Review: Sunday Silence

Sunday Silence

Nicci French

Freida Klein, prominent London psychologist is sure that the serial killer Dan Reeves is not dead. Despite the fact that no one believes her, especially the police, she knows for sure that he is alive and sending her messages. When a dead body is found in her home, the police finally start to believe her. But as soon as Freida's friends and family are targeted she is no longer sure it's the work of Dan Reeves. Could there be another killer on the loose? If there is he or she must be close at hand in order to know so much about Freida's life and work.

This gripping, fast moving tale is one that I really enjoyed. If your looking for mystery and suspense this is one not to be missed.

Thanks to William Morrow for allowing me to read this in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Follow the Money

Follow the Money

Steve Boggan

One day freelance journalist Steve Boggan had the idea of following a 10 dollar bill across America as it changed hands, in order to get a glimpse of the country and it's people. Clearly not a journey most of us would think of undertaking. But starting in Lebanon Kansas (for reasons the author will explain) he travels across numerous states, along the way meeting a host of interesting characters. Whether he found himself at a truck stop, a bar, deer hunting or chatting with Amish farmers, he was always ready to drop everything and follow the money, wherever it led.

This memorable road trip across the United States was both endearing and entertaining and maybe just a little crazy.

Review: L'appart

l'appart

David Lebovitz

l'appart is a charming and witty account of a Paris renovation by a chef, blogger, and lover of most things French, with the possible exceptions of real estate agents and contractors. Loving most things French, as he did, he decided to pull up stakes in the U.S. And move to the city of lights. After renting an apartment for years, he finally decided it was time to strike out on his own. Of course, this was all easier said than done. After spending nearly a year in the search for the right abode, he finally found a place he wanted to call home. But then came the challenge of renovation. What he had expected to take two months or so, turned into a marathon ordeal. And, “ordeal” is the key word here. Personally, I cannot imagine how anyone could cope with such a cauchemar but, Mr. Lebovitz managed to come out the other end in one piece.

Just in case perils of renovation get you down while reading this account, don't fret because the author has provided numerous tasty recipes that will cheer you up no end. My personal favorite was the Lemon Yogurt Cake. And if after reading this book you still feel inclined to dive into your own French renovation, I'd like to wish you Bon Courage; you will most likely need it.

Thanks to Crown Publishing for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Auntie Poldi and the Sicilian Lions

Auntie Poldi and the Sicilian Lions

Mario Giordano

When Isolde Oberrieter, better known as Poldi moves from her native Bavaria to Sicily, the homeland of her former husband Peppe, her in-laws think it might be due to depression. They also think that she might intend to settle in her apartment with a view and drink herself into oblivion.

When Poldi's handyman Valentino goes missing and eventually turns up dead, she suddenly has

more on her mind than alcohol. She decides that she will find the killer before the police. Of course, that may be easier said than done. But then again larger than life, Poldi isn't one to give up once she gets her teeth into something.

I loved this book. The fact that the story was told by Poldi's nephew, a struggling writer, meant that I got a fascinating glimpse into Poldi's character and lifestyle. The descriptions were fabulous and after this adventure I'm hooked. I'm hoping that Poldi will have another case soon, so that I can get lost in Sicily once again. I certainly felt this one would make a fantastic movie.

Thanks to Netgalley for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Death of an Honest Man

Death of an Honest Man

MC Beaton

There's a new man in town. Paul English has retired to the highlands after leaving his banking job in Stirling. He has a reputation for giving his honest opinion. Unfortunately, many find it his “honest opinions” simply rude and intolerable. After insulting almost everyone imaginable, it's no surprise that when his body is found on the moor, Sergeant Hamish Macbeth and his ever changing cast of police assistants have a number of suspects to consider.

Hamish has his eye on one suspect in particular but, Detective Chief Inspector Blair, who is no fan of Hamish is set on sabotaging anything and everything he does. In some ways, Hamish doesn't mind if he doesn't get all the credit for his detective work, especially if it means he can continue working in his cherished village of Lochdubh. He couldn't image living anywhere else.

Death of an Honest Man was a joy to read. The characters are fun, lovable and always entertaining. I can't seem to get enough of Hamish and his own brand of highland justice. I can't wait to read more.

Thanks to Netgalley and Grand Central Publishing for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

Review: The Wife Between Us

The Wife Between Us

Greer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen

This story charts the rise and fall of the marriage between Nellie and Richard. While married to Richard, Nellie feels that she is being followed and that she needs the constant protection of Richard. She is grateful to have him, a powerful hedge fund manager who, for all intents and purposes is devoted to her. But as the story progresses, a magnificent slight of hand turns the story you thought you were reading into a different tale, one far more sinister and troubling. This clever psychological drama is skillfully plotted and well-written. I'm sure most readers will be unable to put it down. I know I was. Without giving too much away all I can really say is; don't miss this one. This is by far one of the most interesting books I've read this year. I can't imagine what these two authors could cook up next.

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

Review: Noelle

Noelle

Greg Kincaid

Just in time for Christmas, a warm-hearted tale about a family, a community, and a dog. Noelle, better known as Elle didn't have a good start in life, but that doesn't mean she isn't wanted. Todd, her owner, is sure he can train her to be a good service dog, even if it is proving to be a severe challenge.

The holiday season is bringing other challenges as well to the small town of Crossing Trails, Kansas. Todd's mother Anna McCray had managed to get herself into a fix by agreeing to play the role of Anna Claus this Christmas. While she wants to bring a message of giving rather than receiving this year she isn't prepared for that message to reach beyond her small town. Her success takes her further afield and her husband George is left to take up some of her chores around the house and plan for some unexpected events.

Christmas may never be the same in Crossing Trails but this year will definitely be a memorable one. This is a story that is sure to get anyone who reads it into the holiday spirit. I could just imagine this being made into a Hallmark television movie.

Thanks to Blogging for Books for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.