New Books (or Book anyway) and Women Authors

I haven't finished any books since my last update but I'm making progress on them. I hope to finish one or two this upcoming weekend. I received one book this past week. I'll provide the synopsis of that book. I'll also continue with my ongoing look at Women author's whose work I've been enjoying. This will be a short post I think. Oh, I'm enjoying In a Lonely Place on TCM this afternoon. It's based on a novel I've enjoyed, by Dorothy B. Hughes and stars Humphrey Bogart and Gloria Grahame.

New Books

1. Murder Plus One by Gavin Lyall (1965). Lyall is a new author for me and is an author of thrillers.

"Lewis Cane fought with the French Resistance during the Second World War and gained a justified reputation as a tough and resourceful man. So it's no great surprise when one of his ex-Resistance comrades, now a successful lawyer in the early 1960s in Paris employs him to escort a businessman from Brittany to Liechtenstein for a crucial meeting. There are just two problems: the man's associates don't want him to get there, and the police have a warrant out for the man's arrest on a charge of rape. For Cane, it becomes a desperate race across France, fighting against resourceful and ruthless adversaries and avoiding the forces of law and order every step of the way . . ."

Women Authors I'm Enjoying - Liz Evans

Liz Evans

Liz Evans is an English author of detective mysteries featuring private eye Grace Smith. Evans was born in Highgate and now lives in Hertfordshire. Since 1997, she's written six books in this series. I've read the first book so far and enjoyed it very much. I have two more books on my bookshelves waiting my attention. I'll highlight all three books to give you an idea of her style.

1. Who Killed Marilyn Monroe (Grace Smith #1 / 1997).

"Who Killed Marilyn Monroe? by Liz Evans, the first book in the PI Grace Smith series, was an entertaining, fun surprise. Of course, I was somewhat mislead by the title, of course, it had nothing to do with Marilyn Monroe. Grace Smith is a struggling PI working for Vetch Associates, somewhere on the coast of England (struggling because she never seems to have any money and seems to get the odd ball cases).

Marilyn Monroe is a donkey, belonging to December Drysdale, who runs them down to the beach for tourists to take pictures of and to ride them. Unfortunately, Marilyn has been murdered and Drysdale doesn't think the police will take the death seriously enough. Grace 'Smithie' is assigned the case and thus begins an interesting, odd case which might also involve the murder of one of Drysdale's neighbors, a young woman, who was also murdered the same evening.

While it seems an unlikely story, but Evans puts it together nicely, making for an interesting, even fascinating story. She develops her characters with loving care and you find yourself drawn into them and the story. As Liz Lemon would say, "I want to go to there" and meet Grace and the other people in her community; from bar owner and aging rocker, Shane (who feeds Grace for free and entertains with loud rock music), her co-worker, Annie (sarcastic and a tolerant, helpful friend); the residents of the old age home, even Drysdale's donkeys. You find yourself loving these characters.

Evans weaves a fun story, somewhere between Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum books and Sue Grafton's Kinsey Milhone mysteries. Grace Smith is at times hapless, but always determined. She's scruffy, sexy and lovable. I've already ordered the next book, JFK Is Missing!. If you like a cozy, but action-filled, at times humorous mystery, try Liz Evans (4.5 stars)"

2. JFK is Missing (Grace Smith #2 / 1998).

"Liz Evans is in top form in these, the first three investigations in the PI Grace Smith mystery series. Featuring a feisty and engaging heroine, and packed with cracking one-liners and unexpected twists, these pacey novels will keep you guessing to the end.PI Grace Smith is back, walking the mean streets of Seatoun, a seedy town on England's southern coast. Client Henry Summerstone has asked her to find a missing person, but he has no idea of her name, where she lives or works, or what she looks like -- he's been blind for years. In fact, he's not even sure she's missing. But he's offering cash, an offer that Grace finds hard to refuse. Soon she's got a lead on the girl -- several girls, as it turns out -- but instead of them leading her to Miss X, Grace finds herself caught up in government fraud, family feuds, and cold-blooded murder."

3. Sick as a Parrot (Grace Smith #5 / 2004).

"Adopted at birth, Hanna Conti attempts to trace her family. She turns up a mother who, 20 years earlier, was convicted of murder. Convinced that her mother is innocent, Hannah hires PI Grace Smith to prove it. Grace uncovers the story of the very messy murder of Janet Hepburn, a teacher at St. Martin’s Comprehensive, but there are a lot of people who’d rather she stopped digging. On Grace’s side (or possibly not) is an ex-cop with a shady past and Betterman177, a mysterious emailer who sends tantalizing clues about what was happening at St. Martin’s two decades ago. To add to these complications, Grace has been conned into bird-sitting a psychotic parrot, and Terry Rosco, the most chauvinistic cop in Seatoun, is trying to move into Grace’s spare room. And, oh yes—someone keeps trying to kill her."

I strongly recommend trying the first book. It might get you hooked on the series.  The complete listing of Evans' books can be found at this link.

Midweek Music Medley - 18 Aug 2021

It's so much cooler the past few days, even dropping down to 11℃ over night. I had a great run / walk this morning, then read for a bit as I cooled down. Tuna melts for lunch today.

So before I take the dogs out for the lunch time walk, here is your midweek music medley to help get you over the hump and finish off your week.

Midweek Music Medley Wed 18 Aug 2021

1. English singer / songwriter Elvis Costello - Veronica (1989).

2. English punk / folk singer Frank Turner  - The Next Storm (2015).

3. English singer / songwriter Gary Kemp (ex of Spandau Ballet) - Ahead of the Game (2021).

Enjoy the rest of your week. Stay safe. 😷

A Saturday Reading Update and Women Authors

It's a bit cooler today, hasn't quite reached 30℃. I had a good run this morning,  the weather was great then. At the moment as Jo is preparing dinner, we're enjoying The Big Country on TCM. We've seen it a few times but it's always great. Nothing like a great Western.

I finished my 4th book of August this morning. I'll provide my review of it plus the synopsis of the next book I'll be starting. Then I'll continue with my ongoing look at Women authors whose books I've been enjoying.

Just Finished

1. Walking on Glass by Iain Banks (1985).

"I've been enjoying Iain M. Banks Culture series of Sci-Fi novels since I discovered them a few years back. Banks also wrote fiction, with a number of works. I'd previously read The Wasp Factory, his first novel, and enjoyed. Walking On Glass was his 2nd published novel. What to say about it?

Well, let's start with a brief synopsis. The story follows three main characters. First you have Graham Park, an art student. He is in love with Sara ffitch, although he doesn't know her feelings. The story follows him as he walks to her apartment and remembers how they met and their encounters. Secondly, you have Steven Grant. Steven believes he's being attacked with microwaves by The Tormentors.  He's just been sacked / quit his job working on a road crew in London and we follow him as well as he goes to unemployment, his apartment, plots his revenge, and see his encounters with various people. Thirdly we meet Quiss. This is a strange interlude. While the first two people seem to be living in London and are relatively normal, Quiss's story seems to move into the fantasy realm. He is prisoner in a castle with another person, Ajayi, who fought on different sides in the Therapeutic Wars. (Yup, that's what they were called) Both committed some 'crime' and are now at this castle (it seems to be on Earth?) and must play strange games that take forever to complete and then must answer a question to be released. Quiss wanders the castle during breaks in the games. He finds a room with holes in the ceiling and when you stick your head in, you are inside another person's soul/ body?

So that's the basics. There is more of course.

What to think of the story? Well, it's definitely unique. I didn't feel attached to any of the particular characters, except maybe Ajayi. She is lovely, intelligent, inquisitive but has to deal with the grump, irascible Quiss. Graham is wishy - washy. Can't state his feelings. (Maybe I relate more than I know). Steven is angry at everything, afraid he's being attacked, poisoned by microwaves. Quiss is a grumpy man. Oh I liked the cigar - smoking red crow that harasses Quiss and Ajayi. He's neat.

How are these main 3 characters and their stories related? Is there a connection? There are links, some more obvious than others. There is a possible very tenuous link between the two prisoners and Steven much later in the story. It'll be interesting to see if you see it and if you agree. Do these links between characters affect the others lives. I don't think so but I may be wrong.

Is each person's life / issues resolved? Personally I think you're left hanging for the most part, except maybe in Steven's case, but I don't know if that is unsatisfying. Everything is left a bit tenuous, nebulous but I don't feel necessarily that the main 3 end up totally dissatisfied, even if their stories don't have happy endings.

At the least, it's an interesting different story and worth checking out. Banks unfortunately died in 2013 at the age of 59. The world will miss his creative writing and story-telling. I'm glad I still have more of his books to discover. (3.5 stars)"

Currently Reading

1. Visitor by C.J. Cherryh (2016).

"The human and atevi inhabitants of Alpha Station, orbiting the world of the atevi, have picked up a signal from an alien kyo ship telling them that the ship is inbound toward Alpha. Five thousand of the inhabitants of Alpha are human refugees from the now derelict Reunion Station. They have seen this scenario before, when a single kyo ship swooped into the Reunion system and, without a word, melted a major section of Reunion Station with a single pass. These refugees, who were rescued through the combined efforts of an allied group of humans and atevi and brought to safety at Alpha, are now desperate with fear.

Bren Cameron brilliant human emissary of Tabini-aiji, the powerful atevi political leader on the mainland below, and also the appointee of the human president of the island nation of Mospheira is the obvious choice of representative to be sent up to deal with both the panicked refugees and the incoming alien ship. 

As a member of the space-faring delegation who rescued the refugees, Bren has talked to kyo before and even won their trust by saving one of their kind from a Reunioner prison. Because of his remarkable diplomatic and linguistic abilities, Bren managed to communicate with that grateful kyo individual on a limited basis, and he has evidence that that same kyo is on the ship heading to defenseless Alpha Station. 

But no one can predict what an alien race might do, or what their motivations could be.
And Bren Cameron, the only human ever to be accepted into atevi society, is now the one individual with a hope of successfully interacting with the crew of the incoming ship. But Bren knows it will take putting himself in the hands of the kyo. 

Can Bren count on the gratitude of one individual alien to save his life and the lives of thousands on Alpha Station?"

Women Authors I've Enjoyed - Janet Evanovich

Janet Evanovich

Mystery writer Janet Evanovich was born in New Jersey in 1943 and her biggest series, featuring bounty hunter Stephanie Plum is set in her home state. I discovered the series in my explorations of ABC Books when I first got to Comox. I think I was attracted by the colorful book covers. Sue Grafton had her unique book title sequencing; the alphabet books. Janet Evanovich had a similar approach, starting at One for the Money and moving up the numbers. It does allow her to go much higher than 26 letters. They have all been entertaining books. Stephanie Plum is a somewhat hapless bond enforcement agent but she seems to get the job done. There are always weird and fun characters in the books.

Since I started her books, I've enjoyed 12 in the series and I have another 4 books on my shelves to enjoy. I'll look at the 4 to give you an idea of the series.

1. Eleven on Top (2005).

"Stephanie Plum is thinking her career as a fugitive apprehension agent has run its course. She's been shot at, spat at, cussed at, fire-bombed, mooned, and attacked by dogs. Stephanie thinks it's time for a change. So she quits. She wants something safe and normal. But the kind of trouble she had at the bail bonds office can't compare to the kind of trouble she finds herself facing now...

Stephanie is stalked y a maniac returned from the grave for the sole purpose of putting her into a burial plot of her own. He's killed before, and he'll kill again if given the chance. Caught between staying far away from the bounty hunter business and staying alive, Stephanie reexamines her life and the possibility that being a bounty hunter is the solution rather than the problem. After disturbingly brief careers at the button factory, Kan Klean Dry Cleaners, and Cluck-in-a-Bucket, Stephanie takes an office position in security, working for Ranger, the sexiest, baddest bounty hunter and businessman on two continents. Tempers and temperatures rise as competition ratchets up between the two men in her life -- her on-again, off-again boyfriend, tough Trenton cop Joe Morelli, and her boss, Ranger. Can Stephanie Plum take the heat? Can you?"

2.  High Five (1999).

"Out of bail skippers and rent money, Stephanie Plum throws caution to the wind and follows in the entrepreneurial boot-steps of Super Bounty Hunter, Ranger, engaging in morally correct and marginally legal enterprises. So, a scumball blows himself to smithereens on her first day of policing a crack house and the sheik she was chauffeuring stole the limo. But hey, nobody's perfect! Anyway, Stephanie has other things on her mind. Her mother wants her to find Uncle Fred who's missing after arguing with his garbage company; homicidal rapist Benito Ramirez is back, quoting scripture and stalking Stephanie; vice cop Joe Morelli has a box of condoms with Stephanie's name on it; and Stephanie's afraid Ranger has his finger on her trigger" 

c. Lean Mean Thirteen (2007).

"New secrets, old flames, and hidden agendas are about to send bounty hunter Stephanie Plum on her most outrageous adventure yet!

MISTAKE #1
Dickie Orr. Stephanie was married to him for about fifteen minutes before she caught him cheating on her with her arch-nemesis Joyce Barnhardt. Another fifteen minutes after that Stephanie filed for divorce, hoping to never see either one of them again.

MISTAKE #2
Doing favors for super bounty hunter Carlos Manoso (a.k.a. Ranger). Ranger needs her to meet with Dickie and find out if he's doing something shady. Turns out, he is. Turns out, he's also back to doing Joyce Barnhardt. And it turns out Ranger's favors always come with a price...

MISTAKE #3
Going completely nutso while doing the favor for Ranger, and trying to apply bodily injury to Dickie in front of the entire office. 

Now Dickie has disappeared and Stephanie is the natural suspect in his disappearance. Is Dickie dead? Can he be found? And can she stay one step ahead in this new, dangerous game? Joe Morelli, the hottest cop in Trenton, NJ is also keeping Stephanie on her toes--and he may know more than lets on about her...It's a cat-and-mouse game for Stephanie Plum, where the ultimate prize might be her life.

4. Turbo Twenty - Three (2016).

"Larry Virgil skipped out on his latest court date after he was arrested for hijacking an eighteen-wheeler full of premium bourbon. Fortunately for bounty hunter Stephanie Plum, Larry is just stupid enough to attempt almost the exact same crime again. Only this time he flees the scene, leaving behind a freezer truck loaded with Bogart ice cream and a dead body--frozen solid and covered in chocolate and chopped pecans.

As fate would have it, Stephanie's mentor and occasional employer, Ranger, needs her to go undercover at the Bogart factory to find out who's putting their employees on ice and sabotaging the business. It's going to be hard for Stephanie to keep her hands off all that ice cream, and even harder for her to keep her hands off Ranger. It's also going to be hard to explain to Trenton's hottest cop, Joe Morelli, why she is spending late nights with Ranger, late nights with Lula and Randy Briggs--who are naked and afraid--and late nights keeping tabs on Grandma Mazur and her new fella. Stephanie Plum has a lot on her plate, but for a girl who claims to have "virtually no marketable skills," these are the kinds of sweet assignments she does best."

The complete listing of Evanovich's works can be found at this link.

A Midweek Reading Update, New Books (a Few) and Women Authors

It's been a relaxing, warm day, but there has been a refreshing breeze all through the day, quite strong at times. Our deck has had a steady shower of pine cones from the trees in our yard. We went to Sieffert's Farm Market this afternoon, they have excellent produce. We didn't need a lot but got some green beans, free range eggs and red onions today, but we've bought more things there. We love their red and golden beets, blueberries, etc. Anyway, it's nice supporting local businesses.

So, about books. I finished an excellent historical mystery this morning, the first book in a 3 book (so far, I hope) series. Jo and I went to Courtenay yesterday so I visited the Laughing Oyster and also 2nd Page Books. Yes, I found a few. Then this morning I got a couple of books in the mail. So I'll provide my review of the finished book and he synopses of the next book in line and of the new books. I'll also continue with my look at Women Authors I've been enjoying.

Just Completed

1. Jade Mountain Dragon by Elsa Hart (Li Du #1). This reminded me of other historical mysteries I've enjoyed; e.g. Jenny White Kamil Pasha mystery trilogy.

"Jade Dragon Mountain is the first book in a historical mystery series by Elsa Hart. It features exiled librarian from Peking Li Du, who has been traveling China and ends up in Dayan, a province next to Tibet where his cousin is governor. The story is set in 1708, by the way. It doesn't really say why he was exiled from Peking except for a brief mention toward the end of the story and this fact doesn't really take away anything from the story at all.

While in Dayan, Li Du discovers that preparations are being made for a visit by the Emperor Kangxi, who is traveling in that region and will end his journey by commanding an eclipse of the sun. Li Du finds the city in upheaval as the governor, his consort, the Lady Chen and his staff prepare for a giant reception and spectacle to receive the Emperor appropriately. Visitors from without China have been permitted to attend the event and you have amongst them, an ambassador from the East India Company (bearing gifts and hoping to open China up for trade with them), Jesuit priests, actors, gymnasts, a traveling story teller, etc.

Li Du is received somewhat ungraciously by his cousin. In fact Li Du doesn't want to stay there but wants to continue his travels and needs appropriate clearance paperwork from the governor. However, while there, and attending a state function, one of the Jesuits, an elderly priest / astronomer, Brother Pieter, is found dead in his room. Li Du thinks he's been poisoned, but his cousin, Tulishen, doesn't want to hear it. He first says he died of natural causes, then blames Tibetan traders. He sends Li Du away, but after a time, Li Du decides he has to return and demands to be allowed to investigate, especially as, if murdered (poisoned), he reasons that the Emperor might be in danger. Li Du has 7 days to find the killer.

So that's the basic premise and the story is Li Du's investigation, with assistance of friend, the Muslim story teller, Hamza, another wonderful character. There are many suspects, from Tulishen himself, to Lady Chen, another Jesuit, the East India Company rep, and maybe others. It's a fascinating, exotic story. In many ways it reminded me positively of the Kamil Pasha mystery trilogy by Jenny White, set in Constantinople in the early 1900's. The time is so interesting, the country is fascinating and the lives, culture and people grab and hold your interest.

I really enjoyed Li Du as a character and investigator. I do want to learn more about him and his travels and reasons for exile. There is nice intrigue as Tulishen and his wife prepare for the visit. The Emperor is of one dynasty and there are people who survive from the older dynasties who may or may not harbor grudges and ill-will towards the Emperor. The East India Company is another source of intrigue, trying anything to make inroads into what is basically a closed society. And then you've got the power of the Jesuits who took over as the royal astronomers and guide the Emperor's actions with the annual calendar; friction with the Chinese astronomers and also the Dominicans, who resent the Jesuit influence and want their own inroads to China and the Emperor. It's quite a complex but well-written, smoothly flowing story with an interesting mystery and palace intrigue to tie it all together. I enjoyed it so very much, right from the get - go and have now ordered the 2nd book in the series; The White Mirror. (5 stars)"

Currently Reading

1. The First Prophet by Kay Hooper (Bishop Files #1). I've tried one book by Hooper. She specializes in supernatural thrillers.

"Within the FBI, there exists a team of psychics whose powers cannot be denied. But these agents are feared—by a cabal of conspirators with only one weapon: to blind the psychics to the evils all around them.

Months ago Sarah Gallagher woke from a coma with psychic abilities she couldn’t control. They changed her life and cost her the man she loved. And now, someone is playing games with Sarah’s mind.

It begins with Sarah’s home being destroyed by fire—an act of arson that draws novelist Tucker Mackenzie into Sarah’s confidence. But he has other reasons for pursuing a woman who can see what others can’t. So does a mysterious enemy intent on eliminating Sarah, and everyone she cares about. Because it’s only a matter of time before her visions lead her and Tucker to a secret many will kill to hide. Only then will they begin to discover the scope of a terrifying conspiracy so deep and complex they can trust almost no one."

New Books

1. The Body: A Guide for Occupants by Bill Bryson (2019). Bryson is one of my favorite non-fiction authors. I've enjoyed 5 or 6 of his books since I first tried him in early 2000's.

 

 

 

 

 

"The Body: A Guide for Occupants is an often very funny attempt to understand the miracle of our physical and neurological make up. Full of anecdotes."

2. The Horror of the Heights and Other Tales of Suspense by A.C. Doyle (1992). I've enjoyed Doyle's Sherlock Holmes books and others as well. This is a collection of short stories.

"Best known as the creator of super-sleuth Sherlock Holmes, Conan Doyle also wrote thrilling tales of the supernatural and the corruption of technology. His sharp wit and chillingly detailed writing are at their peak in this diverse collection of adventures, ranging from the cunning escapades of a wartime strategist extraordinaire in "Danger!" to the gripping story of one explorer's fatal journey into the skies in "The Horror of the Heights."

Every reader who accepts Conan Doyle's invitation to "come through the magic door" discovers a world in which the senses are a thin veneer over an unsettling psychological and spiritual realm, a realm in which possibilities have no limits. This volume presents fourteen forgotten masterpieces by one of last century's most popular writers."

3. The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman (2020). Jo and I enjoy a British TV game show called Pointless. Osman is one of the two hosts of the show. I'm interested to see how well he writes.

 

 

 

 

 

"Four septuagenarians with a few tricks up their sleeves
A female cop with her first big case
A brutal murder
Welcome to…
The Thursday Murder Club

In a peaceful retirement village, four unlikely friends meet weekly in the Jigsaw Room to discuss unsolved crimes; together they call themselves The Thursday Murder Club. Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim and Ron might be pushing eighty but they still have a few tricks up their sleeves.

When a local developer is found dead with a mysterious photograph left next to the body, the Thursday Murder Club suddenly find themselves in the middle of their first live case. As the bodies begin to pile up, can our unorthodox but brilliant gang catch the killer, before it’s too late?"

 

4. Mister Impossible by Maggie Stiefvater (Dreamer Trilogy #2). I've enjoyed one book by Stiefvater so far, The Scorpio Races. I thought it was excellent. I'm looking forward to starting this trilogy.

 

 

 

 

 

"The stakes have never been higher as it seems like either the end of the world or the end of dreamers approaches.

Do the dreamers need the ley lines to save the world . . . or will their actions end up dooming the world? As Ronan, Hennessy, and Bryde try to make dreamers more powerful, the Moderators are closing in, sure that this power will bring about disaster. In the remarkable second book of The Dreamer Trilogy, Maggie Stiefvater pushes her characters to their limits - and shows what happens to them and others when they start to break." 

5. Mrs. Roosevelt's Confidante by Susan Elia MacNeal (Maggie Hope #5). I now have 3 books in this series. Now to try the first one.

"December 1941. Soon after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Winston Churchill arrives in Washington, D.C., along with special agent Maggie Hope. Posing as his typist, she is accompanying the prime minister as he meets with President Roosevelt to negotiate the United States’ entry into World War II. When one of the First Lady’s aides is mysteriously murdered, Maggie is quickly drawn into Mrs. Roosevelt’s inner circle—as ER herself is implicated in the crime. Maggie knows she must keep the investigation quiet, so she employs her unparalleled skills at code breaking and espionage to figure out who would target Mrs. Roosevelt, and why. What Maggie uncovers is a shocking conspiracy that could jeopardize American support for the war and leave the fate of the world hanging dangerously in the balance."

6. The Wrong Side of the Sky by Gavin Lyall (1961). Lyall is a new author for me. I read some synopses of his work in another book I was reading and he sounded interesting. 

 

 

 

 

 

"A novel of tremendous pace and excitement, set in, and above, the Middle East, and involving two pilots, their careers clouded by a secret past, who fly back to the right side of the sky on a strange and sinister course that winds from Greece to Libya and includes a rich Nawab, a beautiful girl, diamonds, smuggled arms - and sudden death."

7. The Tiger Among Us (also published as 13 West Street) by Leigh Brackett (1958). Brackett is another new author for me. She has written mysteries (of the noir variety) Sci-Fi and was also a screen writer; Rio Bravo being one of the movies she wrote.

 

 

 

 

"From the screenwriter for STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK, THE BIG SLEEP, and RIO BRAVO... Walter Sherris successful, happy, good husband and father made just one mistake: he took a walk along a dark road one night. Without warning, a car raced towards him and screeched to a stop; out piled five young men intent on violence. To the accompaniment of wild brainless laughter, Walter Sherris was beaten to the ground. He awoke in a hospital nine days later. And from that moment his pleasant life became a nightmare, more horrible than those he had wrestled with in those nine days of unconsciousness. Walter Sherris wanted revenge: for the broken leg and the pain; for the doubts he now had about his pretty young wife; and for the countless and nameless others who had been mauled by the thrill seekers, the sadists, the compulsive slayers . . . the tigers loose in a tame suburban world. The police were evasive, almost disinterested. There were no witnesses. So Walter Sherris set out alone to trap the tiger. The Tiger Among Us was filmed as 13 West Street (starring Alan Ladd)."

Women Authors I've Been Enjoying - P.N. Elrod

P.N. Elrod

Patricia Nead (P.N.) Elrod is an American author of urban fantasy. She has written a number of series, the one I've enjoyed so far is the Vampire Files, a vampire - centric noir mystery series set in Chicago in the 1920's. Elrod was born in 1958 and wrote 12 books in the series and also a couple of novellas. I've enjoyed 4 of the series thus far and have the first book in the series sitting on my book shelf. Let's look at that plus the last two books in the series I've enjoyed to give you a flavor of this unique series.

1. The Dark Sleep (Vampire Files #8 / 1999).

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Death hasn't ended Jack Fleming's problems. His girlfriend Bobbi has caught the attention of a famous radio star, who promises to open doors for the lovely singer -- including the one to his bedroom. His current case -- retrieving incriminating letters from the ex-lover of a rich, foolish young socialite, looks simple until bullets start flying. Now Jack's mortal partner is in the hospital. Who's behind the gun? The ex-lover? The radio star's goons? An old enemy? Jack has to find out the truth -- before the lives of those he loves are put at risk... " (3 stars)

2. Cold Streets (Vampire Files #10 / 2003).

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Cold Streets is the 10th book in the Vampire Files series by P.N. Elrod and the 4th that I've read so far. The series focuses on vampire / night club owner / private detective Jack Fleming who lives in Chicago in the '30s. He works with partner, Charles Escott, helping him with cases and also runs a night club with girl friend, singer Bobbi.

Both Escott and Fleming are working on a kidnapping case as this story opens, the daughter of a wealthy Chicago socialite has been kidnapped and the two detectives are working to make the pay-off with the kidnappers. Escott is the face of the business and Fleming uses his vampire powers in assisting him. In this case he keeps himself invisible as he follows the kidnappers to their hideout.

As well, this story has two other plot lines. Fleming's friend, Gordy, a  Chicago mob leader is having meetings and difficulties with the New York mob and Fleming is trying to help him stay out of trouble. As well, Bobbi wants to hire a dance act for the night club, but there are difficulties with the relationship, with the husband cheating on his partner.

So there are many different features to this mystery  thriller. One of the kidnappers also tries to blackmail Fleming with his knowledge of Fleming's vampire nature. Everything that is going on makes for a fascinating story, lots of action, lots of intrigue and vampire skills and talents. The story builds very nicely and comes to an intriguing climax. Along with the action and mystery, the story is peopled with interesting characters. It will definitely hold your interest. (3.5 stars)" 

3. Bloodlist (Vampire Files #1 / 1990). I finally get to find out how it all began.

"Jack Fleming, ace reporter, always had a weak spot for strange ladies. And he certainly should have listened to the one who said she was a vampire! Because when a thug blasts several bullets through Jack's back, he does not die--and discovers that he is a vampire as well! First in an exciting new vampire adventure series."

The complete listing of Elrod's work can be found at this link.  I hope you see something that interests you. Enjoy. Stay safe and get vaccinated, please. 😷

Midweek Music Medley - Wed 11 Aug 2021

Had a good run this morning while it was still cool. Finished a book afterwards, enjoying the breeze blowing in the patio doors. About to take the doggies out for the noon walk and then feed them their lunch. Jo and I will be having ham and cheese mini quiches with salad for lunch. They are yummy.

But before that here is your midweek music medley.

Midweek Music Medley - Wed 11 Aug 2021

1. Canadian alternative group Bran Van 3000 - Everywhere (1998).

2. English musical duo Everything But the Girl - Each and Everyone (1984).

3. English alternative band Shakespears Sister - All the Queen's Horses (2019).

Enjoy the rest of your week. Stay safe and get vaccinated! 😷

A Friday Reading Update, New Book and Women Authors - Three of my Favorite Subjects.

Canada had a successful Friday at the Olympics winning the soccer gold, bronze in the 4X100 relay and silver in the 5,000. All in all very exciting. The hot spell has broken for the time being. We even had some rain this afternoon, the first drops in a month or more.

So let's see, since my last update, I've completed my first book of August and also got a new book in the mail. I'll provide my review, the synopsis of the next book in line and also the synopsis of the new book. Then I'll continue with my ongoing look at women authors I've been enjoying.

Just Finished

1. A Bird in the Hand by Ann Cleeves (George and Molly #1). Ann Cleeves is my August Focus Author. I hope to catch up a bit on a few of her series.

"I've tried a couple of British author Ann Cleeves Shetland and Vera crime series and my wife and I love both of the TV series based on the books / characters. A Bird in the Hand is the first book in her George & Molly Palmer-Jones series.

I readily admit that without even reading a book in this particular series, for some reason I thought it would be a cozy mystery series. But I was wrong. There wasn't a lot of violence and it wasn't all that edgy but it still had a bit more to it than your regular cozy mystery. (Note: that doesn't mean I don't like cozy mysteries too... phew! I don't want anyone to be mad at me.)

George Palmer-Jones is an ex-civil servant retired from the Home Office. His position isn't really defined but he seems to be able to get information from the cops and others. His wife Molly was an ex-social worker who has some excellent moments in this story. George is a bird-watcher and follows them around the UK trying to find rare birds. Molly, while not that interested in the bird-watching part so much, enjoys the discussions and meeting people.

On the Norfolk coast, a bird watcher Tom French is found dead and it's determined he was murdered. George is asked by the father of young Adam Anderson, another birder, to investigate and find out who murdered French, to see if he was killed by another birder. So George and Molly agree to take on the investigation.

It's all very fascinating. Ann Cleeves knows how to spin a yarn. She peoples her stories with interesting characters and her story moves from one character to another, always moving back to George and Molly. George travels over England from their home, to Norfolk, to the Scilly Isles as he tries to get more information. Molly follows him but also stays in Norfolk, meeting people and gathering her own information.

I enjoyed the easy pace of the story. I enjoyed getting to know George and Molly and I enjoyed the mystery. It is a gentle story, as I mentioned, with not a lot of action. But at the same time there is an element of menace, as we meet characters who fear for their lives. Who is threatening them? There are interesting incidents and I like how Molly takes charge in a specific incident near the end. There are many suspects and I was satisfied with the ultimate resolution. I liked this introduction to George and Molly and I look forward to reading more birder mysteries. (4 stars)"

Currently Reading

1. Red Bones by Ann Cleeves (Shetland #3). Excellent book series and also TV series.

"An island shrouded in mist and a community with secrets buried in the past . . .

When a young archaeologist studying on a site at Whalsay discovers a set of human remains, the island settlers are intrigued. Is it an ancient find - or a more contemporary mystery?

Then an elderly woman is shot in a tragic accident in the middle of the night. Shetland detective Jimmy Perez is called in by her grandson - his own colleague, Sandy Wilson.

The sparse landscape and the emptiness of the sea have bred a fierce and secretive people. Mima Wilson was a recluse. She had her land, her pride and her family. As Jimmy looks to the islanders for answers, he finds instead two feuding families whose envy, greed and bitterness have lasted generations.

Surrounded by people he doesn't know and in unfamiliar territory, Jimmy finds himself out of his depth. Then there's another death and, as the spring weather shrouds the island in claustrophobic mists, Jimmy must dig up old secrets to stop a new killer from striking again . . ."

New Books

1.  Beyond the Black Enigma by Bart Somers (Commander Craig #1). I bought the 2nd book in this new series for me a month or so ago. This is the 1st book.

 

"Commander John Craig is a new kind of science-fiction hero: worldly, daring, incredibly ingenious. Beyond The Black Enigma presents him with one of his most devilish challenges: to pierce and destroy an insidiously growing menace to the future of Earth itself.

Even the most jaded science-fiction reader will thrill to Commander Craig's dangerous exploits as he risks his life in strange worlds never before invaded by men from earth!

The black Enigma could be anything from a mere vibration to the gaping maw of a hideous space beast. Whatever it was, special agent John Craig of the Alert Command had to destroy it before it devoured the universe!

Suave, handsome John Craig did not relish the assignment to conquer The Black Enigma. He would have preferred to continue romancing the beautiful Elva Marlowe—Or any other of his many Women.
But when Alert Command informed him that two space fleets had been consumed by the Enigma and that the menacing blob was swelling steadily, Craig Couldn't resist the challenge.

 
Armed with three incredible protective inventions, Craig set forth eagerly. But he soon found out that getting BEYOND THE BLACK ENIGMA was not going to be just another heroic stunt. If he failed in his mission, it could end his life and Planet Earth!"

Women Authors I'm Enjoying - J.T. Ellison

J.T. Ellison

American thriller author J.T. Ellison has written two crime series I've tried and other novels as well. Both series feature strong intelligent women, Nashville homicide detective Lt Taylor Jackson and medical examiner Samantha Owen. I've tried one of each so far and have another 4 books on my shelves awaiting my attention. Ellison was born in Orlando Florida. I'll look at the 4 books I haven't read yet to give you an idea of her work.

1. So Close the Hand of Death (Taylor Jackson #6 / 2011).

"It's a hideous echo of a violent past. Across America, murders are being committed with all the twisted hallmarks of the Boston Strangler, the Zodiac Killer and Son of Sam. The media frenzy explodes and Nashville homicide lieutenant Taylor Jackson knows instantly that The Pretender is back…and he's got helpers.

As The Pretender's disciples perpetrate their sick homages—stretching police and the FBI dangerously thin—Taylor tries desperately to prepare for their inevitable showdown. And she must do it alone. To be close to her is to be in mortal danger, and she won't risk losing anyone she loves. But the isolation, the self-doubt and the rising body count are taking their toll—she's beside herself and ready to snap.

The brilliant psychopath who both adores and despises her is drawing close. Close enough to touch…."

2. Edge of Black (Samantha Owens #2 / 2012).

 

 

 

 

"Dr. Samantha Owens is starting over: new city, new job, new man, new life. She's trying to put some distance between herself and the devastating loss of her husband and children—but old hurts leave scars.

Before she's even unpacked her office at Georgetown University's forensic pathology department, she's called to consult on a case that's rocked the capital and the country. An unknown pathogen released into the Washington Metro has caused nationwide panic. Three people died—just three.

A miracle and a puzzle…

Amid the media frenzy and Homeland Security alarm bells, Sam painstakingly dissects the lives of those three victims and makes an unsettling conclusion. This is no textbook terrorist causing mayhem with broad strokes, but an artist wielding a much finer, more pointed instrument of destruction. An assassin, whose motive is deeply personal and far from understandable.

Xander Whitfield, a former army ranger and Sam's new boyfriend, knows about seeing the world in shades of gray. About feeling compelled to do the wrong thing for the right reasons. Only his disturbing kinship with a killer can lead Sam to the truth…and once more into the line of fire."

3. When Shadows Fall (Samantha Owens #3 / 2014).

"If you are reading this letter, I am dead and I would be most grateful if you could solve my murder… 

Forensic pathologist Dr. Samantha Owens thought life was finally returning to normal after she suffered a terrible personal loss. Settling into her new job at Georgetown University, the illusion is shattered when she receives a disturbing letter from a dead man imploring her to solve his murder. There's only one catch. Timothy Savage's death was so obviously the suicide of a demented individual that the case has been closed. 

When Sam learns Savage left a will requesting she autopsy his body, she feels compelled to look into the case. Sam's own postmortem discovers clear signs that Savage was indeed murdered. And she finds DNA from a kidnapped child whose remains were recovered years earlier. 

The investigation takes Sam into the shadows of a twenty-year-old mystery that must be solved to determine what really happened to Timothy Savage. Nothing about the case makes sense, but it is clear someone is unwilling to let anyone, especially Samantha Owens, discover the truth."

4. What Lies Beyond (Samantha Owens #4 / 2015). 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Waking to sirens in the night is hardly unusual for Samantha Owens. No longer a medical examiner, she doesn't lose sleep over them, but a routine police investigation in her neighborhood has her curious. When her homicide detective friend, Darren Fletcher, invites her to look over the evidence, she jumps at the chance and immediately realizes the crime scene has been staged. What seems to be a clear case of murder/suicide—a crime of passion—is anything but. The discovery of toxic substances in hidden vials indicates that something much more sinister is at play… 

As Fletch and Sam try to understand what and who they are dealing with, they are summoned to a meeting at the State Department. High-level officials are interested in what they know and seem to be keeping secrets of their own. It's up to Sam and Fletch to uncover what lies behind the deception as the threat of bio-terrorism is exposed, and her boyfriend, Xander Whitfield, may be in the line of fire. 

Unsure who to trust, Sam and Fletch find themselves up against very powerful people at every stage in the investigation. No one is who they appear to be and with every minute that passes, the danger escalates. It's Sam's most complex case yet and the terrifying reality is beyond anything she could have imagined." 

The complete listing of J.T. Ellison's books can be found at this link. At the moment the Blue Jays are clobbering Boston. C'mon Blue Jays! Have a great weekend everybody. Stay safe and get yourself vaccinated. 😷

Your Midweek Music Medley 4 Aug 21

It's still very hot, noon here and it's 26℃. At least there is a bit of a cooling breeze at the moment.

Midweek Music Medley Wed 04 Aug 2021

1. English DJ / Producer Joel Corry w English singer MNEK - Head & Heart (2020).

2. British dance music producer / DJ Paul Woolford w American singer / songwriter Amber Mark - HEAT (2021).

3. Belgian DJ / producer Yves V ft Afrojack & Icona Pop - We Got That Cool (2019).

Enjoy the rest of your week. Stay safe. Get vaccinated! 😷