Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Book Reviews from participants in the Pollinate Your Mind Summer Reading Club Frames by Loren Estleman: Michigan author Estleman really did his homework for this one. The characters in the story are supposed to be experts on film and film history and the author's research makes those characters resonate. In addition, the plot is solid, and the characters are interesting. I found myself not only involved in the mystery but caring about the backstory behind each character. This really could be a good beginning for a new series by Estleman. Naughty Neighbors by Janet Evanovich: Evanovich always writes a good book. Naughty Neighbor brings a smile to your face. The all too human accidents, humiliations, and emotions that every woman can relate to - to laugh at her characters are to laugh at yourself. A great book for a quiet read, to take you away from your daily monotonous life-and bring a true bout of humor and entertainment to a lousy day-or any day you need a lift. I love her books especially the Stephanie Plum series. With Evanovich's books you don't have to think, try to figure out a mystery, or what may happen. It's just plain fun to read her books! Plum Luvin' by Janet Evanovich: Janet Evanovich has the gift of humor-she can make you laugh out loud at simply everyday antics. This might have been a between the Stephanie Plum book but it was one of her best. Any author who can draw emotion from the reader gets my vote. Plum Lucky by Janet Evanovich: Once again the all-to-human Stephanie Plum character returns to make you laugh out loud. She seems like a good friend. Her simple yet dysfunctional characters are all to real. Evanovich makes us not only laugh at the characters but at the embarrassment that happens to all of us at onetime or another. Evanovich books are always a quick, excellent read to brighten an afternoon or evening. Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett: Captivating and spellbinding. even when I put the book down, my brain continued to play scenes about the characters. Although set long ago, many of the same trials and struggles are present today. So well written I could see everything as I read. Bravo! Careless in Red by Elizabeth George: A new book of the Inspector Lynley series. One of her best. Careless in Red by Elizabeth George: Although still recovering from the tragic murder of a favorite character, I am giving Ms. George another try. This murder mystery brings Investigators Lynley and Havers together in an investigation without the immediate and frustrating presence of the New Scotland Yard politics and bureaucracy. However, the murder investigation seems secondary in this novel. In a beautifully developed cast of characters, Ms. George weaves a heart-rending story of familial relationships. When a person makes choices or sacrifices for a loved one, how can that affect their relationships, with each other and the family as a whole. Regret, forgiveness, and second chances are examined in a variety of relationships. The reader can see how one decision, while seeming to be the right one can go wrong while another choice appears all wrong can be exactly the one necessary while the characters learn the hard way. As always, a wonderful novel from Ms. George. Italian Lover by Robert Hellenga: A great book. A woman who writes a coming-of-age book of her life in Italy which is now being filmed by a Hollywood first time director. 1:46:08 PM

© Copyright 2008 Jocelyn Shaw. Last update: 11/18/2008; 2:43:04 PM. Photo curtesy of Marjorie O'Brien