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Reviews by Mary L. (Madison, MS)

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Lamp Black, Wolf Grey
by Paula Brackston
Not what I had hoped for (7/9/2015)
Well want do I say. I was compelled to finish the book although I had
correctly guessed the ending. The book plot was VERY predictable. The
protagonist was not sympathetic and read a bit flat. The supernatural
(of which I was very interested in) was predictable and seemed to be
added as a side interest to gather more reader's interest. I'm so
sorry to say I felt I was reading a potential very good story that
tried to add several storylines only to interest more readers which
instead lost all readers.
That said, If you want an easy beach read, this will be entertaining.
However, if you are wanting what is described on the book blurb, I
would turn away to that classics, " the mist of Avalon", the Mary
Stewart trilogy, and the now in demand as they should be the Diana
Galbaldon "Outlander" series. For satisfaction chose these, for cotton
candy chose "black lamp"
Cloudland: A Crime Novel
by Joseph Olshan
Average (4/4/2012)
I agree with most the the other reviews. I struggled to complete this novel. I often had to go back to sections to understand what was happening or to remember who the character was. Sorry! It had good potiential.
Three Weeks in December
by Audrey Schulman
Beautiful and captivating book (1/6/2012)
Since many other reviews discuss the plot, I will not rehash it. I must say the the writing is beautiful. Many passages brought tears to my eyes and I had to read them to my husband. The book highlights "mankind' arrogance to our earth and cultures that are foreign to us. I can say it was difficult to read only because of my shame as to what is done in the name of progress. The research is on point and the plot captivating. This is not I book, I would have selected for me, however I have been greatly enriched by reading it. I urge all to step outside their usual genre and READ THIS BOOK!
The Look of Love: A Piper Donovan Mystery
by Mary Jane Clark
A quick lite read (12/5/2011)
"The Look of Love" would make a perfect day beach read: Short chapters, fashion, and fun. I was able to figure out the end but it was still an enjoyable read. I will pass the book along, but if I had to purchase the book, I would not spend my money on it.
The Borgia Betrayal: A Poisoner Mystery Novel
by Sara Poole
Interesting Series (7/15/2011)
I enjoyed this book for the history and strong female character. This is the second in a new series. Although, you do not need to read the first, I did go back and picked it up. Some scenes were a bit over the top but hey it is a novel. I would recommend for light, historical reading.
The Tudor Secret: The Elizabeth I Spymaster Chronicles
by C. W. Gortner
Excellent historical mysery (4/20/2011)
I highly recommend this first in a new series set in Tudor England. The book is well written and the characters quickly become real to the reader.
Ever By My Side: A Memoir in Eight Acts Pets
by Dr. Nick Trout
A Must read! (12/28/2010)
I laughed. I cried. How did Dr. Trout see into my life? I enjoyed the human characters but his portraits of the animals toughed my heart deeply. I could go on and on but I can only say “YOU MUST READ THIS BOOK!” As a side note – this book saved my stepdaughter’s dog. He had just dug up my flower and winter vegetable garden. I locked myself in the bedroom and read this book nonstop. It saved her dog and my sanity. I haven’t decided about her. Please read this book!
The Discovery of Jeanne Baret: A Story of Science, the High Seas, and the First Woman to Circumnavigate the Globe
by Glynis Ridley
A wonderful discovery (12/28/2010)
As many other reviewers have stated the story is fascinating, well researched, and contains little information on the real Jeanne Barret. However, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. I too wish there was more information to fill in the blanks of her life but with imagination you can see the courage, bravery, and skill of this fascinating woman. I do not read nonfiction often, but I would recommend this to all readers.
Charles Jessold, Considered as a Murderer
by Wesley Stace
Difficult Read (11/10/2010)
I received this book with much excitement. However, I struggled to read it. The plot was slow to develop. The book was written in the manner of speaking of Victorian England. It also had many references to opera and music that although I am fairly versed in this subject, I still had to look up the references. Once the plot finally gelled, I began to enjoy the book. (I read the ARC. I expect a good editor will tighten the plot). However, I was able to anticipate the plot twist. This book is a fair first attempt at a mystery. Any opera lover would enjoy this book just to gain a feel of English opera in Victorian England. up the references. Once the plot finally gelled, I began to enjoy the book.
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