July 5, 2022 - Staff Reviews

The Wish

By Nicolas Sparks

Release Date: September 28, 2021

Audiobook Available from WV Reads!

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/media/6345975

2 Stars - A sweet and touching but slow drama from Sparks. While he's still a talented writer, his flair for romance seems to have faultered here again. I felt like he just wanted to make readers cry this time. Maggie's a likable heroine but most of her adventurous days are behind her with her cancer diagnosis looming. It's a poetic trip through her memories and journeys with new friends though.

I was disappointed when the book turned out to be more about what the blurb didn't include. Of course, lovers of Sparks' sappy stories will still find stuff to gush over, and he appears to have retained his touch for gorgeous settings and wordy but beautiful descriptions. Maggie's a little hard to relate to though, I suspect for most people. Though I'm sure her struggle resonate or inspire a handful of readers. She's lived life from small towns to traveling the globe, but her heart stayed with Bryce. Unfortunately, we don't really get enough of him. He's caring, loyal, and smart with a tough side.

So, the narration didn't sell me on this one. Mela Lee sounded like she was droning along from the first page. Will Collyer provided a nice break from her basically. It will be tough to go from here without any spoilers but I think my main disappointment was though that the plot of this one just didn't grab me. This has some of the sparks or the yearning so well conveyed in The Notebook ages ago. But the set up here doesn't produce the same overall effect. And this is possibly more similar to The Longest Ride with having Maggie's assistant struggling to forge her own love story along the way. But this lacks the balance of that novel between couples. We all know what we're getting with Sparks' stories, definitely why some love and some hate him. So of course the sad ending and the bittersweet memories of star-crossed lovers is expected. But there was an undertone of sadness this one had from the beginning that kept me from enjoying it. I think Sparks left a lot of Maggie and Bryce's romance behind for a more spiritual and introspective story.

(NS)

June 29, 2022 - Staff Reviews

Jett

By Sawyer Bennett

Release Date: July 20, 2021

Ebook Available from WV Reads!

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/media/6336357

3 Stars - A delightful piece of book candy from Bennett's now long running Arizona hockey series. This one had some pacing issues in my opinion but Jett was a great hero. Emory and her family had some adorable moments too. An easy and likable romance but with a plot that's mostly ex drama.

Bennett can make most any couple interesting but it took me awhile to start appreciating Jett and Emory. Some of the character development, I questioned. Like why they were both Europeans I don't know? It didn't seem to add anything to the story except the rare quirk. Emory was not my favorite heroine as I had some trouble relating to her and her wishy washy attitude. But she's a smart single mom with a soft spot for Jett from the start. Jett was easier to like. He's considerate, dedicated, and patient from the time he hooks up with Emory. And his transition from player to potential family man was heartfelt and cute.

As I mentioned, this one slogged at the start for me. I liked all the characters but nothing was really happening outside of a date between Jett and Emory, and a lot of background on Emory's daughter and sister's lives too. There's some steamy scenes in this one but they weren't as frequent or intense as some of this series' stories. Then the book became very much about Emory's ex husband's reappearance and the struggles of dealing with an addict. He's just not a very effective foil for the couple. Shane's really just pathetic, not dangerous or ill motivated in any way. He basically serves as a reason for Emory to keep Jett at arm's length, one that doesn't make a lot of sense. But Jett hangs in and he's so supportive of Emory, her sister, and her little girl. I couldn't call this a fast-paced read but it is fun and mostly light. A few team mates and side characters from the previous and upcoming books pop in too, but they're mostly background here. A nice addition to the series but also can definitely be read as a standalone.

(NS)

June 21, 2022 - Staff Reviews

The Judge's List

By John Grisham

Release Date: October 19, 2021

Audiobook Available from WV Reads!

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/media/6224019

2 Stars - Disappointing new drama from Grisham that just lacks punch. Returning character investigator/attorney Lacy and her new ally whistleblower Jeri are trying to stay one step ahead of a killer. While the set up had potential, the execution left a lot to be desired. And I'd highly not recommend the audiobook version, which is rare. This one is better read at your own pace and using your own imagination.

Grisham has some truly die-hard fans and rightfully so. I personally am not a big enough fan of his style or returning characters to put me in that category, though I frequently give his a try between other series. And I truly respect his efforts to write his own stories and attempts to keep things fresh at this stage of his career. But when he's hot, he's hot, and when he's not, he's not. Lacy is likable, sure. But from the start she and Jeri are in this weird push/pull relationship. They seem to both have the attitude they're doing the other one a favor. Granted, they are both sharp, curious, and fairly brave. I just never really connected with these two nor any of the side characters.

So my big and unusual recommendation is to read this in book form. Mary Louise Parker probably could have nailed the Lacy part on screen but I couldn't tell the difference between Jeri and Lacy half the time. And she doesn't add much spark or personality to a book that's kind of dull anyway. Grisham's dialouge is not top notch here. Jeri and Lacey have the habits of repeating themselves and/or interrupting early on that grows annoying quick. Also, Grisham readers won't be surprised to find a few heaping info dumps from time to time here. I do wish he would stick to more courtroom based plots, but I know that's a pipe dream. He's written excellent thriller such as The Pelican Brief and The Client that are less legal procedure bound but his touch with characters and situations seemed stronger then. Jeri and Lacy start off very much like Grantham and Garcia, but there was a lot of plot behind those too. However, if you can find a more open mind and embrace the two leading ladies and the twisty investigation into an evil but less than brilliant killer, you'll be entertained. 

(NS)

June 16, 2022 - Staff Reviews

Flirt with Me

By Kristen Proby

Release Date: August 17, 2021

Ebook Available from WV Reads!

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/media/5898977

3.5 Stars - The fun continues in Proby's long running Seattle family series. This time adorable Irish lass Maeve meets her match with former fighter Hunter. He's moving to her island from the city and she sells him a house she loves. Pretty soon they're falling for each other and their families too.  I felt like a few possibilities were left out there but overall a fabulous flirty little story.

Proby's at her best with this series somehow. And while all the stories are alike, they're all different enough to be entertaining. She hardly ever wastes a word or a scene but I admit I wanted a bit more out of this one. Maeve is working two jobs to support herself and buy a new home. Her family's pub is hopping the night that Hunter shows up. He's looking to relocate his wild teenage daughter since he's retiring from fighting. The sparks flew instantly between these two. And even though it took awhile for their relationship to really hit the fast track, both were sweet, considerate, and loyal.

This one didn't grab me at first. Hunter and Maeve didn't interest me all that much separately. Hunter's daughter Rachel took awhile to warm up to and he has some ex drama to deal with of course. Maeve was kind and strong but didn't have much going on besides her quirky relatives. But once these two got together, things really picked up. More than one storyline I think needed more time to devote to it on the flipside. Carla's new boyfriend who was Hunter's old rival of sorts. Maeve's creepy real estate client. The beautiful home Hunter purchased. Them living together, talking about marriage, etc. All of this I was craving more of and sad to see things wrapped up so quickly. Less than two hundred pages felt like get shorted. But at least, I didn't have to pay the sticker price and got a free library copy. But Proby is always a joy from the sweet to the steamy scenes. Overall, fans of the Seattle clan will love the addition of Maeve and Hunter. Plus, this wouldn't be a bad starting place or sample for a newcomer or someone just looking for a quick romance read.

(NS)

June 8, 2022 - Staff Reviews

The Wallflower Wager

By Tessa Dare

Release Date: August 13, 2019

Ebook Available from WV Reads

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/media/4434183

4 Stars - This regency romance was so much fun! Tessa Dare is at her best here with the tale of supposedly ruthless Gabe meeting his match in his new neighbor, quirky animal-lover Penny. Somehow this one can be sweet without getting too sappy and even throwing in a bit of suspense. I think it's a must for period romance fans and an easy, delightful read even for a read who is not.

While not quite as excellent as the previous book in the series, I enjoyed just about every minute of Gabe and Penny's story. I won't say these are filled with super original content but that's part of what's so fun about this genre. Penny's got a mysterious history that keeps her from branching out from her wallflower life. And with her friends getting married and starting families, she's more on her own than ever. Gabe's basically sworn off relationships, romantic and friendship, and prefers to focus on business. But moving next to Penny throws his life into turbulance. He adapts quickly though and is almost immediately a caring and clever partner to her.

Of course, I loved the return of the previous couples, and a few times they honestly stole the scenes. This can be read as a standalone. But the first two stories are more than worth the read. Penny's secret back story keeps things extra interesting while we learn more about Gabe's. They bond over past hurts that are very different but none the less help to understand each other. Dare has a great way of pacing this story where as soon as one little adventure ends, something else picks up, and I was happy to keep turning pages. Things turned steamy around the halfway point but there was a lot more to this couple than their combustable chemisty. A few scenes did seem a bit overlong here and there. And I would have liked to see more focus on Penny's past and some of the story's villians toward the end rather than a bit of quickly cleared up relationship drama. Otherwise, this was a very fun read with good dialouge and great characters. Definitely worth picking up.

(NS)

May 31, 2022 - Staff Reviews

Rock Courtship

By Nalini Singh

Release Date: September 30, 2014

Ebook Available from WV Reads!

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/wvreads-wvlc/content/media/1954331

3 Stars - A short and sweet short novel that can be read outside the Singh rock star series. Thea and David have quite the sparks and a pretty adorable way of communicating that takes center stage. Thea has some emotional hang ups to work through but David's not about to let her get away.

Singh's rock star series is one of the better ones in my opinion. Her characters are very heartfelt and unique, perhaps something that carries over from her more long running fantasy series. She has a nice touch with emotion even without a lot of dramatic moments and discoveries. David is a nearly perfect hero. Raised by patient and proud parents, her tries to reflect their teachings in all that he does. But he's also a bad boy drummer who knows what he wants. Thea is much less easily devoted and indecisive. She tries a little too hard to protect her tender heart from David's advances.

These two were already friends and tied together at the start of the story. But their relationship hasn't really begun and takes awhile to get started. It was impressive how much dialouge, plot, and more Singh was able to infuse in this short story. And there's a lot of steamy scenes too. We get to meet both David and Thea's parents and explore some of their youthful choices that led them to their present. And Thea's relationship with he ex sort of looms over them in a way I didn't carry for, personally. But it did add an element of angst and give Thea a hang up that keeps them from being instantly perfect together. David's so bright and loving though that he manages to break her shell. They have some help from friends though too, namely David's band. Those characters make up the other characters in the series. Overall, this was a fun little read with just enough backstory and drama to keep things interesting. Worth a quick read for fans of the series or general romance lovers.

(NS)

May 19, 2022 - Staff Reviews

Game On

By Janet Evanovich

Release Date: November 2, 2021

Audiobook Available from WV Reads

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/wvreads-wvlc/content/media/6056188

4 Stars! - I personally think Evanovich finally got her groove back with this Plum novel. Stephanie's chasing fugitives again and not zombies, zoo animals, or treasure hunters. And it was refreshing. All the favorite characters come back of course, but the pacing and the plot was a huge improvement. Try it as a throwback read or newcomer to the series.

I've had low expectations for this series for quite awhile but the last few entries started to renew my hope. Finally, Stephanie is back to her old self, and therefore, so are her quirky friends and family. It's like the stars were back in alignment (though Lula would disagreed with me). Stephanie's day starts with a donut at the office. She and Lula catch a few goofy and/or misguided criminals. She's gotta try to one up Diesel this time, and they have a pretty great and sick main villian to chase. This wasn't perfect Plum craziness but it was so close to the classic days.

Somewhere after/around Smokin' 17, most of the Plum fans got a bit fed up. Stephanie was spinning her wheels (when they weren't getting blown up) and instead of giving her just a bit of growing pains, we got this weird dissatisfied Stephanie. She made worse decisions than usual, let the spotlight shine more on Lula and Grandma Mazur, and just generally whined and moaned about the same old problems. But I'm glad I stuck with her. Things picked up around 26 and Fortune & Glory showed signs of promise. We still get all the inside jokes here, they just aren't blown out of proportion. Stephanie actually has a chance to have a beer with Morelli at the end of the day a few times. I think Ranger fans will be a touch disappointed because it takes him awhile to work into the plot, but I don't think any die-hard readers can deny there was finally real progress here. We never needed the series to up the craziness or get a complete revamp. We just needed to return to what made it great in the first place and a few plausible reasons to keep it going.

(NS)

May 17, 2022 - Staff Reviews

 

Burning Desire

By Marie Harte

Release Date: August 24, 2021

Ebook Available from WV Reads!

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/media/5820213

2 Stars - This super slow burn romance series is perfect for fans of Kate Meader and Jaci Burton. Harte has a great touch with dialouge and quirky couples. But this story lacked drama. So if you're looking for romantic comedy with just a little punch and some boss's daughter vibes for a long weekend, this might be for you more than me.

First off, this is a long romance at almost 350 pages. There's not nearly enough plot to fill that so it's a lot of bantery dialouge. It's good banter but I need more. Harte's first book in the trilogy lacked sparks for me too so I went into this with low expectations. Nothing about these stories are setting me up in flames though, in good or bad ways. Here we have plucky photographer Bree, daughter of one of the fire department higher ups. Tex is a former marine and dedicated firefighter who has the hots for her. These two have all the fun push-pull dynamics of a thrown together couple. But somehow, neither of them really clicked with me, and I wasn't feeling the sparks between the two of them early on.

Bree is on an interesting career path that has her colliding with Tex, whom she has tried to avoid. Tex is very much a serial dater and this is no secret to anyone. Honestly, I'd rather read about a player or a hermit than a serial dater. Between that and his instance he got to know Bree and they bonded on a dating app, it just went beyond me. I guess I'm too much of an old soul that way. These two are sweet and considerate all the while they are dancing their little dance away and around each other. Once they finally get together, Harte has no issues with turning up the steam levels. She made a few mistakes though I think, small and large. Small was making references about Bree liking Guinevere when she is a character from King Arthur tales not Robin Hood as told. Other small errors appear. And bigger ones like chosing to start off the first ten percent of the story with flashbacks. This isn't up to her McCauley brothers series standards but it's a pleasant enough read to pass the time.

(NS)

May 10, 2022 - Staff Reviews

Enemy at the Gates

By Kyle Mills/Vince Flynn

Release Date: September 14, 2021

Audiobook Available from WV Reads!

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/media/6046063

3.5 Stars - Another fast paced thriller that showcases Mills' deft touch with Flynn's characters. Mitch Rapp's contracted to help rescue one of the world's most essential biologists out of the African plains and jungle. He's trying to step away from the dangerous life the CIA offers again but baby steps...

A few things kept this from being an exceptional story. But overall, it was entertaining from the first page to the last. Mills can write in almost seemless transition from Flynn's style. Mitch Rapp's not exactly retired from CIA missions but he's getting dragged into the fray this time from a few different people. He can't trust anyone of course from his new rich benefactor to the new president of the United States. But we do get to enjoy the further adventures of Irene Kennedy, Scott Coleman, and Claudia and Anna as well.

A couple ideas in this were pure testosterone that had me rolling my eyes. Such as an explosive planted on the bad guy's groin. Inventive but slightly ridiculous. And there's a few violent details that will have squeamish readers flipping pages. But hey, it's probably all pretty memorable. Rapp's rescue of a team of scientists in Uganda is central to the story. I sort of found myself rooting for David Chisom, a leader in the world of vaccine research, has an interesting background, for lack of a better word, and his team of researchers.  But there's a lot more happening outside of that mission. Back in the US, Irene Kennedy and Marcus Dumont are tracking a compromise at the CIA, that might be a powerful hacker or might be a mole. I would have liked to feel this all weaved together with a bit stronger ties actually. And I think Mills left a lot on the table. There were a lot of different ways I saw the story could go, and it seems like he kinda just played it safe and kept it simple. Nothing wrong with that, I just think I personally wanted a little more. Mills is writing/walking a fine line between real life economic and political meltdowns and fictional ones. It's quite the ride.

(NS)

May 3, 2022 - Staff Reviews

Billy Summers

By Stephen King

Release Date: August 3, 2021

Audiobook Available from WV Reads!

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/wvreads-wvlc/content/media/6046055

1 Star - This was a pretty long, dismal effort from King. The blurb made me think the plot had a lot of potential but it fizzled out quickly once I started. This feels like a King experiment gone awry plus a political tangent that just keeps expanding. I'd recommend taking your summer reading elsewhere, even for the author's fans.

I was about 6 minutes into the audiobook when I got the feeling I wouldn't like it. And it became a struggle to plod along from there. Fiction and politics most certainly can go together, but I don't think that's what anyone wanted or expected from this. Other reviewers seem to agree so I'm relieved it wasn't just me. Billy Summers in the blurb gives off epic movie hero vibes but on the page, he's depressing and kind of pathetic. King's attempt at writing at badass Jack Reacher-ish character with deep psychological issues falls flat.

Frankly, even the narrator Paul Sparks sounds bored from the beginning. He tries at times to infuse some more life and personality to this book. But it's all bogged down in the pseudo sarcastic rants. What bothers me about this is that King seems to be trying to take concepts and ideas from authors who were mostly if not outright conservative. But he's failing at it. Billy Summers in theory should be like Jason Bourne, Mitch Rapp, or the Gray Man. A hitman with a conscience is SO not an original idea. And King can't seem to bring his own flair to it. I have no idea after a few King books set in small town America why he's supposed a voice for them. I'm from small town American and he consistently paints the residents in an unflattering light. Certainly, every character in a novel should have flaws. But King doesn't seem to know how to mix these with attributes sometimes. He should resist the urge to branch out from his trademark supernatural fiction id he can't write something the caliber of his beloved 11/23/64. The tagline on Billy Summers is laughable that the reader won't be able to put this down and they won't be able to forget Billy! I certainly did and already have. 

(NS)

April 26, 2022 - Staff Reviews

Rising Sun

By Michael Crichton

Release Date: January 27, 1992

Ebook Available from WV Reads!

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/media/871121

3 Stars - I was surprised to find this was less an action thriller, more a police procedural and mystery. While some of tech is outdated, the concepts behind them are still being manipulated today. The same goes as well as many of the relationship dynamics and situations. Peter Smith and John Connor are likable if flawed protagonists and it's easy to get into their lives and their search for the truth.

Michael Crichton has many avid fans across the multiple genres he's tackled. I confess I've only read a few, and while I can see the appeal, I am never racing to pick up another novel of his. Rising Sun is pretty much the same. It's not a non-stop thrill ride but there are a lot of clues getting dropped and fun little twists. So it's always entertaining. Smith's perspective as he learns more about the case and Connor himself is an excellent touch. He's relatable, if maybe a little blind, and underneath his outward struggles, a decent person. 

Smith actually reminded me a lot of Nick Carraway in The Great Gatsby in that he's an average person giving you his take on the people and scenarios around him. Sure, Smith has a personality and a past but this is carefully crafted to make him pretty neutral. And therefore, he gets to suspect everyone. Connor is an excellent mentor/sidekick for him. He's mysterious but endlessly helpful. There's another slew of side characters both good and evil as well of course. All of them are written in a way that feels real. As far as the plot goes, this is where I have some issues with Crichton's style. He throws out detail after detail but instead of giving us easily weaved threads to do some thinking for ourselves, he pretty much just ends up telling us how it is. As I said before though, there were many aspects though still strikingly relevant today such as racism, police tactics, globalism, economics, crime, child custody, etc. I wouldn't call this a light or fast-paced read but Crichton's loyal readers as well as crime thriller fans will find plenty to like. 

(NS)

April 20, 2022 - Staff Reviews

The Pact

By Linda Castillo

Release Date: April 28, 2020

Ebook Available from WV Reads!

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/wvreads-wvlc/content/media/5284877

3 Stars - A fine little addition to the Burkholder series. It was refreshing to have Kate and Thomasetti not investigating the same old murder case here. This short but intense story is perfect for a dark, chilly evening.

Castillo's Kate Burkholder series is excellently written. I have issues with how redundant and silly at times the plot became. Kate's a smart and independent heroine who has a weak spot for her most of the time partner John Tomasetti. At the beginning of each book, I find myself wishing Kate would finally grow up, put her issues with her past and Amish lifestyle behind her. She frequently pushes away Tomasetti who is devoted and loyal, if a bit moody and impatient. She never does but she's a great leader, wise investigator, and sympathetic personality.

The story centers around two not too bright boys who run off into the woods together. Of course, the one boy's family hates the other just because they're Amish. That's a common theme in the series so it's no surprise. The boys at first seem to be stalked by "The Scarecrow" but later nearly succumb to the dangers of the wilderness and mostly abandoned land. There is a brief appearance of possible villians that are quite dastardly. Kate and John's handling of them make for a few chilling and exciting moments. I'm almost sorry this story wasn't expanded into one of the novels as it was like a quick breath of fresh air in the Burkholder tales. But I admit the plot was handled rapidly and yet skillfully enough that it's a satisfying short story. This can easily be read as a standalone. Although it is fun to see Kate's team of local troopers with their quirks and effective teamwork on display. Kate's got her work cut out for her with a new case that's different than most of her other adventures. Just enough suspense is here to make it a fun little read.

(NS)

April 15, 2022 - Staff Reviews

Love for Beginners

By Jill Shalvis

Release Date: June 8, 2021

Ebook Available from WV Reads!

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/media/5715491

3 Stars - I had to try quite hard to get into this one, but Shalvis' sweet and quirky love story had two great main characters to entertain me. Emma came off prickly at first and it took a minute to find her more relatable side through all her struggles. Simon was an excellent hero from the start though, endearing and always looking out for others. This wordy romance is worth a read if you can get into it.

Shalvis' romances sort of weave across line sometimes between sizzling tension and plain old dramedy. This one is no different. Sparks are flying for the couple Emma and Simon while they're also just plain perfectly polite at the outset. They've known each other for awhile but this isn't really a friends to lovers tale. It's more doctor-patient. But Emma's got a bit of an attitude and a lot of trust issues. Simon's quiet and cautious at first, but his generosity and determination would melt the coldest of hearts eventually. He was almost too perfect with his patience and concern for all the people around him.

At times, this story felt bogged down with details, inner thoughts, and repeat moments. Emma's got so much baggage that it takes awhile to really unload and warm up to her. The struggles she faces aren't exactly relatable for those of us without severe medical problems. But she has sort of an inspiring gritty side to her. She is, however, infinitely more likable than the secondary heroine Ali. I'm still not sure Shavlis adopted this second couple format. More than foreshadowing as Lori Foster and some others have been known to do, this is a whole other story here. Personally, I would have rather seen the book cut down about 100 pages and removed Ali's POV. She was whiny and completely oblivious when it came to her sort of ex-boyfriend Ryan. He doesn't get portrayed in the most flattering light either. They spend way too many pages moping and doing shared custody of their little dog. Dog lovers, rejoice! Shalvis' knack for including pets is on full display in this one. There's still just a bit too much gloom in the recent Wildstone series for me but this one was an improvement. If you're looking for a really heartfelt, sometimes sappy, romance with a little steam, go for it. Anyone looking for a real page-turner maybe skip this one.

(NS)

April 12, 2022 - Staff Reviews

Stronger Than You Know

By Lori Foster

Release Date: August 24, 2021

Ebook Available from WV Reads!

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/media/6008498

3.5 Stars - A really engaging drama from Foster with a fast moving plot. Kennedy's a likable heroine, sweet and smart, if a bit naive. Reyes is the real star of the story though, a sharp and honest hero who swoops in to her rescue. There isn't as much action as one might expect but it was still a quick, hard to put down, romantic read.

I think this book suffers a little bit from wanting to be a romance, a drama, and a thriller/mystery all in one. Sometimes sacrificing some of one genre for another in spots leaves things a bit lacking. Kennedy's definitely not sheltered but most people would expect her to be a bit less trusting and a bit harder given her back story as a kidnap victim. But Reyes is truly perfect for her because from the first page he's patient, considerate, and ready to go to battle for her. I'd say his biggest flaw is he's a bit a heart breaker around town, but not unsual for Foster's stories.

Foster takes another hard look at human trafficking here and this feels incredibly similar to her Edge of Honor series. It's almost the same couple to couple format. Reyes' family is basically running an underground operation that I'm still unclear really gets anything done. But hey, it's a cool concept. Reyes and his family are all total badasses, which we get a lot of pages about. We also got a lot of previews of Reyes' sisters romance to come. In between a lot of this filler, Kennedy and Reyes quickly bonded but didn't fall into bed together quickly. The steamy scenes were fewer here than some Foster quickie reads. My only real complaint was how annoying Jodi was. Her reckless attitude was over the top. I suspect her presence was to set up a fourth book (like Storm's in Edge) but I won't read that one most likely. Fans of the first book, Reyes's brother and new sister-in-law do return here to help. This felt like a huge improvement over the first story though. It had a more genuiene atmosphere, bit more realistic plot, and I thought the couple was more likable. But these can also be read standalone for anyone looking to try Foster or fill a weekend of reading.

(NS)

April 6, 2022 - Staff Reviews

Devil in Disguise

By Lisa Kleypas

Release Date: July 27, 2021

Ebook Available from WV Reads!

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/media/5810179

4 Stars - Another lovely regency romance from Kleypas, continuing the long running story of a few families. Merritt's status as a widow won't save her from the possibility of ruin as she meets Keir, a memorable and sweet whiskey distiller from Scotland. Worth a read for anyone but it's a touch better knowing the family tree already.

Merritt's marriage was short lived but turned out to be an important element of the story, beyond just her taking on much of her husband's workload. She was not quite how I would have pictured based on her parents but she does seem to have elements of the two. She's level headed like her dad but her mother's impulsive streak shows up. Merritt's so devoted to Keir, it's sweet. Keir's not the typical cold Kleypas hero. He's definitely got a softer side, especially so for Merritt.

I never read series in order and Kleypas' many intertwining series are no exception. However, I had just devoured books two and three in the Wallflowers that happen to feature Merritt's parents prominently. It was definitely more entertaining with the many points of view that floated around. The big secret revealed about Keir was delicious for Kleypas fans, and no doubt something she was excited to share. This one also mixed up some of the usual plotlines too. Merritt wasn't husband hunting. And yet the sparks flew fast and wild for her and Keir. We didn't have to wait an eternity for them to admit their feelings or anything. Also, the sort of role swap with Merritt helping protect Keir from danger was quite brilliant. Not much more of my favorite and unfavorite things without spoilers. There were aspects dealing with Merritt's first marriage I didn't care for being thrown into the mix. But this was a delightful read with many refreshing aspects, especially for the author's devoted readers.

(NS)

April 1, 2022 - Staff Reviews

The Sacrifice of Lester Yates

By Robin Yocum

Release Date: April 27, 2021

Ebook Available from WV Reads!

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/media/5919511

4 Stars - A really fast-paced and exciting mystery full of that rural Appalachian feel that has been picking up steam with the crime genre. Yocum's tale is spun without a bunch of meandering plot points or extra wordy prose. Here is the essence of a straight forward thriller, plus both the story and the hero have a bit of a dark side.

This is a sequel of sorts to Favorite Sons, which truthfully was not my favorite of Yocum's small book list. There are some spoilers to that story though so it's best to be aware of that if you skip it. The hero Hutch Van Buren (don't judge by his terrible terrible name) returns from that story. The stakes are less personal but no less high as he chases answers to cold cases tied together by supposed serial killer Lester Yates. Lester's not exactly easy to sympathize with or root for, but it's more about Hutch's crusade to do the right thing.

Yocum's tales of rural and small town with secrets never fail to entertain. And it's obvious he is content to put out a few high quality mysteries rather than just cranking them out at high speed like some authors these days. I loved his use of first person, not used frequently enough in my opinion. Hutch's determination as well as his sense of humor really came through. He's helped by a great cast of people from his loyal secretary to crusty old cops to fresh faced interns along the way. There's even a plot twist or two here. I'll admit it might be a bit bare bones for some readers' tastes. And Hutch is flawed and has made, and does make here, mistakes. But it's not like you're bogged down in red herrings and information overload, very refreshing. I can't say this was a fun and easy read exactly because there is some dark subjects, some violence, a dose of introspection. But I really probably could have read it straight through if not for life interruptions and I'd recommend it to both mystery lovers and less avid or frequent readers alike.

(NS)

March 25, 2022 - Staff Reviews

Notorious

By Diana Palmer

Release Date: June 15, 2021

Ebook Available from WV Reads!

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/media/4941175

1.5 Stars - A cowboy tale from Palmer's long line of long, tall Texans. This time a lawyer, Nick, is matched up with Gaby, an heiress in danger from her greedy family. I suppose if you're a fan of Palmer's series, this will check all the boxes. But I quickly remembered why I am not and felt like the negatives outweighed positives here. Not even suspense or romantic, a lot of angst and drama. 

Diana Palmer's from an old school romance class. All her blurbs and book descriptions make me think YES. And I can never remember why I don't read them. Then, unfortunately, I do. Gaby's traumatic childhood shows up in the first chapter, and I admit it's harrowing. But she's also pretty snobby and a bit hard to warm up to. I just couldn't find anything relatable about her. Nick's relationship with his niece isn't exactly endearing like I think it was supposed to be. The teenager is clearly lost and he's not giving her the kind of attention she needs. Outside of that, he's a buff, tough, smart, supposedly ruthless lawyer. He's representing the dark side in this case Gaby's grandfather.

There were so many issues that became apparent quickly that I was not going to enjoy slogging through this relatively short romance. I don't mind some of the tropes at all: cowboy lawyer, virgin heroine, evil relatives. Actually, the blurb really had me thinking I would finally read another Palmer book and like it. Wrong. The heroes always turn out to be too old for the heroine, making the whole innocent twenty-something thing a little creepy. He's always protective, just not so much of her feelings. Although, she does have a lot of them. The couple tends to blow hot and cold until the great, big sex scene. And it's not like these books are erotica. That's basically it. As for the plot, it was really hard to believe Gaby was falling for her grandfather's attorney who is much older and sort of weighed down more than she is. But hey, it's romance fiction, so maybe I'm just too picky. I'd say if you love Diana Palmer's formulatic writing style, the way some do Danielle Steel or Robyn Carr then go for it, nothing to lose here.

(NS)

March 19, 2022 - Staff Reviews

When Stars Collide

By Susan Elizabeth Phillips

Release Date: June 29, 2021

Ebook Available from WV Reads!

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/media/5762117

2 Stars - Oddly enough, this rom com suffers from a lack of sparkle. Phillips had all the ingredients of an excellent story but they just don't mesh that well. Olivia and Thad are made out to be so different but actually they had very similar personalities. Not all in good ways, yet they did seem good for each other and had sparks. There's some suspense mixed in with the romance and humor here, but I think even some devoted fans may be disappointed.

Phillips is actually more of a vet of the romantic comedy genre than a lot of the authors today, many of whom switched from romantic suspense, erotica, or new adult to the more fan friendly rom-com genre. So, it pains me to give her a slightly negative reason when she does know her stuff. The original Chicago Stars stories just had more pizzaz than this. Olivia is a blurb-proclaimed diva but she's just a little too prickly and cold. Of course, eventually, Thad melts that shell and we get her sweet side. We also can certainly understand her holding herself and other to high standards. Oddly, Thad was almost the same. 

The push-pull aspect felt thinly disgusted as Thad wasn't exactly a 'rough' football player with redneck roots or anything. These two on paper seem like a good match from the jump. Why they were so antagonistic to each other never really made sense. This book is almost certainly too long though at almost 400 pages. Bits of dialouge felt like copy/paste jobs. Yes, we get some intrigue and suspense mixed in, but there's just too much detail at times. It bogged down any fast-pace tension it built. And the part of the story where Thad is accused of sleeping with Alyssa felt so off. Phillips used to have a racier side to her couples but that seems to be mostly absent here. Thad and Olivia aren't quite setting the sheets on fire or the pages for the majority of the stories. There's more bickering, or bantering, depending on how you look at it. Huge Stars series fans with probably find this worth the read, devouring the latest story. But anyone not yet into Phillips' work should star with earlier Stars novels before deciding whether or not she's a keeper.

(NS)

March 15, 2022 - Staff Reviews

Crocodile on the Sandbank

By Elizabeth Peters

Release Date: Unknown in 1975

Ebook Available from WV Reads

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/media/303349

3 Stars - This light mystery series starts off swiftly with heroine Amelia Peabody venturing to Egypt after inheriting her father's estate. She had already inherited his adventurous and curious nature. I'd recommend this mostly to cozy fans looking for something a little different, more treasure hunt than murder mystery. Worth noting, while published first in 1975, it's historical fiction so it really doesn't seemed to have aged.

The setting is in fact the late Victorian era and has likely prevented this series from aging like the Egyptian treasures and culture it features. This book may suffer from being something of a crossover of too many genres. But it's also a positive aspect. There's touches of historical fiction, regency romance, cozy mystery, and even archeological adventures. Likewise, Amelia has many facets to her personality. She's almost too quirky. At times, she is caring, inquisitive, and simply a little obsessive compulsive. But honestly, other times her fiercely independent nature comes off cold and confrontational. And her inner thoughts can be kind of snobby, despite her lack of conceit. 

I do believe from the few times I have dabbled in different parts of this series (attempting to really immerse myself which I admit I still have not done) that Amelia's character softens as she later acquires a husband and a son. But in this first entry, she can come off a bit harsh and sometimes unrelatable to a modern young woman. However, Peters writes her skillfully and manages to really bring her prospective in full light, which I imagine a part of her tried and true appeal through decades. Although, her writing style is not for the everyday reader, in my opinion. She has a tendency to hop around and the plot takes quite a while to actually take shape. The first quarter or so of the book feels quite meandering, and it's not easy reading with the level of detail and antique dialouge. While I enjoyed my time reading this one, it still did not leave me with a great desire to binge read the series or even hurriedly pick up the next book. It's a series certainly worth a try for anyone it appeals to but despite its short length, it's a weighty read. 

(NS)

 

March 10, 2022 - Staff Reviews

The Heathens

By Ace Atkins

Release Date: July 13, 2021

Ebook Available from WV Reads!

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/media/5800521

3.5 Stars - Quinn Colson's back but this time quite a bit has changed in the sheriff's life. Things are a bit more laidback and the series returns to more of its mystery roots. He's on the trail of a couple wayward teenagers accused of murder, and in the meantime he might uncover more than he bargained for in his own county.

Ace Atkins seemed like he was tying up all the lose ends with the last Colson novel but then he hit us with a cliffhanger ending. I assume this is where a few fans decide to tap out on the now long-running series. But Quinn's back to living his life with Maggie, Brandon, the new baby, and happily back as  sheriff. His first case back sort of puts him at odds with Lilly, less so through the first half than you would think. It was kind of a nice change of pace though. The newest dumb criminals are surprisingly sympathetic  while being pathetic all the same. 

There's a lot of Bonnie and Clyde references here to TJ and her boyfriend but they seemed a bit far fetched. Lilly's never been impartial which is a bad quality in law enforcement but it's particularly glaring here with TJ. Atkins has a weird way with his characters where he certainly can be insulting to them, even use some pretty bad stereotypes. But he does it across the board so I guess it's all fair. I wish we'd gotten a better new big bad villian though. We've already been through Stagg, Varterman, and Miss Fanny's antics before. He made it pretty difficult to change that up and be original. Also, his writing style is great with an almost lyrical and usually humorous quality. But this time, it seemed a bit too wordy. That could have been me or it could have been the book. We did get a few side characters moving on with their lives this time so it was cool to have different points of view for a change. And I think it actually let a little more of the spotlight show on Quinn, which was great. So some things are new and some are the same, but it's always a fun ride in this series.

(NS)