized because of errors in the final copy.  It also seemed a little dull, lacking in the inspiration I was hoping it had.  So, I picked up her book, A Little Book of Thank Yous: Letters, Notes & Quotes, with some trepidation.  I didn't need to worry.  First, if there were errors in the copy, I missed them.  But, the book also offered some humor, along with some suggestions as to ways to express gratitude, and, even ways to feel grateful.  The book is a gentle reminder.

Johnson reminds us that gratitude should be joyful.  If it became rote when you were young, you might not say please and thank you anymore with warmth and meaning.  But, a simple thank you means so much to people.  There are interesting anecdotes and quotes to inspire and encourage the reader.  But, as I said, there's humor as well.  There are two pages about "The currency of gratitude," broken down into Pennies, Nickels and Silver dollars.  So, what were the pennies?  "Flowers picked from your garden; a sticky note on the fridge; chocolate, chocolate, chocolate."    Johnson's book indicates that expressions of gratitude do not need to be flowery or grandiose.  It's the small gestures that come from the heart that are important.

There isn't anything that makes the reader think, "What an original idea."  However, there are quotes from authors such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, John Fitzgerald Kennedy, and that all-time favorite, Anonymous.   Because the book made me think of Jim, my favorite quote was from author Rita Mae Brown.  It said, "I still miss those I loved who are no longer with me but I find I am grateful for having loved them.  The gratitude has finally conquered the loss."

 Addie Johnson's A Little Book of Thank Yous can be considered a nudge, a little note of inspiration to say those two important words, thank you.  So, my note of gratitude for today is to all of you who stop by to read my blog.  Sometimes you might leave a comment.  Sometimes you just leave a sign you were here, a footprint in a statistic.  Some of you may never write a word here, but you return faithfully, checking to see what book I've reviewed or what author is posting a guest blog.  What author was I lucky enough to get to see this week?  Thank you for dropping by and allowing me to share a little of my book life with you. 

Thank you.

A Little Book of Thank Yous:  Letters, Notes & Quotes by Addie Johnson. Conari Press, ©2010. ISBN
9781573243742 (hardcover), 128p.

*****
FTC Full Disclosure - The publisher sent my copy of the book, in hopes I would review it.

Sunday Salon - Quarterly Brown Bag Luncheon

Once a quarter, I get to host a brown bag luncheon in my office.  Wednesday, I had a full house.  Patrons bring lunch, and I provide coffee and cookies.  Then, I talk about fifteen books.  It's one of my favorite days.  (The other is the day we have the staff brown bag luncheon, and we talk about books.)

So, here are the books I shared this month.

Aames, Avery – The Long Quiche Goodbye – It’s the grand re-opening of Providence, Ohio’s Cheese Shop, but the body stabbed to death outside the shop disrupts the festivities.

Fister, Barbara – Through the Cracks  – When a man’s conviction is overturned, the victim hires Chicago P.I. Anni Koskinen to find her actual rapist.

Fitzpatrick, Ellen – Letters to Jackie: Condolences from a Grieving Nation - Jackie Kennedy received over 1.5 million letters after JFK’s death. It's a poignant collection of letters.

Hale, Shannon – Austenland  – What happens when women become obsessed with Jane Austen’s books? They get to go to Austenland, a resort catering to Austen-obsessed women, including Jane Hayes.

Johnson, Craig – The Cold Dish  – Wyoming Sheriff Walt Longmire investigates the death of a young man who once raped a Cheyenne girl, stirring up troubles again between the white and Native American communities.

Kendrick, Beth – Second Time Around  – Ten years after their college graduation, four women who were English majors are given the chance to reinvent their lives.

The Lineup – ed. By Otto Penzler –  Lee Child, Faye Kellerman, and Alexander McCall Smith are just some of the crime writers who tell the inside story of their detectives.

Mackenzie, Jassy – Random Violence - Jade de Jong returns to South Africa after a ten year absence and her father’s death, to find a violent country, and a police officer friend who needs assistance.

Malliet, G.M. – Death of a Cozy Writer – In the style of Agatha Christie, an award-winning mystery involving an English estate, an isolated family, a police team, and murder.

Rosenblatt, Robert – Making Toast – A memoir. As a result of his daughter’s death, Rosenblatt & his wife move in with their son-in-law, to help care for the children.

Shaffer, Louise – Looking for a Love Story – When her marriage falls apart, a former bestselling author turns to writing for hire.

Sharp, Zoë – Killer Instinct – The novel that introduces Charlie Fox tells of her life after her discharge from the army, before she does close security.

Underwood, Deborah – The Quiet Book - A charming picture book about the types of quiet.

Verdon, John – Think of a Number - A former homicide detective is invited to become involved when a college acquaintance receives threatening notes. Debut thriller.

Wallace, Carey – The Blind Contessa’s New Machine - A tragic story, based on the true story of the woman who inspired the invention of the typewriter.

Sunday Salon - Second Time Around by Beth Kendrick

If you had to do it all over again, would you still be working in the same field you originally went into after college?  Beth Kendrick gives four English majors the chance to start over again ten years after graduation in Second Time Around.  (Oh, and if you were an English major, as I was, this is a power trip.)

Five graduates of a small liberal arts college, Thurwell College in upstate New York, gather for a mini-reunion every year.  It's been ten years since graduation.  At thirty-two, Arden is a successful lawyer, while the four English majors bemoan their jobs, and say they all should have gone to law school.  Jamie is a  bartender in California.  Brooke, their Southern belle, works in the alumni office at the college.  Caitlin has her PhD in English, and is an assistant professor at another small college, while Anne is a copywriter.  Now that they're all mature women, they have other dreams; to be an events planner, to own a bed-and-breakfast, to be a novelist, to have a baby.  They're burned out, tired of their lives.

And, then they're given one million dollars, split four ways, to achieve their dreams.  But, each woman will discover that dreams can be hard work.  They each are empowered to change their lives, to discover what life could be like.  And, sometimes it takes dreams, and hard work, to find the strength in ourselves.

If you've read this blog long enough, you'll know I'm a fan of women's fiction with groups of friends.  I can also be quite critical of those books if the women aren't individuals.  I want the characters to stand out so I can tell them apart.  Kendrick succeeds in Second Time Around.  The women all have unique personalities and life plans.  But, they share a deep friendship, and love of life, that leads to laughter.  It's fun to watch them continue to grow, to find their own strengths.  When Brooke buys her dream bed-and-breakfast, she doesn't know what awaits her.  There's humor and romance in the book, but men alone are not the answer for any of these women.  Second Time Around is a satisfying story of women who discover their own possibilities.

Beth Kendrick's website is http://www.bethkendrick.com/

Second Time Around by Beth Kendrick, Bantam Books, ©2010. ISBN 9780385342247 (paperback), 336p.

*****
FTC Full Disclosure - Library Book

Sunday Salon - September Treasures in My Closet

If you could see the books I have left over from June and July, with hopes of still reading some of them, you'd know why I'm glad there are only a few books in my closet for September.  I know that TBR pile will grow over the next month as well.  In the meantime, here are seven titles you might want to watch for at your favorite bookstore or public library.

I always do these lists alphabetically by author, but this one just might be at the top of the pile anyways.  How can you resist that kitten on the cover of Cleo: The Cat Who Mended a Family by Helen Brown?  Brown's family picked out Cleo before tragedy struck, but the arrival of a kitten did something to restore her son's smile, and the family itself.  I'm looking forward to this story about the connection between humans and animals.

Katrina Kenison's The Gift of an Ordinary Day is also a mother's memoir.  It's the story of a family in transition, as Kenison's oldest son prepared to leave for college.  And, she discovers that what she treasures most are the ordinary moments of everyday life.

It's been three years since the last Art Forger's Mystery by Hailey Lind.  Arsenic and Old Paint finds ex-art forger Annie Kincaid in danger again, investigating a murder in San Francisco, scrambling through underground Chinatown tunnels in search of stolen art, and following the trail of a bronze Greek god that disappeared.  Welcome back, Annie!




Since Casey Mayes' A Deadly Row is a debut mystery from Berkley Prime Crime, you'll probably see more of the book when I do my Penguin (USA) book chat mid-month.  Set in Charlotte, North Carolina, it features math puzzle maker Savannah Stone, who puts her analytical skills to work when the mayor receives death threats.

I even have a gorgeous picture book in my closet.  Zen Ghosts by Jon J. Muth is a stunning book with colors of fall, and the spirit of Halloween.  But, Stillwater, the panda ghost,  has a spine-tingling story for his friends, after they finish trick-or-treating.


 L.J. Sellers brings back Detective Wade Jackson in Thrilled to Death.  Set in Eugene, Oregon, two young women with nothing in common disappear on the same day.  Jackson's investigation uncovers the rich girl's secrets, when she turns up dead.  But, the investigation runs into trouble when the primary suspect is an agoraphobic who hasn't left his house in a year.

Scoop to Kill by Wendy Lyn Watson is another book you'll probably be seeing mid-month, an Obsidian paperback.  Tallulah Jones is proprietor of Dalliance, Texas' old-fashioned ice-cream parlor, Remember the A-la-mode.  She's also an amateur sleuth when Tally's niece stumbles on a body during the local college's Honor's Day festivities.  When a second death follows, Tally must act fast to keep her niece from becoming the third murder victim.

See?  An ordinary month can give us gifts of mystery, cats, ice cream and art.  It looks like the treasures in my closet are special for September.  And, watch for tomorrow's Hot September Titles for more forthcoming books.

Sunday Salon - With One Eye Open by Polly Frost

Polly Frost's humor collection, With One Eye Open, could could just as easily have been called, Both Eyes Open. Frost has her eyes focused on the ridiculous aspects of life, and anything is fair game in the chosen pieces.

Many of the humor pieces selected were published in The New Yorker. The twenty-five pieces focus on everything from social media to the celebrity culture to people who seem to have a perfect life, but complain about it. Social media is a frequent target of Frost's pieces, with stories about a couple trying to be popular on Facebook, to instructions as to how to create a successful Mommyblog. Then, there's the funny piece from a wanna-be-writer trying to teach her college professor about social networking, writing and publishing.

Frost understands our obsession with everything from computer games to the latest lifestyle fad. Any aspect of society is a likely target for her humor. If you've been caught up in any of the fads (blogging, anyone?), you're likely to find a piece that ridicules your obsession. It's all in fun, and Frost isn't a mean humorist. Instead, the stories poke fun at our lifestyle, everything from Twitter to addiction to sex. If you're looking for intelligent humor, it wouldn't hurt to try Polly Frost's With One Eye Open.

Polly Frost's website is www.pollyfrost.com

With One Eye Open by Polly Frost. Rapture House, ©2010. ISBN 9780615376486 (paperback), 150p.

*****
FTC Full Disclosure - The author sent me a copy of the book, in hopes I would review it.

Sunday Salon - Sweet Misfortune by Kevin Alan Milne

Is there anything I can offer you on Sunday that's better than chocolate, fortune cookies, and a romance? But, wait! Those fortunes are just a little off in Kevin Alan Milne's Sweet Misfortune.

For twenty years, Sophie Jones has blamed herself for the car accident that caused her parents' death. Despite her two best friends, her foster mother and her foster sister, she's never opened up and allowed herself to trust anyone, even herself, after the tragedy that happened on her ninth birthday. Then, just when she thinks she's found a man to love, he dumps her just before their wedding. Only Sophie, who has lived with tragedy most of her life, can turn that heartbreak into fortune.

Sophie Jones is the owner of the chocolate shop, Chocolat' de Soph, Confections of the Heart. And, once Garrett Black dumped her, she created Misfortune Cookies, "Handwritten prognostications of gloom, doom, or pending hardships." And, they were a success. "When offered the dream of a lifetime, SAY NO! Remember, it's just a dream." "You will soon fall in love. Caution: when people fall, something usually breaks." It's not difficult for Sophie, who sees herself as a realist, to write those pithy comments.

But, what happens if Garrett can change Sophie's attitude? When he comes back, wanting to explain why he left, she refuses to listen. Unlike Sophie, Garrett believes in happiness, so she promises she'll let him explain, once he publishes an ad in the newspaper asking for people to define lasting happiness. And, she'll meet with him after she has one hundred acceptable letters of happiness. But those one hundred letters need to be acceptable to Sophie Jones, who has only had a bittersweet life for the last twenty years.

Granted, Sweet Misfortune revolves around a series of coincidences. But, what romantic story doesn't? Milne has given us a mixed assortment of characters, with a few nuts included. Add in some laughter, a few tears, and sprinkle with charm and chance. My prognostication? An afternoon of enjoyment with Kevin Alan Milne's Sweet Misfortune.

Kevin Alan Milne's website is www.kevinamilne.com

Sweet Misfortune by Kevin Alan Milne. Center Street, ©2010. ISBN 9781599952970 (hardcover), 281p.

*****
FTC Full Disclosure - I requested this book from the publisher so I could read and review it.

Sunday Salon - Delicious and Suspicious by Riley Adams

Is there a better day to review a Memphis BBQ Mystery than the 4th of July? Riley Adams' debut book in the series, Delicious and Suspicious, is so enticing I'm ready to pack my bags for Memphis, stay at the Peabody, visit Graceland, and eat barbeque on Beale Street, while listening to the blues. Adams packed all of Memphis into one cozy mystery, with a fun cast of characters.

Lulu Taylor inherited Aunt Pat's, famous for its barbeque, and made it into a family affair. One son, Ben, works the kitchen. His wife, Sara, waits tables, and Lulu has moved from the kitchen to welcoming guests, and chatting up the regulars. When her youngest son, Seb, moved home from New York, she put him to work in the office. So, she couldn't be any prouder to show off the restaurant to Rebecca Adrian, a scout for the Cooking Channel. Rebecca showed a skill no one expected though. She was very good at blowing up dreams. She turned her back on the Graces, a group of docents from Graceland; and humiliated almost everyone she came in contact in the short time she was in Memphis. Is it any wonder she ended up dead?

It's hard for Lulu to work up any sympathy for the dead woman. But, when everyone associated with Aunt Pat's seems to have a motive for killing Rebecca, it's time for Lulu to turn on the charm. It's quite possible that a family member or friend killed the scout, and Lulu's determined to force their hand. Lulu has a gift for schmoozing, and she'll worm the truth out of all the suspects, even if it takes extra barbeque and sweet tea.

Riley Adams packs Delicious and Suspicious with an entertaining cast of characters, beginning with Lulu and her family, including her intrepid granddaughter, Ella Beth. There are the women who make up the Graces. My favorites are the enchanting trio of retired blues musicians who make Aunt Pat's their second home. And, Lulu Taylor is my favorite kind of amateur sleuth, one who turns people over to the police, and is a talented conversationalist. Lulu's method of investigation consists of little chats with everyone to find out what they were doing when the victim died.

I'd recommend an armchair visit to Memphis. Check out Aunt Pat's, visit with Lulu Taylor, enjoy some barbeque with your mystery selection. I'd give anything for some sweet tea to enjoy with Riley Adams' Delicious and Suspicious.

Riley Adams/Elizabeth S. Craig's website is www.elizabethspanncraig.com.She also blogs as one of the authors at Mystery Lovers' Kitchen.

Delicious and Suspicious by Riley Adams. Penguin Group (USA), ©2010. ISBN 9780425235539 (paperback), 288p.

*****
FTC Full Disclosure - The publisher sent me a copy, in hopes I would review it.

Sunday Salon - Shit My Dad Says by Justin Halpern

Justin Halpern's anecdotal memoir, Shit My Dad Says, is number one on the New York Times Best Seller list today. Did everyone rush out and buy it for their father for Father's Day?

Before reviewing it, this is a warning. If you're offended by the title, you'll be offended by the book, so don't bother picking it up. The title is a perfect indication of Halpern's father's language. If you aren't offended, let me tell you, this is the funniest book I've read in a long time. This one is laugh out loud funny.

In May 2009, Justin Halpern accepted a job with Maxim.com, knowing he could live anywhere. He planned to move it with his girlfriend in San Diego, but she broke up with him. So, at twenty-nine he moved back in with his parents. His mother still worked as a lawyer, but his father had retired from his position in nuclear medicine. And, since Justin worked from home, his father felt free to interrupt him, and talk to him. Halpern found his seventy-three-year-old father's comments so funny that he started a Twitter account called "Shit My Dad Says." When it grew to a million followers, and publishers and TV producers were calling, Justin thought he should tell his dad what he'd been writing. Even his father's reaction to that is funny.

Justin Halpern's father is brutally honest, and Halpern intersperses his dad's one liners between chapters of the memoir as he tells the story of his life with his dad. I just found his father's philosophy quite honest, if a little raw. Here are a couple quick quotes.

"On My First Day of Kindergarten - "You thought it was hard? If kindergarten is busting your ass, I got some bad news for you about the rest of life."

"On Furnishing One's Home - Pick your furniture like you pick a wife; it should make you feel comfortable and look nice, but not so nice that if someone walks past it they want to steal it."

Halpern's book passed the ultimate test for me. My sister called while I was reading it, and I read her passages from it. We were both laughing hysterically, and her husband is getting the book for Father's Day. If I can sell it over the telephone, it works.

It's hard to imagine living with a father as brutally honest as Halpern's, but he survived to write about his dad. Justin Halpern wanted to be a screenwriter. Now, he's cowriting and coproducing a sitcom adaptation of Shit My Dad Says. It's hard to imagine it will be as funny as the book.

Justin Halpern's Twitter account is www.Twitter.com/ShitMyDadSays, and his website is www.ShitMyDadSays.com

Shit My Dad Says by Justin Halpern. HarperCollins, ©2010. ISBN 9780061992704 (hardcover), 158p.

*****
FTC Full Disclosure - Library book