The Heart’s Necessities, by Jane Tyson Clement and Becca
Stevens, is a collection of Clement’s poetry and is interspersed with
biographical commentary by Ms. Stevens. The selected poems are centered on the
daily observations of life and nature. As such, they are an excellent complement
to the biography.
In this lovely collection of poems there is also pictures
from the poet’s life as well as images inspired by her work and pictures of Ms.
Stevens. Although, the poems themselves is what I truly loved about this book. It
was obvious to me from the beginning that Ms. Clement is gifted and her verse
covers a wide range of topics from her relationship with her husband (there is
a whole section dedicated to poems written for, and about, him) to those about
nature.
Some of the poems were more straight forward and some more complex; however, all contained beautiful imagery. One of my favorites was from early in her life. It is titled, “It Was the Simplest Thing” I loved the opening and how it conveyed such longing even though the poems states otherwise. Another poem I enjoyed, and every writer should read, was titled “Writer’s (Abdominal) Cramp”. In a few short verses it told of such frustration with writing and how she had grown “quite ill” with it. I had to smile when I read that one!
It was a real pleasure to read this collection. Before this,
I was not familiar with this poet. I am very glad to have been introduced to
her work and know I will read more by her in the future. I highly recommend this
collection to all lovers of poetry.
I received a free copy in exchange for my honest review.
The Whisper Network by Chandler Baker is a pager turner that is part mystery part thought provoking look at corporate culture and women’s rights in the work place. I predict this will be one of the most talked about books in the Women’s Fiction genre this year.
The story revolves around four strong, and resilient women
who work for the Fortune 500 company Truviv, Inc. Three of the women, Sloane,
Grace, and Ardie, are attorneys and part of the inhouse legal team. The fourth,
Rosalita is part of the night cleaning crew. They have one thing in common,
they have all been sexual harassed by Ames Garrett another attorney on staff.
Each woman, for their own reasons, have remained silent
about his behavior. Then when the CEO of the company dies unexpectedly and it
appears that Ames is the shoe in for his job, they decide it has to end. What
starts as just adding Ames to the “BAD Men’s” list circulating around Dallas
turns into a law suit and much worse. The consequences will be far reaching and
will affect the entirety of these women’s lives.
Baker did an excellent job of telling a story that is very relevant today. I was especially taken with how thoughtfully the characters were portrayed in the book. They were human and made mistakes… lots of them and despite being strong they doubted themselves. They struggled with work and family demands. They felt guilty for not being the perfect mother and wife, something most every woman has felt at some point in her life.
The pace of the story was a little slow at first, but once
it got going it was a page turner. The story had some twists in that were predictable.
Still, this story really grabs at you because despite being fiction it is so
very real. The book will resonate with many.
I highly recommend this to any women working today. In
addition, this would make an excellent book club read because the issues it addresses.
I received a free ARC from the publisher, via
NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.
The Glass Ocean is
a wonderfully entertaining story of intrigue and romance set in the days
leading up to the entrance of the United States into WWI and grounded in the
present by one woman who is linked irrevocably to the past.
Sarah Blake is an author with one best seller already under
her belt. Despite her successfully debut, she is struggling with her finances
and to come up with an idea for her next best seller. Her mother’s Alzheimer’s
seems to be taking a toll on her creativity as well as her pocketbook. Desperate
for an idea, Sarah decides to open a trunk, even after promising she would not,
that has been passed down in her family from her great-grandfather.
Inside the truck she finds an intriguing note written during
the final voyage of the Lusitania which was sunk by a German U-boat. Knowing in
her gut this is the big idea that has been escaping her for so long, she heads
off to the UK to do research. Once there she tracks down John Langford, who has
troubles of his own, to enlist his help researching his family’s ties to the
sinking of the Lusitania.
What they uncover will shock both of them to the core in
more ways than one. It may even shed new light on the sinking of the Lusitania.
The question is, are they prepared to tell the world of their discovery?
The Glass Ocean
despite being written as a collaboration of three authors readers seamlessly. I
liked all the characters and the development was good. I do wish I had understood
Tessa’s sister a little better. The plot is totally fictional but seemed
plausible. The pace was very nice and the intrigue kept me reading on several occasions
when I should have been doing other things. I especially enjoyed the descriptions
of the Lusitania and what life was like as a first-class passenger.
The one thing I was not happy with is the ending. Without
giving anything away, I’ll just say that the fate of some characters did not work
for me.
All-in-all, this is an entertaining historical fiction/romance
and will appeal to a variety of readers. I recommend it to anyone who likes
Historical Fiction set in the first quarter of the 20th century.
I received a free copy from the publisher in
exchange for my honest review.
I read some really good reviews about The Wolf and the
Watchman by Niklas Natt och Dag and was super excited to read it. It should
have been a home run for me. Alas, I just could not connect with the main
character. The plot dragged and at page 107 I called it quits. My first “DNF”
for 2019.
Reflecting back, it boils down to the two items I mentioned
above. The plot just did not grab me which is so unusual for a crime thriller.
Normally, by page 10, I can’t read fast enough. In addition, I never had a connection
to the main character which in a thriller is not a death sentence; yet, put
together with the plot problems…. Let’s just say this one is just not for me.
Somewhere I read someone’s thoughts that has really hit home for me. To paraphrase, “This book is not a mainstream reader type of book and will in time become more of a cult reader work.” I totally agree with this assessment. Therefore, you will just have to read for yourself to decide if you are in my camp or not. Either way, I hope you enjoy.
I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for my
honest review.
Below is the publisher’s blurb about the book:
“ In this
breathtakingly bold, intricately constructed novel set in 18th century
Stockholm, a dying man searches among the city’s teeming streets, dark corners,
and intriguing inhabitants to unmask a ruthless murderer—perfect for fans
of Perfume and The Alienist.”
The Blameless Dead, by Gary Haynes, gives new meaning to the phrase “revenge is a dish better served cold.” Revenge is the only motive for the serial killer in this fast paced historical thriller. Yet, the story is so much more. I found it to be an intense and harrowing ride through the darker side of humanity.
The book starts with what appears to be a robbery gone wrong
but turns into so much more. When one of the suspects leads an attorney, Gabriel
Hall who is representing him, to make connections to his missing niece, Sangmu,
the darker side of this story starts to unfold. It is not long before Gabriel connects
the dots between this crime and a string of missing girls. Once he has put two
and two together he races to find the killer in hopes that he will also find Sungmu.
This book brings to the forefront the true horrors of war by
not only addressing the horrors themselves and what humans are capable of doing
to others but also the fallout of their actions. I do believe that in this
instance the killer is insane, as in the case of Ted Bundy, he was able to hide
it for years. In fact, I can see a lot of parallels to Ted Bundy and wonder if
the author took some inspiration from his story.
The plot is fast paced and the story line exciting and believable.
The author did a good job in researching the underlying facts though I know the
story is entirely fictional. I have not read much about the aftermath of WWII
especially as it relates to Russia; therefore, I found that part fascinating.
The plot was well done and is complex in places. This is one that you will have
to pay attention or you will miss an important element.
The only negative is I never really got to know the
characters in a way that allowed me to connect with them. This happens sometimes
in plot driven stories and is the main reason I rated it four stars instead of
five.
I actually found the story difficult to read because of the
subject matter. I feel this book is geared more towards a male audience. Therefore,
I am recommending it to those readers who like dark, intense thrillers. I think
that historical thrillers readers who don’t mind graphic violence and enjoy a
fast paced historical thriller will also enjoy this one.
I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for my
honest review.
ME: What was your
inspiration for the main character?
A mixture of all the strong women in my life. My mother, my
daughters and my sisters. There is a little bit of Ella in each of them and
vice versa.
ME: What was the
hardest part of writing this book?
I try to be a positive person and writing about something as
dark as the Cold War and the Berlin Wall was difficult at times. Especially
when I included some of the victims and their histories, yet even then there
was an element of pride that surfaced knowing I was doing my small part to keep
their story alive.
ME: How many books in
the series?
3 books. The third and final book will be released on Nov 9th
2019, the 30th anniversary of the Fall of the Wall.
ME: What emotion are
you hoping to evoke in your reader?
Empathy and love. As Americans we tend to assume others live
like we do with the freedom to say or do what we want. It’s important for us to
recognize not everyone has had that.
ME: What do you think
is the most memorable thing about the main character?
Her determination and loyalty. When Ella sets her mind to
something, she persists despite the risks, but it was her decision to stay with
her father right from the beginning full well knowing he could die soon that
makes you fall in love with her.
ME: Why did you
choose to write in your particular genre?
I have a background in archaeology and history and love
intertwining fictional characters with real life events. Last year I spent a
month on an archaeological dig on an island off the coast of Spain and after
visiting a monastery, came home with 100 pages written on a new book. Too many
stories to tell!
ME: What was the
hardest part of writing this book?
The reality of darkness. As I researched the stranglehold
the government and the Stasi had on the broken people of East Berlin, it was
difficult to imagine living in such distrust and fear.
ME: Are you more
concerned with what the reader wants or are you writing something that
interests you? Do you have to comprise between to the two or do you find an
equilibrium?
I couldn’t write if it didn’t interest me. Although I am
amazed at the minds and imagination of fantasy or sci fi authors, I don’t think
that way. Historical facts are very important to me. The German words, foods
and culture are checked by friends from Germany, and the books truly didn’t
come to life until I stood on the street Ella lived or next to the fairy tale
fountain and the statues, but I also recognize the need for books to have a
balance. Your readers are your life blood, there are certain directions you
have to consider in that regard.
ME: Did you identify
strongly with the main character of your book? Why?
Several years ago, I awoke from a dream, scrambling to place
the location when it came to me that it was the Berlin Wall. From that dream, I
knew my main character had to be strong to withstand so many struggles. Ella
represents everything I believe a young woman in post war Germany had to be to
survive the evil that hovered for decades. Although I am not a stranger to
heartache or pain, it is different from hers.
ME: What is the most
rewarding thing about writing for you?
Is when people who didn’t know much about the wall and its
division before they read my book, then once they finish, they are driven to
know more. Any time I can stir interest in something I am passionate about, I
consider that quite successful.
ME: Can you summarize
your writing process?
I am a night writer! Many times, I am up until 1 or 2 am
hashing out one chapter at a time. Writing a series is different than writing a
stand alone though, especially one that spans 28 years. You have to outline
beginning to end to make sure your story and characters remain consistent.
ME: Do you have any
advice for someone just starting out?
Believe in your work, it’s your baby! Think about all the amazing books out there that we wouldn’t have if that writer never pursued their dream!
Leah Moyes
Leah Moyes is the author of the Berlin Butterfly series, she is from San Tan Valley, Arizona, but experienced many parts of the world in thanks to a career in the airlines, now most of her time, aside from writing is spent as a high school teacher, soccer coach, and mom.
Her favorite subjects to read and write are historical fiction novels or time travel. Favorite Author is Michelle Moran. “I love her writing style and detail in regards to ancient civilizations”.
The best part about being an author is the opportunity to share a world of your own creation with people from so many different backgrounds, history, lifestyles, beliefs, and cultures and still make a remarkable connection.
Ensnare, book one of the Berlin Butterfly series by Leah Moyes, tells the heart wrenching story of a young, former orphan girl, Ella, trapped on the wrong side of Berlin when the wall is erected in August of 1961.
Ella’s father is gravely ill as soldiers start unrolling spools
of barbed wire, which will form the first Berlin Wall, to keep the citizens of
East Berlin from fleeing to the west. She is torn between escaping while she
still can, with her young brother and best friend Anton, and staying behind to
care for her sick father. Ella makes the only decision she feels she can and
stays behind while entrusting her brother to Anton’s care.
In a very short time, Ella’s father passes away and she is stuck
alone in East Berlin. She has no money for food or to bury her father. Therefore,
she strikes a deal with the Frankes, a wealthy and influential family in East Berlin,
whom runs a mortuary. She will work as domestic help for 2 years to pay off the
debt she owes them for the casket and burial. Once Ella begins working for the
Frankes she makes friends and seeks ways to escape East Berlin. Yet what awaits
Ella in the next two years will be much more than she expected and will put her
life in danger and the lives of those she comes to trust and even love.
I was captivated with the character of Ella from the first. Her
story has a realness to it and kept me engaged throughout. Just thinking about a
15 year old girl having to make such a life changing decision gives me goose
bumps. Yet, she is strong and resilient. I felt the author did justice to the character
by making her that way. Times were different then and hard ship was common;
therefore, children had to grow up much faster.
I also loved the historical aspect of the book and felt the
setting was the perfect backdrop for Ella’s story. The descriptions of the East
versus West side of Berlin rang true to the times. It is obvious that the
author did her research.
In addition, the plot moves smoothly along and at a nice pace. I was never bored and never felt the story was rushed. The story just seemed to unfold effortlessly with just enough twists to keep your attention but not so much that it felt over worked. Really well done!
Ensnare is one of
those books that has a lot going for it and should appeal to a broad audience.
I highly recommend this book to lovers of Historical Fiction, Romance and Women’s
Fiction.
I received a free copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
I am starting to think and plan for this year’s BookExpo and BookCon that run congruent at the Javits Center in New York City. I am super excited about attending this year. It all starts at the end of May, with BookExpo running May 29 – 31, followed by BookCon on June 1st and 2nd.
Several people have asked me what is BookExpo and BookCon, so what follows is my short answer. BookExpo is the industry trade show for professionals. This is the place for authors, agents, librarians, bloggers, to meet up with publishers, other authors, agents, etc. to discover what the hottest trends are and get up to speed on the latest tools and technology in the industry so they can advance their business. Whereas BookCon is all about the bibliophiles. This is the place where avid readers connect with like minded people, meet authors, get books signed, and see what hot books are coming out. In a nut shell, these two trade shows are the opposites sides of the same coin.
If you are not in the U.S. don’t worry there are still plenty of International book fairs to warm a book worms heart. Kotobee blog has put together a list of the international book fairs and trade shows. Take a few minutes to visit the Kotobee blog and see which is closest to you.
For those of you in North America, I hope to see you in NYC this spring. For you other folks, I hope you are able to attend one of these fantastic book fairs. Happy reading!
If I had not known in advance this was a debut novel I would have said, “No way.” The prose is as polished as any seasoned writer. Beyond the Point, by Claire Gibson, takes the reader into the world of West Point where we meet three young women athletes, Hannah, Dani and Avery, recruited to play basketball.
When they first meet they do not become friends immediately.
Avery and Dani develop a fierce rivalry on the basketball court. Dani is an
incredibly gifted player and is given a place on the varsity team as a
freshman. Avery finds this hard to handle and it fuels her own personal
insecurities. Over time Hannah the shy and faith driven women, who tends to be
the anchor of the group, brings them all together and slowly a fierce
friendship is formed.
You might think this book is about how women endure the rigors of a male dominated school like West Point. It is that and so much more. It is ultimately about how three strong women forge a long lasting friendship and face the hardships of West Point together. The friendship they have not only makes them stronger; they draw upon this strength to navigate the world after West Point when tragedy strikes.
This book is strongly character driven. Dani, Avery and
Hannah are all portrayed very realistically and are fully developed. I
especially loved that the author gave me both their strengths and their weaknesses.
The story is told form all three points of view. So we get a
window into the interworkings of each of the main characters. The plot is not
slow or fast. It does meander some as the author, especially later in the book,
keeps flashing back to things that happened at West Point that sheds light on
to a current situation or event.
I am really excited to see what else this author has in store for the future and expect that this is just the being of many good things to come. I highly recommend this book to readers who like a character driven story especially those with strong female characters.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Based very loosely on facts, The Witches of St. Petersburg,
by Imogen Edwards-Jones, is about two young sisters Militza and Stana whose
father arranges their marriages to members of the Russian nobility. Once they
arrive at court the Russian aristocracy look down their noses at them for being
not only outsiders but uncultivated and having backwater ways.
The sisters further this appearance by dabbling in black
magic. They predict the sex of the servant’s unborn children, read tea leaves,
and hold séances to communicate with the dead. All of this is very unseemly for
someone of the nobility. That is until the sisters capture the attention of the
Tsar’s wife Alexandra.
Tsarina Alexandra has produced nothing but girls and she is
desperate to give the Tsar an heir. So desperate in fact that she allows the
sisters to send her charlatan, after charlatan, to help ensure a male child is
born to secure the Romanov line. I guess you could say desperate times call for
desperate measures. Once Rasputin enters the story Militza and Stana are
desperate to help Alexandra and secure their place in the social standings of
the Russian court. Unfortunately, they
are wholly unprepared for what will come.
I read some of the reviews going into this book and was not
sure if I would like it. Since I love reading historical fiction that are based
on facts and I also find paranormal stories fascinating, I decided to not let
others influence me. That is not to say that there were not flaws, because there
were and I just ignored them for the most part and enjoyed the story for the
entertainment it is.
So what I liked about the book was the darker side of court life
that was betrayed. I felt the author really did a good job of capturing that. I
also liked her imaginative take on fictional events surrounding the Romanovs. The
sisters Militiza and Stanza’s characters I also liked. I felt that they were
still young enough that they didn’t realize what they were getting into. What
started out as a simple attempt to elevate their social standing in the end
turned on them in the most horribly way.
What I did not like was the repetitiveness of some parts. I
felt that the book could have been cut down by a third and it would be better
for it. The other thing I disliked was all the sexual content, in the second
half of the book, which took away from the plot. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t
mind sexual scenes in books especially when it helps move the story forward or releases
tension. I just felt that it was heavy handed and fewer would have been better.
This goes back to my prior point, less would have been better.
In summary, while I did like parts of the story and enjoyed reading sections, especially the first half of the book. There were flaws that some readers will find fatal to the overall story. This is why I have rated it at 3.5 stars. I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
