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Reviews by Jan T. (Leona Valley, CA)

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Close My Eyes
by Sophie McKenzie
Close My Eyes (4/13/2013)
This is a psychological suspense novel which brings to mind "Before I Go to Sleep". It is an interesting and quick read which drew you quickly into the character's lives. There were many twists and turns and a shocker ending. I felt there were too many twists making the novel implausible. I also thought the romantic relationship was a bit contrived. This mystery will be a big hit because of its suspense. Although, saying this makes me cringe - I think it will make a better movie than novel.
The Jericho Deception
by Jeffrey Small
The Jericho Deception (3/15/2013)
This is a Dan-Brown-esque thriller so if you liked the Da Vinci Code you will like this too. The premise involves using a "God Helmet" to recreate communication with a higher power. It connects two faiths but with some harrowing intentions. It is hard to put down and there is a love story entwined with the mystery. I would recommend this novel for my friends who like to explore their spirituality.
Ghostman
by Roger Hobbs
Ghostman (1/9/2013)
Ghostman is an amazing book. It is unusual and highly compelling. The author writes with such intelligence and obviously has researched the grungy world of crime. It is a faced paced book which flips from a previous crime to the one central to the book. The author fills in the characters cleverly using bits of information from both crimes. It is utterly fascinating. I would recommend this for anyone who enjoys an intense thrillride. I am excited to follow this debut author throughout his career - he is destined to be one of the "greats." I will be gifting this book to all my mystery/crime loving friends.
All You Could Ask For
by Mike Greenberg
All You Could Ask For (11/25/2012)
This is a very heart warming story of three women facing a mutual crisis. I felt an emotional bond to these women and admired each of their stories. I am astounded this book was written by a man as I was when reading any book by Wally Lamb. This would be an excellent book for a book club composed of mostly women. He captured the emotional spectrum of life. I will recommend this book to all my women friends - it is an ode to female friendship. Five Stars!!!
Salvation of a Saint
by Keigo Higashino
Salvation of a Saint (9/15/2012)
This is a well plotted intricate mystery. The characters are well drawn. Although, we know whodunit from the start, the psychological nuances are what make this a interesting read. I rated it a good read because I felt it was a bit slow moving and I didn't feel emotionally connected to the characters in the story.
The Woman at the Light: A Novel
by Joanna Brady
The Woman at the Light (6/22/2012)
Wonderful! It is easy to be carried away to antebellum Key West. The story is woven around a female lighthouse keeper in the 19th century and the issues of her time. Slavery, feminism, and a forbidden love. Very rewarding book
Lots of Candles, Plenty of Cake: A Memoir
by Anna Quindlen
Lots of Candles, Plenty of Cake (4/24/2012)
Beloved author Anna Quindlen has written another book reminding baby boomers what is truly important in life, i.e. people not things. It is written from a woman's point of view but certainly would appeal to both sexes over fifty years old. Each essay chronicles a passage of life told in Quindlen's warm, heartfelt manner. Subjects include raising children, friendships, working mothers and more. Reading Anna Quindlen is like having coffee with a girlfriend - it is definitely good for the soul.
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