Author: Steven

Gregory Delaurentis’ Suspicious Looking Packages promised a gritty, atmospheric dive into the world of the New York bomb squad post-World’s Fair. While the setting is undeniably dark and compelling, the execution falls flat.

The novel is bogged down by repetitive plotlines and a lack of character development. It feels like reading an extended procedural without the payoff. The constant barrage of hoax bombs grows tiresome, and the characters remain one-dimensional throughout.

The most egregious issue is the ending. Instead of a satisfying climax or resolution, readers are left hanging with a “to be continued” cliffhanger. It’s as if the author tricked us into reading only the first part of a trilogy. A truly disappointing conclusion to an already underwhelming story.

Avoid this book unless you enjoy endless descriptions of suspicious packages without any real substance.

Alan Rhode’s The Eagle and the Cockerel is a fast-paced political thriller that blends the familiar echoes of Brexit with a chillingly plausible dystopian future. The novel weaves together high-stakes political maneuvering, the insidious influence of social media, and a dash of international intrigue.

Rhode’s exploration of a potential Franco-German union is a fascinating premise. The parallels drawn with the Brexit vote are thought-provoking. However, while the plot is engaging, it occasionally feels overstuffed, trying to juggle too many complex elements at once.

The portrayal of the social media giant, ROME, is particularly chilling, highlighting the frightening potential for these platforms to manipulate public opinion. This aspect is both timely and disturbing.

Overall, The Eagle and the Cockerel is an entertaining read that offers a believable vision of a possible future.

Adam Childs’ The Last Israelite weaves together historical intrigue, romantic adventure, and spiritual exploration. At its core, The Last Israelite is a story of identity and belonging. Childs deftly captures the challenges and complexities faced by Jews towards the end of the first millennium, offering readers a poignant glimpse into their lives.

The novel’s romantic subplot adds an emotional and cultural sub-plot to the story, while the romance is a pleasing element, it never overshadows the historical core of the narrative. Childs’ research is evident in the detailed descriptions of customs, architecture, and daily life, immersing readers in the world of the story.

While The Last Israelite is entertaining, it occasionally leans towards predictability in plot development. Nevertheless, these minor quibbles do not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the novel.

The Last Israelite is a good read that successfully blends historical fiction with romance. Readers interested in ancient history, religious themes, and adventure stories will find much to appreciate.

Susie Dent’s debut crime novel is a clever and elegant puzzle wrapped in a literary mystery. The heavy dose of lexicology at the outset almost made me abandon ship, but I’m so glad I persevered. The intricate wordplay is undeniably fascinating, and it’s cleverly woven into a compelling plot. The characters are well-developed, and the twists are satisfying without feeling contrived. A truly unique read.

While the linguistic elements might overwhelm some readers, those who enjoy a mental challenge will find this book rewarding.

Greg Iles has outdone himself with Southern Man. This is not merely a thriller; it’s a panoramic exploration of the American soul, a relentless pace-car through the heart of a nation at a crossroads. Iles’ masterful storytelling weaves a tapestry of intricate plots, complex characters, and historical depth that is both breathtaking and overwhelming.

The novel is a behemoth, yet it never feels bloated. Every page is packed with tension, revelation, and a haunting sense of inevitability. Iles’ deep dive into the racial and political fault lines of America is both courageous and necessary. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and the author doesn’t shy away from exploring the darkest corners of human nature.

Penn Cage is a character etched in granite, a man haunted by the past yet driven by a fierce sense of justice. His journey is as epic as the novel itself. The supporting cast is equally compelling, each character a vital piece of this intricate puzzle.

But the question lingers: Is this the end of the Mississippi series? Southern Man feels like a monumental conclusion, a perfect storm of plot, character, and thematic resonance. Yet, the story is so rich, the world so vividly created, that one can’t help but hope for more.

If this is indeed the final chapter in the Penn Cage saga, it’s a farewell that leaves an indelible mark. But if there’s more to come, Iles has set an impossibly high bar for himself.

Either way, Southern Man is a tour de force that demands to be read, reread, and discussed.

Prepare to be challenged, entertained, and profoundly moved.

A Luminous Journey Through Time

Tracy Chevalier’s “The Glassmaker” is a captivating masterpiece that weaves a spellbinding tale across centuries. It’s more than historical fiction; it’s a shimmering tapestry that transports you from the heart of the Renaissance to the modern world.

Chevalier’s brilliance lies in her ability to craft a narrative that seamlessly blends the past and present. We follow the Rosso family, Venetian glassmakers, as their legacy unfolds against the backdrop of a breathtaking city. From the 16th century’s bustling workshops to the contemporary art scene, the novel paints a vivid picture of Murano and Venice, their opulence and intrigue coming alive in every scene.

The details are nothing short of magical. Chevalier’s descriptions of the glassmaking process are mesmerizing. You’ll feel the heat of the furnace, witness the molten glass dance in the artisans’ hands, and marvel at the exquisite creations that emerge. The sights, sounds, and even the smells of Venice are brought to life in such rich detail, you’ll feel like you’re walking its labyrinthine streets alongside the characters.

But “The Glassmaker” is more than just a visual feast. It’s a story brimming with heart. The characters, especially the strong female leads, are unforgettable. We root for them as they navigate the challenges of a male-dominated world, their struggles for artistic expression resonating deeply. The novel explores themes of family legacy, artistic passion, and the enduring power of love, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page is turned.

If you’re looking for a novel that’s both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging, “The Glassmaker” is a must-read. Chevalier has outdone herself, crafting a story that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.

Fans of Martin Walker’s Bruno, Chief of Police series, will be delighted with “A Grave in the Woods.” While the crime itself takes a backseat, this character-driven journey offers a deeper dive into the heart of the Dordogne and the people we’ve come to cherish.

Walker’s prose is as evocative as ever, transporting you to the lush vineyards and quaint villages of the French countryside. The focus here isn’t on a chilling whodunit, but rather a chance to reconnect with Bruno and the rest of the gang as they navigate the challenges of a potential flood and unearth the whispers of the past.

The central mystery, though intriguing, serves more as a catalyst for exploration. It allows Walker to delve into the region’s fascinating history, particularly the lingering shadows of World War II. This thoughtful exploration adds a layer of depth to the narrative, reminding us that even idyllic settings hold hidden stories.

Yes, the investigation remains somewhat open-ended, but that’s precisely what makes this book so refreshing. It prioritizes atmosphere, character growth, and the simple joys of community over a neatly tied-up conclusion. For Bruno devotees, these are the very elements that make the series so endearing.

If you’re looking for a fast-paced, nail-biting thriller, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you crave a warm return to the Dordogne, a chance to reconnect with beloved characters, and a gentle exploration of history’s echoes, then “A Grave in the Woods” is a five-star treasure.

Robert McCaw’s “Retribution” is a nonstop page-turner that had me guessing until the very last chapter. McCaw’s storytelling blends a complex plot with vivid characters set against the stunning backdrop of Hawaii.

The local details bring the island to life, making you feel the salty spray and smell the plumeria. But beneath the beauty lurks a darkness, perfectly captured by McCaw.

Detective Koa Kane is a compelling protagonist, facing a personal crisis alongside a brutal case. The supporting cast is well-developed, adding depth and intrigue to the story.

If you’re a fan of CJ Box’s Joe Pickett and crave a thrilling mystery with a unique setting, then “Retribution” is a must-read. The twists and turns of the plot will keep you on the edge of your seat, culminating in a satisfying and action-packed finale. Don’t miss out on this exceptional novel!