This site is for participants in the Elmwood Park Public Library’s 2010 Adult Summer Reading Program. You must read 3 books from the Mystery or True Crime sections of the library, these can be books or audiobooks, between June 1st and July 31st then post a short (3 sentences minimum) review on the main page. To post your book review, click “comments” and post your review in the box provided, then click “Submit Comment”. Be sure to put the title, author, and date of check out of the book as well as your first and last name to receive credit. You can leave the boxes marked email and web site blank. Postings will not appear automatically so don’t panic if you don’t see it right away. Your review should give a quick synopsis of the book and what you thought of it. Would you recommend it? Would you read more books by this author? Let everyone know!
At the end of the Summer Reading Program, we’ll hold a drawing and 40 lucky winners will be invited to the Library after we close Friday August 13th for a special Library Mystery. Participants will have to work together in teams to solve a murder-mystery. We’ll let you know more about it as the Summer rolls on.
May 20, 2010
eppllocalhistory
81 responses to “Book Reviews”
THERESA RUBALCABA
June 4th, 2010 at 17:54
SMOKE ,MIRRORS,AND MURDER
COLLECTION OF 7 stories BY, ANN RULE
DEPUTY WIFE; BILL,20 yr veteran ‘ CONSPIRED WITH ‘HIT MAN’ REASON,VAST GREED
TO HAVE HIS WIFE AND THREE CHILDREN MURDERED.INSTEAD OF GREAT WEALTH
HE ASCRIBED TO,HE GOT 60 YRS IN THE PEN.
ANTIQUE DEALER’S WIFE; THE ABILITY TO RESEMBLE A CHAMELEON,RAOUL WAS
ELEGED TO HAVE KILLED AT LEAST TWO ‘WIVES’,CONSCIOUS NON-EXISTENT,NEVER
CAUGHT,JUST AS THERE WOULD NEVER BE A CONSCIOUS IN HIM.
TRUCK DRIVER’S WIFE; FIRE COULDN’T ERASE THE HORROR OF HIS CHEATING WIVE’S
STRANGLED AND BURNT BODY,LEFT MURDERED BY PERSON OR PERSONS UNKNOWN
THE CONVICT’S WIFE;DORIS WAS BETWEEN HER ABUSING HUSBAND GEORGE AND
HIS BROTHER LARRY.THEY HAD FIVE KIDS,YET A HOUSEHOLD OF VIOLENCE.,LARRY
AND DORIS WERE HAVING A SEXUAL AFFAIR.HE FINALLY ADMITTED TO KILLING GEORGE WITH HER HELP.HE GOT 10yrs,SHE GOT 5yr. SUSPENDED SENTENCES.
26yr OLD SADISTIC,ABUSIVE,TERRORIZING,MANIC TERRY AND 15yr OLD EMILY LIVED
COMMON-LAW.HE CONSTANTLY SCHEMED TO KEEP HER IN HIS CONTROL,EVENTUALLY KILLED HER GRANDFATHER,ATTEMPTED TO KILL HER GRANDMOTHER WHO SURVIVED AFTER A KNIFE WOUND TO HER THROAT.HE SERVED
32 yrs FOR THE HORRIBLE SADDEN CRIMES.
PAINTER’S WIFE;ANDERSON ONE OF FOUR ESCAPED CONVICTS,ENTERED AN UNLOCKED HOME AND KIDNAPPED MARTHA,LATER ,INCLUDED 3MEMBERS OF HER FAMILY AND A NEIGHBOR BOY,LEAVING THEM CAPTIVE AND TIED,WHILE HE TOOK MARTHA AND ROBBED A STORE. FINALLY,APPREHENDED, HE GOT MULTIPLE LIFE SENTENCES.
MINISTER’S WIFE;MOUSEY MARY WINKLER ADMITTED TO SHOOTING HER ,CONGREGATION ADORED MINISTER HUSBAND MATTHEW. SHE TOLD A STORY
NO ONE WANTED TO BELIVE. HER MOVTIVE ;SHE STATED THAT HE WAS FORCING HER
TO JOIN HIM IN HIS PERVERTED SEXUAL DESIRES WHICH HE INSISTED SHE PARTAKE.
SHE STATED SHE COULDN’T TAKE THE ABUSE,AFTER THE HEINOUS ACT, SHE PUT
HER THREE DAUGHTERS IN THE FAMILY CAR AND LEFT TOWN. EVENUALLY,CAUGHT
AND AFTER HER TRIAL, SHE RECIEVED 310DAYS, WITH 3YEAR PROBATION.
I CHECKED THIS BOO K OUT, JUNE 2nd, 2010.
Maria Malo
June 7th, 2010 at 14:37
Book: Daughters of Witching Hill
Author: Mary Sharratt
If you like history and period books you’ll enjoy this beautiful and haunting true-life account of the Lancaster Witch Trials in late 1500′s England. The mystery lies in wondering if these women are true witches or simply good catholic believers as all thier “spells” are based in the “old-religion” of prayer and healing. I really cared for the characters I was reading about and it was hard to put down once I started. The book really makes you think about and appreciate how advanced in medicine and belief our society is now, compared to then. Highly reccomend if you like this topic.
Checked out May 21, Turned in June 4th
THERESA RUBALCABA
June 9th, 2010 at 17:56
WHAT WAS ANTICIPATED TO BE A PEACEFUL,SOLITUDE PERIOD, ON A FAMILY OWNED ISLAND, USED BY A SELECTIVE FEW. WHO HAD PERSONAL PAST HISTORY ATTACHMENTS, A DOUBLE MURDER OCCURRED, ONE A FAMOUS AUTHOR AND THE OTHER A PRIEST. AN ISLAND THAT CONTAINED FAMILY SECRETS AND NOW ADDED BY 10
DAY QUARANTINE RESULTING FROM A VERY CONTAGIOUS DISEASE -SARS-
SEVERE ACUTE RESPIRATORY SYNDROME, SAY NOTHING OF A CASE OF PARENTAL
RESPONSIBILITY REJECTION. THIS TOTAL SITUATION CONSIDERED TO BE SO
UNIIQUE AND OF HIGH PROFILE THAT, SCOTLAND YARD WAS SELECTED TO INVESTIGATE.
RUBALCABA, THERESA
June 11th, 2010 at 18:01
RIVERMAN, ROBERT D. KEPPEL LOANED; JUNE 9, 2010
TED BUNDY AND GARY RIDGWAY SHARED A COMMON DENOMINATOR. BORN BIOLOGICALLY HUMAN WITHOUT A CONSCIOUS/PSCYOPATHS BOTH.KILLERS OF FELLOW HUMAN BEINGS TO FILL THAT EMPTY HOLE WHERE THE HUMAN BRAIN CONTAINS THE ABILITY TO EXPERIENCE EMOTIONS. SOMETHING THEY WOULD ABSOLUTELY NEVER KNOW. EACH ACQUAINTED WITH A RAVENOUS HUNGER THAT ONLY MURDERS OF HUMANS SEEK TO FULFILL YET, ONLY KNOW THE EMPTINESS WITHOUT A BOTTOM. REVISITING THEIR DEAD PREY IN THE DARKNESS FULL OF SECRETS, THEY COULD RELIVE THE SICK MOMENTS BUT, MOMENTS SHORT LIVED. TED EVENTUALLY INPREGNATED HIMSELF INTO THE INVESTIGATION AFTER ALMOST 30YEARS OF GARY’S DEVILISH ACTS. TED’S HIDDEN AGENDA WAS TO RELIVE HIS OWN HORRORS HE WAS THE AUTHOR OF. TED WAS EXECUTED IN FLORIDA AND GARY IS IN PRISON FOREVER AFTER CONFESSING AND ADMITTING GUILTY TO 49 MURDERS. HE’LL BE THERE UNTIL THE DEVIL CALLS HIM TO THE DEEP INFERNO. BOTH WERE BROTHERS IN ‘EVILNESS.’
Arthur Santangelo
June 12th, 2010 at 20:31
Book, Blood Ties by Kay Hooper
This is part of the Bishop triologies, third one
Special crimes unit of FBI is now the target by an enemy ready to destroy them, versus them protecting someone else. Fast paced, fast moving , once you start you won’t be able to put down.
Anonymous
June 15th, 2010 at 13:56
Barbara Reinhart
“The Serpent Pool” by Martin Edwards.
This is one of the series called ” The Lake District Mysteries” set in the Lake District of England where the poet , Wordsworth , lived and wrote. It has another literary connection with Thomas De Quincy, whose morbid love of murder is the motive for the murder of at least three people connected with book collecting and book selling. The female police officer, Hannah Scarlett has a romantic connection to two “book” people, and solves the mystery with a last minute rescue of one of them. The book is interesting and worth reading.
Book was checked out on June 8, 2010
Anonymous
June 15th, 2010 at 14:06
Barbara Reinhart
” The Body in the Sleigh” by Katherine Hall Page
This book is one of a series about Faith Fairchild, caterer, wife of Reverend Thomas Fairchild. The story involves a baby left in barn on Christmas eve. The lucky baby has been given by his mother to a kind woman, somewhat reclusive, who raises goats. The body in the sleigh is that of a teen age drug addict. It is interesting to find out the relationship between the baby, the teenager, the money left with the baby, and the identity and motives of the mother. A good sequel in the series..
Chedked out on June 8, 2010
arthur santangelo
June 15th, 2010 at 17:29
Split Image by Robert B. Parker
This is one of the Jessie Stone Novels where he is small town sherriff and has to solve a murder. This one involves a murder of one twin who lived next door to other twin. Complicated case. Jessie becomes involved with private investigator in town also working on same murder case, Sunny Randell. He begins social relationship also and this complicates the case and his life. Very good, looks like Sunny will be around for more novels.
marisa santangelo
June 15th, 2010 at 17:33
Strangers in Death by J.D. Robb
Always suspensefull and fun. Futuristic story of 2060 of police woman who solves murders.
complicated by millionaire husband who always helps on the cases. Always involves a fun team. This case is a prominent business mand who is found dead in Park avenue aparment, who just happens to be owned by her husband.
J.D. Robb has a series of these mysteries, don’t need to read in order but does help.
J.D. Robb is pseudo name for Nora Roberts who has written tons of romances and suspense novels.
marianne ebner
June 15th, 2010 at 17:35
Fatally Flaky Diane Mott Davidson
Really enjoy her stories and have read all of her works. She mixes mystery with cooking and I can’t wait to find out how she finds the time to be a sleuth. I have tried some of her recipes and enjoyed what I made. Can’t wait until her next book.
6/3/10
marisa santangelo
June 15th, 2010 at 17:36
Smoke, mirrors & murders by Ann Rule
Ann Rule has written many murder and suspense books, both fiction and non-fiction
This is a non-fiction true crime, where 7 murders are told. Very interesting ones, some you have heard of in the news and some I never knew about.
Ann Rule is facinating writer, she gets very indepth so you feel like you know the real people. She tells the past of the people and what lead up to the murders. Also tells what happened to the people after the incident. Make me want to read her other true crime books.
AnnMarie Craig
June 16th, 2010 at 12:39
The Road to Ruin
By Donald E. Westlake.
Checked out June 4th.
Dortmunder and his crew are always looking for a good heist. A friend of theirs(Chester) just got fired from Monroe Hall. Chester lost his job, his home, insurance, etc. He wants revenge. He hires Dormonder and his crew. They get new identities to go and work for Monroe Hall. While on the job, Hall gets kidnapped, escapes, ends up in the hospital with amnesia, the wife sells everything. Even the cars that they were going to heist. A must read.
Gerry Slaski
June 17th, 2010 at 17:49
“Foggy Mountain Breakdown”, by: Sharyn McCrumb, checked out on 6/3/2010
This is a collection (24) of almost all of the short stories the author has written. Some are character studies, some are sad stories set in the Appalachin mountains, and some are odd reports of fantasy ans humor. Almost all of the endings to her stories had an unexpected twist and conclusion.
mary olsen
June 18th, 2010 at 14:57
the tree of hands
ruth rendell
the hdlf mad mother of a famous author Benet’ kidnaps a toddler after benet’s son dies. she
slowly comes to love the child jason and feels that jasons mother carol doesnt miss him.but
carols lover barry is put thru the wringer by the police who suspect him of killing him.
the walkers of dembley
m c beaton
6 03 10
as a former pr person in london agatha raison is well able to try to catch a murderer . with her neighbor james lacey she sets out to find the person who killed jessica. the same person killed jeffrey and tried to kill sir charles but justice prevailed and deborah was found guilty in the end.
the last nocturne
marjore eccles
6 03 10
two seeming suicides turn out to be murder and the trail seems to encompass isobel ardeley.detective lamb puts the pieces together which is not easy as the murders take place in london and involve vienna the novel highlightes the impressionism.
Janet Jackson
June 22nd, 2010 at 21:03
“When Autumn Leaves” by Amy S. Foster
“In the picturesque Pacific coast town of Avening, it’s hard not to believe in magic. This is the town where the shoes in the window always fit, where you can buy a love potion at the corner shop, and where local lore seamlessly mixes with the supernatural…..” I would recommend this book and am looking forward to the author’s next book. I checked this book out on June 2nd.
Janet Jackson
June 22nd, 2010 at 21:10
“The Secret of Holly Green Manor” by Karen Cogan
“Lydia Summers lives beneath the shadow of a dangerous secret. For years, her family has been cursed by the untimely deaths of heirs to their estate, Holly Green Manor. When the new heir turns out to be her handsome young cousin, Lydia hopes above all else that the curse has died with her ancestors….” This was an alright book….was a quick read.
I checked this book out on June 2nd.
Linda Altobelli
June 23rd, 2010 at 05:18
What was she thinking? Notes on a Scandal Author Zoe Heller Date checked out 6/9/2010
The story is about a teacher, who has an affair with 15 year boy in her school. She becomes friends with a older teacher, Barbara, who is telling the story & with her being older, she tries to convince Sheba to break it off with the boy. The book was very good, the ending was slightly different than the movie. In the movie, Sheba does go to jail, but in the book, her & Barbara are staying together in the house of Sheba’s brother until they can move into Sheba’s Mother’s house for a short time. You do get the feeling that Barbara is obsessed with Sheba but the movie protrays it much more than the book.
Marisa Santangelo
June 23rd, 2010 at 20:26
Author is Harlan Coben, title is Caught. New author for me.
story is about a 17 yr old girl who goes missing. A reporter if the lead person looking for this girl via her sexual predators sting operation working with police. Suspenseful, gripping story and tense book. Gritty topic which is not a topic I usually read about in a book. Different type for me. Very good but not sure if my kind of author
Gerry Slaski
June 23rd, 2010 at 20:50
Carrot Cake Murder
Joanna Fluke
6-8-2010
One of Joanne Fluke’s Hannah Swanson Mysteries. Hannah owns the Cookie Jar Bakery in Lake Eden, MN but somehow always gets involved in solving a local murder that usually has some slices or bits of her bakery creations on the scene of the crime (this time a carrot cake). There is a generous amount of humor and suspense in this recipe for an easy and good read.
Janet Jackson
June 26th, 2010 at 21:33
“The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie” by Alan Bradley
“It is the summer of 1950, and a series of inexplicable events has struck Buckshaw, the decaying English mansion that Flavia’s family calls home. A dead bird is found on the doorstop, a postage stamp bizarrely pinned to its beak. Hours later, Flavia finds a man lying in the cucumber patch and watches him as he takes his dying breath. For Favia, who is both appalled and delighted, life begins in earnest when murder comes to Buckshaw….’ Was really an entertaining book – am looking forward to reading more by the author.
I checked the book out on June 2nd.
Ann Marie Craig
June 28th, 2010 at 12:24
The Axe
By Donald E. Westlake
Taken out around June 16th.
This is one of my favorite, easy to read authors. Instead of a Dortmunder series, I chose one of his novels. This one left me with nightmares. His main character was unemployed – laid off. It has been two years and he finally decides to take charge. He becomes a serial killer with a very suspenseful ending. I do love this author.
Anonymous
June 28th, 2010 at 13:02
Annalisa Musacchio
Book: Fatally Flaky by Diane Most Davidson
Date Checked out 6-15-2010
This is a delightful light hearted mystery. It centers around Goldie Schultz the town’s wedding planner, who inadvertly gets caught about in solving the murder of the towns retired doctor, who happens to be the best friend of her godfather Jack. The murderer ends up being the groom of a wedding she is catering. His name is Craig Miller, who happens to be a doctor. The bride Billie is demanding and ends up changing the venue of the wedding to the Gold Gulch Spa. Interesting enough the bride’s fiance and his friend Victor have been putting cocaine in the smoothies to get the clients addicted and keep them coming back. The retired Doc Finn knew something was not right, so he started investigating it. That is when is SUV went over a cliff. In the end it also comes out the Craig Miller is not really a doctor.
I liked the book very much. Mystery is a genre that I have not read very much. I decided that since the summer reading program this summer is focused on this, I would start with a light hearted book. I would recommend it, because it is easy to read and entertaining. I would read more books written by this author.
Lori Jans
June 28th, 2010 at 15:47
Book: “Sacred Sins” by Nora Roberts / Date Checked Out 6/26/10 A serial killer is out there and he is targeting young women who need to have “their sins forgiven” and killing them by strangling them with a priest’s amice. Is this a priest who has taken his role of confessor too far or a madman in disguise? The police call in a psychiatrist to assist in this case. Good book; it has mystery, murder, romance and interesting characters. Love this author.
Arthur Santangelo
June 28th, 2010 at 19:25
Book is Off Track-a superintendent Mike yeadings Mystery by Clare Curzon
This author has written dozens of books, great mystery writer.
This series is police captain in England. This book is a great murder mystery, but also is an indepth look at police procedure along with characters that make you want to get to know them and keep reading. Also invovles lots of details.
Cynthia Maroon
June 29th, 2010 at 14:24
The Green Bottle by Stuart M. Kaminsky. Checked out June 22, 2010. This is one of two Rockford Files mysteries by Kaminsky who died last October. Kaminsky was one of my favorite authors, and I’ve read almost everything he wrote. He grew up in Chicago, and he taught film studies at Northwestern University for many years prior to moving to Florida.
The Green Bottle features Jim Rockford from the TV series. It is fun, lively, entertaining and full of quirky characters. I highly recommend it and all the rest of Kaminsky’s mysteries!
Marge Josten
June 29th, 2010 at 23:23
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
by Mark Haddon
checked out: June 23, 2010
This is the story of an autistic 15-year old boy who discovers a neighbor’s dead dog while he is taking a walk in the middle of the night, and decides to investigate to discover who the “murderer” is. During his investigation, he uncovers many facts that bother him a lot!
I found this book to be rather disturbing and depressing. I would probably not recommend it, and would probably not read any other books by this author.
Barbara Reinhart
June 30th, 2010 at 00:46
“St. Peter’s Finger” by Gladys Mitchell
Checked out June 25, 20
This book was written in 1938, and it’s amazing how well it still fits the “whodunit” format of mysteries. The sleuth is an elderly wealthy lady who has practiced psychotherapy professionally since her second husband died.
Although she is a congregant of The Church of England Mrs. Bradley is asked by her son to visit a Catholic convent which is also an orphanage and a private girls’ school. A school girl has died in mysterious circumstances. The coroner has pronounced the death a suicide, which has much disturbed the nuns. Mrs. Bradley hopes to prove the death an accident, but soon realizes that it must be murder.
There are several possible motives, especially since the dead girl is an heiress, and numerous possible killers. There is a lot of humor, some suspense, and a very well constructed solution.
The book is an “oldy” but “goody”, and very enjoyable..
Linda Altobelli
June 30th, 2010 at 01:32
The Bad Kitty Lounge
By Michael Wiley
checked out June 12, 2010
The story was set in Chicago which made great reading…I love reading about the streets in Chicago. A private investigator, Joe Kozmarski solves the murder of two people, but it is not until the very end of the story that you find out who the killer is. But there are parts in the book that will have you on the edge of your seat wondering how all this will pan out. A real nail biter in this book.
Anonymous
June 30th, 2010 at 02:50
SHUTTER ISLAND
By Dennis Lehane
Checked out 6-12-10
I would rather read a scary book than see a frightening movie; therefore I was reluctant to view the box office hit SHUTTER ISLAND. Reading the story puts me in control; I can close the book whenever I want to and remain in control. This mystery places U.S. Marshal Daniels on Shutter Island, home to Ashecliffe Hospital for the criminally insane. Nothing is as it appears; it is a true mystery with a surprise ending. Lehane’s two other novels have become award winning movies, MYSTIC RIVER and GONE BABY GONE. I most definitely would recommend his work for keeping the reader’s interest and the heart rate up.
Reviewed by June Goers
Anonymous
June 30th, 2010 at 19:09
TRUE BLUE
By David Baldacci
Checked out 6-12-10
This author has written more than a dozen mystery thrillers. Many are set in Washington D.C. and involve policemen, lawyers, and politicians. TRUE BLUE is no exception to this winning combination of characters. Mason Perry, a female police officer, has been set up and served time for a crime she did not commit. Baldacci weaves several story lines together in this novel, including a love interest, a larger political scandal, murder, and intrigue. Honestly, the beginning and middle of this book held my interest more than the ending. Unlikely is the best summation for this book.
Reviewed by June Goers
Lori Jans
July 1st, 2010 at 14:42
Book: “Masquerade” by William X Kienzle/ Date checked out: 6/26/2010 A nun, an Episcopal priest, a monk and a rabbi, who are also published writers, are all invited to teach at a Mystery writers’ conference at the local college. The keynote speaker is someone they all loathe – a charlatan evangelist who also is pursuing each of them to be a part of his sleazy Publishing House! When murder strikes, Father Koesler (the local Catholic priest/ amateur detective) helps the Detroit Police Dept help solve the murder before the culprit strikes again. Really enjoyed the book. Will read this author again!
Gerry Slaski
July 1st, 2010 at 18:04
“Brimstone”
By: Robert Parker (Audio Books)
Checked out on: 6/17/2010
I believe that this is one of Parker’s last books written before he passed away last year. I have read about 25 or 30 of his stories, especially ones with his “Spenser” characters. However, this one has Virgil Cole and Everett Hicks who secure positions as deputies in the town of Brimstone and struggle to keep the peace in the old West. This book reminds me of a Gary Cooper and John Wayne movie – easy on the dialogue and heavy on the action. I always enjoy Robert Parker’s entertaining style.
Tracy Iammartino
July 2nd, 2010 at 22:31
The Devil and Sherlock Holmes: Tales of Murder, Madness, and Obsession by David Grann
This series of short stories describe various real life mysteries, strange and deadly events and adventures. From real life murder mysteries to building the largest tunnel under NYC, this book held my attention. I did not want to put it down! Be warned, some of the real life stories can be very unsettling. Knowing that the largest gang can run within the prison system without much resistance to con-men that can make entire families believe that a loved one has returned was unnerving! Very good read.
Tracy Iammartino
July 2nd, 2010 at 22:32
I forgot…I checked the book out the week of June 14th.
Cynthia Maroon
July 3rd, 2010 at 13:14
Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder
by Joanne Fluke
Checked out June 24, 2010
This is the first of Joanne Fluke’s “Hannah Swensen Mysteries,” a series of culinary mysteries featuring Hannah, owner of The Cookie Jar, Lake Eden, Minnesota’s most popular bakery.
Hannah is fighting off her mother’s attempts to marry her off when she discovers the body of Ron, the local dairy delivery man. As she attempts to help her brother-in-law solve the crime, she discovers a second body. Eventually she almost ends up being the third person murdered! This is just a fun book, one of the type I often call “cotton candy for the mind.”
Laura Moreci
July 3rd, 2010 at 15:04
Book: The Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder by Joanna Fluke
Loaned out on June 4, 2010
This book unwinds the mystery of a murder of a friend of the owner of a bakery . She uses her community resources and social status to investigate and interrogate suspects in the murder to help her brother-in-law who is in line for a promotion in the police force. She reveals real recipes of delicious cookies that she talks about in the book. This book kept me interested from the beginning. The author’s description of the characters made you feel like you really knew them.
Laura Moreci
July 3rd, 2010 at 15:20
Book: Where Memories Lie By Deborah Crombie
I felt that this book was a little difficult at first to keep my attention, but I soon felt differently as it delved into the lives of the characters and the details several murders since the finding of a long-lost brooch. As the story continues you are thrown back in the past of an elderly woman who survived the Nazi invasion of her country which forced her to leave, and the murder of her husband. You don’t really get the connection of how this woman’s lost brooch ties into the suspects of the present day murders until the last few chapters. The author makes you aware of the injustices of the war and how it affected the owner of the brooch. It was well worth reading.
Annalisa Musaccchio
July 3rd, 2010 at 19:43
Book: Chopping Spree
Author: Diane Mott Davidson
Date Checked Out: June 28, 2010
This is another culinary mystery. Aspen Meadow caterer Goldy Shultz is hired to cater an Elite Shoppers event at the Westside Mall. The mall manager is Goldy’s college friend Barry Dean. On the day of the event while Goldy and her team are unloading with the help of Barry, Goldy and Barry are almost run over by a van driving very fast. During the event a couple of things happen. First one of the mall’s tenants and his wife have a very public argument, and secondly one of Goldy’s employees. Liz son is excorted out of the mall in front of everyone. because he is band from the mall for shopping lifing. When Goldy goes to pick up her check from Barry she finds him stabbed to death with one of her knives. First Goldy is a suspect, then her assistant Julian is arrested for the murder. Goldy herself knows that Julian didn’t do it, so she does her own investigation. It turns out that Barry had caught Victor Wilson who is the excavator on the mall expansion project, of over excavating. By over excavating the foundation of the new parking lot would always flood and new dirt would have to be purchased to build it up, so it wouldn’t flood again. Victor’s company sells the dirt. He could make at least a million dollars selling the dirt. Goldy is tipped off by a couple of Victor’s workers. It turns out that Victor is the murderer.
I would recommend this book. I like it because combines my love of cooking and baking with a mystery twist. It keeps you reading because you want to find out what happens next.
June Goers
July 5th, 2010 at 19:32
KILLING EDGE by Heather Graham.
Checked out the week of 6-14-10.
A teenage girl was a surviver of a Manson – like massacre. Years later, events happen that bring back the horror of that event. Were the murders really solved? What role does the cult-like church play? Quite honestly, I did not enjoy this PLAYAWAY book experience. The story does not really ring true enough and the romance angle was very far fetched. I am not interested in reading (or listening to) any more of Graham’s work.
June Goers
July 5th, 2010 at 19:57
Taken out week of 6-14-10
I was interested in this Coben mystery because I really enjoyed TELL NO ONE by this same author. CAUGHT relates the story of a journalist, very eager to break a story, who pursues a pedophile. Sometimes we all act with only half-truths as our ammunition. Coben, in his twisted plot, lets the reader see that this practice can be very dangerous … especially for truth seekers. I would read more of Coben but I hope that his success does not ruin his intelligent plots.
Cynthia Maroon
July 6th, 2010 at 12:22
Sizzling Sixteen
by Janet Evanovich
Checked out 7-3-2010
Oh, the pure joy of checking out a new Stephanie Plum mystery! Sizzling Sixteen doesn’t disappoint in any way. Bounty hunter Stephanie is trying to rescue her boss, Vinnie, who has been taken hostage by mobster, Bobby Sunflower, because Vinnie owes him $786,000 in gambling debts. Stephanie, along with the office file clerk and former “ho”Lula and the office manager Connie are left to try to raise the money to free Vinnie. Along the way they are helped by Stephanie’s on and off again boyfriend, Joe Morelli, Trenton’s hottest cop and the other man in her life, the mysteriously dark and dangerous, Ranger. If you want to read a book you can’t put down, this is it! But if you haven’t read any of Janet Evanovich’s books, I suggest you start with the first Stephanie Plum mystery in the series, One For The Money, and go from there. You are in for some great reading and lots of laughs!
M Belcastro
July 7th, 2010 at 14:01
Lieberman’s Law: An Abe Lieberman Mystery
Author Stuart Kaminsky
Checked out 6-26-2010
Although the author writes as a deep cop drama style, the misteries are fun to follow through the Chicago north side streets and buildings. I liked the detail of following drama in the city and neighborhoods which I am familiar with; this style makes it seem very real. Heavy cultural details involving Israeli politics are very real also. Easy to read, yet this book provides vivid memories.
Lori Jans
July 8th, 2010 at 15:35
Book: “The Grass Widow” by Ralph McInerny/ Date checked out: 6-22-2010 The author engages his famous priest turned sleuth character Father Roger Dowling in this mystery set in Fox River, IL in the area of St Hilary’s Parish. Murder abounds after Father Dowling is visited by Clare O’Leary, who suspects her husband is having an affair and wants her dead. Will Father Dowling and the Police Dept be able to unravel this tangled mess before anyone else falls prey. Very good book. I liked this author and would read his books again.
Linda Altobelli
July 10th, 2010 at 05:55
Murder in the Abstract Author Susan C Shea Date checked out: 06/30/2010
From the beginning of the story, a new & upcoming artist is murdered. He had fallen from a window, five floors up & you dont know if he was pushed or if he jumped. It is the window of the main female in the story. She is the museum’s chief fund-raiser & because it is her window…she is likely to be the main suspect. It is a interesting story of how the art world is run. There is even a romantic side to the story which I like also. Great reading, I will now look for more stories by this author.
Mary Moss
July 10th, 2010 at 18:55
The third rail by Michael Harvey
Checked out June 10, 2010
The rave reviews were the reason I picked up this book. Normally, I’m not a big fan of the hard boil detective novel, but I COULD NOT PUT THIS BOOK DOWN and I read it in record time (for me anyway)!
The combination of the plot (the derailing of an el train which I remember happening) and the local setting (well known Chicago streets and places) made for an exceptional read.
This is Michael Harvey’s 3rd book featuring the city of Chicago but you did not have to read the first two to understand what was going on.
Highly recommended and I’m going back to pick up the first book!
Mary Moss
July 10th, 2010 at 19:29
The Chicago way by Michael Harvey
checked out on June 28, 2010
So after really loving “The third rail” (Michael Harvey’s third book), I immediately checked out his first book: “The Chicago way” and was a bit disappointed. Even though it was entertaining, it fell a little flat. The plot centers around an old unsolved rape case and a current murder with shades of John Wayne Gacy thrown in. I think I’ll wait a bit before I tackle his second book, The fifth floor.
Recommended if you are a big fan of the noir genre.
Rich Josten
July 11th, 2010 at 16:23
THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME
Author: Mark Haddon
Mr. Haddon has portrayed a gifted autistic your boy, who is highly undisciplined, is helped by adults to run away from home, and appears to be hightly logical in his attempts to change his present living conditions. The likelihood that this could come about is very remote, and more likely would lead this boy into very dangerous types of conditions. The story is not comical nor does it present any kind of mystery other than the fact that the boy’s parents are ill equipped to handle this child.
I would not recommend this book, nor do I have any desire to read any additional work by Mark Haddon.
Annalisa Musaccchio
July 12th, 2010 at 11:59
Book: Sweet Revenge
Author: Diane Mott Davidson
Date Checked Out: June 29, 2010
This is the third book I read by the above author. I am not much of a mystery reader, so I thought I would pair my summer reading with my love of cooking and baking. I enjoyed the three books that I have read. This mystery holds your interest and keeps you guessing. I would definitely recomend it.
This book centers around Christmas time. Aspen Meadow caterer Goldy Shulz is hired by the Aspen Meadow Library to cater a holiday breakfast for the staff and volunteers. On her way to set up at the library the night before the event, she thinks she sees the woman her killed her ex-husband. This woman is suppose to dead too. While setting up there is a lot of commotion going on and ex district attorney Drew Wellington is found dead in the library. Drew had begun a new career in Map collecting and selling. There were a lot of twist and turns that you lead you to believe that he wa murdered because he had stolen some very valuable maps and was selling them. Another map dealer was also found dead. In the end it was revealed that Drew’s fiance Patricia Ingersoll killed him out of revenge because he broken up with her when he found out she no longer had any money, because she lost an inheritence case to her previous husband’s who had died, daugher. As far as the dead woman who Goldy thought she saw, she, Sandy Brisbane was still alive, and she had come back to Aspen Meadow to threaten Drew, and protect her underage niece from Drew. In the end Sandy disappeared again this time to Brazil.
Julene Kmiecik
July 12th, 2010 at 20:57
Book: The Shadow of Your Smile
Author: Mary Higgins Clark
June 24, 2010
Once again the queen of suspense doesn’t disappoint. Murder and intrigue involve a doctor who is an heir to a fortune unbeknownst to her. Anyone who knows about her identity dies suddenly and she tries to figure out what an old dying woman literally died trying to tell her.
Tracy Iammartino
July 13th, 2010 at 20:45
206 Bones by Kathy Reichs.
I love the novels of Kathy Reichs’ heroine, Temperance Brennan. This book puts Temp in serious danger with her reputation as a forensic anthropologist on the line. Her love life with Andrew Ryan always adds to the plot. This novel highlights the effects of sketchy science which, unfortunately, happens more than we think. Excellent book!
Julia Zomeno
July 13th, 2010 at 21:09
Book: Banker’s Alibi
Author: Ilsa Mayr
July 1, 2010
This is the first time I read a book by Ilsa Mayr. Her style is fresh but for me was a little obvious the murder was Edward, the supervisor of the bank, Mayr writes a lot about his limp from the polio. After discarding Heater’s married boyfriend and Agnes’ boyfrien the only logical murder that can know what had happend was Edward.
The story is interesting but I didn’t like the end, it was as the author gave out of ideas.
Laura Moreci
July 14th, 2010 at 19:11
Hit and Run by Lawrence Block
Checked out on June 30, 2010
This book follows a hitman who was framed for a murder he did not commit which was supposed to be his last one before he retired. It shows him on the run and involves you in his life making you almost believe he is a good guy. He falls in love, talks about past regrets, and humanizes him so you want to like him. You want to root for him, which is a little unsettling. The story is very good in that there are some twists that are unforeseen. There is some humor as well. I would recommend it, but if you are like me, you may wonder what the author wants you to believe about the hitman in terms of his right to life views.
Marianne Ebner
July 14th, 2010 at 21:06
Hot Ice by Nora Roberts
Douglas Lord, fleeing from henchmen because he stole some document for a hidden fortune, runs into Whitney.
She provides him with financial backing and they go in search of a Hidden Fortune in Madagascar, with the rivals right on their tail.
Fast reading and keeps one wondering what will happen next.
6-24-10
Marianne Ebner
July 14th, 2010 at 21:09
Plum Spooky by Janet Evanovich
Stephanie Plum again looks for Bail jumpers along with Lulu and runs into all strange things along the way. Including monkeys.
diesel, Moreli and ranger all help her along the way.
Funny and enjoyable reading.
7-3-10
Mark Jackson
July 17th, 2010 at 01:55
“A Time to be Born” by John Vornholt. (Checked out on July 13th) . “On the cusp of their epic battle with Shinzon, many of Captain Jean-Luc Picard’s long-time crew were heading for new assignments and new challenges. Among the changes were William Riker’s promotion to captain and his new command, Riker’s marriage to Counselor Deanna Troi, and Dr. Beverly Crusher’s new career at Starfleet Medical. But the story of what set them on a path away from the Starship Enterprise has never been told. Until now…..” I would recommend this book to any Star Trek fan and am looking forward to reading the next in the series.
M Belcastro
July 19th, 2010 at 11:53
Book: The Devil in the White City
Author: Erik Larson
Check out: 6-30-2010
Written in the style of a historian, this mystery unravels during the end of the Century (1893) as the Chicago World Fair is built. The development of the lives of two men – Chicago’s very own admazing Daniel Burnham, and Hell’s very own H. H. Holmes/Mudgett – are truly lifelike. It is a wonderful read; paragraphs develop character and ambiance like no other writer can do. The stories are definitely intriguing and gruesome.
Julene Kmiecik
July 19th, 2010 at 15:56
Title: Heat Wave
Author: Richard Castle
Check Out Date: 7-17-10
If you are a fan of the Television Show CASTLE you will love this book. It is written by an unnamed author in the persona of Richard Castle the shows main character. There are a few subtle differences but it rings pretty true to the show. There of course is a murder and the main character NIkkI Heat and Jamison Rook (Rick Castle on the show) get to solve it while avoiding acting on their true feeling for each other. A quick read and I would recommend it to anyone who is a fan of the show.
Julene Kmiecik
July 19th, 2010 at 16:06
Title: Beverly Hills Dead
Author: Stuart Woods
Check out date: July 8, 2010
Unlike other Stuart Woods books I have read, Beverly Hills Dead doesn’t get to the mystery until the last few chapters. It is a good read and has a lot of history of the old Hollywood when some actors were blacklisted as being a Communist. It was so interesting I didn’t even notice that the murder hadn’t occurred yet. There is always an element of suspense as the underlying story about the Blacklist is so captivating. I would recommend this book.
Mark Jackson
July 21st, 2010 at 00:48
“A Time to Heal” by David Mack
(Checked out on July 17th)
“A catacylysmic war between the Federation and the Klingon Empire has been miraculously averted, and a new government is is finally in place on the planet Tezwa. But deadly secrets still threaten the the fragile peace…” I am really enjoying this series……looking forward to reading the next one.
Mary Moss
July 22nd, 2010 at 15:02
Rosary bride by Luisa Buehler
Checked out July 17, 2010
This story takes place at Regina College, a thinly disguised Rosary College (now Dominican University) and neighboring suburbs. Places I am very familiar with, so it was intriguing thinking about the possibilities of dead bodies hidden about! This murder story also has a ghost story to go along with it. For me, the setting was the star of the story, the mystery was so-so.
Mark Jackson
July 24th, 2010 at 01:14
“A Time for War, A Time for Peace” by Keith R. A. DeCandido
(Checked out on July 17th)
Following the scandalous Tezwa affair, the Federation president’s resignation forces an election, with the future of the United Federation of Planets to be determined by who emerges victorious from a hotly contested vote. But it is the fate of the entire galaxy that may actually be decided on Qo’noS, as the Federation embassy is seized by terrorists whose actions expose intrigue reaching the highest levels of Klingon government-and it will take all of Ambassador Worf’s skills to keep the fragile Federation-Klingon alliance from collapsing. …” Definitely another book I really enjoyed and would recommend.
Elizabeth Jackson
July 24th, 2010 at 02:35
“My Sister’s Keeper”
by Jodi Piccoult
(Checked out on July 22nd)
“My Sister’s Keeper examines what it means to be a good parent, a good sister, a good person. Is it morally correct to do whatever it takes to save a child’s life, even if it means infringing upon the rights of another?….” This was a really good book – a fast read on a raining summer night. I am really looking forward to reading more of her books this summer.
Maria Malo
July 24th, 2010 at 19:35
Murder in Montmartre by Cara Black
A good book, I liked the setting of Montmartre and artistic references and the visual descriptions in the book were beautiful to read. The book basically is about a young woman detective trying to clear her friend, a police woman, who is in the hospital and can not clear her own name from shooting her police partner. All in all there are spies, espionage, computer networks and bad cops to deal with all while trying to find out who the real murder is.
Elizabeth Jackson
July 25th, 2010 at 22:12
“Second Glance”
by Jodi Piccoult
(Checked out on July 22nd)
“An intricate tale of love, haunting memories, and renewal, “Second Glance” begins in current-day Vermont, where an old man puts a piece of land up for sale and unintentionally raises protest from the local Abenaki Indian tribe, who insists it’s a burial ground. When odd, supernatural events plague the town of Comtosook, a ghost hunter is hired by the developer to help convince the residents that there’s nothing spiritual about the property.” Another good book by Jodi Piccoult, and I would recommend it as a good read. She is getting to be my favorite author.
Rich Josten
July 26th, 2010 at 12:55
CUT TO THE BONE
by: Shane Gericke
The reader has to pay attention to the time periods in the story. Also there are a multitude of people to keep track of. However the author brings the story to a good ending.
I would recommend this book, and I am currently reading another of this author’s books.
Rich Josten
July 26th, 2010 at 12:58
Forgot to mention that CUT TO THE BONE was checked out on July 6, 2010.
Marge Josten
July 26th, 2010 at 13:23
THE DOUBLE COMFORT SAFARI CLUB
by Alexander McCall Smith
checked out: July 23, 2010
This is the latest in the NO. 1 LADIES’ DETECTIVE AGENCY series. Our detective, Precious Ramotse and her assistant Mma Makutsi, must find the person who was a guide to a wealthy guest at a safari camp in order to bestow an inheritance. Is this a case of mistaken identity? Using his gentle humor and common sense, McCall Smith has everything working out for the best.
I would recommend this book! I have read all 11 in this series as well as the six in the ISABEL DALHOUSIE series, the three in the PORTUGUESE IRREGULAR VERBS series (which was the only series that I “didn’t get”; although a cousin thought they were hilarious) and, the five in the 44 SCOTLAND STREET series. I am currently reading the first in a new series by McCall Smith: CORDUROY MANSIONS.
Rich Josten
July 28th, 2010 at 22:28
BLOWN AWAY
by Shane Gericke
checked out July 6, 2010
This is Shane Guericke’s first book which I found more exciting than the sequel, which was CUT TO THE BONE. The story moved along at a good pace. The story held interest through all the chapers. However, his second book had a better ending.
Yes, I recommend this book.
Yes, I would read another book by Shane Gericke
Marge Josten
July 28th, 2010 at 23:12
THE TRAITOR’S TALE
by Margaret Frazer
checked out July 23
In this 14th in the Dame Frevisse medieval mystery series, we find our protagonist helping her cousin the widowed duchess of Suffolk whose hated husband wasmurdered. We have followed Frevisse from the first in the series THE NOVICE’S TALE.; we also learn that she is the niece of Geoffrey Chaucer from whom a quote appears in the begining of each book. Frazer has also written four books about Freviesse’s side-kick Joliffe, the actor and spy.
Margaret Frazer also writes under the pseudonym Monica Ferris (16 mysteries about the needle arts) as well as Mary Monica Pulver (six mysteries about “Renaissance Fair” type locations).
I would and have recommended this author’s work.
I have read all but her last two books; and have requested them on Swan and look forward to reading them!
Elizabeth Jackson
July 29th, 2010 at 13:50
“Vanishing Act” by Jodi Picoult
(Checked out on July 27th)
“How do you recover the past when it was never yours to lose? Delia Hopkins has led a charmed life. But as Delia plans her wedding, she is plagued by flashbacks of a life she can’t recall….until a policeman knocks on her door revealing a secret about herself that changes the world as she know it – and threatens to jeopardize her future…” I really enjoyed this book. Jodi has been my summer author and I would recommend her to anyone.
Pauline Bastek
July 29th, 2010 at 23:02
Simeon Lee has a surprise for his family when he summons them for Christmas but the tables are turned on him when he receives his final surprise in this Christie classic written in response to a fan’s disappointment in the lack of blood and gore in her books. The family is not surprised that he has been killed only as they quote Shakespeare, “who would have thought the old man would have had that much blood”. The little grey cells of Hercule are assisted by his prized mustaches in this enjoyable tale of an English Family Christmas.
Pauline Bastek
July 29th, 2010 at 23:27
HERCULE POIROT’S CHRISTMAS by Agatha Christie checked out July 15, 2010
Simeon Lee summons his family for a Christmas reunion and one of them makes it his last summons in this bloody locked room story of family secrets. The little gray cells are assisted by the waxed mustaches of Christie’s Belgian sleuth, leaving the reader puzzled until he announces or rather denounces the murderer, who as often in Christie’s tales, is more sympathetic than the victim. This English Christmas was devoid of cheer for host and guests, but provided a great escape for me in this July heat.
Pauline Bastek
July 29th, 2010 at 23:42
THE YELLOW ROOM by Mary Roberts Rinehart checked out July 15, 2010
Find yourself in the World War II era of gasoline rationing, telephone shortages, the absence of servants in the summer place where the heroine is trying to manage family secrets while the local sheriff is determined to pin the murder of the beautiful blonde stranger found in the linen closet on her heroic soldier brother. Add to that the mysterious stranger with a limp who is recovering from injuries he doesn’t speak of to her. Meanwhile, two other military heroes are missing or are they. Recreates for us a world that seemed at once mysterious, glamorous and so removed from today that it doesn’t seem possible that so much has changed.
Pauline Bastek
July 30th, 2010 at 00:07
WOLF TO THE SLAUGHTER by Ruth Rendell checked out July 15, 2010
Small town life in England as portrayed by Ruth Rendell in this dreary tale of her usually very interesting Inspector Wexford and his assistants can best by left for those times when nothing else is available. The missing victim turns out not to be missing, while the murderer cost the detective his job. The Wolf in the title very willingly was led to the Slaughter, but as this was only her 4th in the Inspector Wexford series, she was obviously forgiven and went on to join the top ranks of the English mystery writers.
Ann Marie Craig
July 30th, 2010 at 03:05
Tribulation Force
The continuing drama of those left behind by Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins
July 9th.
This is an awesome suspense story. I’m looking forward to continuing the series.
A mysterious disappearance of thousands of people. Those left behind are questioning the reason why. A new secretary-general has been appointed and some call him the antichrist, others, the messiah. A pastor speaks about the bible and tells about what and how things are going to play out. Who believes? Who is deceived? Who are the pawns?
Julia Zomeno
July 31st, 2010 at 04:29
City of Bones, Michael Connelly, checked out 06/21/10
This book has everything a mystery book needs: a murder (an old one), a smart detective, an investigation line (with ups and downs) and finally a surprising ending.
Michael Connelly gets the reader’s attention from the first chapter. I love that he writes the book without going back and forth in the story. There is a continuity at the story. Even if you leave the book for some period or time, that was my case, you can continue reading without get lost.
I recommend this author.
M Belcastro
July 31st, 2010 at 13:56
Book: Perish Twice
Author: Robert B. Parker
Check out: 7-19-10
I enjoyed reading parts of this whodunit novel but generally it is not the type of book that keeps me glued to the reading. There is a lot of realistic, short dialogue between the main characters. On the other hand, some of the story is not very realistic. The reader can try to make sense of what people are thinking. Whether the PI is female or male might matter to some readers; that is not too important to me. At least all the confusion is unraveled in the end chapters.
Patty Templeton
July 31st, 2010 at 15:57
Wormfood by Jeff Jacobson
A small town is taken over by worms.Seriously, worms. Wormfood is a gross-out thriller and not a very good one at that. Our narrator is a resourceful sixteen year old kid who is way too naive for most of the book. He is a fun voice to follow, but just like in the worst horror movies, you occasionally find yourself yelling at the character because he is doing something unbelievably stupid. Also, if a small town is being taken over by worms…it’d be good if more than eight or nine folks noticed.
Patty Templeton
July 31st, 2010 at 16:05
Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear
Maisie Dobss is listed as a mystery. It has gotten attention from the Edgars and has developed into a whole series of mysteries…and yet the mystery in book one was weak. Maisie Dobbs as a character was excellent. Her whole childhood was spent under the mentoring wing of Maurice, who has turned her into a psychology-centric detective. Maisie was great, but the mystery in this book was very, very weak. Something hinky is going on at a soldier’s retreat/rest home. What’s the weird taking place? Meh. Plus, Winspear is definitely of the “less is more” mindset for she refuses to have action take place on the page. She always pulls back away from violence, only showing the human toll after a battle rather than the battle itself (ex: not showing a war battle, but showing the soldier’s crippled leg after the fact).
I didn’t like it, but it’s a good gentle mystery out there for someone.
Patty Templeton
July 31st, 2010 at 16:15
Blockade Billy by Stephen King
This is a novella with baseball at its epi-center. There is something wrong with Billy. He is just a little too distant. A little too quiet. He plays catcher and man is he good, he can stop anyone from reaching that home plate, but sometimes folks away from the plate bloody…that makes the crowds love him even more. So what’s wrong with Billy? Read Stephen King’s ode to oldschool baseball, Blockade Billy, and find out.
I dig it and it’ll take you less than an afternoon to finish.
Julia Zomeno
July 31st, 2010 at 21:41
Vengeance Tastes Sweet by Joani Ascher, checked out on July 13, 2010.
A murder of a young local caterer involves actors and their secrets. A tabloid reporter hungry for money and fame helps Wally Morris, a nursery school teacher to resolve Beverly Cohen’s death and find the real assassin. Morris perspicacity and attention to little details help her to find out who was the woman who poisoned Cohen.
This story was definitively the best of the three mystery books I read so far. I will continue reading mystery books even for me it is a little slow reading in English, that is not my first language.