Sunday, September 19, 2021

Review: The Ambassador Joseph P. Kennedy


 

The Ambassador

Susan Ronald



The Ambassador is a fascinating look at Joseph P. Kennedy's time as Ambassador in London between 1938 and 1940. Appointed by President Roosevelt, it was clear from the start that Kennedy had only his own interests at heart. As WWII approached, he remained overwhelmingly against the United States getting involved. Even when the administration moved closer and closer to helping the Allies, Kennedy railed against the situation's futility. In the end, his inability to support the British government and his continued bluntness and self-interest caused a rift not just between himself and President Roosevelt but also with British politicians who wondered what he was still doing in their country.


As I read this, I was surprised by his pro-fascist tendencies and his tendencies to view everything through the lens of economic advancement. His eldest son Joseph seemed to harbor the same views as his father. His lack of diplomatic skills and unwillingness to support his own administration's policies seemed almost incomprehensible to me. He often made statements on his own without going through the approved channels. In some ways, he reminded me of another recent pseudo-politician who either refused to follow protocols or dispensed with them when not in his own interests.


I especially enjoyed the look back at The Ambassador's early life and that of his wife. Rose seems to have been a distant mother to her nine children, which I hadn't expected to be the case. But perhaps times were different then. I found Kathleen or Kick as she was known to be a fascinating person. She managed to chart her own course, even if it didn't turn out to be as happy as she planned. All in all, this was a well-written and researched book that was enjoyable to read.


Thanks to St. Martin's Press for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.


Monday, September 13, 2021

Review: Triple Chocolate Cheesecake Murder



 Triple Chocolate Cheesecake Murder

Joanne Fluke



When Mayor Bascomb of Lake Eden, Minnesota, is confronted by Hannah Swensen's sister Andrea about something her husband Bill, the town's Sheriff, did, she loses her temper. The mayor is found dead later the same day, and Andrea is a prime suspect in his murder. Of course, Hannah knows without a doubt that Andrea couldn't kill anyone. Between baking cookies for her cafe, she and friend Norman try to help local police officers, Mike and Lonnie, find out what happened. They will have their hands full considering how many people disliked the mayor.

Fans of this series will be pleased that Fluke has again produced a cozy, culinary delight that brings together family, friends, community, and an emphasis on sisterly love. Hannah is her usual thoughtful self, eager to help protect her family and catch a killer. Plus, there are enough recipes included throughout to keep fans happy. I couldn't help but feel that this book needed more backstory. Particularly regarding the death of Ross and why Hannah moved out of her condo. Without more of a recap or explanation, I almost felt I needed to go back and read a previous book to catch up with the story. Otherwise, this is a fun and light cozy mystery.


This review was written by me and originally published by City Book Review.