Tag Archives: Memoir

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April Book Reviews

Spring is finally making its way up the mountain. No leaves on the trees yet, but the weeds in my gardens are growing like … weeds. I’m trying to read less and write more, but there are so many irresistible books. I have some great reads to share today, including some that gave me book hangovers.

April’s reviews include my 4 and 5-star reads of a crime thriller, a historical romance, a post-apocalyptic tale, and two fantasy novels.

Click on the covers for Amazon global links.

*****

Tuyo by Rachel Neumeier

It’s hard to decide what to rave about first when it comes to this book. I was moping around my house feeling sad all weekend and didn’t know why. Then it occurred to me that I had a severe book hangover. I hadn’t wanted the story to end. I wanted to read on and on and on.

The story is about Ryo, a young man from an unforgiving winter world. He’s left as a sacrifice—a tuyo—to the victor of a battle with the summer country. In his enemy’s hands, he expects to be tortured and slain, but finds himself spared by their leader Lord Aras. Aras has other uses for him, forcing Ryo to rethink old notions about his world.

The driver of the magic and much of the conflict in this story is a form of sorcery that allows the reading and manipulation of thoughts. That’s powerful stuff and a huge advantage for those with the gift/curse. Neumeier manages the power differential with skillful control. She does a superb job of weaving the plot around this ability that strikes fear in most men, including Ryo who struggles to unravel the truth from planted memories. This deftly crafted magic system is logical, complex, and the source of numerous plot twists and turns.

On top of that, the world-building is exceptional. I was charmed by the differences between the winter and summer countries, which were beautifully drawn, but it was the fully developed culture of Ryo’s people that had me mesmerized. It was profound in many ways, hard and tender, occasionally humorous, often dangerous, and rich with tradition and honor. I believed it completely.

It was Ryo’s first-person narration that created the link and revealed the depth of the culture and character-building. The POV is up close and personal, which immersed me in his story and didn’t let go. I think it was the deep connection to this character’s heart and soul that gave me my book hangover. The book works great as a standalone, but there are more stories in this world, which I’m sure to read.

I highly recommend this book to fantasy fans for sure, to readers who enjoy character and culture-driven tales, and to anyone who loves skillfully crafted stories with mesmerizing characters. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Once Upon a Time in the Swamp by C. S. Boyack

I think this might be my favorite of Boyack’s books so far. I’m a big fan of The Hat series too but the stories aren’t really comparable. Where The Hat series is a romp, loaded with action and humor, Once Upon a Time in the Swamp is heartbreaking and courageous, written with amazingly realistic worldbuilding, fascinating detail, and a deep pov – all high on my list of reading I enjoy.

The story takes place in a post-apocalyptic world, decades after a 2nd US civil war. Society is rebuilding itself piece by piece without most of the luxuries or technologies we take for granted. People have adjusted and are making do with what they have. Boyak’s careful world-building and attention to detail reflect considerable thought and research. The ingenuity and resourcefulness of his characters is utterly believable and therefore, mesmerizing. It had me completely immersed in the book.

The story is told from the singular first-person point of view of Mari. She returns to her farm from a morning’s hunt for wild turkey to find her husband and child mercilessly slain. Their deaths, and her subsequent brutalization by the killers, set her on a path of revenge. The broken highways take her from Florida to Tennessee, where she meets both danger and kindness and learns the skills she’ll need to exact justice and remake her life. The deep pov made me feel like I was living this story, and I was emotionally swept up in every chapter.

Though there’s an underlying feeling of sorrow and inevitable loss in Mari’s tale, the story isn’t without humor, mostly in the shape of her traveling companions – an ox named Dirt and a dog named Worthless. The kindness and generosity she encounters along the way lend the story’s world a welcome dose of hope for the future. In the end, the tale is full of possibility.

The pace is snappy, the plot straightforward, and the quality of the writing excellent. I had a hard time putting this book down and would love a sequel. Highly recommended to readers who enjoy fabulous world-building, deep povs, and a deftly crafted tale. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Haloed by Sue Coletta

This book is a seat-of-your-pants thriller from beginning to end. Sage is a fiction writer, but she can’t focus, and for good reason. A psychopathic serial rapist and killer, who brutalized her in the past, is back. She raises the alarm, but no one believes her, including her sheriff husband, Niko. Why should they? The Romeo Killer was shot dead and buried years ago.

What ensues is a cat-and-mouse game between the killer and Sage. The close calls are nail-biters. Sage makes awful mistakes that almost get her killed, and I wanted to smack her loving but cluelessly dismissive husband upside the head. They’re great characters for keeping up the tension and their 4-year-old son is adorable … and in danger.

The killer is 100% monster. He shares the POV with Sage, Niko, and Niko’s curvy deputy Frankie, all nuanced characters and easy to like. Frankie was one of my favorites with her self-confident personality, loyalty, and bold style. She’s also competent, and I wouldn’t mind seeing her star in her own series.

One of the book’s many strengths is the author’s knowledge of forensic sciences, specifically around bone and body decomposition, key elements in deciphering this read’s crimes. The pace is strong and doesn’t let up and the plot holds together well. I didn’t see the end coming.

Though Haloed is book #5 in the Grafton County Series, it read just fine as a stand-alone. Highly recommended for readers of thrillers and crime novels.

*****

His Judas Bride by Shehanne Moore

Set in the wilds of old-world Scotland, Kara McGurkie is traveling toward her wedding with Ewen McDunnagh, supposedly to establish an alliance between two feuding clans. But that’s only part of her father’s dastardly plot. It’s also the only way Kara can think of to save her 4-year-old son from growing up in a McGurkie dungeon. On the way to wed (and murder) Ewen, she runs into Ewen’s brother, Callm, the Black Wolf of Lochalpin. He’s honorable, tall and handsome, and though he’s attracted to Kara, he’s still pining for his dead wife.

In typical Moore style, the sparks fly as does the romance. Misunderstandings and assumptions abound, complicated by Kara’s secrets, her desperation to save her son, her betrothal to Ewen, and a few days of passion with Callm. Love has some massive roadblocks to overcome.

The narrative is shared by Kara and Callm. One of the things I enjoy about this author is the tight point of view that unfolds in almost a stream-of-consciousness style, particularly for Kara who has a lot churning through her mind. It requires some focus as it moves fast, but wit and sarcasm are plentiful.

One of the differences between this book and other Moore books I’ve read is the depth of emotion in the main characters. Both had a genuine sense of nobility and a willingness to make sacrifices for those they loved. There’s a lot of kindness in this story. Recommended to historical romance readers who like a clever style of writing, a fast pace, complicated characters, and a heartwarming end.

*****

The Palace of Lost Memories by C. J. Archer

Josie is the daughter of a village doctor, a healer in her own right, though women aren’t considered worthy of schooling or the title. Near their home is the mysterious palace of the king, which magically appeared over the span of a few weeks. No craftsman, guard, or servant has been allowed in or out through its gates.

Then a dangerous illness befalls the king’s betrothed. Josie accompanies her father to the palace and uncovers two new mysteries: there is a poisoner on the loose, and everyone in the palace has lost all but the last two months of their memories.

The plot in this first installment of the “After the Rift” 5-book series revolves around the hunt for the poisoner. Questions about what happened to everyone’s memories are explored, but the answers are saved for later in the series. A romantic subplot develops between Josie and Hammer, the captain of the palace guard, a relationship that took its time and which I thoroughly enjoyed.

Josie and Hammer are very likable characters and easy to root for. The story unfolds in Josie’s first-person point of view, so I had an “open book” view of her thoughts and motivations. Hammer is another story, so to speak. He’s complex, and the mystery surrounding his memory loss and past makes him wonderfully intriguing. Teasers abound and serve as a great hook for the next book in the series. Highly recommended to fantasy readers of all ages. (Free on Kindle)

*****

Happy Reading!

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March Book Reviews

It’s been a busy, snowy, March. Good for reading, but I sure have been complaining about the lateness of spring. Then yesterday one daffodil opened. Hoorah! Maybe another will open next week! Well, on to the matter at hand…

I have lots of variety to share with you this month and all but one are available on Kindle Unlimited! March’s reviews include my 4 and 5-star reads of a collection of essays on life and growth, a western romance, a book of syllabic poetry, a “short-story” memoir, a fantasy, and a crime novel.

Click on the covers for Amazon global links.

*****

Grow Damn It! by Cheryl Oreglia

Oreglia’s debut memoir is a beautiful read. It’s personal yet relatable. It’s outrageously funny and heartbreaking, and it’s all about the challenges that life throws at us and how we grow into wisdom and love as a result. It’s one of those books that I might read on my birthday every year, to remind myself of what’s important about this one chance at life.

In a series of essays, the author shares the experiences from her life that shaped her thinking and led to change, appreciation, and a deep well of love. The chaos that comes with family relationships—parents, siblings, spouses, children, and grandchildren—becomes the fodder for growth. And her storytelling is honest and full of wit. As a woman in her 60s, I could relate to almost every experience that comes with aging—from the delights of menopause to corralling grandchildren to watching those we love die.

Which goes to show that not every essay in this book is laugh-out-loud funny. Many involved pain, loss, and regret. They pull on the heartstrings, sharing some tough truths—that life is temporary and things can change at the drop of a hat. Don’t waste it. Oreglia’s wisdom and advice seem to arise through quiet moments of presence when she can take a reflective breath, but she also references the words of other sages, notably John O’Donohue (Anam Cara), and writer Don Miguel Ruiz (The Four Agreements), two of my favorite authors/books.

As Oreglia says, “Show up for your own life.” That’s my new mantra. Highly recommended to readers who enjoy memoirs and the opportunity to reflect on life’s universal lessons, and perhaps grow, damn it. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Return to Silverhills by Sandra Cox

This western romance/adventure follows on the heels of Cox’s Silverhills, but can easily be read as a stand-alone novel. Lisa, a young woman who spent part of her life as a slave to a band of Comancheros, arrives at the Wade’s Silverhills ranch, her new home. She’s timid and wary of men, but she wants to do her part, and when the ranch’s longhorns need to be driven to Abilene, Jeff Wade is short on men to get the job done. Lisa volunteers to go along and handle the chuck wagon.

Romance is a solid plot thread in the story, and it’s handled well considering Lisa’s past. The relationship grows against the backdrop of the cattle drive which is full of high-speed adventure as Lisa and the cowboys deal with disastrous weather, floods, native tribes, dangerous stampedes, and some unsavory characters. I could visualize the action well, and it kept me turning the pages.

In addition to the riveting adventure, both the main and secondary characters are distinct, emotionally believable, and well-rounded. Lisa and Jeff share the POV and I liked them both. They’re easy to relate to and root for. Highly recommended to readers who enjoy western adventures with a heartwarming helping of clean romance. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Lion Scream by Robbie Cheadle

It’s hard to categorize this book. But it’s not difficult to see it as a testament to the author’s love and concern for the wildlife of her home country South Africa.

In some respects, it’s an educational book about the impact of climate change, ongoing poaching, and the loss of habitat on a wide variety of species. An extensive number of animals are covered from familiar lions and giraffes to lesser-known kudus and dung beetles. For a variety of entries, Cheadle shares her observations from her family’s visits to wildlife preserves. She also provides a short page or two of detail about the animal with supplemental links, primarily to her video clips.

The book is also full of the author’s color photography. The images were in black and white on my kindle and in full color on my iphone, which was much better. I recommend changing devices in order to view the wonderful colors of the animals and their habitats.

And finally, this read is full of syllabic poetry, primarily the double ennead form consisting of three stanzas. The author uses her poetry to further educate and entertain as she describes the characteristics and behaviors of South Africa’s animals as well as the challenges they face. There’s a small section of poems on the environment and a short story at the end of the book. For a variety of her entries, including her short story, she shares the inspiration behind the pieces.

An entertaining and educational read for all ages, including children. Recommended especially to readers who are interested in learning more about South African wildlife. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

My Father’s House by Patrick Dorn

This 13-page short story by Patrick Dorn is a nostalgic and emotional reflection on his father and the house that the family owned until tragedy tore them apart. I’ve always believed that people and places become emotionally linked over time, particularly during childhood when home and family are almost synonymous. That’s certainly the case here. This is a sad memoir of loss and regret and the tragic consequences of a father’s poor choices. It’s tenderly written, memorable, and well worth picking up.

*****

Princess of Shadows by Colin Alexander

At over 500 pages, this is one of the longer books I’ve read in a while, and once it hooked me, I had a hard time putting it down. A fantasy, it has some engaging worldbuilding—a world where the lack of orbital rotation does away with day and night and creates regions of perpetual light, shadow, and darkness. There are hints that the civilization on the planet descended from Earth, which explains many similarities to medieval societal structures and norms.

Politics and warfare are heavy throughout the book as competing dukes (called dux) vie for control, form alliances, and engage in rebellion. These machinations occupy the first 25% of the book, with little mention of the titular character. I struggled with this start, not particularly connecting with any of the wide array of characters, the majority of them only interested in their own power.

Then the death of the king and most of his family raises the stakes. The pace picks up, and the story, while still loaded with politics and battles, becomes more personal. Aeryn, the 8-year-old surviving princess, becomes the focus of the narrative as every dux and their sons want to wed her (the minute she’s of age) so they can be crowned the new king. Aeryn isn’t about to fill that role, and the story is about her struggle for autonomy and power. Though still a multi-pov novel, her narrative voice plays a greater role.

This is a book where men are in control, men have legitimacy, and men make the decisions. Even as a “Queen,” Aeryn isn’t respected unless there’s a king. I won’t give away how she solves this problem, but I found it a little disappointing since there’s no shift in the worldview regarding the status of women.

At the same time, her determination, courage, defiance, and refusal to conform are rewarding and kept me engaged in the story. She’s a powerful character, well-rounded, and easy to root for. Recommended for fantasy readers who like medieval politics and battles, and stories about strong women who assert their autonomy and authority and buck the system. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

The Escape by Matthew Slater

Bryan Wattson, a career criminal, escapes from prison after 10 years of incarceration. He joins his best friend Phil, and the two of them pick up where they left off. Except Bryan has a new motive for his illegal activity. Besides getting rich, he wants revenge on the man who set him up and left him for dead.

This is a plot-driven read, high on intrigue and action, and low on emotion. That doesn’t mean the characters are two-dimensional—they’re well-rounded and skillfully drawn with full personalities, especially Bryan and Phil. That said, readers looking for character arcs and emotional shifts won’t find them here.

Bryan and Phill have a tight relationship which I enjoyed even though they’re unrepentant murderers and thieves. I didn’t particularly relate to them or like them, but the skillful writing and fast pace of the story kept me entertained, and I never knew what was coming next. The conclusion wraps up with Bryan’s main objective unresolved—a good hook for the next read in the series. Recommended to fans of fast-paced, plot-driven crime/mob novels. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Happy Reading!

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September Book Reviews

September flew by, didn’t it?

These are all great reads, so don’t ask me to pick a favorite. Enjoy a beautiful October. And Happy Reading.

September book reviews include my 4 and 5 star reads of poetry, fantasy, western romance, sci-fi, a memoir, and a middle-grade book.

Click on the covers for Amazon global links.

*****

More than Coffee: Memories in Verse and Prose by Lauren Scott

This highly recommended and quick read is a compilation of a number of Scott’s personal and precious memories conveyed in both short prose and freeform poetry. A lot of those memories come with the luxury of a hot cup of coffee, but not all. They capture bits of time from idolizing Barbara Streisand as a kid to camping in the Sierras, and lifelong encounters with spiders. Embedded within many of the stories are heartfelt relationships with parents, spouse, and children.

Some of my favorite stories were “Silver Heirlooms” about how simple hand-me-downs become filled with meaning, “Ascent” about grief and the solace of nature, “Laughing Spiders” about big hairy arachnids, and “1989” a romantic relationship initiated by, of all things, an old refrigerator.

I’ve read poetry books by Scott in the past, and the poems in this collection are some of my favorites. They follow along the same lines as the prose pieces and are in many cases reflections of the same topic. My favorite poems were: “The Right Time”, “Simple Existence”, “To My Babies” and…

The Teacher

Its canary boldness
rises up to the sun
alone, yet not lonely,
fearing nothing,
but wearing bravery
on each petal –
standing tall with spirit
in lean green attire
as if soaking up the day’s
endless possibilities.

*****

The Prince’s Protege by Deborah Jay

This is the third book in the Five Kingdoms series and like the previous two, the story features a new main character, one who played a small part in the previous books. In this case, Marten, the fledgling king of Darshan. His mentors believe he’s capable of rule, and he’s on his own and unsure of himself. The gods, Chel and Charin, have dual natures, and they’re taking a strong role in a rising conflict between the royal family and several dastardly nobles.

Lady Betha is Marten’s protector and spy, and though she and Marten are highly attracted to each other, Betha’s ability to heal herself (magic) places a wedge between them. Magic is illegal unless it’s a “gift of Chel,” and the difference depends on who wields it.

There’s a lot going on in this book – plots, murder attempts, and those meddlesome gods. Rustam and Risada share the limelight with Marten and Betha, though their story is secondary to the king’s. Between all the nefarious goings-on, this book has a lot of romantic elements that readers of romance will enjoy.

The book starts back in time, prior to the ending of Book Two, giving the reader Marten’s experience of past events before the story catches up and moves forward. It took me a bit of time to warm up to Marten and Betha, but they did grow on me, especially Marten as he rose to the challenge of leadership.

As in the rest of the series thus far, this is a complex and rich world. The pace is steady, the plot full of drama, and the characters true to themselves. Most of the plot threads resolve with a satisfying conclusion. I look forward to the next book in the series. Recommended to readers who enjoy a well-written fantasy series with a touch of romance.

*****

Tumblestar by Sandra Cox

Independent characters, wild horses, gunfights with buffalo hunters who smell like death, and good old-fashioned love. What more can readers of western romance ask for?

When Cooper Malloy meets the stage coach to retrieve his young orphaned niece, Kallie, he discovers that she’s accompanied by his old childhood friend Miranda Lockhart, only Miranda’s no longer a child. Miranda and Kallie take up residence at Coop’s Tumblestar ranch and it’s not long before an attraction blooms. But who has time for romance when a ranch needs running? Wild horses need breaking, and the buffalo-hunting Doolin brothers are out for blood.

This story has lots of strengths from diverse and rich characters with three-dimensional lives to glimpses of life on the frontier to high-paced action with a variety of villains. Cooper is a great blend of grit and fair-mindedness, Miranda is courageous, and secondary characters are as strong as the main. Scenes involving the round-ups of wild horses and the rescue of an injured stallion were some of my favorites. Read and enjoy, but do not try this at home! Except for the romance, of course.

An excellent fast-pace read for fans of western romance. Highly recommended.

*****

Grief Songs: Poems of Love and Remembrance by Elizabeth Gauffreau

This book of poetry is no more than a half-hour read, but what a lovely way to spend my time. Most of the poems are tankas, short syllabic forms of five lines, and Gauffreau is a master of this style. The collection is a beautiful tribute to the author’s family and includes heart-wrenching, poignant, humorous, and sweet poems about childhood, family, love, and loss. Grief is the thread that connects the poems together, sometimes overtly, but more frequently as a remembrance of treasured moments with people missing in Gauffreau’s life.

A family photo precedes each poem, and the combination of the two adds depth to both. Though the poems are intensely personal to the author, it was easy to relate many of the experiences to my own family and the universal human journey that families undertake. I jotted down my favorite titles and suddenly realized I’d written down half the book. I highly recommend this short collection to readers who enjoy poetry that speaks to the heart.

Clam Bake

clam bake on the beach
driftwood fire crackles, smokes
Michael row your boat
Mummy sings, guitar strumming
five hundred miles from our home

Sixty Years of Katharine

sixty years safe under glass
minutes tucked into envelopes
decades left in dresser drawers
held in thrall, left behind
her blue eyes bright with wonder

*****

Blackened Rose by Cage Dunn

In a way, I’ve become used to expecting the unexpected from Dunn’s books. They’re all so different. This one starts off with some riveting darkness. The main character Mr. Black is an enigma, a problem-solver of the dangerous kind. He’s approached by Liana Benit. Her father died after being falsely convicted of a high-profile murder. It’s not a case he’d usually accept, but something about her intrigues him—he feels her probing inside his head.

The POV’s (both Black’s and Liana’s) are tight, so the reader has to figure out what’s happening without much backstory or explanation. I like how that creates mystery and suspense, but it also requires concentration. Both main characters held my attention. Liana’s ability makes her unique while her emotions make her relatable. That said, I especially enjoyed being inside Black’s scary thoughts. He’s not evil, but he borders on amoral and has no qualms about sticking to his contracts. Like Liana, he has an unusual ability, as does the dying woman Rose at the core of the story.

This is an intriguing read, but it’s not a light one. Dunn’s staccato writing style creates tension which balances nicely with believable detail. The story settles in at about the 25% mark, and the pace is just about right. The culminating psychic battle, for me, ran a tad long, but it was also very well done. Highly recommended to readers of dark fantasy and horror.

*****

Meno – What?: Memorable Moments of Menopause by D. G. Kaye

I tried to read this book in bed before nodding off, but my husband made me go downstairs… apparently my laughter was keeping him up. As someone who’s gone through “The Change,” I found this book highly relatable and, at times, laugh out loud funny. Kaye recommends laughter as a way of dealing with this shocking stage of life, and her account of her own battle with menopause and post-menopausal changes demonstrates that conviction.

Kaye gives an overview of the biological changes, reminds us that she isn’t a doctor, and clarifies that every woman will experience this misery in different ways. Besides offering plenty of opportunities for laughter, she provides suggestions for ways to manage our changing bodies. I especially related to her discussion of post-menopausal changes that begin with a stage called “What the Hell?”

Her anecdotes are relatable… the covers on/covers off routine… opening the car window to let the snow blow in… “alligator” skin… sagging, spots, you name it, she covers the gamut and all with sardonic wit, disbelief, good sense, and a determination to fight back. This book is a memoir but one that doubles as a guide for women during their menopausal journeys. Highly recommended.

*****

Woman: Splendor and Sorrow: Love Poems and Poetic Prose

Best-selling poetess Gabriela Marie Milton is making a name for herself in the literary world, and it’s easy to see why. Her free form poems are rich with imagery and emotion, gently loving, full of longing and loss, and sometimes shining with personal strength. In every way, this collection captures the diversity of experience that comes with being a woman.

The book is divided into two sections—the first titled Love Poems and the second Poetic Prose.

Many of Milton’s love poems have a dream like quality. The lines of poetry are as beautiful for their words as for the way they flow. Some of my favorites were You in Another Life, If only…Autumn, Son of the Desert, Night Poem, The Moon and I, and Bring the Summer.

Excerpt from The Moon and I:

In the green meadow by the lake,
the moon and I knit poetry like silk,
the language of the birds sleeps in the trees
like ripened fruits
your eyes are closed and faraway
the world rotates between two cherries and a kiss….

Milton’s prose reads like poetry but without the form, and much of it seems to be a reflection on aspects of the author’s personal experience or her thoughts about subjects such as poetry, feminism, identity, and again, love. Some of my favorites were My Name is Gabriela, Of Wounds, Creation, and Who Am I?

A highly recommended collection for readers of poetry who enjoy flowing imagery, beautiful words, and a deep dive into the soul of womanhood.

*****

Amanda in New Mexico: Ghosts in the Wind by Darlene Foster

I happily dived into my second Amanda-adventure, and though it’s a middle-grade book, I selfishly read it in preparation for a trip to NM. It’s full of wonderful detail about the Taos area including its history, art, architecture, sights, culture, and… ghosts! The details seamlessly weave through a ghost story as Amanda and her classmates explore the city and countryside.

Amanda’s friend Cleo is afraid of ghosts, and she not only insists that she sees them but that they are causing some mischief. Amanda worries about Cleo’s mental health, until she too starts having strange experiences. The “chills” factor is perfect for middle-grade readers, and the mystery kept my nose glued to the book, which I read in one sitting.

I found the open-ended conclusion intriguing, satisfying, and worthy of further conversation. To that end, the author includes questions for discussion at the end of the book. Highly recommended for middle-grade readers, light history buffs, and anyone interested in traveling to New Mexico.

*****

Breathing Space (Sunblinded #3) by S. J. Higbee

I thoroughly enjoyed Books I and II of the Sunblinded Trilogy and decided to jump into Book III without delay. Lizzie, the main character, steals the show as usual. She’s unbelievably tough, emotional, competent, and when given the opportunity, she has a kind heart. Just watch out if she’s crossed.

She’s the chief of the Peace and Prosperity mercenary force policing Sector Two, dealing with politics and plots like a pro. Yet, almost from page one, she’s faced with a major catastrophe, instigated and carried out by her estranged and psychotic brother. Yes, Eddy is back and ready to take revenge on Lizzie for all the miseries of his life.

As in the previous books, the world building is exceptional, including encounters with aliens and alien technology. It was great to see the core of characters again including the sarcastic ghost of Jessica who talks in Lizzie’s head. Several characters from the first book return, and I enjoyed the way they tied the beginning of the story to the end. A few surprises too!

The author does an excellent job of wrapping up all the loose ends for a satisfying conclusion. The pace is excellent, the plot holds together well, and the sci-fi elements are believable, including spacer lingo. Highly recommended to readers who enjoy hard sci-fi, rich characters, and a tough female protagonist.

*****

Dead of Winter: Journey 9, Doors of Attunement by Teagan Riordan Geneviene

Journey 9 begins with Emlyn, Osabide, and Focia stuck in another dimension in the lost library. They’re trying to return Zasha to her body as well as find their way back to the rest of the Deae Matras group. This novella-length journey expands on Emlyn’s ability to pass between realms, and they learn more about the dire condition of the veil that separates the dead from the living.

As always, Geneviene’s episode is full of luscious details about the world including stairways that seem to lead nowhere, runes that turn cold, and magical staffs that hold the key to power. Some of these story elements feel random, but they do enhance the mystery and adventure, and there’s a chance that they’ll tie together at some point.

There are lots of mysterious characters, some helpful, some malevolent, and a few who could go either way. Little by little stakes are rising and the Deae Matras are in the thick of it. I look forward to continuing the fantasy adventure.

Happy Reading!

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June Book Reviews

Vacations are made for reading!

I just got back yesterday from two weeks at Yosemite National Park. Somehow, I still managed to fit in some reading time.

June book reviews include my 4 and 5 star reads of two memoirs, middle-grade fantasy, steampunk, historical/paranormal fiction, two poetry collections, a YA family drama, and a western romance. Something for everyone! I hope you enjoy them.

Click on the covers for Amazon global links.

*****

Flashes of Life: True Tales of the Extraordinary Ordinary by Pamela Wight

What a beautiful book. I started reading this collection of personal flash stories outside on my deck right before dinner. I read through dinner, and continued reading until the sun went down and the mosquitoes came calling. I just couldn’t stop. In the preface, the author hopes that readers will see glimpses of themselves, their families, their joys, and their lives reflected in hers. And that supposition that human life is full of universal experiences couldn’t be more true. I LOVED this book.

Wight’s flashes (pieces of short prose) read like beautifully crafted diary entries and in a way, the book is a memoir. These are stories about herself as a child, spouse, mother, and grandmother. Funny little stories about yoga and pets, food, even a beloved plant. Poignant stories about aging, illness, time together, joy, and So. Much. Love. Perhaps the feeling that I walked away with more than any other was gratefulness. Wight reminds her readers that life is full of wonderful moments if we are mindful, take the time to notice them, and gather them up for safe-keeping. Highly recommended reading for humans who want their hearts warmed over and over again. 

*****

ThunderTree by S. Cox

Another satisfying western romance/action novel from Cox. Ben is a loner with a capital L. He doesn’t want any attachments to place or person, but he also can’t let a bunch of outlaws take advantage of a young woman. After he rescues Katy, he takes her home to her uncle John T’s ranch where an offer of dinner turns into a very short stay (and then a longer and longer one) as a range war heats up with a neighboring ranch. The conflict starts immediately, and there’s plenty of gunslinging.

The romance is a slow build, and there’s more than one couple working up their courage. I liked Ben’s determined resistance and the lack of waffling in his convictions. The story is primarily told from Ben’s and John T’s points of view. Both men are stoic, though kind-hearted, and I liked the lack of wishy-washy, angsty vulnerability that often comes with romance novels. Male friendships are well written, and I enjoyed the distinct personalities.

I also liked the feisty and independent women in the story. No wilting petunias among the fairer sex either! These women know how to ride and shoot. As a whole, the characters are tough and honorable. They know themselves and what they want. Great characters, great action, and a nicely done wrap up. Recommended to readers of westerns who like a little romance in between lots of tension

*****

Apprenticed to my Mother: A Memoir of Barbara Le Pard 2005-2010 by Geoff Le Pard

I never thought of myself as a memoir reader, but when they’re this entertaining, I can’t help but fall in love with the genre. I’ve read a book of short stories by Geoff Le Pard and decided to give his memoir about his mother, Barbara, a try. What a touching book full of humor, compassion, and love. Lots of love.

The book starts with the funeral of Le Pard’s father, Desmond, an event that changed Geoff’s relationship with his mother, bringing it front and center. He became an unwitting “apprentice” for his father’s role, and got an education from his mother about her expectations. It made sense that his father’s death had created his opportunity and that the book would start at that point. But the book isn’t only about Barbara. Each chapter ends with a poem by Desmond, poems that highlighted this thoughtful and talented man and how much he loved his wife, family, and life in general.

As a person who takes care of her elderly parents, I could relate to many of the events that take place in the book from the baffling and frustrating to the downright hysterical. Though the book covers the last years of his mother’s life, there are plenty of look-backs to early times that give a well-rounded and colorful look into the Le Pard household. I laughed out loud at the Manure Years (something we had every spring at our house too), and the escaped guinea pig adventure. Another funny anecdote was after Barbara’s cataract surgery at the age of 82, when she took the author to task for not telling her that she had wrinkles. And there was the car that needed a half dozen clutch replacements… and Gran selling the garden vegetables when no one was looking…

I highly recommend this book to readers of memoirs who want to laugh, have their hearts warmed, and perhaps shed a tear.

*****

Calmer Girls by Jennifer Kelland Perry

I usually don’t read much YA relationship-based drama, but this book has been on my radar for a few years, and I decided to dive in. I’m glad I did. The writing is polished, the story had me hooked, and these aren’t teenage characters with frivolous problems. Samantha, her sister, and her mom are all flawed, as is Ben, the love interest of the two sisters.

The story unfolds in Samantha’s point of view. Her family is falling apart. Her father has moved away, and her mother is drinking too much. Money is tight. Samantha has a crush on Ben, but he falls for her sister, Veronica. Samantha takes a hit to her self esteem, but when the relationship fails, Samantha and Ben get a chance at love.

But it’s not that easy. Resentment drives a wedge between the sisters, and mistakes aren’t going to simply disappear. Ben has some problems of his own that the author waits to reveal. The mystery around his character and issues was intriguing, and I didn’t fully trust him. I had no idea how the story was going to resolve, and that question made me read well into the night.

Ultimately the story is about a family growing up, about dealing with love, disappointment, and wounded hearts. I could relate to how painful that process was for every character in the book. Wonderful writing and highly relatable characters. Definitely recommended for readers of YA drama and family sagas.

*****

New Day, New Dreams by Lauren Scott

This is the second book of Scott’s poetry that I’ve read. And I enjoyed it as much, if not more, than the first. Scott’s collection includes free form poetry, both with and without subtle rhyming. The poems feel personal, poignant, and from the heart, and many reflect the nature of love in its varied forms. Family relationships provide much of the fodder for reflection.

There were so many poems that I enjoyed that I stopped making notes. Some are touching and sentimental like “Morning After.” A poem called “Bananas” had me laughing with its silliness, and “Raindrops and Coffee” has wonderful imagery and a staccato rhythm (like raindrops). Other favorites were “In Loving Memory of Mom,” “Winter’s Lane,” and “Reflections.” Highly recommended for poetry readers who enjoy touching poems about life and family.

*****

A Ghost and his Gold by Roberta Easton Cheadle

This is a highly ambitious book, and with so much going on, I had to think about how to do it justice with a review. Perhaps most of all, it’s a lesson in history about the second Boer War in South Africa. While reading, it’s clear how much research went into the details of the war, troop movements, battles, and military maneuvering. The text is rich with footnotes and sourcing, as well as further descriptions and clarification.

What’s different from a “history book” is the narration of the war’s events through two fictional characters, one from each side: Pieter—a Boer farmer/soldier, and Robert—a British soldier. The two opposing characters make for an interesting contrast, and its easy to connect with their humanity and the tragedies that befall them, as well as to observe the atrocities on both sides.

The historical aspects of the story extend into the concentration camps where the Boer women and children were sent by the British and where many died from the poor conditions and widespread illnesses. I found this part of the book, narrated by Pieter’s daughter Estelle, the most riveting and tragic.

Overlaying the history and interspersed through the book is the modern story of Michelle and Tom who are being haunted by the ghosts of Pieter, Robert, and Estelle. I felt less connected to these characters and the paranormal part of the story, though the past and present are intertwined and the couple is pivotal to the book’s conclusion.

The book’s overall point of view is omniscient, offering a broad view of the war. Narratives occur in both present and past tense, and there are quite a few time-jumps that need to be kept track of, especially in the beginning. Recommended to readers of historical war stories who enjoy a touch of paranormal suspense. 

*****

Tree Fairies and Their Short Stories by D. L. Finn

In the redwood forest, the tree fairies and their human friends are tasked with protecting the woodlands and it’s creatures. They have the help of the Wise Trees who’ve watched over the land for thousands of years. In many ways, this middle-grade book is about real environmental threats, all crafted into age-appropriate and magical stories.

The three tales are connected, sharing the same characters, and each one addresses a different danger to the natural world. “Tree Fairies” introduces the forest fairies and kicks off their relationship with young Daniel and his human family who will save the land from clear cutting. “Roselle” addresses the illegal dumping of toxic waste. And in “Goldie,” the fairies drive off a pair of poachers.

There’s plenty of magic in the books and activities that middle-grade kids will relate to such as fairy school, writing papers, listening to parents, and standing up to bullying by the “city fairies” who’ve lost touch with nature. A fun read for kids who enjoy magical tales while learning about the importance of protecting the old forests.

*****

The Sensaurum and the Lexis by Richard Dee

I believe this novel might share its steampunk subgenre with “biopunk.” The characters, dialog, and social norms seem Victorian in nature, but the story takes place in a world designed around one highly sophisticated technology—in this case, synthetic biotechnology, specifically biorobotics and prosthetics.

The story follows Jackson and Jessamine, two teenage orphans who work as spies for a secret agency determined to stop an evil mastermind from bio-engineering the brains of ordinary citizens in order to turn them into mindless slaves. Along with bio-tech, there are other forms of technological upgrades including gadgets that help the duo survive, gas guns, rail vehicles, and flying machines. Some of the bio-science is a big stretch, but with some suspension of disbelief, it’s consistent and enjoyable.

These two characters share the narration, though the story is told in an omnipresent pov. Dialog is formal and a bit stilted based on the era, but it felt natural in this altered world. I liked both characters, especially Jackson who is new to the spying game and learning the ropes. There’s some romance and tenderness, but the book is full of action, danger, and intrigue as the two heroes and their group try to discover what is going on and how to stop it.

Recommended to readers who enjoy steampunk worlds, plots around mind control, evil master minds, and the teens who foil them.

*****

Poetry Treasures (WordCrafter Poetry Anthology)

Poetry treasures is a short anthology that took less than an hour to read. It offers an introduction to nine different poets with a modest (2-3 page) biography and a sampling of 3-5 poems from each contributor. Some of the poetry is exceptional, and there’s a variety of themes. Styles include syllabic forms (haiku and nonet, for example) as well as free-form pieces.

The poets included in the book are Sue Vincent, Geoff LePard, Frank Prem, Victoria Zigler, Colleen Chesebro, Kevin Morris, Annette Rochelle Aben, Jude Kirya Itakali, and Roberta Eaton Cheadle. Recommended to readers interested in learning about the above poets and sampling their work.

*****

Happy Reading!