Flashlight Commentary

Good Christian Bitches by Kim Gatlin

2012-03-18T16:24:00.000-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Kindle Library

Read: March 15, 2012

Cover Blurb: For Heaven's sake... Never let God get in the way of a good story. Good Christian Bitches is the lighthearted tale of Amanda Vaughn, a recently divorced mother of two. To get a fresh start, she moves back to the affluent Dallas neighborhood where she grew up. In an Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Desperate Housewives on steroids style, her old friends are already out to destroy her reputation. In the whirling midst of salacious gossip, Botox, and fraud, Amanda turns to those who love her and the faith she's always known. Will the Good Christian Bitches get the best of her, or will everyone see that these GCBs are as counterfeit as their travel jewelry?

Naturally the premise of this book has the potential to tick off two particular groups of individuals: Christians and the general population of Dallas, TX. I can understand the sentiment but I don't have much sympathy.

Perhaps it is because I've come in contact with one or two individuals who hide behind the cross while promoting their own selfishness, but I see nothing wrong with exploiting this idea for the sake of entertainment. Most of the Christians I know are wonderful individuals but the fact remains there are people who don't necessarily live by the book they tout so highly. Accept it and understand that Gatlin isn't promoting the idea that the Church is in and of itself misguided, only that some of the flock have a tendency to live less than virtuous lives.

As for Dallas natives, I feel your pain. I really do. I was raised in Orange County (yes, that Orange County) about twenty minutes from Laguna Beach (yes, that Laguna Beach). I understand how you feel seeing your town, your home, being depicted so negatively in print. The subsequent television show doesn't help matters. Just tell yourself that people are smarter than that, by and large we know this isn't the real Dallas. Anyone who believes otherwise isn't worth the time it takes to correct them.

I think I've made it clear I that I am not factoring religious content or geographic representation into my rating. For me, Good Christian Bitches is a three star book. I couldn't buy into an entire neighborhood of upper class rich twits with nothing better to do than gossip and play stupid societal power games. More than that I can't believe in a character like Sharon, whose sole motivation is to destroy someone whose potential in the singles market outshines her own or Amanda, who only looks angelic because she is the only person who isn't out to screw someone else over.

I like the tongue in cheek premise of the book, but the shallow characterizations and simplistic plot killed what other potential the piece had going for it. Decent beach read or travel book.

They say a woman's loyalty only lasts as long as it takes her to hang up and dial again.

In Too Deep by Kathryn Shay

2012-03-17T07:39:00.001-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Kindle Library

Read: March 16, 2012

Cover Blurb: For months, Captain Gabe Malvaso and Firefighter Rachel Wellington have kept their knife-sharp attraction to themselves and out of their firehouse. But when a building explodes around them and they’re trapped in the basement, will they still avoid temptation?

I have a love hate relationship with this freebie. On one hand, I really appreciate the depiction of firefighting as an occupation. Shay covered a fire, a flood, a car accident and a medical emergency but she didn't forget that these men and women, much like those is in the military, spend a lot of waiting around for something to happen. Obviously, the author did her homework.

On the other hand, I don't buy two firefighters going at it while trapped in the basement of burned out warehouse. I get this is a romance but come on. I can accept that life threatening situations cause people say things they would otherwise keep to themselves but I can't for the life of me understand how being trapped with a limited amount of oxygen and only a few hours to live gets people in the mood.

Interesting enough story but pretty character heavy for a novella.

A firefighter's job is hours of boredom, seconds of terror.

The Misses Moffet Mend a Marriage: A Victorian San Francisco Story by M. Louisa Locke

2012-03-16T06:32:00.000-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Kindle Library

Read: March 12, 2012

Cover Blurb: This short story, set in 1879 San Francisco, features two elderly dressmakers, Miss Minnie and Miss Millie Moffet, who face a moral dilemma of no small dimensions. They turn for advice to Annie Fuller, a widowed boardinghouse owner who supplements her income as a clairvoyant, Madam Sibyl. For those who have read Locke’s two full-length Victorian San Francisco mysteries, Maids of Misfortune and Uneasy Spirits, and her other short story, Dandy Detects, this is an amusing glimpse into the lives of Annie Fuller’s two most eccentric boarders. For those unfamiliar with Locke’s mysteries and the late nineteenth century world they portray, this is just a taste of things to come.

Much to the distress of Nate Dawson, the Moffet sisters have been permanent fixtures of Annie Fuller's boarding house since its introduction in Maids of Misfortune. However, despite their constant presence, we readers haven't been privy to much of their story or character. Locke remedies this in her delightful short, The Misses Moffet Mend a Marriage.

First of all, I love that these two elderly women are so much more perceptive than people give them credit for. As unmarried ladies of a certain age, they are assumed to be naive in and uninterested in the workings of the world. The revelation is almost surprising to their young landlord but I found it highly amusing.

On the same note, I love how these seemingly sheltered ladies handle a rather delicate situation. Where most would run, wild-eyed, fingers raised in accusation, the Misses Moffet play old school. Their tactics are subtle, but infinitely more effective and less damaging than an open confrontation of the issue. It is a skill that has sadly fallen by the wayside in my opinion.

As always I am delighted with Locke's work. Short but sweet and more than worth looking in to.

Annie was speechless. Until now she had thought of these elderly ladies as complete innocents, delicately reared in the South, living a narrow sheltered life, and taking care of their bachelor brother until they were forced to support themselves upon his death. She was quickly revising that image.

A Summons From Yorkshire by Ava Stone, Aileen Fish & Julie Johnstone

2012-03-13T07:00:00.009-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Author

Read: Nov. 7, 2011

Cover Blurb: The powerful Duke of Danby summons all of his wayward grandchildren home for the holidays. Book one of the Regency Christmas Summons Collection.

This review is different than most of the books I feature here as it is an anthology collection. I feel commenting on the entire book as I do with most of my reviews would be unfair so I have opted to review each piece individually. My overall rating reflects my opinion of the book in its entirety.

The Counterfeit Christmas Summons by Ava Stone: I don’t consider myself well versed in the genre but from time to time I’ve been known to pick up the odd regency romance. Occasionally one will surprise me, but by and large I find the stories altogether fluffy. Case and point, the opening chapter of the Regency Christmas Summons Collection. Stone does a wonderful job introducing the premise of the series, but I wasn’t really impressed by the details of her contribution. Emma and Heathfield felt like the stereotypical regency couple. They just didn’t jump off the page for me. Neither did the events of their story for that matter. It started out strong with Emma luring the viscount to Danby Castle under false pretense but the simple misunderstandings between the couple weren’t exactly unique. The short is well-constructed and I appreciate the light humor but not a particularly noteworthy piece.

The Viscount’s Sweet Temptation by Aileen Fish: It is a universal truth that regency lit always ends with a happy couple. Not a lot of suspense there. That being said I really liked the premise of Fish’s contribution. Harriet’s flight from what she assumes to be a loveless marriage is a plot much to my liking and Morley’s lack of enthusiasm regarding his forced involvement in her escape offered an amusing twist to the story. The romance felt a bit contrived but a cute piece nonetheless.

Gift of Seduction by Julie Johnstone: Easily the strongest of the three shorts that make up book one of the Collection. I’m not an editor and I have absolutely no expertise but I would have opened the volume with this piece. Neither of the other two contributions came close to including this much plot, characterization or depth. Personal opinion of course, but Johnstone shines by comparison. Charlotte is determined and strong despite the tragic romance that determined the direction her life was to take. Drew is heartbroken and full of remorse as he returns to Danby Castle having never settled his feelings regarding the woman he abandoned. Their whole situation, ripped apart by societal expectation, as well as their reintroduction caught me hook, line and sinker.

She was not above the need to be admired and wanted. She had earned that small bit of vanity the day she had picked up the millions of jagged pieces of her broken heart that Drew had left on his bedroom floor.

When We Meet Again by Tara Chevrestt

2012-03-12T07:00:00.002-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Author

Read: Feb. 21, 2012

Cover Blurb: At a New Year's Eve party, a military wife gets a surprise visitor. Will her visitor convince her to make the most of the new year? When We Meet Again is a short story of love, loss, hope, and healing.

This is flash fiction the way it was meant to be written - few short pages with a punch!

I really can't say much about the plot, doing so would give away the story, but I can say the story is emotionally moving. As a military wife it touched on subjects I had to live with for years and I admire Chevrestt for taking them on.

I couldn't answer. I could only breathe in the musky scent of him, of sweat, of his aftershave, of the detergent he used on his BDUs.

Cleaning House: A Note from the Flashlight Reader

2012-03-09T20:13:00.001-07:00

Flashlight Commentary is experiencing some big changes this weekend. A spring cleaning of sorts is taking place.

All nonessential imagery is being removed from my book reviews.
All reviews will soon be accompanied by the date read and where the title was acquired.
All interviews are being reformatted to include the cover and blurb of the book in question. Additional images will be limited to an author photograph as provided by the interviewee.
New tags are being added for easier navigation of the blog.

This is being done out of respect for the rights of copyright holders, respect for my readers and in the interest of full disclosure.

Thank you for your patience,

The Flashlight Reader

To the Rescue: Stories from Healthcare Workers at the Scenes of Disasters edited by Nancy Leigh Harless & Kerry-Ann Morris

2012-03-08T06:17:00.003-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Kindle Library

Read: Feb. 15, 2012

Cover Blurb: Every year, around the globe, hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires, and a host of other disasters devastate the lives of millions. But upon notice of a catastrophe like Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans or the tsunamis in Indonesia, physicians, nurses, and EMTs go into action to save lives. In "To the Rescue, "those closest to the scene of disaster share intimate tales from the frontlines about the people they meet and the remarkable obstacles they must confront in order to care for patients under extraordinary circumstances. "To the Rescue" provides a fascinating journey into the hearts and minds of the people around the world who save and care for the millions who are affected every year by extreme situations. Heartwarming and inspiring, these are stories readers won't soon forget.

I always get a little nervous when a blurb claims a book is memorable or life changing. It comes off as arrogant and more often than not overestimates the true impact of the piece. To the Rescue is no exception. Despite the powerful content the piece itself is unremarkable.

The idea here is fantastic. First responders have a very unique viewpoint and it is more than worth sharing. The problem I have is that the various contributors to this book are not writers. It takes some skill to eloquently express oneself on paper and that isn’t something they teach you during disaster training.

That sounds hard-hearted but I maintain that having the story is only half the battle. I commend these men and women for sharing their experiences but with few exceptions, I found their essays lifeless and unmoving.

While not a first responder, I recommend Anderson Cooper’s Dispatches From the Edge to anyone interested in front line experiences. As a journalist his involvement is significantly limited but his proficiency with written language more than makes up for it.

They say out of crisis opportunity is born. Like so many others, I wanted to do something, anything. Life felt so uncertain and out of control. After I connected with family and friends, watched countless hours of news programming, participated in community responses such as candlelight vigils, and donated blood, I wanted to do more.

Mail-Order Millionaire by Carol Grace

2012-03-08T03:41:00.003-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Kindle Library

Read: March 8, 2012

Cover Blurb: Miranda Morrison has handled her share of irate customers at the Vermont mail-order company, but Maxwell Randolph Carter with his southern accent and his tough-guy attitude topped them all. Was it her fault the wealthy weatherman was stuck at his remote mountain top station in three feet of snow without the boots he'd ordered? Still, the customer was always right...So off she went in the snow mobile to deliver those damned boots. Max was shocked to see the lovely but half-frozen Miranda arrives at his outpost with the merchandise. It wasn't every day that a beautiful delivery woman drops by the observatory. He predicted fog which meant she had to stay overnight, but he never predicted that lightning would strike him when he saw her. Now if only he could keep her there long enough to prove they were made-to-order…

Reviewing yet another freebie, I really think this is a sign that I need to start attending meetings. Is there an AA equivalent for freebie addicts?

In all fairness I admit to skimming the second half of this book. The writing is alright and the formatting was decent, but the love story was only so-so. This is a romance for crying out loud. Where was the chemistry? I felt absolutely nothing. Nada. Bupkis. Gah!

Obviously I was a little frustrated by the lead characters but I was also irritated by their actions. Max and Miranda meet, deny their interest in one another and go their separate ways. They do this over, and over, and over again. It was exasperating. Lather, rinse repeat may work in the shower but it certainly doesn't fly in literature.

My vexation doesn’t end there. Our ‘lovers’ spend little more than a handful of days together and don’t share more than couple chaste kisses before Max begs Miranda to be his wife. Weird but more disconcerting is the manner in which he asks. “Marry me, be the mother of my children, all twelve of them.” Huh? I can forgive a less than romantic proposition but come on. Just reading that proposal gives me the creeps.

Sweet and clean but slow and forgettable. Shelved with A Fair to Remember and Siren's Song as not for me.

Miranda's words hung in the air even as Ariel looked up from the pot, her gaze fastened on the door of the sugar shack and on the man who'd appeared in the doorway. "Mr. Carter," she gushed, "you're just in time to watch the syrup harden. If you'll excuse me..." And before Miranda could protest, her traitorous sister had disappeared through the open door and slammed it shut behind her.

My Last Blind Date by Susan Hatler

2012-03-01T20:41:00.003-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Kindle Library

Read: Feb. 29, 2012

Cover Blurb: It’s Valentine’s Day and Rachel Price has a choice: Stay home and watch TV with her loveable doggy or let her best friend, Ellen, set her up on a blind date. What to do…. Ellen says the guy is a “10,” but the last guy she set her up with was a “–5.” Rachel’s been flirting with coworker Noah Peterson and she’s hoping he’s noticed. Then, she finds out Noah has big plans. Even worse, he advises Rachel to go on the blind date! Should she play it safe and spend the Hallmark holiday with her loyal pooch, Chester, or risk another dating disaster by trying yet again for love?

I, The Flashlight Reader, stand before you today and admit I have a problem. I am addicted to kindle freebies. Okay, maybe addicted is a bit too strong a word but I am becoming something of a freebie slut lately. Three of my last four reviews were downloaded at no charge. My Last Blind Date makes four out of five.

To sum up, Hatler’s novella is cute, fluffy and predictable. Not one of those descriptors do a damned thing for me though I can say the piece is well-written and solidly constructed. Still, had it not caused me to chuckle here and there, I would have issued only a two star rating.

I should be ashamed really, granting a whole star for a few laughs but I’m not. Bill Cosby once said, “Through humor, you can soften some of the worst blows that life delivers.” I have to agree and thus give Hatler the benefit of the doubt.

My Last Blind Date is not my kind of story but I’ll definitely keep an eye open for the author in the future.

An actual date on Valentine's Day had tempted me, but with Ellen's track record, it's be safer ordering take-out.

A Fair of the Heart by Donna Marie Rogers

2012-03-01T05:17:00.004-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Kindle Library

Read: Feb. 25, 2012

Cover Blurb: Single mother, and work-at-home beautician, Lauren Frazier can barely keep a roof over her head, let alone stop it from falling down around her. When handyman Caleb Hunter stops by for a haircut, he’s like the answer to her prayers and the attraction is instantaneous. Too bad her troublesome young son isn’t quite as thrilled to have Caleb hanging around. Old wounds have kept Caleb from returning to Redemption permanently. When he receives word of his mother’s unexpected death, guilt and regret bring him home again, but will the love of a good woman keep him there? Lauren excites Caleb like no woman ever has, but she’s a package deal, and he’s not sure he’s prepared to take on a ready-made family.

If you follow my blog or my activity on Goodreads, you may have noticed I reviewed book two of the Welcome to Redemption series before reviewing book one. Somehow I managed to read the books in reverse. Normally the review order wouldn’t concern me but this case is an exception. You see, book two reveals the climactic scenes in A Fair of the Heart. Having read the books in reverse, I am left questioning how much of my enjoyment was curtailed by this disclosure.

To Rogers’ credit, I really like the premise here. I married a man with a child and while I don’t necessarily seek out these books, I enjoy and appreciate writers who tackle the challenges of relationships where children of previous relationships are present. A lot of people can relate to Caleb and Lauren’s situation which lends not only a realistic quality to the story but a human one as well.

On the other hand, the timeline didn’t make a lot of sense. Running into a relationship is one thing; running in with kids is another matter entirely. A Fair of the Heart takes place over a period of days. To my mind this is far too short a time to commit to such a complicated relationship. I have similar trouble buying into Max’s transformation from ten year old delinquent to model child over the same period. Here again, the amount of time didn’t seem appropriate for the course of events.

One final note before I wrap up. It takes a certain level of skill to depict intimacy on paper. Some authors hint at it but ultimately imply more than they depict. Some opt for more detailed descriptions and venture into the realm of erotic lit. Some even go all out, issuing forth what can only be described as pornography. Rogers doesn’t belong to any of these groups. Her scenes are carefully crafted, well-illustrated and tasteful. Well played madam, well played.

Sweet story with a few issues but not too bad. Language left something to be desired but I’m willing to overlook that. Seriously considered abandoning the series after reading book two but am on the fence after reading A Fair of the Heart.

He stood there and flexed his hands, feeling incredibly uncomfortable in his own skin. A day late and a dollar short. Just like you always said, Mom.

A Fair to Remember by Stacey Joy Netzel

2012-03-01T03:42:00.002-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Kindle Library

Read: Feb. 22, 2012

Cover Blurb: Reformed gang member Wes Carter feels Redemption, Wisconsin, is just the place to relocate his financial business for reasons more than just the name. He's ready for a nice, quiet life in small town USA. Tara Russell has decided it's time to add some excitement to her life and get a little wild no matter how uncomfortable it makes her or her overprotective family. They meet at the local fair one warm summer night and discover opposites attract for all the right reasons. Add a dash of Sugar in the form of an incorrigible Great Dane, and it's destined to be A Fair To Remember.

I seem to be on a roll with kindle freebies, particularly the romances. Last month I gave two stars to both Bluegrass State of Mind and Siren’s Song. Rounding out the list is Stacy Joy Netzel’s A Fair to Remember. Be warned, the following commentary contains spoilers.

In a word, A Fair to Remember is fluff. From the first page to the last, pure fluff. Problem is fluff doesn’t cut it for me. I need something more realistic, something that isn’t wrapped up in a neat little package. Real life is rarely a fairy tale and unlike a lot of people, I really don’t find the fantasy appealing. I can accept wanting to pursue a relationship with someone after an impromptu date or two but Wes’s declaration of his intent to date and marry Tara barely twenty four hours after meeting her was simply too farfetched an idea for me to buy into. Talk about a guaranteed recipe for disaster.

I also found myself annoyed by a couple of underdeveloped plot points. For example, Annabelle’s death is explained in a single line. “She died when she was sixteen - someone slipped ecstasy into her drink at a party.” That’s it. For an event that dominated Tara’s upbringing, played a key role in her relocation and dictates how her family treats the men in her life, the author’s treatment of the issue is pretty weak. I feel the same way about Wes’s gunshot wound. “The cops said I was in the wrong place at the wrong time… but if the bullet hit its intended target, she probably would have died.” Huh? Did he jump in front of someone or was he caught in the crossfire? Gang related violence or a tragic coincidence? Again, Wes decided to leave Denver for a small town after this the incident, why was it never fully explored?

I know I am a picky reader but A Fair to Remember was just too light and superficial for me to really enjoy.

She stopped that train of thought and reminded herself that she didn't really know Wes that well, either, no matter what she felt when she was with him. Especially considering that all the while she'd tingled from what she thought was an undercurrent of sizzling, mutual attraction...

Elegance by Kathleen Tessaro

2012-02-20T09:03:00.004-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Library

Read: Feb. 15, 2012

Cover Blurb: Unhappy with her looks, her life, and her empty marriage, Louise Canova needs help -- and she finds it in a secondhand bookstore. A forty-year-old encyclopedia of style titled "Elegance," this slim volume by formidable French fashion expert Madame Dariaux promises to transform even the plainest of women into creatures of poise and grace. It is a fairy godmother in print, an A-to-Z manual with essential advice that Louise vows to take to heart. But within its pages lie not only clues from her past, but also powerful lessons for the future. And as the old Louise gives way to the stunning new, she's about to find out that there's more to every life than what appears on the surface ... and that everything, even elegance, has its price.

Unhappy with herself, Louise Canova is inspired to reinvent her life under the careful tutelage of Madame Dariaux’s forty year old guide to quality and taste. Convinced she will emerge the very image of Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly, Louise throws herself wholeheartedly into the endeavor, hanging on every word of the slim grey tome.

Initially, I was worried this was yet another attempt at recreating Bridget Jones and was ultimately surprised to find that this was not the case. Tessaro’s story is very original, taking inspiration from an actual self-help book of the same name. With Dariaux’s permission, Tessaro utilizes the A-to-Z instruction to introduce each chapter of Louise’s journey. The result is a charmingly collaboration of two very unique voices. It works and works well.

Tessaro’s Elegance starts out strong. I quite literally found myself laughing out loud and between you and me that is saying something. I’ve only recently begun to read chick lit as a diversion to the real life drama that seems to be converging on my life and for the most part I’ve found little to be impressed by. Elegance seemed like a breath of fresh air.

Thing is, half way through, Louise starts to lose her way and in truth, so does the story. I don’t get where Tessaro was going. She builds this great theme and then throws it right out the window. Louise leaves her husband, clears out her closet, gets a new job and then reverts to her former desperate, tactless, tacky self. What was the point? I don’t get it.

Do I agree with the philosophy of Elegance? Not really. Do I believe that the right clothes and make-up can alter your quality of life? Certainly not. Do I like the idea of taking control and looking for something you feel is missing in your world? Yes, yes I do. I like to believe it is as possible in the real world as it is in print.

A fluffy, feel-good book, prefect for light entertainment. Not sure there is a lot of reread value here but it was fun while it lasted.

People visit Waterstone's and leave. But secondhand bookshops have pilgrims. The words out of print are a call to arms for those who seek a Holy Grail made of paper and ink.

Siren's Song: A Bandit Creek Time Travel by D.L. Snow

2012-02-19T11:26:00.003-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Kindle Library

Read: Feb. 18, 2012

Cover Blurb: After giving up fame, Joss Jones wants a normal life. Maybe she’ll find it in Bandit Creek. Or maybe not. From the moment she moves into the old mansion she inherited, she’s stalked by a ghost who torments her before dragging her back in time to Bandit Creek, 1899. Has she gone crazy or is this old mining town, full of saloons, gambling, whoring and fortune seekers her new reality? It feels real enough as does the ghost who brought her here. His name is Morgan Hawes and he is very much alive. Is Morgan the key to Joss finding her way home or is Joss stuck for the rest of her life as the Siren of Bandit Creek?

Try as I might I can’t help feeling anything but indifference in regards to D.L. Snow’s Siren’s Song. The poor structural design of the piece made it impossible for me get into story.

The beginning was easy enough to process but things started to fall apart the moment Joss entered the lake. I wasn’t altogether sure how that episode allowed her to slip through the space time continuum into another century, I never really understood the whole Kyle/Morgan relationship, and I couldn’t figure out what the hell John Black Plume was doing in a Homeland Security t-shirt.

I had hoped the conclusion of Joss’ experience would clear my foggy grasp of the material but I was ultimately disappointed. Perhaps I am simply too unfamiliar with the Native American mythos on which the story seems to rely but all the same, I don’t feel the resolution offered adequate explanation for key elements of the plot.

In the end, this one just wasn't the right book for me. The absence of a logical conclusion severely inhibited my ability to enjoy Snow’s work.

"This little ruse you and Kitty have concocted is original if nothing else. But, I'm not falling for it. Your mistress forgets that I made my fortune playing games. I'm the best there is. When I play, I play for keeps."

Sinful Urges by Sonia Hightower

2012-02-18T17:57:00.003-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Author

Read: Feb. 9, 2012

Cover Blurb: Follow the confessions of Juan and Maria as they fall prey to lust at first sight. Can they stop themselves before it's too late, or will they become victims of their own sinful urges? A new neighbor sends Juan running to confession to rid himself of the lustful thoughts he experiences. Each confession becomes more erotic, more sinful than the last. Can Juan stop himself, or will he give in to the desire that threatens his very faith? The man across the street causes Maria to question her own morals. When she seeks out a priest for confession, she weaves a tale of exotic kisses and stolen moments. How can Maria find sanctuary in her prayers when her body demands she find solace in her neighbor's arms?

I am not much for erotic lit. The material itself doesn’t both me but it doesn’t exactly do it for me either. I'm really more of a fiction reader. That being the case I feel I am inadequately prepared to judge the sexual content of Sonia Hightower’s Sinful Urges. I will say the scenes were descriptive without being graphic and sensual without being crude but I cannot speak to how the book compares alongside others of the genre as I have no basis for comparison.

On the other hand, I can say I enjoyed other aspects of the piece. For instance, I absolutely love that almost the entire book takes place inside a confessional. The meat of the story is relayed by Juan and Maria as they seek absolution and advice from Father Delgado. As sacrilegious as this sounds, I found the pairing of sin and salvation far more provocative than the lust ignited between the wayward pair of parishioners.

I was also very intrigued by the ultimate outcome of the story. Juan, Maria and even father Delgado are deeply affected by the course of events, each internalizing them their own way. The manner in which they do offers deep insight to their personalities. I was pleasantly surprised by this exploration of character as it is not something I am used to seeing in such a short publication.

In the end, I’m glad I sampled Sinful Urges. My taste in literature remains unaltered but I’m always appreciative of stories that make me think and there is absolutely no question that this book motivated me to do so. Kudos.

The priest raised his head from where it was buried in his hands and struggled to even his breathing. "This must go no further. You are committing sins of the flesh. You must resist temptation."

Bluegrass State of Mind by Kathleen Brooks

2012-02-18T10:18:00.008-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Kindle Library

Read: Feb. 16, 2012

Cover Blurb: McKenna Mason, a New York City attorney with a love of all things Prada, is on the run from a group of powerful, dangerous men. McKenna turns to a teenage crush, Will Ashton, for help in starting a new life in beautiful horse country. She finds that Will is now a handsome, successful race horse farm owner. As the old flame is ignited, complications are aplenty in the form of a nasty ex-wife, an ex-boyfriend intent on killing her, and a feisty race horse who refuses to race without a kiss. Can Will and McKenna cross the finish line together, and more importantly, alive?

I was only mildly impressed by this piece. There is some interesting material in the first installment of the Bluegrass series but I also feel there is significant room for improvement. Be warned, the following commentary contains spoilers.

To my mind, this is what you would get after combining Sweet Home Alabama, Did You Hear About the Morgans?, Legally Blonde and Secretariat. That is a whole lot of plot. So many storylines present a hodgepodge collection of clashing components, the end result being a half-baked mess with a multitude of unanswered questions. For instance, why has Will Ashton never pursued a restraining order against his ex-wife? Why does McKenna and the entire population of Keeneston, despite being well aware of Whitney’s false claim on Will, take the ‘engagement’ at face value without so much as a phone call to her devoted lover? Why, when a license plate hit leads to a vehicle reported stolen from the D.C. area, does no one connect the dots to Senator Bruce and his demented daughter? Why is any of this relevant to McKenna’s trouble in New York? And what does Boots’ racing career offer besides the opportunity to describe Derby fashion? Plot should be simple. Anything requiring more than one or two sentences at no more than two dozen words is too complex for a single publication. Subplots are well and good but they should never detract from or compete with the central storyline.

Next item on the chopping block: characterization. Our twenty-nine year old heroine, McKenna Mason, is a successful lawyer, financially very well off, intelligent, well-liked, confident, highly attractive to the opposite sex, etc. and so forth. Her love interest, Will Ashton, is gorgeous, a former star quarterback for the NFL, a successful horse breeder with a Derby win to his name, a minor celebrity, financially secure, a volunteer football coach, fantastic in the sack and head over heels for Ms. Mason from day one. Their near perfect lives and personalities are impossible to relate to and offer absolutely no room for growth or development. In short, they’re unbelievable and boring. Real people have flaws and struggle in their efforts to overcome life’s challenges. Fictional characters should be no different. And before anyone starts in on McKenna’s flight from New York I want to remind you she did so with an M6, a trunk full of designer labels and the entirety of her bank roll at her disposal. Not exactly Novalee Nation is she?

Let’s press on. If something doesn’t introduce new material or offer insight to the nature of the characters, it doesn’t need to be in the book. Following the same train of thought, if something only serves to reiterate an established fact, it too can be filed away in the grey cylindrical receptacle under your desk otherwise known as a trash can. Take the following bit of dialogue. “’My Nana was great friends with Mrs. Ashton, Will’s Grandmother, so I thought this would be a great place to be able to make a home.’” Nothing wrong with the statement but the reader is well aware of this fact. McKenna explained her connection to the Ashton family and Keeneston to June at the bed and breakfast, to William at the horse sale and the entire episode was recounted in detail during her reunion with Will. The only people who aren’t aware of these details are the patrons of the Blossom Café. I can accept that in the real world you have to explain yourself multiple times but this is literature. You don’t waste ink, drag down the pacing and annoy your audience with needless repetition.

Bluegrass State of Mind is readable, which is more than I can say about a lot of kindle freebies, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t rough around the edges. I know the cost undercuts profits but still, I encourage utilizing the services of an experienced editor. Case and point I give you the following. “’Number two, Marshall, thought it was a good idea and bought some property to the south. He and number three and four, Cade and Cy, live there. Even though they both bought property connected to either my parent’s farm or one of the bothers. But Max’s place is the ultimate bachelor pad with the three of them there.’” Let’s ignore the improper punctuation and poor sentence structure. I’m really more concerned with who Max is and what exactly is his connection to Marshall, Cade and Cy?

As usual I’ll give credit where due. I did like the Mayberry like feel of Keeneston and the descriptions of the local inhabitants. In fact I felt the setting was the strongest aspect of the entire book. Unfortunately Bluegrass State of Mind is not about a small town so I don’t see that my appreciation makes much difference either way. I also admit that despite the flawed execution, I found the ideas behind each subplot fairly entertaining.

"I thought it was bad enough she interrupted my my first kiss, but then she went and told my Granny. And before you knew, I was being dragged into her apartment with one grandma on each ear giving me a lecture on the birds and the bees." Will faked a shudder, "A sex lecture from two senior citizens..."

Ride for Rights by Tara Chevrestt

2012-02-11T21:23:00.002-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Obtained from: Author

Read: Jan. 23, 2012

Cover Blurb: In the summer of 1916 women do not have the right to vote, let alone be motorcycle dispatch riders. Two sisters, Angeline and Adelaide Hanson are determined to prove to the world that not only are women capable of riding motorbikes, but they can ride motorbikes across the United States. Alone. From a dance hall in Chicago to a jail cell in Dodge City, love and trouble both follow Angeline and Adelaide on the dirt roads across the United States. The sisters shout their triumph from Pike’s Peak only to end up lost in the Salt Lake desert. Will they make it to their goal of Los Angeles or will too many mishaps prevent them from reaching their destination and thus, hinder their desire to prove that women can do it?

I’m not going to pretend I don’t enjoy the occasional paranormal story adventure but I can’t help getting depressed browsing young adult lit. All the vampires, werewolves and whatnot are starting to run together. With Ride for Rights, Chevrestt pulls a complete one eighty. The author’s first foray into the world of historic fiction is a refreshing narrative of adventure and perseverance in a time too many of have seemingly forgotten.

Less than a century ago career women were few and far between. Many had only limited involvement in activities unrelated to homemaking and childrearing. Societal rules were highly restrictive where women were concerned yet even in this climate there were those who took a stand against inequality. Angeline and Adelaide Hanson are fictional characters but their courage of conviction and unwavering dedication exhibited in their journey across North America are as real as the women on which they were based.

In addition to introducing readers to a lesser known chapter of the women’s rights movement, Chevrestt uses her story as a platform for the stories of other advocates and pioneers in the struggle against gender based discrimination. Inez Milholland, Amelia Earhart and Lillian Heath are only a few of the notable ladies who make cameo appearances throughout the book.

I have great appreciation for the content and overall message of Ride for Rights but as with most of my reviews, I am not without criticism. I believe the author opted to name her characters Adelaide and Angeline out of respect for their real life counterparts. While I admire the author’s intent, I found it somewhat challenging to keep Adelaide and Angeline straight during the early chapters of the book. Despite frequently substituting the wrong sister in my imagination I found that as the novel progressed and the characters developed my confusion dissipated, eventually becoming a nonissue.

The only other comment I have is that Angeline enjoys more face time with the reader than her sister. Angeline’s vivacious nature, her relationship with Joe Miller and access to her diary allow considerable insight into her character. Adelaide is the more reserved of the two, making her harder to relate to even when she appears at the forefront. I would have appreciated having a slightly deeper understanding of her character especially as her ultimate transformation is more dramatic than that of Angeline.

Clearly, at four stars, these observations are of little consequence. Consider my more critical comments food for thought, a few drops the bucket if you will. It is my opinion Chevrestt has single handedly crafted an entertaining story with an enduring message that can be enjoyed by young and old alike.

Angeline smiled and broke into a laugh. “Who are you, and what have you done with my sensible, calm sister?”
Adelaide wrapped the horrid garments around the chamber pot and as she raised her arm even with the window, looked at Angeline. “She got left somewhere on the road in Wyoming!”

Uneasy Spirits by M. Louisa Locke

2012-02-11T17:11:00.003-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Obtained from: Kindle Loan

Read: Feb. 11, 2012

Cover Blurb: In Uneasy Spirits, the sequel to Maids of Misfortune, It’s the fall of 1879 and Annie Fuller, a young San Francisco widow, has a problem. Despite her growing financial success as the clairvoyant Madam Sibyl, Annie doesn’t believe in the astrology and palmistry her clients think are the basis for the domestic and business advice she dispenses, which is making her feel increasingly uncomfortable. Kathleen Hennessey, Annie Fuller’s young Irish maid, has a plan. When her mistress is asked by one of the people in Annie’s boarding house to investigate and expose a fraudulent trance medium, Arabella Frampton, Kathleen is determined to assist in this investigation, just like the Pinkerton detectives she has read about in the dime novels. Nate Dawson, the up-and-coming San Francisco lawyer, has a dilemma. He wants to marry the unconventional Annie Fuller, but he doesn’t feel he can reveal his true feelings until he has figured out a way to make enough money to support her. In Uneasy Spirits, this light, romantic follow-up to Locke’s debut historical mystery, Maids of Misfortune, Annie Fuller, with the help of Nate Dawson and Kathleen Hennessey, delves into the intriguing world of 19th century spiritualism, encountering true believers and naïve dupes, clever frauds and unexplained supernatural phenomena, soon finding there are as many secrets as there are spirits swirling around the Frampton séance table. These secrets will threaten the foundation of her career as Madam Sibyl, the future of her relationship with Nate Dawson, and, in time, they will threaten her very life itself.

Dandy Detects was an entertaining short but it was Maids of Misfortune that captured my attention and piqued my interest in Uneasy Spirits. I looked forward to the book for months and now, after reading the book, I find I have very mixed feelings.

I obviously enjoyed the book. A four star rating isn’t exactly a finger in the eye but I found that while I appreciated the piece, many of my pre-read expectations were only moderately satisfied. Dandy Detects was cute and I was so absorbed by Maids of Misfortune that I hardly found time to put it down. I expected the same humor and captivating storytelling in the newest installment of the Victorian San Francisco Mystery series. I didn’t find it. I had absolutely no problem setting this book on my side table, consuming it in small doses over the course of eleven days.

I hope I haven’t scared anyone away from Uneasy Spirits by that admission. I am not implying that the sequel is of poorer quality, just that I found the reading experience differed dramatically novel to novel. In terms of content, the book is no less interesting or engaging than its predecessors. For instance I found that Annie’s struggle over the morality of her occupation offered fascinating insight to her character while keeping the character fresh and new for those already familiar with the boarding house matron.

Kathleen was by far my favorite character to read. For much of book, her scenes offered the most movement in terms of plot but she is also the individual most desperate to achieve something against the mystery at the center of the novel. Where Nate is struggling with his feelings for Annie and Annie is having reservations regarding Madame Sibyl, Kathleen is determined to prove herself useful and worthy of the trust her mistress places in her.

It is my opinion there are two particularly noteworthy aspects to the novel. The intricacies of Evie May’s story are truly astounding and will hold the imagination long after the final page. I also found Locke’s foray into the late nineteenth century obsession with spiritualism wonderfully illustrated and entertaining. Madame Sibyl’s work as a palm reader and astrologer are relatively tame compared to the elaborate shows invented by those claiming contact with the other side. I found I quite liked the chance to explore the more dramatic side of Annie’s trade.

The richly imagined recreation of Victorian era San Francisco offers a delightful backdrop for Locke's indomitable heroine. Once again, I applaud Ms. Locke's work. A must read for anyone who appreciates cozy historical mysteries.

The girl straightened and pointed, her index finger contorted in a grotesque fashion. “You stop it right now.” Her voice, despite a quaver, was sharp and strong, and its force twisted her face into a mask of fury. “I see what you did. I see everything. You can never hide from me . . . stop . . .” The girl clutched at her chest, and the beads broke, cascading to the floor.

Interview with Tara Chevrestt, author of Ride for Rights

2012-02-11T05:35:00.006-07:00

As always, I am pumped up and excited to welcome author Tara Chevrestt to Flashlight Commentary! Today we will be discussing her newest release, Ride for Rights. I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one and am overjoyed that Tara has been able to join us in discussing the book.

Book Synopsis: In the summer of 1916 women do not have the right to vote, let alone be motorcycle dispatch riders. Two sisters, Angeline and Adelaide Hanson are determined to prove to the world that not only are women capable of riding motorbikes, but they can ride motorbikes across the United States. Alone. From a dance hall in Chicago to a jail cell in Dodge City, love and trouble both follow Angeline and Adelaide on the dirt roads across the United States. The sisters shout their triumph from Pike’s Peak only to end up lost in the Salt Lake desert. Will they make it to their goal of Los Angeles or will too many mishaps prevent them from reaching their destination and thus, hinder their desire to prove that women can do it?

Author Tara Chevrestt

Your heroines, Angeline and Adelaide Hanson are based on two real life women's rights advocates. Tell us, where did you first come across the story of Augusta and Adeline Van Buren?
The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame. They have a little area dedicated to women in the history of motorcycling. At the time, a mere posterboard of pictures and a timeline was up about them.

Why did you feel that the cross country journey of the Van Buren sisters needed to be told?
Well, nobody had told it, and I felt that was quite a feat, motorcycling across the U.S. when there wasn't a highway system and alone!

Have you heard a response from the Van Buren's or any other members of the family in regards to your work?
Yes. Bob Van Buren is a descendant as well as the master of the womens' website. He has responded favorably and wrote me a foreword.

Angeline and Adelaide meet several notable individuals during their adventure. Can you tell us a little about these women and why you chose to include them in your story?
I did a series on my blog the last six months and I spoke about many of these women and even posted pictures of them. Book Babe has featured articles on lawyer Inez Milholland, physician Lillian Heath, and even aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart in promotion of Ride for Rights.

Being a motorcycle aficionado yourself, did you feel a particular connection with the women you were writing about?
I felt a connection to them not over their motorcycles, but over their desire to have the right to vote. Even today, women face discrimination and naysayers. As a woman who has worked most of her working life in a male dominated field, I've faced it. So I felt a connection to them more when they were fighting to prove themselves.

The Van Buren sisters are minor footnotes in the history of women’s rights. Do you consider their efforts a success?
Yes. I do. I don't consider them a minor footnote. I don't consider any women in history who struggled for the right to vote to be "minor." It takes one and all. Every little thing a woman contributes makes a big difference in the long run. I wonder how many young ladies they inspired at the time? How many men changed their views about women? They probably did more than they were given credit for, probably did more than even they realized.

Your previous publications were written with adult readers in mind. Why did you want to write this story for a younger audience?
I wanted to keep it clean, for one thing so that all ages could read it and learn something from it, and I wanted to inspire women to be all they can be, to not be intimidated or beaten down.

Modern readers may have trouble understanding the confines of social acceptability in 1916. Exactly how ‘crazy’ of an idea was this undertaking?
It was insane. They were literally arrested for wearing pants. No joke. That's how society was back then.

What message(s) do you want readers to take with them after reading Ride for Rights?
Women can do whatever they set their minds to do. We don't have to confine ourselves to being housewives or sex objects. We have options. If two women could ride motorbikes across the country in a time when it wasn't even acceptable to wear pants, then what excuse do we have for holding ourselves back from anything almost a hundred years later?

For more information on the Van Buren sisters and their amazing journey, be sure to visit the family website. Ride for Rights is currently available direct from MuseItUp publishing and on Amazon.com.

Midnight in Austenland by Shannon Hale

2012-02-05T19:59:00.003-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Netgalley

Read: Feb. 1, 2012

Cover Blurb: When Charlotte Kinder treats herself to a two-week vacation at Austenland, she happily leaves behind her ex-husband and his delightful new wife, her ever-grateful children, and all the rest of her real life in America. She dons a bonnet and stays at a country manor house that provides an immersive Austen experience, complete with gentleman actors who cater to the guests' Austen fantasies. Everyone at Pembrook Park is playing a role, but increasingly, Charlotte isn't sure where roles end and reality begins. And as the parlor games turn a little bit menacing, she finds she needs more than a good corset to keep herself safe. Is the brooding Mr. Mallery as sinister as he seems? What is Miss Gardenside's mysterious ailment? Was that an actual dead body in the secret attic room? And-perhaps of the most lasting importance-could the stirrings in Charlotte's heart be a sign of real-life love? The follow-up to reader favorite Austenland provides the same perfectly plotted pleasures, with a feisty new heroine, plenty of fresh and frightening twists, and the possibility of a romance that might just go beyond the proper bounds of Austen's world. How could it not turn out right in the end?

I came across Shannon Hale a few years ago when I read Austenland. Okay, I didn’t really read it. I listened to the audio while I painted our office but the point is I enjoyed the piece. It is one of the few Austen knockoffs I actually recommend. I can't help it, find the idea of grown women paying to live the part of an Austen heroine utterly hilarious. The only real fault in the book it was that the premise relied so heavily on Pride and Prejudice. Mr. Darcy is a dime a dozen in the Barnes and Noble bargain bin and here he was again, reincarnated as one Henry Nobley. With all due respect to Fitzwilliam he isn’t my favorite Austen man but that isn’t all that surprising as Pride and Prejudice isn’t my Austen novel. Thankfully Hale’s follow-up, Midnight in Austenland, features an often neglected and far more humorous story line, borrowing plot and premise from Northanger Abbey.

Now you have to expect a certain degree of cheesiness going into the book. Its a contemporary Austen rehash people. Having said that, I can’t help but adore the tongue in cheek take on Janeite culture. I mean no offense to those whose idolatrous enthusiasm leads them to themed tea parties and costume balls but I can’t help chuckling. While I assume there are those who can adapt to the strict rules of regency etiquette, I imagine a significant percentage of those who participate resemble something closer to the inept and often outrageous Miss Charming.

But enough about the premise. What about our heroine? Well, I can honestly say I liked Charlotte Kinder more than her predecessor. Jane Hayes was a romantic whose fantasies centered on Colin Firth, striding towards her in a dripping white shirt. Charlotte on the other hand, is realistic. She’s been married, she has children, she bears the scars of a disloyal husband. True, no Austen heroine had such experience but it isn’t just untried teenage hearts who read these books is it? In the modern world, marriage is a coin toss but for all that we still want to believe in men like Tilney, Knightly and Wentworth. I found I could relate more to Charlotte’s wounded heart than Jane’s dreamy ideals and I appreciate that even a woman who has been beaten down by life can find an Austen like ending.

I love the gothic theme of the murder mystery, the game of Bloody Murder was a stroke of genius, but I found the execution decidedly ridiculous. Parody and satire are all well and good but I felt there needed to be a bit more drama as unlike Catherine Morland, Charlotte actually stumbles over a sinister secret in the halls of Pembrook Park.

I enjoyed the return trip to Austenland, more so as I didn’t have to pay a few thousand dollars for the privilege of being strapped into a corset. I look forward to future visits though I question if Hale’s heart is in continuing the story of Mrs. Wattlesbrook’s fantasy retreat. Five years passed between the publication of the books and the second installment seems to coincide with the film production of the original story. I am merely a reader and can’t presume to know the author or her motivations; I simply find it an interesting concurrence of events and speculate whether we will witness the adventures of future patrons.

Common wisdom asserts that heroines are born from calamity, and yet our Charlotte's early life was pretty standard. Not only did her parents avoid fatal accidents, but they also never locked her up in a hidden attic room.

Beauty and the Werewolf by Mercedes Lackey

2012-01-22T10:54:00.003-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Netgalley

Read: Jan. 19, 2012

Cover Blurb: The eldest daughter is often doomed in fairy tales. But Bella— Isabella Beauchamps, daughter of a wealthy merchant—vows to escape the usual pitfalls. Anxious to avoid the Traditional path, Bella dons a red cloak and ventures into the forbidden forest to consult with "Granny," the local wisewoman. But on the way home she's attacked by a wolf—who turns out to be a cursed nobleman! Secluded in his castle, Bella is torn between her family and this strange man who creates marvelous inventions and makes her laugh—when he isn't howling at the moon. Breaking spells is never easy. But a determined beauty, a wizard (after all, he's only an occasional werewolf) and a little godmotherly interference might just be able to bring about a happy ending.…

I have started this review multiple times and I am still having trouble describing the sharp disappointment I feel after completing Beauty and the Werewolf. For years I’ve listened to friends gush over the magic of Lackey’s pen but having finally sampled her work myself, I find the hype grossly over exaggerates reality.

If you don’t know who the antagonist is by the end of chapter one… well I don’t want to make assumptions about the readers but it is blatantly obvious just the same. Honestly, the only reason I finished the book was to make sure there wasn’t an awesome twist at the end. There wasn’t. It is one thing to revisit a book you are familiar with but it is another to pick up a new book and know the ending before you are a quarter through the reading.

I didn’t like the simplicity of the story but I wasn’t exactly impressed with the characters either. The worst of the lot is Lackey’s protagonist, Isabella Beauchamps. First of all, the name ticks me off. A werewolf story featuring a girl called Bella. Where have I heard this before? It’s on the tip on my tongue. Hang on a minute. I know it will come to me… I touched on this issue in my review of The Name of the Star. Distracting your reader does no credit to your story. There is more than enough here to grasp that this is a retelling of Beauty and the Beast, nothing prevented the author from changing the main character's name. This is a fairy tale for crying out loud. Get creative!

Is a name enough to hate a character? No. I hate Bella because she is annoying. She has an air of self-importance and this inherent belief that she is the only reason the world runs smoothly. She storms the kitchens ordering the servants around without authorization from her host? She’s never once allowed her stepmother to run her father’s household? Can we say control freak? I’m not even going to get into my thoughts on her emerging magical talents but suffice it to say that much like another well-known Bella, her previously dormant skills indicate an innate superiority to those of her peers. Spare me.

If there are two words I dislike seeing in a review it is these: loop hole. Consider this your spoiler alert. The ‘intelligent’ servants are revealed to be Sebastian’s loyal subjects made invisible by a curse. Think about that. These are people formally employed maintaining the manor and the grounds but they have no idea how to organize and maintain a still room? They can’t be bothered to instruct the ‘stupid’ elementals in the proper execution of their tasks? They can’t cook or plan meals proportionate to the number of diners? They have never attempted to reveal themselves to their beloved employer? The entire premise of the book falls apart with Sapphire reveals the circumstances of her enchantment. I wouldn’t appreciate this in a debut piece but I find it down right unsettling in the work of a seasoned author.

On a final note I have to criticize whoever it is that authorized the cover art. I hate depictions of characters that do not match the descriptions set forth in the text. Bella is blond and not a particular favorite among the village men. The dark haired buxom beauty on the cover of the book bears little resemblance to the heroine described in the text.

Lackey’s mixing of fairy tales is enough for me to grant the piece some credit but I find the issues are too numerous for me award anything higher than a two star rating. Hardcore fans may appreciate the book but I can’t see that it will hold much appeal for those outside Lackey’s fan base.

And I want a palace and a handsome, young prince who has an unnatural lust for old women, and neither of us are going to get what we crave, so let's concentrate on what we can do something about!

Interview with Vicki Hopkins, author of The Phantom of Valletta

2012-01-21T07:10:00.002-07:00

Happy Saturday everyone! I am super excited the weekend is finally here but I'm absolutely thrilled to welcome Vicki Hopkins to Flashlight Commentary. A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of reading The Phantom of Valletta. I loved it and I am delighted to be able to share an interview with this very talented author.

Book Synopsis: Another chapter in the life of the infamous Phantom of the Opera, as penned by Gaston Leroux, continues when he leaves Paris and moves to Malta in search of a new beginning. Clothed in secrecy, he purchases The Royal Opera House in Valletta, which has been destroyed by a devastating fire. In an attempt to bury the pain of his past, the burned-out shell becomes his new obsession. He is determined to resurrect the structure from ashes and return it to glory. To raise funds for his task, he holds a masquerade and encounters a strange woman who prophesies his destiny of undoing and death. Her words haunt the Opera Ghost, but he continues on his path of restoration. After years of hard work, the gala reopening occurs. The Phantom is convinced he has reached the pinnacle of success in his life. He rests in peace over his accomplishments. For sheer amusement, he takes on a new student, which leads him down a path of romance, mystery, and danger. His fortune unfolds before him, and he discovers he cannot hide from those who seek retribution for his former sins. He is forced to reap the consequences and comes face-to-face with his darkest demons and fears. In the end, his insatiable hunger for beauty is challenged to the core. Will he survive the obstacles he encounters or will this finally be his undoing and death?

Author Vicki Hopkins

What inspired you to write a sequel to Phantom of the Opera?
For many years, I had been heavily involved in the Phantom community writing a blog entitled, "Lessons From the Phantom of the Opera" that did quite well worldwide. In addition, I started an Internet radio show on Blog Talk Radio called "All Things Phantom," where I interviewed other Phantom authors and principle cast members from actual shows who played in Phantom productions. Frankly, I loved the story and it meant a lot to me personally. I was pondering one night the thought that if I were ever to write a sequel, what challenge could I give Erik to overcome? The idea for the story came into my heart, based mainly on Leroux's line spoken by the Opera Ghost, "All I ever wanted was to be loved for myself."

What makes your story different from other sequels on the market?
Though I have interviewed many other Phantom authors on my Internet radio show, I've only read one other series of Phantom sequels before I started writing my novel. I've pretty much stayed away from being influenced by other stories and plots, because I feared overlapping any ideas into my own works. It's difficult for me to compare my story to others. Perhaps it's time now I start reading more Phantom books.

How important was it that your story retain the spirit of Leroux’s work?
The most important aspect of retaining the spirit of Leroux's work, of course, is due to copyright infringement on Webber's work. Frankly, I think Leroux characterizes Erik more of a madman than I did with my version of Erik, so I admit I have taken some creative liberties. I did keep the back story, however, and pulled from the text a variety of characters to carry on the story to Malta. As far as the "spirit" of Leroux, I wanted to stay focused on Erik's cry for his need of unconditional love. Of course, in Leroux's version we are led to believe the Phantom dies at the end. Since his work is in the public domain, any author can change that ending to continue the story to new levels.

Is it difficult working with characters created by another author?
I did not find it difficult working with Leroux's characters, because it gave me an opportunity to build those characters further. I choose individuals that were barely mentioned in his work. With Madame Giry, however, I was able to take her character and weave her into the type of person that I imagined. As far as the Phantom in my work, he is frankly a personality creation of how I've always pictured him in my mind, which is no doubt a variety of Phantom influences from the stage and movies.

Why did you choose Valletta as your setting?

I chose Valletta from a simple search on Google. My story needed a setting, and I wanted to find an opera house during that time period that had been destroyed by fire. The Royal Opera House in Valletta, Malta came up, and after reading the history, I was totally fascinated by the site. It seemed the perfect place to set the story, so I embarked on an in-depth study of the history of the opera house. To my surprise, even before my book hit the market, the Malta news contacted me for an interview. They wanted to review the book after release and publish an author interview, as well. I was totally shocked. I didn't realize that the spot held such a passionate place in the hearts residents on the island. The Royal Opera House was rebuilt after the fire, but subsequently bombed and destroyed during World War II. It's never been rebuilt. The Phantom of the Opera story is a universal one, and there are many Phantom lovers in Malta who loved the fact I took the Phantom to their beloved Royal Opera House. Overall, they have been the most gracious, supportive, and welcoming fans of my story.

Were you at all nervous about how your work would be received by the Phantom community?
The Phantom community is a unique group of individuals, who are passionate and protective of the story. With my heavy involvement because of my blog and radio show, I knew I was sticking my neck out creating my own story and could very well be strung up with a Punjab lasso for putting one out there. There are many fans with many tastes, and each hold the story dear to their hearts in a variety of ways. They all have their own perception of the Opera Ghost. You tend to get good reviews from those who connect with your characterization of the man behind the mask, and poorer ones from those who can't relate to your interpretation. Frankly, that is okay, because it's a deeply personal story for many of us. I've noticed those interpretations of the Phantom vary worldwide, too. My blog is a perfect example of the universal love of the story with visitors from over 122 countries.

I love that you created a new love interest for Erik. Can you tell us a little about Desiree and how you went about creating her?
She was mentioned in an obscure line in Leroux's original work, and I built an entire background story for her from it. Desiree was not just a new love interest for Erik, but also a test for Erik. The Phantom had always wanted to be loved in spite of his deformity, but I wanted to test him to see if he could love another in spite of their deformity. I also wanted to make Desiree, who by all rights should hate him, play an important part in discovering healing for her own pain of the past. The story is one of redemption, love, and forgiveness for both characters.

In The Phantom of the Opera, we learn most of what we know of Erik from other characters. Why did you decide to tell The Phantom of Valletta from Erik’s point of view?
Erik is a complex man. I wanted to focus on his frustration, loneliness, pain, regrets, and longing to be loved. In order to do that, it had to come from his point of view. I believe the story is so popular, because many people relate to him on various levels. I thought it would bring the reader closer to him as a character.

Characters like Madame Giry and Richard Mercier are key to the telling in your story. Why did you choose to cameo Christine and Raoul?
I chose to cameo Christine and Raoul, because it was an important area in Erik's life that needed closure. They both were part of his remorse over the past. He needed absolution, so that he could be free to pursue his future with another.

The original story has some pretty strong themes. Revenge, obsession and perception among them. What themes did you want to convey in The Phantom of Valletta?
There are a variety of themes woven throughout my story. One is that the consequences of our choices in life often follow us long after the act itself has played out. This was true of Erik's obsession over Christine. The second is that unforgiveness toward those who have hurt or offended us, if gone unchecked, can destroy us in the process if we seek revenge. And lastly, that each of us long for unconditional love in spite of our outward or inward deformities in life, and it takes great love and resolve to grant that gift of acceptance to others.

To find out more about Vicki and her work, please visit her website or follow her news on Facebook.

Obedience: A Novel by Jacqueline Yallop

2012-01-15T18:54:00.003-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Netgalley

Read: Nov. 2, 2012

Cover Blurb: Set in contemporary and World War II France, this is the story of Sister Bernard: her forbidden love, her uncertain faith, and her guilt- ridden past. A once -bustling convent in the South of France is closing, leaving behind three elderly nuns. Forced, for the first time, to confront the community that she betrayed decades ago, Sister Bernard relives her life during the war. At thirty, Sister Bernard can hear the voice of God-strident, furious, and personal. When a young Nazi soldier, a member of the German occupying forces, asks her to meet him in the church in secret one evening, she agrees. And so begins the horrifying and passionate love affair that will deafen the heavens and define her life, tempting her into duplicity. Obedience is a powerful exploration of one woman's struggle to reconcile her aching need to be loved with her fear of God's wrath.

I am a World War II fanatic so I find it very difficult to admit I have managed to find a fictional war story that I am not particularly fond of. The premise is intensely interesting and I believe the story itself had a lot of potential but the flawed execution detracted so much from the piece that I found I couldn't enjoy the reading.

The constant movement between past and present plot lines did little to enhance the drama of the piece. I actually found it distracting and at times very annoying. I also felt the structure was inappropriate for such a subtlety written novel. The personal and emotional themes barely took root before the reader was abruptly ripped away.

The fragmentation that resulted from this format faux pas also made it difficult to get to know and appreciate the characters. As a reader I felt distanced from the cast and as such didn’t care about the outcome of their experiences. I had nothing but indifference for Bernard’s suffering and isolation. It is one thing pen a bleak story but the impact of such works is in their ability to reach the hearts of their audience. Obedience fell flat in the attempt.

Bernard’s story is unquestionably thought provoking but I cannot recommend the book to the casual reader. The ambiguity that characterizes the novel requires much effort and more than a little determination to navigate. Still, I can’t disregard the haunting beauty of what Yallop put together in Obedience. Three stars.

Bernard heard the plea and knew there was something she should be making of the moment. But she could think only of the soldier, everything about him coming clear and close...

Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George

2012-01-15T15:16:00.003-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Obtained from: Local Library

Read: Jan. 13, 2012

Cover Blurb: Galen is a young soldier returning from war; Rose is one of twelve princesses condemned to dance each night for the King Under Stone. Together Galen and Rose will search for a way to break the curse that forces the princesses to dance at the midnight balls. All they need is one invisibility cloak, a black wool chain knit with enchanted silver needles, and that most critical ingredient of all—true love—to conquer their foes in the dark halls below. But malevolent forces are working against them above ground as well, and as cruel as the King Under Stone has seemed, his wrath is mere irritation compared to the evil that awaits Galen and Rose in the brighter world above.

I don’t give four star ratings lightly, especially to young adult retellings of classic fairy tales. The stories are relatively well known and have been reworked and rewritten… the long and the short of it is that they have been done and done to death. Finding a fresh outlook is like finding a needle in a haystack. Jessica Day George’s Princess of the Midnight Ball is that needle. George fleshes out the back story and makes a few small changes to the original telling. The result is an enchantingly fresh and original look at the classic fairy tale.

One particularly notable aspect is that the story is told not by one of the princesses but from the perspective of battle weary soldier turned under gardener, Galen Werner. The Twelve Dancing Princesses is very much a girls story. I think shifting focus to the male character really helps the book by adding a sense of balance to an otherwise light and frilly fantasy.

One of my favorite things about the book is that George doesn’t waste time giving each girl her moment. Twelve girls is a huge cast for a book with that doesn’t even number 300 pages. In fact, many retellings reduce the number of princesses in order simply the narrative. George opted instead to focus on a few of the princesses, making it easier to relate to her characters while remaining true to the story.

The decision to make Galen a proficient knitter was inspired. Traditionally considered the past time of aging matriarchs I found his hobby an ingenious and creative tool by which to feature our hero’s personality. This isn’t the knight in shining armor, poised gallantly atop his noble steed. Again, George broke away from the familiar and fashioned something distinctly unique.

Sweet, charming and heartfelt, Princess of the Midnight ball is not to be missed. Recommended to fans of A Curse Dark as Gold.

It rankled him deeply that people who had never seen a battle should have such a strong aversion to the war. He'd actually seen people cross the to the other side of the street to avoid passing him, and a man had spit at the sight of a crippled soldier begging outside the city gate.

The Wake of the Lorelei Lee: Being an Account of the Further Adventures of Jacky Faber, On Her Way to Botany Bay by L.A. Meyer

2012-01-15T08:32:00.003-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Local Library

Read: Jan. 12, 2012

Cover Blurb: Jacky Faber, rich from her exploits diving for Spanish gold, has purchased the Lorelei Lee to carry passengers across the Atlantic. Believing she has been absolved of past sins against the Crown, Jacky docks in London to take on her crew, but is instead arrested and sentenced to life in the newly formed penal colony in Australia. To add insult to injury, the Lorelei Lee is confiscated to carry Jacky and more than 200 female convicts to populate New South Wales. Not one to give in to self pity, Jacky rallies her sisters to "better" their position--resulting in wild escapades, brushes with danger, and much hilarity. Will Jacky find herself a founding mother of New South Wales, Australia? Not if she has anything to do about it!

I rarely do so but I fear the time has come to raise the white flag in surrender. After eight books I am thoroughly exasperated with Jacky Faber and company. Her adventures may hold the attention and imaginations of legions of others but I find myself compelled to admit defeat and make haste to the nearest life boat. The series has been floundering for some time and while Meyer tackled some more mature subject matter in The Wake of the Lorelei Lee I felt it was too little too late.

The book takes its premise from the voyage of the Lady Juliana (aka the Lady Julian), a ship that transported more than 200 female convicts to New South Wales in 1789. Mrs. Barnsley and little Mary Wade were both passengers on the vessel. The Chinese pirate Ching Shih is another historic figure. Now I love Meyer’s ability to weave history into his stories; these tidbits, down to the traditional songs, are my favorite aspects of his work. I love meeting these characters that would otherwise be forgotten to history. It is Meyer’s wayward heroine I have grown tired of.

The now sixteen year old Jacky is very much the same twelve year old we met in Bloody Jack. She has not grown or developed as I expected and I find her lack of maturity grates my nerves. She does not learn from her experiences or mistakes. She still acts impulsively and without much thought to the outcome of her actions. It doesn’t help that I find her to be a hypocritical snipe. She insists every female of her acquaintance strive for some semblance of respectability but applies no such standard to her own behavior. Her comments to Jaimy carry similar undertones as she continues to berate him for his single indiscretion while she is free to flirt and parade her bum in front of any man with a coin for her purse.

Jacky’s adventures have also stagnated. At the close of each book she has wormed her way out of trouble but within a few chapters of the next installment she is inexplicably ensnared in it once again. She is continually reuniting and being torn apart from Jaimy. Her enemies are remarkably similar and have started to run together. It doesn’t help that Jacky is universally more talented and intelligent than those around her… can someone please explain to me how a sixteen year old is more adept than every other sailor, performer, spy and soldier on the planet?

Each volume features such meager changes to cast, situation and local that I can't force myself to continue the series any longer, especially since Meyer is expected to release the tenth installment this fall. With no end in sight I feel I have no choice but to jump ship. Farewell Jacky, fair winds and following seas and long may your big jib draw.

Ever the showgirl I dart over to the anchor, slap my rump down on it, slide my goggles up onto my forehead so I'll look more appealing, a ride up in grand style.

The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson

2012-01-07T15:46:00.006-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Local Library

Read: Jan.7, 2012

Cover Blurb: The day Louisiana teenager Rory Deveaux arrives in London marks a memorable occasion. For Rory, it's the start of a new life at a London boarding school. But for many, this will be remembered as the day a series of brutal murders broke out across the city, gruesome crimes mimicking the horrific Jack the Ripper events of more than a century ago. Soon "Rippermania" takes hold of modern-day London, and the police are left with few leads and no witnesses. Except one. Rory spotted the man police believe to be the prime suspect. But she is the only one who saw him. Even her roommate, who was walking with her at the time, didn't notice the mysterious man. So why can only Rory see him? And more urgently, why has Rory become his next target? In this edge-of-your-seat thriller, full of suspense, humor, and romance, Rory will learn the truth about the secret ghost police of London and discover her own shocking abilities.

The only thought in my head for much of the reading was that of Alexis Bledel as Rory Gilmore. It doesn’t do much credit to a story when the reader is perpetually distracted by a pop culture reference. You don’t see Heathcliff or Rochester being thrown around the literary world for a reason. The goal is to hook your reader, not set them in mind of other amusements. Perhaps I am too judgmental but I feel this was an exceeding poor choice on Johnson’s part especially since we are talking about her protagonist. Chapter one is bad place to identify your first red flag.

I also found Johnson’s assumptions presumptuous especially as she is an American. For example, the central character is greeted at what I assume to be Heathrow by Mr. Franks who informs her that “Some nutter’s gone and pulled a Jack the Ripper.” She barely even registers the name and doesn’t attempt to understand the reference. Maybe I am mistaken but I was under the impression that the name Jack the Ripper is what sold this book. Okay, Rory is American but we aren’t completely incompetent. She may not know the details of the case but the name would certainly ring a bell. I was similarly irked by Johnson’s need to explain the term “prefect.” Again, I know we are largely considered uncultured, ignorant and arrogant but give us a little credit. Harry Potter mania wasn’t limited to jolly ol’ England mate. To be fair I did appreciate the explanations of Bonfire Night and the local perception of pubs and alcohol in general but I would have been happier if I didn’t feel the author was insulting the general intelligence of teenage America.

Thoroughly annoyed is not a good way to begin the third chapter of any book and things don’t get much better. The writing is mediocre but the pacing is the nail in the coffin. The story doesn’t take off until the last hundred pages but getting there like slogging up a mountain in the rain. Irrelevant anecdotes about Rory’s family, Wexford’s daily menus and occasional episodes of awkward snogging leave little room for character or plot development. Rory doesn’t go after the killer until she realizes she is a target but she also doesn’t have any genuine interest in what is going on around her. No, our insipid heroine is only relieved the threat and subsequent media circus have resulted in cancelled hockey sessions with Charlotte and Call Me Claudia. Why should a reader be interested in a story the primary character is a) not interested in and b) largely uninvolved with?

Before I close I invite those of you own a copy of the book to turn it over. There, on the back cover you will find glowing remarks from Cassandra Clare, Ally Carter and Holly Black. Now again, I beg your indulgence and ask you to open the book to the Acknowledgments section. Here you will find the following statement:

“To my friends, Scott Westerfeld, Justine Larbalestier, Robin Wasserman, Holly Black, Cassie Clare, Sarah Rees Brennan, John Green, Libba Bray, Ally Carter… who read drafts, walked me through plot problems, and talked me off of ledges.”

I don’t know about you but I find it appalling that Johnson and publisher G.P. Putnam’s Sons would stoop so low. It would be different if these were unbiased third parties or professional critics but by the author’s own pen, these are her friends. As such their opinions are irrelevant. Additionally the appearance of their feedback paired with Johnson’s admission call into question the integrity of all three women as they are essentially endorsing a piece they had a hand in creating. Bad form all around, bad form.

At this point you may be wondering why I have issued a two star rating rather than flagging The Name of the Star a complete waste of time. The truth is I, like so many others, have a rather morbid curiosity in regards to the Whitechapel murders. The basic concepts of the story are not altogether horrid and I actually really like the idea Johnson was trying to execute. The Ripper theme wasn't as strong as I had hoped but there were a handful of chapters towards the end where I actually felt the book was getting better. This brief shining moment was subsequently followed but a train wreck but that doesn’t change the fact that for a few pages, hope existed.

On the fence about taking on book two when it is published in the fall. If I learned anything from Anna Godberson’s Luxe series or Libba Bray’s Gemma Doyle trilogy it is to listen to my gut and quit while I’m ahead. Still, I like to think authors improve with time and experience. I have yet to identify anyone who fits the description but I have been known to torture myself searching for that elusive diamond in the rough.

Clearly, Jerome and I had a complicated thing going on. He told me scary Jack the Ripper facts, and I had the sudden need to make out with him until I ran out of breath.

The Phantom of Valletta by Vicki Hopkins

2012-01-01T19:37:00.003-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Kindle Library

Read: Jan. 1, 2012

Cover Blurb: Another chapter in the life of the infamous Phantom of the Opera, as penned by Gaston Leroux, continues when he leaves Paris and moves to Malta in search of a new beginning. Clothed in secrecy, he purchases The Royal Opera House in Valletta, which has been destroyed by a devastating fire. In an attempt to bury the pain of his past, the burned-out shell becomes his new obsession. He is determined to resurrect the structure from ashes and return it to glory. To raise funds for his task, he holds a masquerade and encounters a strange woman who prophesies his destiny of undoing and death. Her words haunt the Opera Ghost, but he continues on his path of restoration. After years of hard work, the gala reopening occurs. The Phantom is convinced he has reached the pinnacle of success in his life. He rests in peace over his accomplishments. For sheer amusement, he takes on a new student, which leads him down a path of romance, mystery, and danger. His fortune unfolds before him, and he discovers he cannot hide from those who seek retribution for his former sins. He is forced to reap the consequences and comes face-to-face with his darkest demons and fears. In the end, his insatiable hunger for beauty is challenged to the core. Will he survive the obstacles he encounters or will this finally be his undoing and death?

Kindle freebies carry a certain stigma. The titles are believed poorly written and horribly edited. It is sad but by and large I can’t disagree with the perception. My kindle library is littered with free lit, most of which I can’t claim to have particularly enjoyed. The Phantom of Valletta is an exception. I have my criticisms but they are of little consequence. Hopkins’ work is fabulous.

Admittedly, my initial feelings were far different. I couldn’t wrap my head around a book told from Erik’s point of view. I like the Phantom’s dark enigmatic persona. Leroux doesn’t disclosure the full history of his character and I believe that is why after more than a hundred years the Ghost still captures our interest. He is a mystery, never fully explained.

Being inside his head, essentially wearing the mask stripped Erik of his secrets. I wasn’t disappointed exactly, more like disenchanted. There is nothing inherently wrong with Hopkins’ interpretation but sometimes less is more. Sometimes it is not what we know but what we don’t know that leaves a greater impact.

The book really takes off with the introduction of Desiree. Again I was hesitant. The idea of Erik tutoring and molding the talents of another female student seemed repetitive and trite but I was wrong. The private young woman breathes life into the story almost the moment she appears. It is through her that Hopkins’ talent shines.

Valletta’s Royal Opera House provides a breathtakingly beautiful backdrop for the continued story of the Opera Ghost and the plot is wonderfully constructed. Once the story takes off it simply doesn’t let you go. My only real complaint is the hasty ending. Every other aspect takes time to develop allowing the reader to digest it but the final scene is feels more like a drive by.

Sadly, The Phantom of Valletta is no longer free to download but the book is more than worth looking into. For fans of the story, this one is not to be missed.

Erik enjoyed playing a game of chess with the lives of others around him. He did so to his own advantage, smugly proud of how well he could manipulate the paths of unsuspecting people to achieve an end.

The House of Special Purpose by Colin Falconer

2011-12-31T14:34:00.006-07:00

Rating: ★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Kindle Library

Read: Dec. 21, 2011

Cover Blurb: For years no one knew what happened to Czar Nicholas and his family after the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917. It was decades before the whole truth came out. The deadly account of what happened to them in Ekatinerberg, in the House of Special Purpose draws on eyewitness accounts and is told from the point of view of Anastasia, the Czar's youngest daughter. The facts are so ghastly - and so farcical - they defy belief. The story brings to vivid life the events of the last months of the Romanovs and is the prequel to Colin Falconer's bestselling novel: Anastasia. How was it possible for any of the children to have survived? You won't believe the answer; except that it's all true.

I must apologize. I’ve hardly done any reading lately and as a result I have neglected my blog. In truth I haven’t been feeling all that great but I’m back on my feet. Well, better than I’ve been at any rate. Anyway, enough about me. Now for my thoughts on The House of Special Purpose.

There is a line in historic fiction. It is either a fictional account of the truth or a fantastic romp featuring characters who happen to have actually existed. I favor the former and in general don’t have a lot of appreciation for the latter. Colin Falconer’s novella might entertain those unfamiliar with the facts but I found his story poorly researched. Some elements appear to be purely fabricated while others are based on nothing more than rumor and gossip.

In Falconer’s narrative, all five children arrive in Yekaterinberg together. This is an element that contradicts the known facts. The family was briefly separated in April 1918. Alexandra (or Alexandria as Falconer sometimes refers to her) and Nicholas travelled with Maria several weeks before the other children. Olga, Tatiana, Anastasia and Alexei remained in Tobolsk until Alexei was well enough to make the journey.

Every chapter opens with a quotation, a few unattributed lines of text. This is what I mean by fabrications. The content doesn’t concern me as much as the lack of source material. These quotes don’t appear in any other document. I’ve googled them and the only results are hits for Falconer’s work. I guess I don’t understand why the chapters open this way. The quotes appear out of place in the story as well as misleading as they don’t appear to belong to any character historic or fictitious.

As for elements based on rumor and unverifiable fact I have only three words to give you: Tatiana ganged raped. I know rape was a common rumor and I understand why. Four princesses held in captivity until their bloody execution. What vilifies their captors more than portraying them as having stripped away of the innocence of one of these young women by violating her body? I’ve read several books on the family's capitivty but not one of those academic texts states that a rape occurred in the Ipatiev House. One of the guards said “I felt the empress myself and she was warm” and another is supposed to have declared “Now I can die in peace because I have squeezed the empress’s breasts” while disposing of the bodies but beyond the rather disgusting idea of violating a corpse I’ve found nothing to support the event Falconer exploits in the course of his story.

I have a million other comments on the novella but I think one example of each point more than adequately expresses my opinion. Would I feel differently if Falconer explained the content in his author’s notes? Perhaps, though I think it is important to state that The House of Special Purpose carries no disclaimers, no references, nothing beyond “If you enjoyed this book, look for the sequel: Anastasia now out on Kindle: US and Kindle UK.” The lack of commentary speaks louder than the piece itself and the sales attempt discloses what I believe to be the true purpose behind the piece.

The truth of the Romanov’s last days will never be known but I find Falconer’s version overly exaggerated and sensational. A disgraceful exploitation of the tragic fate of the Romanovs. The only thing I find more upsetting is the final line of the cover blurb. It’s all true. This story was published in 2011. The remains of Nicholas, Alexandra, Olga, Tatiana, Botkin, Demidova, Trupp, Kharitonov and one of the younger daughters were discovered in 1979 and were officially identified through DNA testing in 1998. The remains of Alexei and the last Grand Duchess were discovered in 2007 and officially identified through DNA in 2008. The idea of a survivor is great story telling fodder but at this point, when science has disproved the possibility, I have a lot more respect for the authors who stick to fictionalizing the unknown aspects of what we know to have happened.

One final note. The sequel blurb (I have no intention of actually reading the book) put me in mind of the 1986 made for tv movie Anastasia: The Mystery of Anna which starred Amy Irving, Olivia de Havilland, Omar Sharif, Rex Harrison and a very young Christian Bale. The Mystery of Anna takes place in two parts, featuring the last days of the family, then flashing forward to a young woman throwing herself into a river in Berlin. The woman is rescued and sent to an institution where she is diagnosed amnesic. The story is of course based on the life of Anna Anderson. Falconer’s Anastasia appears to take place in Shanghai, obviously not Berlin, but according to the blurb the story also begins with an amnesic woman being rescued from a river. I sincerely hope my initial impressions prove incorrect but I can't help but be turned off by the overused story line.

Two more bullets hit the doctor in the stomach and as he doubled over she saw another bullet make a sudden, dark hole in the top of his bald head and he collapsed into the floor.

Irish Eyes by Andrew M. Greeley

2011-12-17T21:22:00.009-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Library

Read: Dec. 16, 2011

Cover Blurb: Nuala Anne McGrail, that beautiful Irish spitfire, now lives in Chicago with her husband, Dermot, and their new baby, Nellliecoyne. As Nuala fans may suspect, Nelliecoyne is no ordinary baby: she is fey like her mother, and can see into the past as well as the future. Both Nuala and her daughter have had strange vibrations from a place on the lake where a shipload of Irish-Americans lost their lives a hundred years ago. In the course of their investigation, Nuala and Dermot make some dangerous enemies, and eventually have to solve a murder and find a buried treasure. Will Nuala survive the attacks of a sleazy DJ, and a dangerous run-in with the Balkan Mafia? And how does the diary of a young Irish woman at the turn of the century play into these events? Once again, Andrew M. Greeley--that master of the human heart--creates an engaging, charming story that will delight fans young and old.

Time it seems has changed my opinion of the Nuala Anne books. I read the first book of the series, Irish Gold, nearly ten years ago and greatly enjoyed it. So much so I immediately sought out the sequels. I devoured Irish Lace, Irish Whiskey, Irish Mist and Irish Eyes that same summer. I set the series aside to focus on my academic obligations but somehow didn’t find my way back to them until now. I decided to reread Irish Eyes to refresh my memory. Greeley tends to recap key information about the characters so I didn’t see much value in revisiting all five novels. No. Irish Eyes would be enough. Sadly, the book just wasn't as good as I remembered.

Why was I disenchanted my second go round? That’s a dumb question. The real query is where do I start. For one, Dermot is a push over and he knows it. He self-validates in every novel. It is annoying. Almost as annoying as his spending the entire book shaking his head and saying yes dear without complaint. I don’t find it appealing. I like a man with a little backbone, who has opinions and isn’t merely an extension of his spouse.

Nuala is perfection personified. She always has the answers, is always in the middle of things, never fails to be less than amazing and always looks fantastic doing it. People like her don’t exist. Real people have faults, real people make mistakes, real people have depth, complexity and baggage. Her flawlessness is exasperating.

Did I mention the couple has no real world worries or concerns? Dermot is a college drop-out who managed to make a pile of cash while working at the Exchange. His mistake allowed him to retire in his mid-twenties. He writes novels as a hobby more than anything else. Naturally the books are bestsellers. Nuala has an accounting degree but makes a living as a folksinger. Is anyone shocked that her records go platinum?

I don’t think I need to go into the fact that Dermot and Nuala’s daughter is a perfect replica of her mother (minus the red hair) and it goes without saying Nelliecoyne is intelligent and advanced for her age. No child of Coyne’s would dare be anything else less than impeccable. Gag me.

I think I’ve stated I don’t have a problem with sex in literature and for the record, I don’t think the intimacies in Irish Eyes would offend the casual reader. The problem is that I just didn’t find the scenes appealing. A man suckling his wife for breast milk just didn’t do it for me. I don’t mean to sound judgmental, some people might get hot and bothered by the idea but for me it was just awkward. Very awkward.

Having thoroughly stated why I dislike these books we come down to why I bother reading them. As always, it is the history. Greeley loves Chicago almost as much as he loves Ireland and her people. Reading his books is like entering a portal to times long forgotten. In Irish Eyes, we glimpse the booming shipping industry of the Great Lakes and harsh realities of life at the turn of the century with just a touch of Irish mysticism.

Greeley’s richly imagined storylines are also nothing to sneeze at. While vacationing, Nuala, Nelliecoyne and the Coyne's wolfhound, Fiona, pick up strange vibrations from a ship that sank off Grand Beach nearly one hundred years ago. In an effort to understand their latest physic episode, the Coyne’s start an investigation that leads them to a forgotten chapter of Chicago’s past, its connection with Ireland’s political struggles and the fate of the Ardagh Chalice. Meanwhile the couple is dealing with a media circus caused by the sensational accusations of DJ Nick Farmer. Nick’s unexpected death only complicates matters, more so as his fate seems to have ties to the Balkan mafia.

Will I read the rest of the series? Probably. Will I recommend to others? Not without a disclaimer. The books aren’t awful but they aren’t for everyone. I do want to make two further notes before I wrap up. Greeley is a Catholic priest. The books are not preachy in the least, I wouldn’t even call them religious fiction but I would avoid his work if religious concepts aren’t to your liking. The same concept applies to Republicans. I wouldn’t usually address the subject but every novel in the series seems to take a dig at conservatives. I find it annoying as I don’t appreciate party politics in fiction but I wouldn’t be surprised if these comments upset more political readers.

It wasn't the chalice, Nuala Anne. It was a winter storm that came too early, an old boat, and a dangerously irresponsible captain. Ellen's parents were young and romantic and convinced that they were immortal.

Interview with Tara Chevrestt, author of A Facebook Affair

2011-12-09T06:36:00.002-07:00

I'm pleased to welcome author Tara Chevrestt back to Flashlight Commentary! Today we will be discussing her newest release, A Facebook Affair.

Book Synopsis: When Kelly Littleton takes the plunge and finally joins Facebook to socialize without the limits that her hearing impairment gives her. On a whim, she looks up a childhood friend. In sending him that first message, she ignites the memories of a crush from twenty years ago. But will they turn into the flames of romance, or end up the ashes of a Facebook affair? Brandon Hopkins has a lot on his plate. A recent divorce, a pregnant sister, and now, he realizes he's in love with a woman who lives states away. Can he overcome the boundaries of internet romance to make this desire turn into something real, or will adversity and distance be their undoing?

Author Tara Chevrestt

Let’s start with the book itself. Where did the idea for A Facebook Affair come from?

My cousin kept bugging me to join FB and finally, I did. So I got on there and started friending my family and my goodreads friends and well. Come on, I think we all do it at some point or another. I started looking up random people whose names I could remember, kids that were mean to me in school in hopes that they were now 300 pounds with 6 kids a piece or old boyfriends to see if they had landed in jail... I just looked people up. I happened to find a boy I used to know and he turned into a pretty good looking guy and the idea was born. I'm married and not interested in any FB affair, but I wondered...how many other women divorced, single, going through rough times come on here and look up old loves?

You’re obviously happily married. If you don’t mind my asking, how did your husband respond to the premise of A Facebook Affair?

We've never discussed it. He's not a reader. I chatter a tiny bit about my ideas but I don't get into details and entire plot.

Does it surprise you that more than 80% of those who reconnect with old flames via Facebook end up renewing their romantic relationship?

Not really. I think a lot of people are unhappy with their lives and the "here and now" and thus, social networking has become an escape. To talk to people, to socialize without all the awkwardness and self-consciousness (Do I have a booger hanging on my nose? Something between my teeth?) crap. People become different online and take risks. I'd be surprised to learn if these "re connections" lasted in the long run though.

Why did you choose to feature a hearing impaired heroine?

And I made my heroine hearing impaired because I’ve wanted to write a novel with deaf heroine for some time, to educate while I entertain.

You yourself are hearing impaired. How much of your personal experience influenced Kelly’s story?

The opening scene, that happened to me, a bit different setting, but it happened. I also mention it in my memoir. It has really stuck with me. It's probably my first strong memory and incident in which I realize I was "different" and was not going to have a normal childhood. I live Kelly's life except I have a different career and I have a husband. The restaurant lighting, the closed captioning, the hearing aids, the vibrating alarm, that's from my experience. The rest is fiction.

Kelly is constantly being bullied by Lindsey and Caitlin. Were you bullied in school as well?

Every day. I came to loathe school.

How did you manage to overcome those experiences?

It took many years. I still remember. I don't think I can erase the memories. I know it really messed up my self-esteem and it took a long time to become a confidant person. I think the best way to overcome it is to make the most of yourself. They called me retarded... over and over. They thought I would not amount to anything. I proved them wrong. That's my revenge and when I realized that, I was finally able to "overcome."

This is the first romance novel I’ve read where either character insisted on using a condom. What made you decide to incorporate safe sex as part of the story?

When I read contemporary romances, I am appalled at lack of safe sex. A regency romance, I get it, but nowadays with AIDS awareness and all... ew. Besides, shouldn't we be setting good examples for the more impressionable, twenty something year olds who may read?

I want to keep this interview content based but I have a few technical questions I have to ask. Where do you even start writing a love scene?

LOL. I don't know! Ok. AFBA originally didn't have the sex details. I "shut the door." When I sat down and worked with an editor, she told me not to shut the door on them. I had to text message my father, make sure he wouldn't disown me for putting a sex scene in my book. (Not kidding! His opinion matters to me so much!) He said to make the sex beautiful between two people who loved each other, don't make it ugly. So... I took his advice. I went back to my ms and where I shut the door, just started to write. I asked myself, "what is he likely to do next? Oh… better get his pants off first." And it just sorta went its own way once I felt good about what I was doing then. But I think it should always start with looking into each other's eyes and a kiss!

Much of the present day story line is told from Brandon’s perspective. As a female was it difficult getting into the mind of a male character?

Yes! I work with all men at my regular job, but they don't have the kind of personalities I would envision Brandon to have...far from it. Brandon is a real nice guy… caring, kinda hurt, a bit of wuss really. He lets his sister push him around too much. I had a very hard time trying to think like him. I still don't think I got him right! LOL.

How did working with the staff at Breathless Press for A Facebook Affair compare to your self-publishing experience with Dog Tails?

I enjoyed both, but self-publishing cost me a lot of money that I never got back. In this case, someone else was taking care of everything. Plus, I had a great editor with great ideas so I prefer working with them.

Tara is currently holding a giveaway for A Facebook Affair on her blog! Hurry on over and submit your entry, the contest ends December 11th. Be sure to check out more of her work at Book Babe or follow her author page on Facebook.

A Facebook Affair by Tara Chevrestt

2011-12-07T17:06:00.002-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Author

Read: Dec. 7, 2011

Cover Blurb: When Kelly Littleton takes the plunge and finally joins Facebook to socialize without the limits that her hearing impairment gives her. On a whim, she looks up a childhood friend. In sending him that first message, she ignites the memories of a crush from twenty years ago. But will they turn into the flames of romance, or end up the ashes of a Facebook affair? Brandon Hopkins has a lot on his plate. A recent divorce, a pregnant sister, and now, he realizes he's in love with a woman who lives states away. Can he overcome the boundaries of internet romance to make this desire turn into something real, or will adversity and distance be their undoing?

The word affair has certain connotations. Admit it, just reading it has you envisioning secret hotel rendezvous, suggestive emails and provocative phone messages. That being the case I was pleasantly surprised to discover that neither of Chevrestt’s leads engages in an extramarital relationship. Yes, the couple reconnects on Facebook and yes, they wind up in bed but the story itself has much more depth than the title alone implies.

Kelly Littleton doesn’t have much of a love life. Between her career and caring for her ailing mother she doesn't have the time but that isn't the only obstacle on the road to romance. Kelly is hearing impaired, a condition that both dominates her lifestyle and makes it difficult to date. As someone without hearing problems, I really appreciated the insight to Kelly’s situation. Her feelings and experiences in a world that doesn't cater to the hearing impaired were enlightening to say the least.

Chevrestt doesn't stop there either. Much of the book takes place during Kelly’s childhood. As a second grader Kelly had trouble fitting in and proved an easy target for other students. Now, adolescent bullying has only recently become a hot button issue but it shouldn't come as a surprise that the scars of these school yard confrontations can last well into adulthood. A Facebook Affair focuses on Kelly's romantic relationship with Brandon but it is also about her struggle to overcome these childhood experiences and how they shaped the person she became.

Understanding Kelly's personal journey made her a more compelling, well-rounded personality as an adult. I wish I could say I felt the same about Brandon. He isn’t a bad character but I don’t feel he is as well developed as Kelly. Half of the present day scenes are told from his point of view but the entirety of his childhood is told from Kelly’s perspective. I think he would have read stronger if the reader had been exposed to his adolescent views in the same manner we were his counterpart.

Sweet and entertaining with a delightful twist. Recommended to fans of Elizabeth English and Donna Fasano.

Well I can "poke" her, but that doesn't seem adequate for the situation. Is there a "bitch slap" option somewhere on here?

Island of Wings by Karin Altenberg

2011-11-27T17:56:00.003-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Netgalley

Read: Oct. 9, 2011

Cover Blurb: A dazzling debut novel of love and loss, faith and atonement, on an untamed nineteenth-century Scottish island. Exquisitely written and profoundly moving, Island of Wings is a richly imagined novel about two people struggling to keep their love, and their family, alive in a place of extreme hardship and unearthly beauty. Everything lies ahead for Lizzie and Neil McKenzie when they arrive at the St. Kilda islands in July of 1830. Neil is to become the minister to the small community of islanders, and Lizzie—bright, beautiful, and devoted—is pregnant with their first child. As the two adjust to life at the edge of civilization, where the natives live in squalor and babies perish mysteriously, their marriage—and their sanity—are soon threatened.

St. Kilda is an archipelago some 40 miles from North Uist on the western edge of Scotland. Geographically remote, isolation emerged as the predominant theme of life in this sequestered corner of the world. Nowhere is this concept better illustrated than in Altenberg's portrayal of Lizzie McKenzie. Newly married and pregnant, Lizzie views St. Kilda as an adventure. Soon after her arrival, her fantasies are shattered by tragedy and she is forced to acknowledge the true nature of her situation. Removed from the natives by a difference of both culture and language, Lizzie must push the limits of her own character or perish.

Historically, Altenberg did her homework in regards to both the islands and their inhabitants. The descriptions of the native culture were extraordinarily detailed and skillfully folded into the plot. The additional exploration of the nature of faith, ethics and the relationship between a man and wife added an appealing emotional quality to the novel. Thoroughly impressive as Island of Wings is Altenberg's debut novel.

The flowery prose is somewhat overwhelming but underneath there exists a captivating story of hope and commitment. There is no denying that Island of Wings is a beautiful interpretation of the harsh realities of life on St. Kilda but is also a insightful tale of human nature and our ability to overcome. Powerfully moving if one can navigate the composition.

Recommended to fans of Confessions of a Pagan Nun: A Novel by Kate Horsley and the Women of Genesis series by Orson Scott Card.

Time was no longer linear in this place where no one could remember who built the houses, cleits and dykes and where the seasons were marked by the comings and goings of the migrating birds. The ancestors were near the living, and the world of men was closely linked with the rock, the sea and the birds with which they shared these elements. Time and space seemed suspended, so that here and now was always and everywhere.

A Duty to the Dead by Charles Todd

2011-11-24T11:39:00.007-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Local Library

Read: Nov. 9, 2011

Cover Blurb: From the brilliantly imaginative New York Times bestselling author Charles Todd comes an unforgettable new character in an exceptional new series. England, 1916. Independent-minded Bess Crawford's upbringing is far different from that of the usual upper-middle-class British gentlewoman. Growing up in India, she learned the importance of responsibility, honor, and duty from her officer father. At the outbreak of World War I, she followed in his footsteps and volunteered for the nursing corps, serving from the battlefields of France to the doomed hospital ship Britannic. On one voyage, Bess grows fond of the young, gravely wounded Lieutenant Arthur Graham. Something rests heavily on his conscience, and to give him a little peace as he dies, she promises to deliver a message to his brother. It is some months before she can carry out this duty, and when she's next in England, she herself is recovering from a wound. When Bess arrives at the Graham house in Kent, Jonathan Graham listens to his brother's last wishes with surprising indifference. Neither his mother nor his brother Timothy seems to think it has any significance. Unsettled by this, Bess is about to take her leave when sudden tragedy envelops her. She quickly discovers that fulfilling this duty to the dead has thrust her into a maelstrom of intrigue and murder that will endanger her own life and test her courage as not even war has.

I don't have much of a background with regards to World War I lit. All Quiet on the Western Front all but killed my interest in the genre. For years I wouldn’t touch anything on the subject. I changed my tune after reading Barbed Wire and Roses. The book left such an impression on me that I started looking for other books set during the Great War. One of the first titles that caught my eye was a murder mystery involving a young war era nurse. I all but ran to the library to find a copy of Duty to the Dead.

Now, I rarely have this problem but every time I opened this book I found myself fighting to remain conscious. The plot was decent but the writing was bland, the characters forgettable and the murder mystery decidedly mediocre. I did enjoy the complicated web of loyalty between the various members of the Graham family but the lifeless story telling killed the book as a whole.

Looking back, the only really notable aspect of Duty to the Dead was the sinking of the Britannic but even here I felt short changed. While technically well-illustrated I found myself caring more about the historical event than its place in Todd’s story. I liked it but it has little relevance to Bess Crawford's experience with the Grahams. I find it sad that the most interesting scenes in the book don't really fit the rest of the novel.

This was my first time reading Charles Todd and I can’t say I am that impressed. I’m not writing off other titles by this mother/son writing team but I’m in no hurry to sample their other work.

It was impossible not to like him, and liking him, it was impossible not to feel something for him as he fought a gallant but losing battle with death. I wasn't foolish enough to believe I was in love, but I was honest enough to admit I cared more than I should. I'd watched so many wounded die. Perhaps that was why I desperately wanted to see this one and snatch a victory out of defeat and restore my faith in the goodness of God. But it was not to be.

Love Finds You in Victory Heights, Washington by Tricia Goyer & Ocieanna Fleiss

2011-11-24T07:04:00.006-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Kindle Library

Read: Nov. 10, 2011

Cover Blurb: The Second World War has stolen Rosalie's fiance from her. But rather than wallow, Rosalie throws herself into her work at the Boeing plant in Victory Heights, shooting rivets into the B-17 bombers that will destroy the enemy. A local reporter dubs her Seattle's Own Rosie the Riveter, and her story lends inspiration to women across the country. While Rosalie's strong arms can bear the weight of this new responsibility, her heart cannot handle the intense feelings that begin to surface for Kenny, the handsome reporter. Fear of a second heartbreak is a powerful opponent - but will it claim victory over love?

I’ve steered clear of the Love Finds You series for a long time. I can’t put my finger on what it is but something about the books told me to look elsewhere in my literary wanderings. Still, I am a WWII nut and the subject matter of this particular title proved a real temptation. My resistance crumbled entirely when Love Finds You in Victory Heights, Washington turned up as a kindle freebie. No offense to the authors or fans but next time around I hope I listen to my gut. I prefer grittier storytelling and this was just too sugar coated for my taste.

I had a real problem with Rosalie’s lack of emotion in the face of loss. Her grief over her fiancé’s death should have been palpable but for me it read only lukewarm. Additionally, I couldn’t give weight to Rosalie’s ‘fear of a second heartbreak’ when her first was never properly developed. What grief she experienced seemed to stem more from her own inadequacy and guilt than any real affection. Her belief that marrying Vic would have been a mistake further undermined the authenticity of her emotions and went a long way in minimalizing the internal conflict touted so prominently in the book description.

Emotional depth wasn’t the only thing I noted as lacking. I also felt a distinct absence of creativity throughout the book but nowhere is it more obvious than with our leading lady. Christening the rivet wielding heroine Rosalie was as uninspired as Kenny’s exploitation of the Rosie the Riveter comparison in the newspaper. Thank you Captain Obvious. Is it really any wonder his boss wouldn’t give him a hard story? His breakthrough piece was half written in the American psyche before he even touched pen to paper. It might work for other readers but this was just too cutesy for me to get into.

One thing I did appreciate was the attention to detail. The story and writing style weren’t for me but there was an obvious amount of effort put into recreating war era America. The lingo, the pastimes, the prejudice experienced by women in the work place, all of it speaks volumes about the ladies who put Victory Heights together. The end result didn’t hold much water with me but even so, I applaud the effort that went into writing it.

Before descending my soapbox I want to note an observation not of the book itself but of some the other reviews. Many of those who issued lower ratings cite surprise over religious themes as the cause. With all due respect I can’t give these reviewers a lot of credit. I realize the blurb doesn’t hint at the inspirational content but that is the case with a lot of religious fiction. If you don’t appreciate the subject matter, take time to learn how to recognize it so you know what to avoid. That sounds harsher than I mean it to but there are plenty of indicators if you know where to look.

Both Amazon and Goodreads classify the novel as religion based entertainment. Summerside Press bills itself as “an inspirational publisher offering fresh, irresistible Christian fiction” on their website and in the publication information of the book itself. Tricia Goyer’s website and author bio states she was named ‘Writer of the Year’ at the Mount Hermon Christian Writer’s Conference in 2003. According to her author bio, Ocieanna Fleiss contributes to a bi-monthly column in the Northwest Christian Author. The Love Finds You series “features real towns and combines travel, romance, and faith in one irresistible package” per the series information in the back of the book. The copyright segment clearly states that “unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations are from the Holy Bible, King James Version.” The acknowledgement section even provides a few clues as it thanks the Emmanuel Orthodox Presbyterian Church and Jesus Christ before concluding with “Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto they name give glory. Psalm 115:1.”

Before you ask the answer is no, I do not seek out Christian fiction. It is my affinity for historic fiction that leads me to many of these titles. I’m not particularly religious but the subject doesn’t bother me. All the same, I like to be aware that I am venturing into the realm of faith based lit. It might sound complicated but once you know where to look these titles are easy to identify. Don’t blame the book because you didn’t do your homework. If it really inhibits your enjoyment you will find that spending an extra two minutes to research a particular title is more than worth your time

All her life she never thought she'd love a man, not with the passionate commitment she loved Kenny with. And now, the one thing she dared not to dream of came to her like an unexpected gift.

Irish Healer: A Novel by Nancy Herriman

2011-11-06T21:39:00.004-07:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Netgalley

Read: Oct. 26, 2011

Cover Blurb: Fiction in the ever-popular Historical/Romance genre -- during the deadly 1832 cholera epidemic in London, a heartsick Irish healer must find the strength to overcome her most fearsome obstacles. Accused of murdering a child under her care, Irish healer Rachel Dunne flees the ensuing scandal while vowing to never sit at another sickbed. She no longer trusts in her abilities—or God’s mercy. When a cholera epidemic sweeps through London, she feels compelled to nurse the dying daughter of the enigmatic physician she has come to love. James Edmunds, wearied by the deaths of too many patients, has his own doubts about God’s grace. Can they face their darkest fears? Or is it too late to learn that trust and love just might heal their hearts?

I don’t often find books like this. The Irish Healer by Nancy Harrimann is a beautiful novel with a message that both secular and nonsecular readers can enjoy. The Irish Healer is inspired fiction and incorporate strong religious themes but I think the personal journeys of Harrimann's cast have wide appeal.

I love getting lost in a good book and one of the easiest ways for an author to make that happen is to create characters and situations a reader can relate to. At the beginning of Harrimann's story, James is struggling with the death of his wife and Rachel is questioning her value as a healer after losing a young patient. Self doubt is something everyone can understand and most of us have experienced the loss of a loved one. By incorporating these very common emotions Harrimann was able to craft two notably compelling and unique leading characters.

The story itself is simple but I think it works in Harrimann's favor. Nothing here seems overly contrived. James and Rachel are brought together in very realistic circumstances and bond in similar fashion. The authentic quality of the story is something I really appreciate. The comprehensive depiction of evolving affection is much more affecting than the more dramatic and less believable love at first sight scenario.

Historically not as strong as I would like but The Irish Healer is a heartwarming tale of personal trial and triumph. Recommended to fans of The Song of Acadia Series by Janet Oak and Davis Bunn.

He signaled for Rachel to join him. When she came to his side, he slid his arm around her waist and tucked her close. Her slim, small body fit perfectly, as if made to be a part of him.

Destiny's Child by Iris Gower

2011-11-05T19:48:00.007-06:00

Rating: ★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Local Library

Read: Nov. 5, 2011

Cover Blurb: It was a prophecy told to her by an old woman: she would marry a man with flame-coloured hair, and bring forth a King of England. But Margaret Beaufort had been forced by feeble-minded Henry VI to marry the Duke of Somerset's son, so how could she ever be married to handsome, red-haired Edmund Tudor, even though she loved him? And even if that came to pass, how could any son of theirs ever become King, when there were so many others with better claims to the throne? But slowly the prophecy began to be fulfilled: at the age of thirteen Margaret was married to her beloved Edmund, and she bore him a son — but not before Edmund had died of a fever. And so Margaret poured all her love and devotion into the life of her son Henry, vowing that, whatever the cost, one day he should be King of England.

I am absolutely never reading Iris Gower again. Destiny’s Child is a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad book and that is being generous. I give the author pity points for attempting to fictionalize the life of Margaret Beaufort but beyond that, the book is a waste of both time and paper.;

The novel begins just before or after Margaret’s ninth birthday and concludes when Margaret is forty-one. Issue number one is that between point a and b there are exactly zero references to the date. You read that correctly, zero, as in none, nil, niente. Unless you are familiar with the timeline of Margaret's life you have absolutely no idea how much time has passed between events.

Issue number two is that time slows to a crawl or rushes forward without regard for the actual timeline of events. As I said the book starts at age nine(ish) and ends at age forty-one. At the halfway point, Margaret is a new mother at the age of thirteen. I’ll save you the trouble of calculating the figures and make it simple. The first half of the book covers four years while the second covers a span of twenty-eight. Atrocious formatting.

Issue number three. Margaret was twelve years old when she married the twenty-five year old Edmund Tudor Now, I can accept the age gap and in all honesty Margaret could have easily been married to a much older man so thirteen years is not that big a deal. The problem I have is that Gower made this marriage the love match of the century! I’m sorry but I don’t see it. This was pure politics my friends. Given time it may have evolved into an affectionate arrangement but I highly doubt it was the passionate affair Gower fabricates here.

Moving on to issue number four. Margaret is twelve when Gower writes “You are lovely and innocent as a child.” and “…lifting her skirts like a child, she ran across the green to meet him.” I hate to point this out but Margaret is in fact an adolescent. Now child marriages were common place in medieval England but even so, Margaret was younger than most. The issue here is that Gower has no understanding of an adolescent’s mind. Gower’s characterization of Margaret is as savvy and intelligent as Eleanor of Aquitaine at her height. Where was the development? Where was the growth?

I don’t think I need to go much further than issue number five. In Gower’s story Edmund becomes sick during an extended visit to his father. Margaret wakes in the night to his rasping breath and realizes her beloved husband’s time is limited. Sweet story but complete bull. Edmund was captured in mid-1446 and imprisoned in South Wales. The sixth month pregnant Margaret was not in attendance when he died of plague. Upon hearing the news, Margaret fled to the protection of her brother-in-law at Pembroke Castle. Being unable to create an appropriate character, fabricating a romantic attachment, and omitting chronological references are enough to make me angry but rewriting history is an offense I cannot forgive.

I’m going to end before I write a novel. Recommended to no one, avoid at all costs.

Her breath caught in her throat as she watched it being placed on hair that was like a flame under the richness of the crown. Her son, this tall young man, was now the King of England.

The Guardian Duke: A Forgotten Castles Novel by Jamie Carie

2011-11-04T18:23:00.005-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Netgalley

Read: Nov. 2, 2011

Cover Blurb: The Guardian Duke is award-winning novelist Jamie Carie’s most exciting story yet, a uniquely arranged Regency-era romantic adventure where hero and heroine know each other through written letters but have yet to meet. Gabriel, the Duke of St. Easton, is ordered by the King to take guardianship over Lady Alexandria Featherstone whose parents are presumed dead after failing to return from a high profile treasure hunt. But Alexandria ignores this royal reassignment, believing her parents are still alive and duly following clues that may lead to their whereabouts. Gabriel, pressured by what are actually the King’s ulterior motives, pursues her across windswept England and the rolling green hills of Ireland but is always one step behind. When they do meet, the search for earthly treasure will pale in comparison to what God has planned for both of them.

As an avid reader I hate admitting this but I am confused as to what this book was trying to do. There are many aspects to the novel but none of them felt fully developed. Half-baked is a wonderful way to go when you making chocolate cookies or eating Ben and Jerry’s but it doesn't work as well with literature.

Lady Alexandria, as a character, lacks cohesiveness. She doesn't know how to write a proper letter to a duke who she believes by definition must be old, monocled and suffering from gout but she has no difficulty leaving the only home she has ever known, travelling across the country, tracking the movements of her parents a year after their last correspondence or booking passage to Iceland? Either she is an inexperienced aristocrat who has no idea how to cope with life off her island or she a determined young woman who is more than capable of taking care of herself despite the conventions of the day. She can’t be both.

Alex’s motives also seemed inconsistent. She is so determined to find her parents that she defies the king’s wishes but she tarries in Belfast to watch Baylor compete in a local contest and is more than content to order fine clothes and attend the opera and a masked ball in Dublin? I’ll grant that she intended to seek out information at both Dublin events but she seemed to lose her drive and focus during her sojourn there. I was left questioning where the heroine was coming from.

Gabriel suffers from hearing loss mysteriously brought on when he is named guardian of the supposedly orphaned Alexandria Featherstone. The affliction plagues him the first half of the novel but disappears without mention when he leaves London. Naturally the condition reappears as he prepares to leave for Ireland which is why I am upset that there was so little attention paid to his momentary recovery. It is a good idea but the execution is sketchy. It needs to be all or nothing. Commit to the story line or forget it entirely.

Jamie Carie is an inspired fiction writer and B&H is a religious publishing group but The Guardian Duke doesn’t feel like most of the religion based fiction I've encountered. Alex mentions God and faith in her letters and lets loose the occasional prayer but just the same, I found it incredibly easy to forget heroine is in fact a devout character. There is too much religion to say the book shouldn't be classified as inspired fiction but I also feel there isn't enough to it to feel like it solidly belongs in the genre. Again, half-baked.

In terms of storytelling I was frustrated that there was no real climax. There is this huge build up and then… nothing. There is an art to writing series. The books need to be connected but each edition also needs to feel like a complete story in and of itself. For me, The Guardian Duke felt like an extended epilogue.

On the upside, I did like what Carie did with the letters. I live in an age where people fall in love online, essentially losing themselves to someone else’s words. Carie’s handling of the letters between Gabriel and Alex and the emotions each felt upon reading the correspondence translated very well throughout the book.

Light regency romance recommended to fans of the Daughters of Mannerling by Marion Chesney.

It was a sad truth that lies had always flown out of her mouth with the ease of a bard telling a tall tale. She couldn't seem to help it.

Margaret Beaufort: Mother of the Tudor Dynasty by Elizabeth Norton

2011-11-02T21:15:00.003-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Library

Read: Nov. 1, 2011

Cover Blurb: Divorced at ten, a mother at thirteen & three times a widow. The extraordinary true story of the 'Red Queen', Lady Margaret Beaufort, matriarch of the Tudors. Born in the midst of the Wars of the Roses, Margaret Beaufort became the greatest heiress of her time. She survived a turbulent life, marrying four times and enduring imprisonment before passing her claim to the crown of England to her son, Henry VII, the first of the Tudor monarchs. Margaret's royal blood placed her on the fringes of the Lancastrian royal dynasty. After divorcing her first husband at the age of ten, she married the king's half-brother, Edmund Tudor, becoming a widow and bearing her only child, the future Henry VII, before her fourteenth birthday. Margaret was always passionately devoted to the interests of her son who claimed the throne through her. She embroiled herself in both treason and conspiracy as she sought to promote his claims, allying herself with the Yorkist Queen, Elizabeth Woodville, in an attempt to depose Richard III. She was imprisoned by Richard and her lands confiscated, but she continued to work on her son's behalf, ultimately persuading her fourth husband, the powerful Lord Stanley, to abandon the king in favour of Henry on the eve of the decisive Battle of Bosworth. It was Lord Stanley himself who placed the crown on Henry's head on the battlefield. Henry VII gave his mother unparalleled prominence during his reign. She established herself as an independent woman and ended her life as regent of England, ruling on behalf of her seventeen-year-old grandson, Henry VIII.

The thing I appreciate most about this book is that Norton doesn't try to recreate Margaret’s personality. She hints here and there but it is always based on Margaret’s own words or actions. For example, Norton covers the intense feelings Margaret had regarding the early marriage of her granddaughter but she doesn’t make assumptions about Margaret's emotions during her own early marriage to a man nearly twelve years her senior. It would be all too easy to say Margaret was a terrified bride, widow and mother by age thirteen but Norton resists temptation, restricting herself to the available facts and allowing the reader to come to their own conclusions. It is a style I personally appreciate as I like forming my own opinions rather than being told what to think, especially when it comes to nonfiction.

Factually this is a wonderful biography of Margaret Beaufort but it is a tough book to read. The spelling reverts to old English at random. Now I’m reasonably proficient in old English but I found myself stumbling more often than I care to admit. More than that, I found the formatting of the book difficult to absorb. Norton frequently starts a paragraph but follows her thoughts through years ahead of where she started only to backtrack again with the next paragraph. Again, I love that amount of information Norton compiled here but all the same, I found it hard to follow.

By and large I have few criticisms of the book beyond what I've already mentioned. Norton's work is wonderfully detailed in so much as the surviving records allow. Fact heavy but well researched. Recommended to fans of Elizabeth and Mary: Cousins, Rivals, Queens by Jane Dunn.

Fortune's Wheel was both kind and sometimes unkind to Margaret: the daughter of a probable suicide, the greatest heiress in England, divorced at ten, married to the King's half-brother at twelve, a widow at thirteen, a mother at thirteen, twice more a widow, a plotter, a prisoner, the mother of the king, most of all, Margaret Beaufort can be remembered as the mother of the great Tudor dynasty.

The Hangman in the Mirror by Kate Cayley

2011-10-26T21:13:00.005-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Netgalley

Read: Oct. 25, 2011

Cover Blurb: A strong-willed 16-year-old girl fights for survival in 18th-century North America. Françoise Laurent has never had an easy life. The only surviving child of a destitute washerwoman and wayward soldier, she must rely only on herself to get by. When her parents die suddenly from the smallpox ravishing New France, Françoise sees it as a chance to escape the life she thought she was trapped in. Seizing her new found opportunity, Françoise takes a job as an aide to the wife of a wealthy fur trader. The poverty-ridden world she knew transforms into a strange new world full of privilege and fine things -- and of never having to beg for food. But Françoise's relationships with the other servants in Madame Pommereau's house are tenuous, and Madame Pommereau isn't an easy woman to work for. When Françoise is caught stealing a pair of her mistress's beautiful gloves, she faces a future even worse than she could have imagined: thrown in jail, she is sentenced to death by hanging. Once again, Françoise is left to her own devices to survive . . . Is she cunning enough to convince the prisoner in the cell beside her to become the hangman and marry her, which, by law, is the only thing that could save her life? Based on an actual story and filled with illuminating historical detail, The Hangman in the Mirror transports readers to the harsh landscape of a new land that is filled with even harsher class divisions and injustices.

I lucked out with this one. True to form I saw a vaguely interesting cover and filed it away in the recesses of my mental archive as 'to-read' without reading the description. For once, my inattention worked in the author's favor for if I had read the blurb there would have been no reason to read the book. Ninety-five percent of the content is spelled out for the reader in that simple passage. Rather disappointing really.

In addition to giving away most of the plot, the blurb is one of the two places that state the book is based on true events. During the reading, I noted the unique story line but upon reading the blurb I realized how little of the plot actually came from the author's imagination. Again I found myself disappointed as the aspects I appreciated most came straight out of an obscure history book.

Françoise Laurent, the central character of The Hangman in the Mirror, lacks the charm and charisma of Moll Flanders and Becky Sharp but she is without doubt molded in their image. Morally ambiguous, she is a difficult personality to warm to and while I admired the direction Cayley took in crafting her identity, I was less than enthusiastic about the execution. Françoise is selfish and irritating but she is presented in such a way that I found myself flat out disinterested in her fate.

All things considered it would be all too easy to dismiss the book entirely but I prefer to give credit where it is due. I was displeased by Cayley's leading lady but I found Françoise's parents intriguing. Her father, a drinker and gambler of little skill, reveals himself as more complex than he appears. A hard man, it comes as a surprise that he, in his way actually cares for his sole surviving child. Françoise's mother, a laundress, is a classic example of what happens to those who lose all hope. Depressed by the harsh reality of her existence, she spends much of her time recounting the glories of France while attempting to drown herself in bottles of cheap booze. The depravity of their situation was well-illustrated and the multifaceted nature of these two characters gives me hope for Cayley's future publications.

Not my cup tea but then, not every book is. Recommended to fan's of Celia Rees' Sovay.

They will hang me in the winter and I will hang dead in the snow. My face swollen, my spine broken, I will swing in the wind, in the wide open spaces of New France, and I will stand as a warning for all those who are born with nothing and wish for more.

Jacob T. Marley by R. William Bennett

2011-10-24T22:17:00.007-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Obtained from: Netgalley

Read: Oct. 24, 2011

Cover Blurb: Marley was dead to begin with . . . These chillingly familiar words begin the classic Christmas tale of remorse and redemption in A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. Now R. William Bennett rewinds the story and focuses the spotlight on Scrooge s miserly business partner, Jacob T. Marley, who was allowed to return as a ghost to warn Scrooge away from his ill-fated path. Why was Marley allowed to return? And why hadn t he been given the same chance as Ebenezer Scrooge? Or had he? Written with a voice reminiscent of Dickens, Jacob T. Marley is to A Christmas Carol as the world-famous Wicked is to The Wizard of Oz as this masterfully crafted story teaches of choices, consequences, and of the power of accountability. It is sure to become a Christmas favorite.

If there is a truly tragic character in Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, it is Jacob Marley. Ebenezer Scrooge gets a second chance at redemption but Marley is condemned to shoulder the weight of his transgressions for all eternity. Not a whole lot of justice in that is there? Now apparently, I’m not the only who feels this is a serious offense. Author R. William Bennett also concluded Dickens treated Marley unfairly and being a far more creative person than myself, he penned a positively delightful reprisal of the classic tale in an effort to address the maltreatment.

I can honestly say this is one of the best retellings I have come across. It is also one of only three that I rate higher than the work that inspired it. I’m not exactly a fan of A Christmas Carol but that made Bennett’s job all the more challenging. It is a testament to his skill I enjoyed Jacob T. Marley as much as I did.

In an interesting twist Bennett’s story exposes the extent of Jacob’s influence on Ebenezer. As a young man, Scrooge stands on the edge of a great precipice. He understands greed but it is not until he forms a partnership with Marley that Ebenezer crosses over and begins to transform into the greedy miser we all know so well. Only in death is Marley able to recognize his role in the molding of Scrooge’s character, whereupon he swears he will do all in his power to save his former associate from damnation.

Bennett not only respects and follows the familiar plot of the original; he also imitates the language of the holiday favorite. The extra effort goes a long way in recreating the feel of A Christmas Carol and helps the two stories blend seamlessly together.

A heartfelt recreation of the spirited favorite. Recommended to fans of This Dark Endeavor by Kenneth Oppel and The Looking Glass Wars by Frank Beddor.

Marley was, of course, perturbed at this younger version of himself. And of the fact that Scrooge was exactly that younger version, Marley was admiring as well, the way an opponent who had just been checkmated might feel about the one who possessed the skill to do it to him.

The Last Letters of Thomas More by Thomas More, Introduction by Alvaro De Silva

2011-10-22T23:56:00.011-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Kindle Library

Read: Oct. 16, 2011

Cover Blurb: Written from the Tower of London, these letters of Thomas More still speak powerfully today. The story of Thomas More, recently told in Peter Ackroyd's bestselling biography, is well known. In the spring of 1534, Thomas More was taken to the Tower of London, and after fourteen months in prison, the brilliant author of Utopia, friend of Erasmus and the humanities, and former Lord Chancellor of England was beheaded on Tower Hill. Yet More wrote some of his best works as a prisoner, including a set of historically and religiously important letters. The Last Letters of Thomas More is a superb new edition of More's prison correspondence, introduced and fully annotated for contemporary readers by Alvaro de Silva. Based on the critical edition of More's correspondence, this volume begins with letters penned by More to Cromwell and Henry VIII in February 1534 and ends with More's last words to his daughter, Margaret Roper, on the eve of his execution. More writes on a host of topics—prayer and penance, the right use of riches and power, the joys of heaven, psychological depression and suicidal temptations, the moral compromises of those who imprisoned him, and much more. This volume not only records the clarity of More's conscience and his readiness to die for the integrity of his religious faith, but it also throws light on the literary works that More wrote during the same period and on the religious and political conditions of Tudor England.

As the title suggests, the book is the collected correspondence of Thomas More in the years prior to his execution. Poignant and thought provoking, I found the letters themselves fascinating even if they were challenging to read. Be warned, don't attempt this one if you struggle with Old English. In truth, Last Letters gave me more trouble than Chaucer's Canterbury Tales.

Without the introduction this would be a four star book but I took issue with Silva's commentary. I felt it was ridiculously lengthy and long winded but also found it detrimental to my enjoyment of the missives. His analytical dissection and exposition undermined the emotion and power of More's words. On top of that it was flat out boring to read. If I wanted a dissertation, I would have attended a lecture dude. Bad form friend, bad form.

Those who follow my reviews are aware I usually close by recommending additional titles but Last Letters isn't that kind of book. The nature of the it is such that I can't recommend it to anyone but die hard scholars of the humanist/stateman.

I neither look for, nor long for, but am well content to go, if God call me hence forth tomorrow.

Between Worlds: Nekkel Ace by Yianna Yiannacou

2011-10-22T22:56:00.004-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Author

Read: Oct. 18, 2011

Cover Blurb: On a distant planet called Caledonia, a young woman named Sophia Amaro embarks on a journey to self-discovery. Living the sheltered life with servants waiting on her hand and foot everyday just isn't enough for her. After an accident which leaves her father in critical condition, it's up to her to save his life. But to find the cure, she must visit the forbidden planet: Earth. Sophia uses the secret portal to journey to Earth. Not only is she trying to save her father's life, but she also has to figure out what she wants to do with her own along the way. Just when things couldn't get more complicated, she unexpectedly finds love. Sophia has to realize what is more important to her; her father's life, or the one she loves. Between Worlds: Nekkel Ace will have you turning the page after every chapter, eager to learn what will happen next.

Nekkel Ace is the story of Sophia Amaro, the pampered and sheltered first daughter of Caledonia. Restricted to her home and the surrounding grounds, Sophia is a restless young woman eager to break the monotony of her privileged existence. Unfortunately her parents have other ideas and despite her pleas, continue to shield her from the world outside their estate. It isn't until tragedy strikes that Sophia finds opportunity to break free and begin a journey that will expand her horizons and challenge everything she believes.

Sophia herself is an interesting personality. She is somewhat accident prone but her thought process and emotions make for an amusing narrative. Personally I felt she was somewhat too naive for a woman of twenty years but she is a dynamic protagonist nonetheless. In terms of her characterization I give Yiannacou a lot of credit. I realize young women have a certain infatuation with young men but there really is a lot more going on between their ears. Many authors forget this but not Yiannacou. Her heroine is multidimensional and has a variety of motivations. A decidedly refreshing addition in a genre teeming with love-sick moon-eyed reincarnations of Juliet Capulet.

I found this story stimulating and original though I must admit it leaned towards the predictable. For example, I wasn't surprised by the truth of Matteo's parentage. I was a little confused as to why his parents chose to conceal it so long but that is beside the point. The determinable quality of the writing a little distracting for me but I don't think it is something that will impact the enjoyment of younger and/or less critical readers.

Clever and creative storytelling. Recommended to fans of the Time Travelers series by Caroline B. Cooney.

The paths in life are set out for you already; it is up to you to choose which path you are willing to take. Choose wisely; choose from your heart.

Rose's Pledge by Sally Laity & Dianna Crawford

2011-10-22T12:06:00.011-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Obtained from: Netgalley

Read: Oct. 20, 2011

Cover Blurb: Step back into the early days of America, where Rose Harwood and her sisters become indentured to the highest bidders. When Rose’s new owner takes her deep into Indian Territory, a young frontiersman named Nate Kinyon tags along, hoping to save Rose from the machinations of a grubby trader and the appraising looks of young braves. How much is he willing to pay—in dollars and sense—to redeem the woman he loves? And how much is Rose willing to sacrifice for his protection?

Rose's Pledge begins in Bath but quickly takes us across the sea and deep into the wilderness and the center of a political firestorm about to erupt into what we know as the French and Indian War. Bonded in service, Rose Harwood has little choice in traversing miles into the unknown and soon finds herself living among the natives in a world she never imagined. Over the course of the novel we witness both the evolution of her faith and initial outbreak of conflict in the Ohio River Valley.

First off, I have to say I jumped at the chance to review this book because a) I love history and b) Sally Laity and Dianna Crawford are the ladies who turned me on to inspired fiction. Many authors in this genre focus on their message but these two ladies have mastered the art of weaving a remarkable amount of history into their novels in addition to their spiritual message. There are strong religious themes in their work but I find the context of their stories on par with some of my favorite secular writers. Needless to say I was excited to find the two had reunited and were collaborating once again.

That being said, the words 'indentured servant' set off warning bells. There are a lot of directions to take the concept but all the same, Laity and Crawford tackled the subject pretty extensively in The Gathering Dawn. The bells grew significantly louder in a scene where Rose stood on the deck of the Seaford Lady as it arrived in port. The brief conversation she shared with Seaman Polk is more than a little reminiscent of the exchange between Susannah Harrington and Seaman Yancy Curtis on the deck of another ship upon their arrival in the colonies in the opening scene of the aforementioned novel. Much to my relief the story took a new direction and bells soon ceased. Unfortunately, the respite was short lived. Not only does Nate Kinyon have the same solution to Rose's situation as Daniel Haynes did for Susannah but he is as inarticulate as his counterpart when it comes to propositioning the lady in question. At this point it really didn't surprise me that the ladies themselves reacted in an identical manner and brushed off their suitors with the same level of indignation.

As a fan I found this recycling sharply disappointing but it begged the question as to whether or not I should downgrade my rating. Having just completed Long Trail Home, a book where recycled material played a key role in determining my overall opinion, I wondered if it was hypocritical to let this one slide. Ultimately I decided that as a reviewer I needed to mention the similarities but it would not factor in my rating of the novel. Before you start rolling your eyes be assured I struggled with this one. The simple explanation is that Long Trail Home paralleled other books in the Texas Trail series where Rose's Pledge resembles a completely different collection that was published nearly two decades ago. Additionally, Rose's Pledge covers a significantly wider historic scope, the details of which provide more than adequate compensation for us older readers.

On the subject of content I want to mention the sub-story of Hannah Wright. She appears in a single chapter but I found her scenes to some of the most powerful of the entire novel. I wont lie, the imagery wont appeal to everyone, especially readers whose imaginations are as vivid as my own. Ever a fan of realistic depictions in literature, the graphic quality of these scenes appeals to my historian nature. White settlers and traders who pushed west of the established colonies traversed an invisible line, essentially their movements placed them in the middle of a war zone. Tragically , many of these individuals were caught in the crossfire as England, France and assorted Indian nations vied for control of the territory. Hannah represents these individuals and the description of her experience was appropriately intense.

All things considered, I enjoyed Rose's Pledge and while I look forward to the next installment of the Harwood House series, it is not without trepidation. Mariah's character draws comparison to Jane, the flighty marriage obsessed sister of Daniel Haynes and I don't know if I'll be as inclined to dismiss the rehashing a second time. Recommended to fans of The Midwife of Blue Ridge and the Freedom's Holy Light series.

If Rose wanted him to be one of those Christians who shunned anyone who came from another country or had darker skin, she was barking up the wrong tree. As far as he was concerned his God didn't mind folks having a little fun now and then either.

This Dark Endeavor: The Apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein by Kenneth Oppel

2011-10-22T09:29:00.005-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Local Library

Read: Oct. 16, 2011

Cover Blurb: Victor and Konrad are the twin brothers Frankenstein. They are nearly inseparable. Growing up, their lives are filled with imaginary adventures...until the day their adventures turn all too real. They stumble upon The Dark Library, and secret books of alchemy and ancient remedies are discovered. Father forbids that they ever enter the room again, but this only piques Victor's curiosity more. When Konrad falls gravely ill, Victor is not satisfied with the various doctors his parents have called in to help. He is drawn back to The Dark Library where he uncovers an ancient formula for the Elixir of Life. With their friend Elizabeth, Henry and Victor immediately set out to find assistance from a man who was once known for his alchemical works to help create the formula. Determination and the unthinkable outcome of losing his brother spur Victor on in the quest for the three ingredients that will save Konrad's life. After scaling the highest trees in the Strumwald, diving into the deepest lake caves, and sacrificing one’s own body part, the three fearless friends risk their lives to save another.

Before I begin I think I should confess something. I have never attempted to read Frankenstein. I've never even watched the films. Despite my abiding love of classic movie monsters I have never been remotely interested in the Modern Prometheus. As such this review is nearly free of comparison. It is impossible not to know bits and pieces of the story but for sake of argument, lets consider me a Shelley virgin.

Dr. Frankenstein is sort of a psychopath when you think about it. I mean, it takes a certain level of insanity to dig up, assemble and reanimate the dead. Disturbing though is sounds, I love the idea of exploring where this obsession comes from. The inclusion of mysteries chateau, a dark library and secret experimentation in the field of alchemy didn't hurt either. I understand from other reviews that Oppel took certain liberties with regards to the original but as I have no no particular regard for Shelley's work, I found the story enjoyable.

I have to assume there are references my limited knowledge base failed to recognize but I am familiar with Polidori. For those who don't know, John William Polidori was a contemporary of Shelley and author of The Vampyre. Considered the father of the romantic vampire genre his work predated Bram Stoker's masterpiece by nearly eighty years. Obviously outshone by his successor, Polidori doesn't enjoy the same notoriety and I appreciated the nod Oppel afforded him in This Dark Endeavor.

I rarely watch book trailers or author interviews but I made an exception with this book and watched both while polishing my review. First of all, I love that the book trailer features the same building I decided would represent chateau Frankenstein during my reading. I try not to indulge my ego but a small part of me likes that I was on the same page as the creator and marketers of the novel. On the other hand, I was disappointed by the author interview. I enjoyed what Oppel had to say about the development of his idea but the admission that ARCs were used to sell the rights to the producers of Twilight irked me. I'm of the opinion that authors should care more for their readers and personal integrity than their pocketbooks and find Oppel's actions both distressing and unattractive.

My opinion of the author's actions aside, This Dark Endeavor is gratifyingly gothic tale of mystery and intrigue. Recommended to fans of The Raven Bride by Lenore Hart and Dracula In Love by Karen Essex.

I dreamed of fame and wealth. But looking upon Elizabeth's face at that moment, I suddenly knew there was something I wanted even more.

Long Trail Home by Vickie McDonough

2011-10-22T08:12:00.006-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Netgalley

Read: Oct. 17, 2011

Cover Blurb: The Long Trail Home is third in a six-book series about four generations of the Morgan family living, fighting, and thriving amidst a turbulent Texas history spanning from 1845 to 1896. Although a series, each book can be read on its own.When Riley Morgan returns home after fighting in the War Between the States, he is excited to see his parents and fiancee again. But he soon learns that his parents are dead and the woman he loved is married. He takes a job at the Wilcox School for the blind just to get by. He keeps his heart closed off but a pretty blind woman, Annie, threatens to steal it. When a greedy man tries to close the school, Riley and Annie band together to fight him and fall in love.But when Riley learns the truth about Annie, he packs and prepares to leave the school that has become his home and the woman who has thawed his heart. Will he change his mind and find the love he craves' Or will stubbornness deprive him from the woman he needs' Through painful circumstances, Riley and Annie learn that the loving and sovereign hand of God cannot be thwarted.

Every series has one. The installment that just isn't on par with the rest. I want to be clear and say this is not a bad book. It is as well-written and endearing as the two preceding novels but the truth is I simply didn't enjoy this one as much as I did the others.

Where Lone Star Trail featured the wave of German immigration in the mid 1800s and Captive Trail focused on the plight of an Indian hostage, Long Trail Home centers on the Wilcox School for the Blind. I mean no offense to the visually impaired or McDonough when I say this but the history just wasn't as interesting to me. Unlike the other books, I've actually studied this topic and there wasn't a lot of new material for me to absorb. I believe McDonough's story will appeal to a lot of readers but personally, I am the wrong person to truly appreciate it.

I've established that I wasn't a fan of the subject matter but is that alone enough for a two star rating? Not in my world. The major factor was key elements that felt recycled from the other Texas Trails books. Annie's desire for a home and sense of belonging mirror Taabe/Billie's motivations in book two and Riley's situation with Miranda was all too reminiscent of Wande's experience with Konrad in book one. These books are marketed as a set so I have to assume that most readers will read the other installments. As book three of the collection, Long Trail Home should not feel like a rehash of its predecessors.

Obviously Long Trail Home is not one my favorite reads but the book has a few things going for it. I was pleased by the way McDonough approached Riley's struggles with PTSD and his determination with regards to aiding the women of the Wilcox school. Recommended to fans of the Spirit of Appalachia series by Gilbert Morris and Aaron McCarver.

Having him around would make things so much more difficult for her. She'd have to stay on guard, always careful no to look into his eyes or walk too fast or do anything out of character for a blind person. Keeping an eye on the children would be a hundred times harder, as would gathering eggs and milking Bertha. Why had he stopped here? Why hadn't he kept riding or asked some rancher for work?

Captive Trail by Susan Page Davis

2011-10-18T06:30:00.005-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Netgalley

Read: Oct. 16, 2011

Cover Blurb: Captive Trail is second in a six-book series about four generations of the Morgan family living, fighting, and thriving amidst a turbulent Texas history spanning from 1845 to 1896. Although a series, each book can be read singularly. Taabe Waipu has run away from her Comanche village and is fleeing south in Texas on a horse she stole from a dowry left outside her family’s teepee. The horse has an accident and she is left on foot, injured and exhausted. She staggers onto a road near Fort Chadbourne and collapses. On one of the first runs through Texas, Butterfield Overland Mail Company driver Ned Bright carries two Ursuline nuns returning to their mission station. They come across a woman who is nearly dead from exposure and dehydration and take her to the mission. With some detective work, Ned discovers Taabe Waipu is Billie Morgan. He plans to unite her with her family, but the Comanche have other ideas, and the two end up defending the mission station. Through Taabe (Billie) and Ned we learn the true meaning of healing and restoration amid seemingly powerless situations.

I think I have mentioned I have a habit of picking up books because I’m attracted to the covers. This is yet another example. The contrasting blues and oranges are eye catching but there is something about the girl’s face, half hidden behind her hair that grabbed my attention.

Captive Trail offers a unique look at one of the many dangers faced by frontier families for it was common practice among the Texas tribes to take captives. Some were tortured and/or ransomed but many were assimilated into the tribes as slaves or family members. The experience is illustrated in the Texas Trail series through the story of Taabe aka Billie Morgan. Picking up eleven years after the events of Lone Star Trail, Taabe/Billie has lived more than half her life among the Comanche. Faced with an unwanted marriage, Taabe/Billie makes a desperate bid for freedom and the past she barely remembers.

I have to hand it to Davis. Like the previous novel, Lone Star Trail, the author had to struggle with a multilingual cast. Instead of flooding the text with bits of Comanche, Davis focused on the frustration the characters felt at their inability to communicate. As a reader, I really appreciated her handling of the issue. It was easy to read but at the same time, it offered a very personal perspective on the characters.

I was also impressed by Davis' handling of the more controversial events of Taabe/Billie's time with the Comanche. I don't want to give anything away so I wont go into detail but it is a very realistic possibility in the life a captive. A applaud the author's decision to include it.

Captive Trail is a heartwarming edition to the Morgan Family saga and a charming follow-up to Lone Star Trail. Recommended to fans of the Spirit of Appalachia series by Gilbert Morris and Aaron McCarver.

Once Taabe had drawn back the curtain over the doorway and peered in. Several candles flickered within. Unlike the other rooms, this one had a floor of flat stones. Sister Natalie was kneeling at a low bench, facing the wall farthest from the one slit of a window. On the wall was a figure like the one in Taabe's room, only larger. The dying man on the torture rack. Taabe shivered and dropped the edge of the curtain. Someday, when she knew enough words, she would ask Sister Adele about that man.

Lone Star Trail by Darlene Franklin

2011-10-17T05:36:00.004-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Netgalley

Read: Oct. 10, 2011

Cover Blurb: The six-book series about four generations of the Morgan family living, fighting, and thriving amidst a turbulent Texas history spanning from 1845 to 1896 begins with Lone Star Trail. Judson (Jud) Morgan's father died for Texas freedom during the war for independence. So when the Society for the Protection of German Immigrants in Texas (the Verein) attempts to colonize a New Germany in his country, he takes a stand against them. After Wande Fleischer's fiancé marries someone else, the young fraulein determines to make new life for herself in Texas. With the help of Jud's sister Marion, Wande learns English and becomes a trusted friend to the entire Morgan family. As much as Jud dislikes the German invasion, he can't help admiring Wande. She is sweet and cheerful as she serves the Lord and all those around her. Can the rancher put aside his prejudice to forge a new future? Through Jud and Wande, we learn the powerful lessons of forgiveness and reconciliation among a diverse community of believers.

I confess I did not intend on reading this particular book. It was the second book of the Texas Trail series, Captive Trail, that caught my attention but alas, I am something of a compulsive reader. I find it incredibly difficult to start a series anywhere but the beginning. So, naturally, I set about locating a copy of Lone Star Trail for my literary enjoyment.

I love the amount of Texas history in this book. I went to school in CA which afforded me a wonderful education with regards to Father Serra and the forty-niners but not a whole lot else. I’m not joking, we skipped Lewis and Clark and most of western expansion with two notable exceptions: Little Big Horn and the Alamo. Funny when you think about it as the United States lost both but I digress. My point here is that Franklin exposed me to a chapter of American history that I didn’t even know existed and, I hope I don’t sound arrogant when I say this, that is really saying something.

Franklin’s story revolves around Jud, an American horse rancher and Wande, a young immigrant. In the mid eighteen hundreds, thousands of Germans left Europe to establish themselves in rural Texas. Many of these individuals were unprepared for what awaited them across the sea and few were welcomed when they reached our shores. In my humble opinion, Franklin competently recreated the challenges faced by the new arrivals but it was her exceptional handling of the xenophobic sentiments of the Americans that made her work so fascinating.

Lone Star Trail is a wholesome and enjoyable story but I am not without criticism. Creating a believable cast is difficult but a multilingual collection of individuals presents a unique set challenges for both the author and the reader. The use of the German language is admirable but it is really difficult to read. I realize Franklin was trying to stress the communication barriers but at the end of the day readability is the bigger factor.

On a personal note, the references to the famous breeder were tediously repetitive. I grew up watching live action classics on vault Disney so maybe I take for granted that not everyone on the planet is aware that Justin Morgan Had a Horse but even so, this was leaning towards overkill. Again, just my personal opinion, but once was enough.

All together, Lone Star Trail is a pleasant opener to the Morgan Family saga. Recommended to fans of the Spirit of Appalachia series by Gilbert Morris and Aaron McCarver.

Wande couldn't be as selfless as she claimed. No one was. No German was. He wouldn't tell her that the man who had jilted hoer so cruelly had asked him to give her a job. Or that her presence in his house disturbed his peace of mind.

The Winter Palace: A Novel of Catherine the Great by Eva Stachniak

2011-10-12T06:41:00.012-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Netgalley

Read: Oct. 12, 2011

Cover Blurb: From award-winning author Eva Stachniak comes this passionate novel that illuminates, as only fiction can, the early life of one of history’s boldest women. The Winter Palace tells the epic story of Catherine the Great’s improbable rise to power—as seen through the ever-watchful eyes of an all-but-invisible servant close to the throne. Her name is Barbara—in Russian, Varvara. Nimble-witted and attentive, she’s allowed into the employ of the Empress Elizabeth, amid the glitter and cruelty of the world’s most eminent court. Under the tutelage of Count Bestuzhev, Chancellor and spymaster, Varvara will be educated in skills from lock picking to lovemaking, learning above all else to listen—and to wait for opportunity. That opportunity arrives in a slender young princess from Zerbst named Sophie, a playful teenager destined to become the indomitable Catherine the Great. Sophie’s destiny at court is to marry the Empress’s nephew, but she has other, loftier, more dangerous ambitions, and she proves to be more guileful than she first appears. What Sophie needs is an insider at court, a loyal pair of eyes and ears who knows the traps, the conspiracies, and the treacheries that surround her. Varvara will become Sophie’s confidante—and together the two young women will rise to the pinnacle of absolute power. Impeccably researched and magnificently written, The Winter Palace is an irresistible peek through the keyhole of one of history’s grandest tales. With dazzling details and intense drama, Eva Stachniak depicts Varvara’s secret alliance with Catherine as the princess grows into a legend—through an enforced marriage, illicit seductions, and, at last, the shocking coup to assume the throne of all of Russia.

Straight out of the gate I have to give Stachniak a lot of points. In a market flooded with Tudor lit, The Winter Palace stands apart. A lover of history and historic fiction, I was overjoyed to see an author branching out. Of course, I wont be happy until someone writes a solid fiction on Crown Prince Rudolf and Baroness Marie Vetsera but Catherine the Great is definitely a step in the right direction.

Overall, I enjoyed the book. There were times I was frustrated with the narrator, Varvara's long absence from court especially, but in general, I liked the female spy. Her ability to adapt to survive was intriguing but the nature of her work was down right fun to read. To Stachniak's credit, Varvara provides tidbits on several members of the court in addition to the young princess. I can't speak to the validity of these accounts but they were entertaining nonetheless.

For all that I appreciated Varvara, I can't say I enjoyed Catherine. She just didn't jump off the page for me. Catherine was a remarkable woman who would redefine her empire over the course of her thirty four year reign. Stachniak's characterization was too delicate to read as strong or astute as her historic counterpart. Likewise, Peter came off as childish and mildly unstable. Classically, Peter was a neurotic, mean and loathsome individual who was consumed by his obsession with the military and a steadfast hatred of his people. In comparison, Stachniak's interpretation was almost boring.

My commentary doesn't end with the issues of characterization. Lets examine the cover art. There is no shortage of artwork of Catherine the Great so I have to ask why the publisher chose to feature a partial portrait of one of her contemporaries for the cover image. While you can't see the head, the slim white hand caressing the golden robe actually belongs to the Empress Maria Theresa, mother of Marie Antoinette.

My second question regards the tagline 'A novel of Catherine the Great.' The book is not about the Empress so much as it is Varvara and her observations of life at court during the reigns of Elizabeth, Peter and Catherine. I feel something like 'A novel of Romanov Russia' or 'A novel of the Romanov Court' would have been more appropriate when the content is considered. Additionally, I think the family name would generate equal if not more interest. I understand the concept of a head liner but thanks to the conspiracy theories surrounding the of death of Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna Romanov, the surname is far more recognizable than Catherine's name alone.

On the subject of content I have to concede a certain resemblance to Philippa Gregory's The Queen's Fool. Hannah spies for Lord Robert and Queen Mary, Varvara for Chancellor Bestuzhuv and Empress Elizabeth. Both befriend the individual they are meant to be spying on, Elizabeth and Catherine respectively. Varvara is Roman Catholic in an Eastern Orthodox court and Hannah is Jewish in a... well it depends on the year but you see what I am getting at. Don't misunderstand, I appreciated both novels. I am just commenting that there are more than a few similarities between the two titles. Consider yourself warned.

My personal concerns aside, The Winter Palace is a clever introduction to the Romanov Court. Recommended to fans of Phillip Gregory and Juliet Grey.

Here in the Russian court, I could have warned the pretty newcomer from Zerbst, life is a game and every player is cheating. Everyone watches everyone else. There is no room in this palace where you can be truly alone. Behind these walls there are corridors, a whole maze of them. For those who know, secret passages allow access where none is suspected. Panels open, bookcases move, sounds travel through hidden pipes. Every word you say may be repeated ad used against you. Every friend you trust may betray you.

Avery's Crossroad by Deanna K. Klingel

2011-10-09T00:13:00.005-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Netgalley

Read: Oct. 6, 2011

Cover Blurb: The saga of Avery Junior Bennett and his hound dog Gunner continues into 1863 through 1865 in book two of this young adult Civil War series. Time and war age our young hero who finds himself at a moral, emotional, and political crossroad in his daily routine of doctoring during this cruel and punishing war. Serving the injured on both sides of the conflict, Avery is empathetic, yet stalwart. His feelings toward Claire, the nurse and friend always beside him, prove to be one of Avery's most puzzling challenges. Gunner, however, has his master all figured out. Mapping the war for his patient's on a piece of butcher paper, hung on the hospital wall, readers will follow the advance to the fall of Richmond along with Avery, mourn the loss of a president amid the jubilation of a Union restored, and shed tears of joy as the soldiers and their doctor find their way home in 1865.

I am a huge fan of anything that makes the past interesting to young readers. As such, I really appreciate what Klingel was trying to do here. The Civil War was a defining moment in American history and an era that provides more than enough material for compelling fiction. Avery's Crossroad has a great premise and an exciting setting but I had a lot of trouble with the execution. Again, I am significantly older than the target audience, still, I think even adolescent readers will have trouble with this one.

Klingel has a wonderful grasp of the events but they hit reader in such quick succession that they begin to run together. The story needed more narrative between each juncture to flesh it out. Avery's story is nearly lost in a sea of factual information and period references. These aspects are the marks of great historic fiction but there needs to be a balance between story and setting. Avery's Crossroad has an abundance of one, a fact that makes the lack of the other all the more frustrating.

Maybe it is because I couldn't get into the writing. Maybe it is because I didn't read the preceding novel. Maybe it is because I don't belong to the target demographic. Whatever the reason, Avery's Crossroad didn't speak to me.

I thought the doctoring would be more about living. Now with the war, doctoring is mostly about dying. I really do get discouraged and depressed with all this... this dying.

The Merchant's Daughter by Melanie Dickerson

2011-10-08T20:51:00.011-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Netgalley

Read: Oct. 6, 2011

Cover Blurb: An unthinkable danger. An unexpected choice.Annabel, once the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is trapped in indentured servitude to Lord Ranulf, a recluse who is rumored to be both terrifying and beastly. Her circumstances are made even worse by the proximity of Lord Ranulf's bailiff---a revolting man who has made unwelcome advances on Annabel in the past. Believing that life in a nunnery is the best way to escape the escalation of the bailiff's vile behavior and to preserve the faith that sustains her, Annabel is surprised to discover a sense of security and joy in her encounters with Lord Ranulf. As Annabel struggles to confront her feelings, she is involved in a situation that could place Ranulf in grave danger. Ranulf's future, and possibly his heart, may rest in her hands, and Annabel must decide whether to follow the plans she has cherished or the calling God has placed on her heart.

I have to say I enjoyed this book more than Dickerson's debut novel, The Healer's Apprentice. Both stories are marked by a certain fantastic quality but The Merchant's Daughter is more historic fiction than fairy tale.

I loved Dickerson's approach. A history fanatic, I was impressed by her decision to set her retelling of Beauty and the Beast in England 1352. Dickerson's attention to detail and the cultural practices of the day made her story fresh, fun and truly unique. Impressive to say the least but Dickerson made more than one twist to the classic tale.

Annabel, the neglected daughter of a late merchant and an emotionally absent mother is the central figure of the story. An outsider in her own family, she longs to join the church. I can't say I understand her conviction but I found the exploration of it intriguing and made me realize how lucky I am to live in a time and place where I am not barred from literature by virtue of my sex.

Annabel herself is an interesting character but inconsistent. At the opening of the novel she is determined to prove she is not the lazy inept young woman the villagers take her to be. I couldn't help but wonder where this determination came from. If she is so strong a personality, what kept her from contributing despite her mother's protests?

The romance between Annabel and Ranulf was sweet for all that it felt underdeveloped. Dickerson's characters bond during their nightly readings of the Bible. I respect Dickerson's message but I believe there is more to love than shared belief. I also think her method may alienate more secular readers and limit their enjoyment of her work.

The Merchant's Daughter is an unconventional retelling of the beloved classic. Recommended to fans of Romeo's Ex: Rosaline's Story by Lisa Fiedler and A Curse Dark as Gold by Elizabeth C. Bunce.

A fine lass. Ranulf stared at her. She was the most beautiful girl he had ever seen, with the most flawless features, and he would have needed to loose both eyes not to notice.

I'll Be Seeing You by Margaret Mayhew

2011-10-08T20:03:00.003-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Local Library

Read: Sept. 17, 2011

Cover Blurb: When Juliet Porter's mother dies, she leaves her a letter and an old Second World War photograph, which reveal a shattering secret. The father she had loved dearly until the end of his life had not been her father after all. Instead it seems that she is the daughter of an American bomber pilot who is completely unaware of her existence. Without knowing his name and with only the photograph to help her, Juliet sets out to find her real father. The task proves both daunting and difficult, but she feels compelled to go on. Her search takes her back to the old wartime Suffolk airfield where her mother fell in love with the American pilot in 1943, and, eventually, to California, where in the end she meets not only her past but also her future.

Most history fanatics hold specific eras close to their hearts and I am no exception. WWII is one of the periods I can't get enough of. The title reference to Frank Sinatra didn't hurt either. That being the case, I anticipated liking this book a lot more than I did. Perhaps I expected too much going into it but I found Mayhew's work mediocre at best.

Juliet, a divorcee with a grown daughter of her own, is rattled by her mother's deathbed admission. Angry and confused she struggles to accept the truth of her paternity and understand the circumstance of her existence. Eventually, curiosity proves too much. Left with only a sketchbook, an unmarked photograph and fragmented memories of her mother's war experiences, Juliet sets out to discover what she can about the man who stole her mother's heart.

As the granddaughter of an American solider and an English woman, I feel like a hypocrite for saying I found this story overly romantic and unrealistic. Daisy's story was fine though there wasn't a lot of information regarding her position with WAAF and I never felt the intensity I know exists when your significant other is on the front lines. Howard's story was flat out laughable. The entirety of his twenty plus missions are wrapped into a mere thirty pages, the bulk of which focus on his concealed tenure in a French barn. Boring doesn't do it justice.

Juliet's story had a lot of potential. American soldiers fathered more than 37,000 children while overseas, many of whom were never acknowledged. Several organizations exist to aid these individuals but the vast majority have little luck locating their fathers. American privacy laws are difficult to work around but time is biggest obstacle. I think this is why I found Juliet's story so difficult to swallow. She experiences a few hiccups but she completes the puzzle in a matter of months. Mayhew wrapped everything up in a pretty little package that is too improbable to be realistic.

I'll Be Seeing you is a sugary novel with little to no action sequences and limited historic detail. Sadly, not my kind of book. Recommended to fans of light romance.

She was marble-constant, as Shakespeare also said. An illegitimate baby was a huge black mark in those days, remember. She could easily have had you adopted, but she didn't. She hung onto you and she married another man because she thought it was the best thing for you.

Interview with Tara Chevrestt, author of Dog Tails

2011-10-06T06:09:00.007-06:00

I am excited to welcome author Tara Chevrestt to Flashlight Commentary! Tara has graciously stopped in to discuss her lighthearted debut novel Dog Tails. A dog lover myself, I adored this humorous collection of short stories and am thrilled to share my interview with you.

Book Synopsis: Meet Lola, Pudgy, and Jazzy, three canine cuties that will warm your heart and make you laugh. In Thank Dog It's Friday, Lola and her human mommy, Trisha trade bodies for a day! Can they cope with their new bodies and prevent Trisha's husband from throwing her into a mental institution? Pugnacious introduces Pudgy, a very pugnacious pug. She takes her job in a dog bakery very seriously and when the bakery is robbed, it's up to her to save the day, the cash, and the canine cookies! In Tail of Terror, Jazzy does the unthinkable and she runs away. If she can survive the mean streets, there may be a lesson in store for her and she may make a new friend. Dog Tails is intended for dog lovers everywhere, but even cat lovers will smile and fall in love with Lola, Pudgy, and Jazzy.

Author Tara Chevresett

What prompted you to write about your dogs?
I had this story idea for some time, Thank Dog, but it wasn't novel material. When I discovered that you could now publish short stories on kindle, I went for it. And after I wrote that one, I felt guilty that my other two dogs didn't have a story... so I wrote one for each!

Did the personality of each of your girls play into their stories?
Yes. Lola is very arrogant and sassy. She has a "don't mess with me attitude." Pudgy is so aggressive, we wonder if she was meant to be a boy. She's a bit of a bully and very protective. Jazzy seems to have obsessive compulsive disorder. She has some strange habits such as constantly licking her feet and circling a particular chair before going outside and acts like a cat.

How have they reacted to the publication of Dog Tails?
Except when I run around the house cheering because they got another good review, they couldn't care less. LOL!

Is there any chance you will publish more stories featuring Lola, Pudgy and Jazzy?
No. I think the ones I already penned would be hard to beat. I actually sat there staring at them before writing each one.. trying to capture their personality. Also, I think if I wrote more, they may come across as repetitive. I would like to insert one of them into a novel or something that I may write in the future, however.

Do you read reviews of your books? If so, do you pay any attention to them, or let them influence your writing?
I do. I think all authors do. I don't check very often though. It's something that may dawn on me once a month or so. I need to know what people think, if I am having the desired effect on my audience..l if I even have an audience. LOL I don't comment though, or "like" any of them, good or bad, because obviously I'm a biased person and that's not cool. People are entitled to their opinions and what works for some, won't work for others. I do appreciate, however, when a person provides a reason for a low rating. I like to know why. What didn't work? I feel authors cannot improve without criticism.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging when writing?
I find historical fiction challenging. Having to stop and do research, keep my facts straight. With my contemporary fiction, I have no difficulties. It's pure imagination and fun. I actually have a strange writing style.. Most authors will tell you to make a plan, jot notes, create a timeline, whatever. Me, I just sit down and type and see what flows. I make up the story as I go. I call it "being bitten on the ass" with a good story. It won't let me stop till I'm done.

Do you ever experience writer's block?
Yes, I do. Sometimes the flow doesn't come. I just sit there and frown at my computer. I think part of it for me is... I can't write a historical manuscript one min and work on edits for my contemporary romance the next.. It's two different wavelengths and my mind gets jumbled. Other times, I simply don't feel like writing. I work full time, have a husband and my little dogs, and I'm also a book reviewer. Sometimes, I just need a break from writing. That's when I sit and watch classic movies. :)

When did you realize you wanted to be a writer?
I think I've always been a writer. In school, at all ages, I love writing assignments. I especially loved essays and book reports. Looking back, I find that funny as I now review books in my free time.

Can you tell us about your challenges in getting your first book published?
I went the agent route and queried fifty agents. I had a fancy query and all and I even paid to have my manuscript professionally edited. Only two agents responded and they didn't like the first 25 pages and I had no luck. I pursued that avenue for months and finally said, "screw it." A friend of mine told me about Muse It Up and now the book is coming out in February. They seem to like my work as I have two contracts with them.

Do you have any advice for other writers?
I have made up a quote of sorts and I stand by it myself. "If you don't love what you are writing, readers won't love what they are reading." Love what you're doing, love the topic you are writing about. Don't force it.

What do you do when you are not writing?
I read, play with my dogs, dabble in the kitchen, go on bike rides with my husband (weather permitting), and I'm an aircraft sheet metal mechanic. I also write for an online literary magazine, Lit Asylum.

What are you working on now?
Nothing this minute. I just scrapped two manuscripts. One, I don't want to finish because it requires me to submit to a publisher I can't stand. Two, I just decided to start over. It wasn't flowing. I'm starting it over this weekend and it is a historical romance that takes place in MT. I'm hoping this one gets finished. I have edits on two of my other manuscripts coming up as well so at this moment, keeping my schedule clear to avoid that "crossing of wavelengths." I will be doing edits on my memoir and my erotic noir, Sinful Urges.

For more of Tara and her work, please visit her blog. Dog Tails is available here and be sure to watch out for Tara's memoir, Deaf Isn't Dumb!

The Robber Bride by Jerrica Knight-Catania

2011-10-05T21:44:00.002-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Kindle Loan

Read: Oct. 3, 2011

Cover Blurb: When Victoria Barclay, privileged daughter of the Viscount Grantham, has a life-altering experience as a young girl, it sets the course for the rest of her life. She is determined to make a difference in the world, no matter the consequence, and becomes a highwayman—or woman, as it were—robbing the rich and donating her pilfered gains to the poor. Life-long friend and neighbor, Phineas Dartwell, Earl of Leyburn, suspects his dear friend is up to no good. She’s become evasive, and even worse, he cares that she’s become evasive. When she refuses to confide in him, claiming it’s for his own good, he severs the friendship out of wounded pride and a wounded heart. But when Victoria’s activities are brought to light in the eyes of the magistrate, Phineas must find a way to acquit his friend—and dare he hope, future wife?—of the charges.

I love stories of women who defy traditional gender roles but novels of female highwaymen are a dime a dozen and a large portion of them aren't worth the time it takes to read the covers. After reading Celia Rees' Sovay, I've avoided these titles like the plague. Still, something about this novella said take a chance.

I was pleasantly surprised by The Robber Bride. The characters aren't as polished as I would like but they are charmingly appealing and witty. Almost from the
first page, I found myself laughing out loud at the surprisingly anecdotes and dialogue.

Perhaps this is why I found the plot holes so disappointing. I'm still not clear on exactly how Lady Beecham came by her information nor do I quite understand how Finn was able to find so much support for Victoria when it was the very lack of compassion among her peers that led to her actions in the first place. I know it is a novella but that doesn't excuse loose ends.

The Robber Bride is a sweet love story with just a hint of danger. Recommended light romance or beach read.

Sick was an interesting term to apply to Lady Hartswell. The woman was barely fifty years old, and the only sick thing about her was her mind. Never had Victoria met such a martyr. Her woe-is-me personality was pathetic. If she spent five minutes in this place, she'd realize what true suffering was.

Dracula My Love: The Secret Journals of Mina Harker by Syrie James

2011-10-02T01:47:00.008-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Obtained from: Local Library

Read: Sept. 23, 2011

Cover Blurb: Many have read and loved Bram Stoker’s Dracula. But questions remain. What is the true story of Dracula’s origin? What if Mina could not bring herself to record the true story of their scandalous affair—until now? In Dracula, My Love: The Secret Journals of Mina Harker, Syrie James explores these questions and more. A vibrant dramatization, told from Mina’s point of view, brings to life the crucial parts of Stoker’s story while showcasing Mina’s sexual awakening and evolution as a woman, and revealing a secret that could destroy her life. Torn between two men—a loving husband and a dangerous lover—Mina struggles to hang on to the deep love she’s found within her marriage, even as she is inexorably drawn to Dracula himself—the vampire that everyone she knows is determined to destroy.

Bram Stoker's masterpiece is one of my favorite classics. Lucy and Mina are the quintessential embodiment of Victorian chastity, purity and virtue. Stoker's Dracula is especially evil as he seeks to corrupt these women, seducing them and thus corrupting their innocence. They play an essential role in Stoker's work but for all that, they are victims of shallow characterization, necessary personalities in a fundamentally masculine novel.

James' story beautifully remedies the situation. Dracula, My Love is a fleshed out re-telling of the story from Mina's perspective, something I don't imagine to have been easy as Stoker wrote little of her character in the original. According to Dr. Abraham Van Helsing, "[Mina] has a man's brain - a brain that a man should have were he much gifted - and a woman's heart." I was frustrated with the inconsistencies in Mina's character but for the most part, I was really impressed with what James was able to do.

Mina is deeply in love with Jonathan but like a moth drawn to the flame, she finds herself attracted to the darkly sensual Dracula. One represents a pure, innocent affection. The other, a dangerously passionate seductiveness. Mina finds herself caught between two very different men and questioning the very nature of love. Very similar to the situation Christine Daae faces with the Phantom and Raoul in Gaston Leroux's Phantom of the Opera, but intriguing just the same.

The plot revolves around this conflict of the heart which is why I was concerned by the lack of connection between Mina and Jonathan. James spent a lot of time revamping Dracula's character but I don't think she gave Jonathan the same amount of attention. Dracula is dark and interesting where Johnathan is conventional and drab. Mina's character grappled with her indecision but for the life of me I couldn't understand why. Johnathan's inattention and disregard for his wife turned me off almost from the beginning. James' story could have been much more convincing if she extended the same amount of consideration to both of her leading men.

Characterization issues aside, Dracula, My Love is a wonderfully engaging read that breathes new life into Stoker's well known tale. Recommended to fans of Elizabeth Kostova's The Historian.

Oh! Why must I dream of him? What treacherous thing the subconscious mind was! Such dreams and imaginings, I believed, were as much a betrayal of my marriage vows as any physical act. And yet, I found myself in the dark for several shameful minutes savoring the imagined memory of his embrace...

From Ashes to Honor by Loree Lough

2011-10-01T23:50:00.009-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Kindle Library

Read: Sept. 12, 2011

Cover Blurb: Minutes before two jumbo jets changed U.S. history, New York police officer Austin Finley ignored the call from his brother, who’d been bugging him for days. Trying to live with his one regret causes hatred and bitterness to consume Austin, and when counselor Mercy Samara recommends desk duty, Austin resigns. Haunted by her own memories of 9/11, Mercy takes a job as a school counselor in Baltimore. When Austin, now an EMT, responds to an emergency at Mercy’s school, both are stunned and wary. Finally their common—and painful—memories turn suspicion into friendship, then romance.

I think it takes a certain amount of nerve to publish something like this in the weeks before the decennial of the World Trade Center attacks. Despite the author's comments in the introduction, I feel the subject matter and the cover design were carefully marketed to turn a profit from the emotional state of the nation as we neared the tenth anniversary. I didn't feel the heroism or strength indicated in the description. Just a sappy, unbelievable romance wrapped in conveniently patriotic packaging. Intensely disappointing.

The story doesn't take off until several years after the attacks. Austin has left the police force, lost his mother, renewed his faith and has a successful career as an EMT. He is still struggling but he has learned to live with his demons. Minus his brief visit to Mercy's office in the opening chapters, he never came off as 'consumed' by his emotions. When I finished the book I had only one question, where was the intense bitterness and hatred?

Austin's emotional turmoil wasn't the only thing I had trouble believing. The circumstance Lough crafted for her leading man doesn't hold a lot of water for me. Austin's guilt is tied to a phone call he didn't answer. His brother, Avery, had been bugging him for days. Annoyed, Austin ignored his phone. In his final moments, Avery recited the Lord's Prayer as Austin's voice mail recorded his trembling voice, the message cut short by the rush of noise that marked the collapse of the North Tower. A deeply emotionally moment that is wholly unrealistic. As a first responder, Austin should have been too busy to know who was calling him. The North Tower was hit at 8:46. It collapsed an hour and forty one minutes later. Can someone please explain why one of New York City's finest was aware that his brother was calling?

Mercy's issues relate less to her 9/11 experience than they do to her ethnicity. Much more believable than Austin's story but significantly removed from the 'first responder' concept. Racial stereotyping is a sad result of events of September 11th. I think it is a story worth telling but tell it should have been told in its own right.

So is there anything about the book I liked? Surprisingly yes, I really liked the ending. Other reviewers were upset by it but I think it is a valid topic for believers and non-believers alike. Religion can be a make or break point for some couples. I compliment Lough for tackling it. At the same time I appreciate her crafting of a non-Christian character who is as 'good' as the rest of the cast. I can't express how happy I was to find a piece of inspired fiction that didn't denounce non-believers.

Try as he might to outrun the suspicion and mistrust aroused by his dark skin and jet-black hair, he couldn't escape the prejudice of a population sill hurting because of the actions of his former countrymen.

A Royal Likeness by Christine Trent

2011-09-30T12:27:00.008-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆
Obtained from: Kindle Loan
Read: Feb. 7, 2011

Cover Blurb: As heiress to the famous Laurent Fashion Dolls business, Marguerite Ashby's future seems secure. But France still seethes with violence in the wake of the Revolution. And when Marguerite's husband Nicholas is killed during a riot at their shop, she leaves home vowing never to return. Instead, the young widow travels to Edinburgh and joins her old friend, Marie Tussaud, who has established a touring wax exhibition. Under the great Tussaud's patient instruction, Marguerite learns to mold wax into stunningly lifelike creations. When Prime Minister William Pitt commissions a wax figure of military hero Admiral Nelson, Marguerite becomes immersed in a dangerous adventure--and earns the admiration of two very different men. And as Britain battles to overthrow Napoleon and flush out spies against the Crown, Marguerite will find her own loyalties, and her heart, under fire from all sides. With wit, flair, and a masterful eye for telling details, Christine Trent brings one of history's most fascinating eras to vibrant life in an unforgettable story of desire, ambition, treachery, and courage.

Go into this novel with an open mind. Having any sort of preconceived expectation of greatness will result in sound disappointment. A Royal Likeness picks up where The Queen’s Dollmaker left off, makes a dramatic departure from its processor and never looks back.

Trent could not settle on a story line. Marguerite starts as the aspiring entrepreneur we know from the previous novel but quickly becomes Tussaud’s apprentice, hero of the battle of Trafalgar and the central component in political dealings for the good of the empire. Personally, that never came together for me. I felt like the author opened a history book and said “hey, this looks interesting, where can I fit it in?” Trent has some talent as a writer but her inexperience is self-evident. The constant changes in storyline and characterization are exhausting to read.

Her fictitious players have such dramatic changes in their basic makeup that they almost invalidate the original novel. Claudette is content attending social outings and playing mother hen to her children? This is a character who journeyed to France during the Revolution for a doll order. I cannot believe she would settle down into a life of blissful domesticity. Where is the fire and passion that drove her to become the best dollmaker in London? Nathaniel and his mother were thrown in for comic relief but they play such an insignificant part that their presence comes off as a cheesy attempt to create continuity between the novels. And since when is Nathaniel obsessed with his sister-in-law? Marguerite was poised to follow in Claudette’s footsteps but her determination and overall interest in her art is thwarted and never recovers. Her character moves into wax modeling but the inquisitive little girl who peppered the doll shop staff with technical questions never resurfaces. Marguerite takes on the roll of place holder. The story revolves around her but she never comes through as particularly interested or devoted to her craft.

The historic cast is also ill treated. Madame Tussaud’s broken English and overall characterization felt abrasive. I cannot picture a woman with her talent and level of success being such a complete stick-in-the-mud. Why were Nelson, Grey, Pitt and Fox invited to the party? Their part in the story could have been another book entirely – hopefully one with a completely separate cast since the idea itself wasn’t a bad one.

In all honesty, I wish I had skipped this one. I would much rather see one well developed storyline than read a hodgepodge assortment of half baked ideas. Read The Queen’s Dollmaker and leave it at that.

Marie drew in her breath as she tried to think how to best answer. Her future depended on her next words to this man she both feared and detested...

Beware, Princess Elizabeth by Carolyn Meyer

2011-09-30T09:39:00.009-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Local Library

Read: Sept. 30, 2011

Cover Blurb: Imprisonment. Betrayal. Lost love. Murder. What more must a princess endure? Elizabeth Tudor's teenage and young adult years during the turbulent reigns of Edward and then Mary Tudor are hardly those of a fairy-tale princess. Her mother has been beheaded by Elizabeth's own father, Henry VIII; her jealous half sister, Mary, has her locked away in the Tower of London; and her only love interest betrays her in his own quest for the throne. Told in the voice of the young Elizabeth and ending when she is crowned queen, this second novel in the exciting series explores the relationship between two sisters who became mortal enemies. Carolyn Meyer has written an intriguing historical tale that reveals the deep-seated rivalry between a determined girl who became one of England's most powerful monarchs and the sister who tried everything to stop her.

The younger daughter of Henry VIII, Elizabeth’s future was far from certain. She enjoyed the benefits of a royal heir for only a short period, being declared illegitimate about the same time her mother lost her head. She was only returned to the line of succession during Henry’s sixth and final marriage. Her childhood was marked by a series of stepmothers; one dying in childbed, one set aside, one beheaded and one who was lucky enough to be widowed before Henry tired of her. Though a child, I believe she took to heart her father’s inconsistencies, noting the lack of security which supposedly accompanied a marriage.

The chances that Elizabeth would ascend the throne were minimal, being behind both her younger brother Edward and older sister Mary in Henry’s Third Succession Act. Both of Henry’s daughters were again struck from the succession by their brother Edward, who left the throne to his cousin the Lady Jane Grey upon his death. Jane’s tenure lasted a mere nine days. Whereafter she was imprisoned in the Tower and eventually executed for high treason.

Hailed at her coronation, Mary soon fell into her subject’s disfavor. Her persecution of Protestants earned her the moniker Bloody Mary. A Protestant herself, Elizabeth’s position was a precarious one. Like her older sister before her, she defied her monarch and held to her convictions and much like her sister, lived in fear that her religion would be her death warrant.

Discontent soon burned as brightly as Mary’s Protestant subjects, lending support to those who wished to see Elizabeth on the throne. The Wyatt Rebellion gave Mary reason to place her sister in the Tower of London. I imagine the sentence was frightening as prisoners rarely escaped the Tower alive but doubly so for Elizabeth whose own mother was executed on the grounds some eighteen years earlier.

Elizabeth as depicted in Beware, Princess Elizabeth is an ambitious young woman. I feel it is a true enough assessment of her character as Queen but premature for the period of Meyer’s story. Elizabeth’s position was never as secure as Meyer implies. Elizabeth also seemed overly confident in her conviction that she would one day rule England. I am sure Elizabeth was aware of the possibility and even took steps to have it realized, but considering the uncertainty that marked her adolescent years I don’t believe she was at any time assured she would take her father's throne. Raised in the knowledge that Queen Anne was beheaded, witness to the trial and execution of Queen Catherine, spectator to the political games that cost Queen Jane so dearly, I remained convinced that Elizabeth was very much aware that the crown offered as much security to a woman as did the state of matrimony.

Historically accurate in detail but I found this installment disappointing in its black and white interpretations. It may be appealing to younger readers but even then, I would suggest looking elsewhere for introductory material on the Virgin Queen.

The moment had arrived. My sister was dead, no longer my enemy. I had survived this first great challenge. Yet as long as I had prepared for this moment, expected it, feared it and desired it, I was overwhelmed with emotion. I fell to my knees...

Becoming Marie Antoinette by Juliet Grey

2011-09-28T06:18:00.006-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Personal Library

Read: Sept. 23, 2011

Cover Blurb: Raised alongside her numerous brothers and sisters by the formidable empress of Austria, ten-year-old Maria Antonia knew that her idyllic existence would one day be sacrificed to her mother’s political ambitions. What she never anticipated was that the day in question would come so soon. Before she can journey from sunlit picnics with her sisters in Vienna to the glitter, glamour, and gossip of Versailles, Antonia must change everything about herself in order to be accepted as dauphine of France and the wife of the awkward teenage boy who will one day be Louis XVI. Yet nothing can prepare her for the ingenuity and influence it will take to become queen. Filled with smart history, treacherous rivalries, lavish clothes, and sparkling jewels, Becoming Marie Antoinette will utterly captivate fiction and history lovers alike.

Marie Antoinette is a hard personality for me to like. In most of the literature I’ve come across, she is depicted as something of a twit. Becoming Marie Antoinette is no exception; in point of fact, this particular incarnation describes herself as “no more talented than a parrot or a trained monkey.” As a reader I find it incredibly frustrating to follow a character as dense and frivolous as Grey's Maria Antonia. Still, I remain hopeful that an author will one day take up the challenge and gift this unfortunate Hapsburg a degree of substance.

The author may not have presented a new version of the Archduchess but she does offer a fresh look at a period which is often overlooked, her childhood. Everything from the need for braces to the troublesome issue presented by the size of the Maria’s forehead is integrated into the narrative. While it makes for somewhat tedious reading, Grey's efforts are admirable.

I nitpick when I think an author is capable of more and while I truly appreciate the author's enthusiasm, I think there is room for improvement in regards to accuracy. For example, I found great annoyance at the appearance of a single line of text: Let them eat cake. There is little to no evidence the Queen ever uttered the phrase. The saying appears in Rousseau's autobiography Confessions (completed in 1796, the year before the dauphine arrived in France) where it is attributed to a princess who married Louis XIV in the 1660s. Somewhere along the line the phrase was ascribed to the increasingly unpopular bride of Louis XIV. So it is that Marie Antoinette suffers perpetual infamy while the fortunate Maria Theresa of Spain disappears into obscurity.

Maria Antonia bored me but the I found the depiction of her mother, the Empress Maria Theresa quite fascinating. The Hapsburg matriarch gave birth to sixteen children over a period of twenty years. Do the math. Almost as soon as she was done having babies she was beset with the task of marrying them off. Thank heaven she was a royal and didn't have to worry about the details of actually raising her brood. Grey's Empress isn't particularly maternal but can you really blame the woman? Having so many pregnancies must have been exhausting and it certainly explains her exasperation over Maria's inability to conceive an heir in the early years of her marriage.

Becoming Marie Antoinette is good starting point for freshman scholars but I think more savvy readers will be disappointed. The story itself has much in common with Titanic; even the novice historian knows the ending. The trick is in bringing something new to the table, a twist that captures the imagination. Whether Grey’s telling will do so has yet to be seen.

Think of the family motto: Others wage wars to succeed, but you, fortunate Hapsburg, marry! Sometimes I think Maman had so many daughters because she has so many enemies!

Mary, Bloody Mary by Carolyn Meyer

2011-09-27T21:50:00.013-06:00

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Obtained from: Local Library

Read: Sept. 26, 2011

Cover Blurb: The story of Mary Tudor's childhood is a classic fairy tale: A princess who is to inherit the throne of England is separated from her mother; abused by an evil stepmother who has enchanted her father; stripped of her title; and forced to care for her baby stepsister, who inherits Mary's rights to the throne. Believe it or not, it's all true. Told in the voice of the young Mary, this novel explores the history and intrigue of the dramatic rule of Henry VIII, his outrageous affair with and marriage to the bewitching Anne Boleyn, and the consequences of that relationship for his firstborn daughter. Carolyn Meyer has written a compassionate historical novel about love and loss, jealousy and fear - and a girl's struggle with forces far beyond her control.

I wage a personal war against the stereotypes that plague stepfamilies. I grew up in one and am now a stepmother in my own right. Still, I am big enough to accept that ‘wicked’ is sometimes an all too accurate description. One such example is the case of Mary Tudor and her stepmonster, Anne Boleyn.

Mary was born the beloved daughter of Henry VIII and his first wife, Queen Catherine. Their only surviving child, she wanted for nothing. She lived a blissful existence, the cherished heir to the throne, until the arrival of Anne Boleyn. Mary's father was not known for his fidelity but Anne was unlike any of Henry's previous mistresses. Ambitious and cunning, Anne's seduction of England's king set in motion a chain of events that would alter the course of the entire nation. Henry's daughter

As Anne's star rose, Mary's fell. She lost her mother, her father, her title, her inheritance and eventually, even her legitimacy was thrown to the wind. She was forced into the service of her infant sister, Anne’s daughter Elizabeth, and came under fire for her Catholic faith. Had Mary been a few years older she may have been spared this fate, protected by an alliance to foreign kingdom. A few years younger and she may have been restored to favor before she was considered a spinster. Fate, unfortunately, is a fickle mistress.

My only criticism of Meyer's work is that it focuses less on Mary than it does the impact Anne had on her life. While an important aspect, I was disappointed to never get a sense of who Mary actually was.

Mary, Bloody Mary is a solid if somewhat concise introduction to the early life of Henry's oldest daughter, picking up shortly before Anne's arrival and concluding just after her execution. While not the whole story, I admire Meyer's decision to omit the more graphic events of Mary's tenure as Queen from the narrative in consideration of the target audience. That being said I am firmly against the censure of history and greatly appreciated the appearance of these details in the historic notes.

Recommended to adolescent readers of Tudor fiction.

I came very near to confessing to Susan that at times I, too, hated my father. It would have been so much easier if I hated him in the same way I had come to hate Anne Boleyn - pure, simple hatred. But I did not. I could not. I had not given up hope, even yet, that someday he would once again regard me as his perfect princess, his precious pearl.

Pssst, I've a Secret to Impart: A Note from the Flashlight Reader

2011-09-25T12:54:00.008-06:00

Are you ready? I'm no longer a virgin critic. I've had my first encounter with an obstinate author. I feel I've experienced a rite of passage and earned my place in the world of unknown reviewers. My eyes are misty friends. Please excuse me if I shed tears of joy as I recall the intimate details of so beautiful a moment.

I know all of you are wondering who honored me thus but I've never been one to kiss and tell so I'm afraid you'll just have to suffer your curiosity indefinitely. What kind of person would I be to out my quibbler in such a fashion? Rude would be an understatement and after all, is not rudeness the weak man's imitation of strength? Regardless of situation, one is always in the wrong if one is rude; we must keep in mind the simple truth that manners matter.

Are we not instructed to treat everyone with politeness? Even those who trespass against us are deserving of this favor - not because they are nice, but because we are. It is a test of good manners to be patient with the bad ones. We must respect the opinions of others and their right to hold them ridiculous though they may seem.

We need to bear in mind that one may disagree without being disagreeable in return. Respond when necessary but remember, true merit is like a river. The deeper it is, the less noise it makes. We must recognize what kills the skunk is the publicity it gives itself and observe it is better to be thought a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt. The petulant stomping of one’s foot paired with self-validating professions of greatness are most unattractive and often do more harm than good.

Note that we should not be averse to swallowing our pride from time to time, it’s non-fattening and rumor holds it builds character. Remember it is from the ashes that true greatest is born. Learn from the experience and rise above like the phoenix.

An individual who displays proper courtesy shows respect for himself as well as respect for those they encounter. So you see, it would be an egregious error to violate these principles and divulge the details of my own rendezvous.

Still, I wished to express my enthusiasm. I am honored by the attentions received from my consort and wish to extend a heartfelt show of gratitude though I fear there are not words to express the true depth of my appreciation.