Every now and then, I read something other than romance! Although I usually like to get away from my normal life when I read, I can't resist a book that's set in the world of science - if it's done well.
Intuition by Allegra Goodman
(2006, Contemporary) 8/30/06
Grade: 4
After years of frustration, postdoc Cliff discovers his virus causes remission in mouse tumors. At first, everything seems perfect - but a little too good to be true? When his ex-girlfriend (and fellow postdoc) Robin discovers some questionable documentation, will his discovery turn out to be bogus? And will Robin’s career be destroyed by her insistence on the truth?
An interesting book with some flaws, but does a great job in depicting the culture of an academic research lab. Goodman creates vivid characters (maybe too many of them - she spends too much time on some minor characters) and creates a believable scenario of a questionable result that turns into a media circus when the results are questioned. The first section is rather slow, the middle a little too operatic and the end a little too quick and perfunctory, but overall, it’s great to read a book that treats science and science labs realistically and thoughtfully.
If this book had been set in a police station or a law office, I probably wouldn't have found it as interesting. But even though this was a biology lab, it rang true to this onetime chemistry grad student.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
What Could Have Been
An entire series was planned for the St. Ives family, but Barbara Samuel only wrote two of them before switching to women's fiction. Too bad!
The Black Angel by Barbara Samuel
(1999, Georgian) 8/28/06
Grade: 4
Five years after an affair that devastated her family, Adriana marries Tynan Spenser, “The Black Angel”. It’s a marriage of convenience, and most of all, Adriana doesn’t want to risk falling in love - or lust - again. But Tynan isn’t what she expected, and his kindness and sensuality tempt her to let down her guard. But can she accept the secrets he’s hiding as well?
An interesting story that gets better in the second half. The plotline was interesting from the first - drawing in hypocrisy about women’s roles, racism, Catholicism, and unique secondary characters. I especially liked the way she made the family members part of the story, without making them obvious sequel fodder. But in the first half, I felt distanced - the writing seemed to keep me at arm’s length from the characters and their emotions. But this went away in the second half - either I got used to it or the author became more intimate. The book wrapped up a little too quickly, but it was a compelling read.
I can't blame an author for following her muse, but it's frustrating as a reader, when you can see where an author is going, and then she decides not to go there. So many good authors, going in directions that just don't particularly interest me.
The Black Angel by Barbara Samuel
(1999, Georgian) 8/28/06
Grade: 4
Five years after an affair that devastated her family, Adriana marries Tynan Spenser, “The Black Angel”. It’s a marriage of convenience, and most of all, Adriana doesn’t want to risk falling in love - or lust - again. But Tynan isn’t what she expected, and his kindness and sensuality tempt her to let down her guard. But can she accept the secrets he’s hiding as well?
An interesting story that gets better in the second half. The plotline was interesting from the first - drawing in hypocrisy about women’s roles, racism, Catholicism, and unique secondary characters. I especially liked the way she made the family members part of the story, without making them obvious sequel fodder. But in the first half, I felt distanced - the writing seemed to keep me at arm’s length from the characters and their emotions. But this went away in the second half - either I got used to it or the author became more intimate. The book wrapped up a little too quickly, but it was a compelling read.
I can't blame an author for following her muse, but it's frustrating as a reader, when you can see where an author is going, and then she decides not to go there. So many good authors, going in directions that just don't particularly interest me.
Just Can't Put My Finger On It
It's always hard to review a book that just doesn't seem "right", for some reason.
Her Perfect Earl by Bethany Brooks
(2005, Regency) 8/27/06
Grade: 3
In hopes of winning a classics competition, Esmerelda Fortune accepts a position as governess for the Earl of Ashforth’s five children. She is looking for a missing manuscript, but finds herself more interested in his lonely children - and the “perfect” Earl himself, who is not as perfect as he wants people to believe.
A nice story that didn’t quite gel. It’s hard to explain - there was something about the characterizations, particularly of the Earl, that just didn’t work. The author kept telling me who he was, but it never felt quite real. The children were more interesting, the story was fun, and Esmie was charming, but I kept thinking that the author was trying too hard. It just didn’t touch my emotions the way it should have.
I can't point to any particular problem with this book, but the entire time I was reading it, I felt like something was "off". Weird.
Her Perfect Earl by Bethany Brooks
(2005, Regency) 8/27/06
Grade: 3
In hopes of winning a classics competition, Esmerelda Fortune accepts a position as governess for the Earl of Ashforth’s five children. She is looking for a missing manuscript, but finds herself more interested in his lonely children - and the “perfect” Earl himself, who is not as perfect as he wants people to believe.
A nice story that didn’t quite gel. It’s hard to explain - there was something about the characterizations, particularly of the Earl, that just didn’t work. The author kept telling me who he was, but it never felt quite real. The children were more interesting, the story was fun, and Esmie was charming, but I kept thinking that the author was trying too hard. It just didn’t touch my emotions the way it should have.
I can't point to any particular problem with this book, but the entire time I was reading it, I felt like something was "off". Weird.
A New York Western
After spending four years in Williamsburg, I'm always interested in Revolutionary War settings. But I've never read a book set in upstate New York during the war - a part of history I didn't know much about!
Gift of the Heart by Miranda Jarrett
(1996, Revolutionary War) 8/26/06
Grade: 4
In 1778, Rachel struggles on her farm in upstate NY, raising her young son, with her husband at war and probably dead. When a wounded soldier stumbles into her barn, she helps him, although she keeps her musket handy. He soon becomes a part of the family. But can they build a life together when he’s fighting on the other side, with a bounty on his head?
A simple but charming story, with an interesting setting. This is a fairly typical “man hardened by war is saved by the love of family” story, but it’s well written, with interesting and well-rounded characters. The focus is on the character development, which is a nice change from more plot-oriented books. Although the main focus is the romance, it also reveals a part of the revolutionary war that I hadn’t known about, and it’s refreshing to read a book with this kind of setting. The only negative is the ending, which is too rushed and tries to wrap up all the loose ends in just a few pages. This wasn’t a keeper, but it was enjoyable and well done.
I miss American-set books! I don't understand why they aren't more popular.
Gift of the Heart by Miranda Jarrett
(1996, Revolutionary War) 8/26/06
Grade: 4
In 1778, Rachel struggles on her farm in upstate NY, raising her young son, with her husband at war and probably dead. When a wounded soldier stumbles into her barn, she helps him, although she keeps her musket handy. He soon becomes a part of the family. But can they build a life together when he’s fighting on the other side, with a bounty on his head?
A simple but charming story, with an interesting setting. This is a fairly typical “man hardened by war is saved by the love of family” story, but it’s well written, with interesting and well-rounded characters. The focus is on the character development, which is a nice change from more plot-oriented books. Although the main focus is the romance, it also reveals a part of the revolutionary war that I hadn’t known about, and it’s refreshing to read a book with this kind of setting. The only negative is the ending, which is too rushed and tries to wrap up all the loose ends in just a few pages. This wasn’t a keeper, but it was enjoyable and well done.
I miss American-set books! I don't understand why they aren't more popular.
Classic Regency
I'm glad I have a bunch of Regencies in my TBR - even when they're average reads, there's something about a Regency that appeals to me. Regency-set historicals just aren't the same.
Debt of Honor by Diana Brown
(1982, Regency) 8/20/06
Grade: 3.5
When they first meet, Lord Peter Chalmsforth mistakes Fiona Guthrie for a lightskirt and propositions her. But he is quickly charmed by her intelligence and beauty. After her brother gambles away the family estate, Fiona decides to take Peter up on his offer - but will he accept? And can an honorable relationship ever develop, after such a beginning?
A pleasant Regency that unfortunately devolves into misunderstandings in the last third. The first part of the book is nice enough - the characters are interesting, although Fiona is a little too perfect. (Everyone falls in love with her on first sight.) The “shocking” proposal doesn’t really go anywhere very shocking. But the hero and heroine are appealing and the writing is good. But in the last third, the story just dribbles away. The hero and heroine are separated, there’s no conflict, there are petty misunderstandings - nothing terrible, just kind of boring. An unfortunate end for an enjoyable Regency.
It's always disappointing to read a book that starts well, and then fizzles out. (A common problem, unfortunately.)
Debt of Honor by Diana Brown
(1982, Regency) 8/20/06
Grade: 3.5
When they first meet, Lord Peter Chalmsforth mistakes Fiona Guthrie for a lightskirt and propositions her. But he is quickly charmed by her intelligence and beauty. After her brother gambles away the family estate, Fiona decides to take Peter up on his offer - but will he accept? And can an honorable relationship ever develop, after such a beginning?
A pleasant Regency that unfortunately devolves into misunderstandings in the last third. The first part of the book is nice enough - the characters are interesting, although Fiona is a little too perfect. (Everyone falls in love with her on first sight.) The “shocking” proposal doesn’t really go anywhere very shocking. But the hero and heroine are appealing and the writing is good. But in the last third, the story just dribbles away. The hero and heroine are separated, there’s no conflict, there are petty misunderstandings - nothing terrible, just kind of boring. An unfortunate end for an enjoyable Regency.
It's always disappointing to read a book that starts well, and then fizzles out. (A common problem, unfortunately.)
Friday, August 18, 2006
Good? Bad? Both?
My knowledge of the Norman conquest is pretty spotty, so I have no idea of the historical accuracy of the politics in this book. As always, I'm more interested in the emotions of the characters than in the history.
Her Norman Conqueror by Malia Martin
(1998, Medieval) 8/17/06
Grade: 3
Desperate to avoid her stepbrother, Aleene marries a seemingly simple minded poacher. Haunted by memories of her stepfather’s sexual abuse, she finds comfort in his kindness. But when William invades, she discovers her husband isn’t what he seemed - he’s actually a Norman spy. Can she ever trust a man who turned her into a traitor?
The first section of the book was an interesting, emotional story, as Aleene learns to trust again with her new husband. (It’s a bit of a cheat, since we never find out that “Cyne” isn’t really simple minded. But since he’s the hero of the book, the reader has to assume something else is going on. If he really had been retarded, the scenario would be kind of icky.) But with the invasion, the book shifts gears as Aleene and Robert become closely involved with the politics of the two kings. It’s interesting, but it doesn’t seem to track with what came before. By the time the story got back to the emotional side of things, the plot threads had gotten lost somehow.
If this book had been straight politics, I might have found it more acceptable. The author teased me with a great, emotional story in the first part of the book, and when that went away, I was especially disappointed.
Her Norman Conqueror by Malia Martin
(1998, Medieval) 8/17/06
Grade: 3
Desperate to avoid her stepbrother, Aleene marries a seemingly simple minded poacher. Haunted by memories of her stepfather’s sexual abuse, she finds comfort in his kindness. But when William invades, she discovers her husband isn’t what he seemed - he’s actually a Norman spy. Can she ever trust a man who turned her into a traitor?
The first section of the book was an interesting, emotional story, as Aleene learns to trust again with her new husband. (It’s a bit of a cheat, since we never find out that “Cyne” isn’t really simple minded. But since he’s the hero of the book, the reader has to assume something else is going on. If he really had been retarded, the scenario would be kind of icky.) But with the invasion, the book shifts gears as Aleene and Robert become closely involved with the politics of the two kings. It’s interesting, but it doesn’t seem to track with what came before. By the time the story got back to the emotional side of things, the plot threads had gotten lost somehow.
If this book had been straight politics, I might have found it more acceptable. The author teased me with a great, emotional story in the first part of the book, and when that went away, I was especially disappointed.
Sunday, August 13, 2006
Never Boring, But Sometimes Frustrating
So many books are by-the-numbers retreads, as if they were written by a formula. It's refreshing to read something different, even if it has flaws.
The Music of the Night by Lydia Joyce
(2005, Victorian) 8/13/06
Grade: 4.5
A life as a companion in Venice is more than Sarah ever expected, after a childhood spent in the rookeries of London. But when she is caught up in the Earl of Wortham’s plans of dark revenge, she finds a passion she never expected - and a dangerous love that might destroy her forever.
Intriguing and unique, Lydia Joyce creates fascinating characters and puts them in unusual settings and situations. Both Sarah and Sebastian are compelling, sympathetic characters, and the Venetian setting is fascinating. But the author’s convoluted plotlines make the story hard to follow - I always felt like I was one step behind, and was never quite sure what was going on. I don’t need to be spoonfed every detail, but it was sometimes frustrating. As in her first book, the pacing was off sometimes - the middle section was drawn out, and then the final scenes were overly rushed. An interesting book, but one that could have been improved.
I've heard mixed things about Joyce's third book - I hope she keeps trying new things, but I think I'd enjoy her books more if they were a little more clearly plotted.
The Music of the Night by Lydia Joyce
(2005, Victorian) 8/13/06
Grade: 4.5
A life as a companion in Venice is more than Sarah ever expected, after a childhood spent in the rookeries of London. But when she is caught up in the Earl of Wortham’s plans of dark revenge, she finds a passion she never expected - and a dangerous love that might destroy her forever.
Intriguing and unique, Lydia Joyce creates fascinating characters and puts them in unusual settings and situations. Both Sarah and Sebastian are compelling, sympathetic characters, and the Venetian setting is fascinating. But the author’s convoluted plotlines make the story hard to follow - I always felt like I was one step behind, and was never quite sure what was going on. I don’t need to be spoonfed every detail, but it was sometimes frustrating. As in her first book, the pacing was off sometimes - the middle section was drawn out, and then the final scenes were overly rushed. An interesting book, but one that could have been improved.
I've heard mixed things about Joyce's third book - I hope she keeps trying new things, but I think I'd enjoy her books more if they were a little more clearly plotted.
Saturday, August 12, 2006
Everybody's Favorite Romance Author
Whenever I mention that I've attended a romance book signing, the first author that people ask me about is Nora Roberts. There was a woman at the post office who took great care of my packages after I told her I'd met her favorite author, and a co-worker who was fascinated by what "Nora" was wearing at a recent book signing.
I've never been a huge fan, but I have a couple of her books on my keeper shelf (Born in Fire and Born in Ice) and I usually find her books easy to read and fairly enjoyable, even if they aren't always to my taste.
Angels Fall by Nora Roberts
(2006, Romantic Suspense) 8/12/06
Grade: 3
Two years after violence shattered her life, Reece drives into Angel’s Fist, Wyoming. It’s as good a place as any: the people are nice, and she even finds work as a cook (although it’s far from her previous life as a chef in Boston). But when she witnesses a murder, she finds herself doubting her own sanity, and becoming closer to a gruff but handsome mystery writer.
The mystery was well done, but I found it hard to get into this one. I usually find Roberts easy to read, but I kept putting this one down. The romance between Reece and Brody seemed more convenient than passionate, although the author does a good job in creating a small town full of interesting characters. Reece grew on me - her fear and doubts were compelling - but I just didn’t care that much about her relationship, and was only slightly more interested in the identity of the killer. Not a bad book, but not as good a mystery as the best of the J.D. Robb books, and not as good a romance as some of Nora Roberts’ earlier titles.
Although I'm not a big romantic suspense fan, I'd heard good things about this one, and I enjoyed some of Roberts' earlier RS books (Hidden Riches, Carnal Innocence). This one just didn't do much for me, although I liked the way she hid the identity of the killer until almost the end.
I've never been a huge fan, but I have a couple of her books on my keeper shelf (Born in Fire and Born in Ice) and I usually find her books easy to read and fairly enjoyable, even if they aren't always to my taste.
Angels Fall by Nora Roberts
(2006, Romantic Suspense) 8/12/06
Grade: 3
Two years after violence shattered her life, Reece drives into Angel’s Fist, Wyoming. It’s as good a place as any: the people are nice, and she even finds work as a cook (although it’s far from her previous life as a chef in Boston). But when she witnesses a murder, she finds herself doubting her own sanity, and becoming closer to a gruff but handsome mystery writer.
The mystery was well done, but I found it hard to get into this one. I usually find Roberts easy to read, but I kept putting this one down. The romance between Reece and Brody seemed more convenient than passionate, although the author does a good job in creating a small town full of interesting characters. Reece grew on me - her fear and doubts were compelling - but I just didn’t care that much about her relationship, and was only slightly more interested in the identity of the killer. Not a bad book, but not as good a mystery as the best of the J.D. Robb books, and not as good a romance as some of Nora Roberts’ earlier titles.
Although I'm not a big romantic suspense fan, I'd heard good things about this one, and I enjoyed some of Roberts' earlier RS books (Hidden Riches, Carnal Innocence). This one just didn't do much for me, although I liked the way she hid the identity of the killer until almost the end.
Monday, August 07, 2006
Old Fashioned... Not In A Good Way
Sometimes I can read a book that has an "old fashioned" story, and I'm happy to enjoy an old story told well. But there were some scenarios from older romances that I didn't particularly like the first time around - and they haven't gotten better with age...
The Seduction of His Wife by Janet Chapman
(2006, Contemporary) 8/6/06
Grade: 2.5
After Alex is declared dead, his family marries him by proxy to their housekeeper, to protect his two children. It’s a shock to everyone when he comes home safely - but especially to Sarah, who never expected a real husband. Despite their first, passionate night together, Sarah is unsure if she can trust Alex’s charm, and allow him to rescue her from her past.
Despite mostly likeable characters and a readable writing style, this book annoyed me most of the time. Start with the “she’s a slut - oh no, she’s a virgin” scenario (which of course ends in the typical romance way). Add the fiesty-but-helpless heroine, who is too feminine and cute to be able to take care of herself (although she tries, sweet thing that she is) and who naively beguiles every man within 100 miles. Then add a hero who is nice enough, but always thinks he knows best and treats the heroine accordingly (and everyone around agrees, naturally). I can’t say that this was a bad book, but it just pushed my buttons - I kept wanting to gag.
This was my book club book, so I felt like I had to finish it. Otherwise I would have dropped it in the trade pile after the first chapter or two.
It's hard for me to assess this book, because there's nothing really awful here. I know some people like this type of story - why else would Diana Palmer still be popular? But the stereotypical "helpless but in a cute way" heroine just irritated me, and I was never able to get past it. (Not to mention the "oops, she's a virgin, she must be good" setup which I thought was gone and forgotten.)
The Seduction of His Wife by Janet Chapman
(2006, Contemporary) 8/6/06
Grade: 2.5
After Alex is declared dead, his family marries him by proxy to their housekeeper, to protect his two children. It’s a shock to everyone when he comes home safely - but especially to Sarah, who never expected a real husband. Despite their first, passionate night together, Sarah is unsure if she can trust Alex’s charm, and allow him to rescue her from her past.
Despite mostly likeable characters and a readable writing style, this book annoyed me most of the time. Start with the “she’s a slut - oh no, she’s a virgin” scenario (which of course ends in the typical romance way). Add the fiesty-but-helpless heroine, who is too feminine and cute to be able to take care of herself (although she tries, sweet thing that she is) and who naively beguiles every man within 100 miles. Then add a hero who is nice enough, but always thinks he knows best and treats the heroine accordingly (and everyone around agrees, naturally). I can’t say that this was a bad book, but it just pushed my buttons - I kept wanting to gag.
This was my book club book, so I felt like I had to finish it. Otherwise I would have dropped it in the trade pile after the first chapter or two.
It's hard for me to assess this book, because there's nothing really awful here. I know some people like this type of story - why else would Diana Palmer still be popular? But the stereotypical "helpless but in a cute way" heroine just irritated me, and I was never able to get past it. (Not to mention the "oops, she's a virgin, she must be good" setup which I thought was gone and forgotten.)
Sunday, July 23, 2006
A Disappointment From One Of My Favorites
Although I wasn't thrilled by Mary Jo Putney's previous paranormal books, I was hoping this one would put more emphasis on the romance - and bring back the enjoyment I always got from her best books. (She's one of my all time favorite authors, although I'm not a big fan of paranormal so I tried not to get my hopes up too high.)
The Marriage Spell by Mary Jo Putney
(2006, Paranormal Regency Historical) 7/23/06
Grade: 3.5
In a Regency world where magic is commonplace (if not quite accepted), Jack is sent to school to beat the magic out of him. But when he ends up married to a healer, he discovers that magic isn’t all bad - and it may be the key to saving his family. And Abby finds herself pulled into a social world she’s never known, and discovers passion and acceptance within herself.
I enjoyed the first part of this book - the magical background was interesting, but not overwhelming, and the arranged marriage story worked well. The characters were sympathetic, and the blend of magic and romance seemed to work. Unfortunately, in the second half, the story went downhill. The focus turned to external problems, and magic conveniently solved everything, much too easily. The characters were still interesting, but there wasn’t much more to say about them - their relationship didn’t really develop in the second half, it just stayed the same. There were opportunities for more (especially when it came to Jack's background and the way his magic was suppressed by his father) but it was just pushed aside in favor of fighting the "bad guy" and using a few spells to fix everything. More disappointing than bad, but not one of Putney’s best.
Perhaps it's unfair, but I couldn't help comparing this to some of the arranged marriage stories that I've loved in the past - by Putney herself, as well as other authors. This one just seemed superficial by comparison. Throwing in some magic doesn't compensate for the lack of deep emotion, at least not for me.
The Marriage Spell by Mary Jo Putney
(2006, Paranormal Regency Historical) 7/23/06
Grade: 3.5
In a Regency world where magic is commonplace (if not quite accepted), Jack is sent to school to beat the magic out of him. But when he ends up married to a healer, he discovers that magic isn’t all bad - and it may be the key to saving his family. And Abby finds herself pulled into a social world she’s never known, and discovers passion and acceptance within herself.
I enjoyed the first part of this book - the magical background was interesting, but not overwhelming, and the arranged marriage story worked well. The characters were sympathetic, and the blend of magic and romance seemed to work. Unfortunately, in the second half, the story went downhill. The focus turned to external problems, and magic conveniently solved everything, much too easily. The characters were still interesting, but there wasn’t much more to say about them - their relationship didn’t really develop in the second half, it just stayed the same. There were opportunities for more (especially when it came to Jack's background and the way his magic was suppressed by his father) but it was just pushed aside in favor of fighting the "bad guy" and using a few spells to fix everything. More disappointing than bad, but not one of Putney’s best.
Perhaps it's unfair, but I couldn't help comparing this to some of the arranged marriage stories that I've loved in the past - by Putney herself, as well as other authors. This one just seemed superficial by comparison. Throwing in some magic doesn't compensate for the lack of deep emotion, at least not for me.
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Book by the Numbers
I just moved to a new city, and I'm thrilled to have the chance to join a book discussion group - I love meeting other romance readers! Even though I'm trying not to buy books for a while, I picked up this one so I'd be able to join in the discussion.
The Rogue Report by Barbara Dawson Smith
(2006, Regency Historical) 7/9/06
Grade: 3.5
Jack, the Earl of Rutledge, is enraged after his gambling exploits are revealed in an anonymous newsletter, ending his engagement. He decides to disguise himself as a math teacher at a charity school run by Julia Corwyn, an outcast from society since she had a child out of wedlock. But he finds himself unaccountably drawn to the stern headmistress...
This book is the perfect example of “nothing special”. The hero and heroine were likeable, the secondary characters amusing, the story unexceptionable, but nothing really stood out. It just seemed predictable. Sometimes an author can take a familiar story and make it sing, but this one just plodded along - it was pleasant enough for a lazy Sunday, but it could have been any one of dozens of books.
I hate to criticize a book that's OK when there are so many truly bad books out there, but this one just didn't stand out in any way - good or bad.
The Rogue Report by Barbara Dawson Smith
(2006, Regency Historical) 7/9/06
Grade: 3.5
Jack, the Earl of Rutledge, is enraged after his gambling exploits are revealed in an anonymous newsletter, ending his engagement. He decides to disguise himself as a math teacher at a charity school run by Julia Corwyn, an outcast from society since she had a child out of wedlock. But he finds himself unaccountably drawn to the stern headmistress...
This book is the perfect example of “nothing special”. The hero and heroine were likeable, the secondary characters amusing, the story unexceptionable, but nothing really stood out. It just seemed predictable. Sometimes an author can take a familiar story and make it sing, but this one just plodded along - it was pleasant enough for a lazy Sunday, but it could have been any one of dozens of books.
I hate to criticize a book that's OK when there are so many truly bad books out there, but this one just didn't stand out in any way - good or bad.
Sunday, June 25, 2006
Dancing With Sin
The title is one of my favorite things about this book!
Dancing with Sin by Jane Goodger
(1998, Victorian American) 6/12/06
Grade: 4
Even though she’s been married for six months, Rose is still an innocent in many ways - and still finds her husband a mystery. When she’s befriended by a lively neighbor, Rose enjoys being a little bit sinful, and she hopes that it will bring new life to her marriage - but she never expected to be caught up in a murder.
An interesting and compelling book. Rose is a fascinating character, although I sometimes wanted to shake her as her naivete gets her into serious trouble. And her relationship with her husband is well depicted; it’s a nice change to read about an ongoing relationship instead of the usual courtship story. The murder trial seemed to go on a bit too long - I was more interested in Rose and Luke than in the legal intrigues - but it kept the story moving. I would have liked a little more wrap-up at the end, but that’s a minor quibble.
Even though I enjoyed the character development of the first two thirds more than the murder mystery and trial of the last third, I enjoyed the book quite a bit.
Dancing with Sin by Jane Goodger
(1998, Victorian American) 6/12/06
Grade: 4
Even though she’s been married for six months, Rose is still an innocent in many ways - and still finds her husband a mystery. When she’s befriended by a lively neighbor, Rose enjoys being a little bit sinful, and she hopes that it will bring new life to her marriage - but she never expected to be caught up in a murder.
An interesting and compelling book. Rose is a fascinating character, although I sometimes wanted to shake her as her naivete gets her into serious trouble. And her relationship with her husband is well depicted; it’s a nice change to read about an ongoing relationship instead of the usual courtship story. The murder trial seemed to go on a bit too long - I was more interested in Rose and Luke than in the legal intrigues - but it kept the story moving. I would have liked a little more wrap-up at the end, but that’s a minor quibble.
Even though I enjoyed the character development of the first two thirds more than the murder mystery and trial of the last third, I enjoyed the book quite a bit.
Flawed Characters Make a Good Read
Sometimes the flawed characters are the most interesting.
Sweet Baby by Sharon Sala
(1998, Contemporary) 6/11/06
Grade: 4.5
In many ways Tory has never recovered from her childhood - her mother’s disappearance, her years in foster care. She still can’t commit, or risk the hurt of loving again. Her sporadic relationship with Brett Hooker is the closest she can come to love. But if she can find out what really happened in her past, can she free herself and allow herself to love again?
I loved the characters in this book - the way Tory is still damaged from the pain of her past, the way Brett loves her despite her flaws. Their relationship seemed so real. Even though the mystery storyline was crucial to the plot, I resented the time it took away from the character development. But still, the book was very satisfying.
I couldn't quite figure out how to grade this one, but I liked the characters so much, I had to give it a little bit of extra credit.
Sweet Baby by Sharon Sala
(1998, Contemporary) 6/11/06
Grade: 4.5
In many ways Tory has never recovered from her childhood - her mother’s disappearance, her years in foster care. She still can’t commit, or risk the hurt of loving again. Her sporadic relationship with Brett Hooker is the closest she can come to love. But if she can find out what really happened in her past, can she free herself and allow herself to love again?
I loved the characters in this book - the way Tory is still damaged from the pain of her past, the way Brett loves her despite her flaws. Their relationship seemed so real. Even though the mystery storyline was crucial to the plot, I resented the time it took away from the character development. But still, the book was very satisfying.
I couldn't quite figure out how to grade this one, but I liked the characters so much, I had to give it a little bit of extra credit.
Good Story, So-So Romance
Ruth Wind is always worth reading, even when a book isn't a keeper.
The Last Chance Ranch by Ruth Wind (SSE 977)
(1995, Contemporary Series) 6/10/06
Grade: 3.5
Eleven years after going to jail for shooting her abusive husband, Tanya will finally be able to see her son again. He was adopted by her husband’s cousin, Ramon, who founded a school for troubled boys, and Tanya will be working as a cook there, where she can see Antonio from afar. But can she be a mother again - and a lover and wife again?
Another book with a mixture of good and bad. Tanya was a great character, well written and sympathetic. Ramon was also sympathetic and well written, but I didn’t find their romance all that believable. I was more interested in Tanya’s adjustment to the outside world, and her relationship with her son and the other boys at the school. The “romance” seemed a bit out of place and distracting. Ruth Wind always writes well, but this wasn’t one of my favorites.
Although I'm not a big fan of Barbara Samuel's "women's fiction", this book might have been better if a romance hadn't been shoehorned into it.
The Last Chance Ranch by Ruth Wind (SSE 977)
(1995, Contemporary Series) 6/10/06
Grade: 3.5
Eleven years after going to jail for shooting her abusive husband, Tanya will finally be able to see her son again. He was adopted by her husband’s cousin, Ramon, who founded a school for troubled boys, and Tanya will be working as a cook there, where she can see Antonio from afar. But can she be a mother again - and a lover and wife again?
Another book with a mixture of good and bad. Tanya was a great character, well written and sympathetic. Ramon was also sympathetic and well written, but I didn’t find their romance all that believable. I was more interested in Tanya’s adjustment to the outside world, and her relationship with her son and the other boys at the school. The “romance” seemed a bit out of place and distracting. Ruth Wind always writes well, but this wasn’t one of my favorites.
Although I'm not a big fan of Barbara Samuel's "women's fiction", this book might have been better if a romance hadn't been shoehorned into it.
More Angst
I've had these two books by Theresa Weir in my TBR for years - saving them for a rainy day.
Forever by Theresa Weir
(1991, Contemporary) 6/7/06
Grade: 4
After a car accident, Sammy wakes up in the hospital, angry and confused, unable to remember the last twenty years. In his mind, he’s still 19, before Vietnam and the many disappointments since. His case seems hopeless, but through the dedication of a troubled doctor, Rachel Collins, he finds a way to rebuild his life - but can he help to heal the healer?
The first half of this book was terrific - Sammy’s confusion and anger, his struggle to rebuild his life without his memory. His professional relationship with Rachel was interesting, but I didn’t find his romance with her as convincing. Her troubles were just as serious as his, but they always seemed less interesting compared to Sammy’s. I enjoyed the book as Sammy’s story, but it didn’t quite work as a romance.
One Fine Day by Theresa Weir
1994, Contemporary) 6/8/06
Grade: 3.5
Molly has finally decided to leave her unhappy marriage, and is making a new life in Florida - when her husband has a stroke. She has to come home and take care of him, for her daughter’s sake. And she finds unexpected depths in the husband she thought she knew, as he struggles to live with the effects of the stroke, and save his marriage.
A frustrating mix of good and bad. The characters were hard to accept after reading Forever - Austin isn’t bad, he’s just misunderstood - but I started to like him, and like Molly. But the misunderstandings continue too long, and are often interrupted by meanderings that take up too much space. (The romance between Mark and Gabrielle is sweet, but is just too distracting.) And yet, there were real moments of heartfelt emotion as well.
Both of these were hard to grade - mixtures of good and bad.
Forever by Theresa Weir
(1991, Contemporary) 6/7/06
Grade: 4
After a car accident, Sammy wakes up in the hospital, angry and confused, unable to remember the last twenty years. In his mind, he’s still 19, before Vietnam and the many disappointments since. His case seems hopeless, but through the dedication of a troubled doctor, Rachel Collins, he finds a way to rebuild his life - but can he help to heal the healer?
The first half of this book was terrific - Sammy’s confusion and anger, his struggle to rebuild his life without his memory. His professional relationship with Rachel was interesting, but I didn’t find his romance with her as convincing. Her troubles were just as serious as his, but they always seemed less interesting compared to Sammy’s. I enjoyed the book as Sammy’s story, but it didn’t quite work as a romance.
One Fine Day by Theresa Weir
1994, Contemporary) 6/8/06
Grade: 3.5
Molly has finally decided to leave her unhappy marriage, and is making a new life in Florida - when her husband has a stroke. She has to come home and take care of him, for her daughter’s sake. And she finds unexpected depths in the husband she thought she knew, as he struggles to live with the effects of the stroke, and save his marriage.
A frustrating mix of good and bad. The characters were hard to accept after reading Forever - Austin isn’t bad, he’s just misunderstood - but I started to like him, and like Molly. But the misunderstandings continue too long, and are often interrupted by meanderings that take up too much space. (The romance between Mark and Gabrielle is sweet, but is just too distracting.) And yet, there were real moments of heartfelt emotion as well.
Both of these were hard to grade - mixtures of good and bad.
A Smile, A Tear
Megan Chance never writes a traditional story, but I'm always willing to go wherever she takes me.
A Season in Eden by Megan Chance
(1999, American West) 6/6/06
Grade: 4.5
Four years after her marriage, Lora’s heart has grown cold, shuttered by tragedy. When her husband Eli announces that he’s going away to find work, she barely notices. But as she spends the summer on the farm with hired hand will, she begins to see the world again - and when Eli comes home injured, she has to find a way to live and love again.
An emotional, heartbreaking book that vividly depicts a time and place. Lora’s coldness is hard to understand at first, but as her secret is revealed, she becomes more understandable. The men aren’t developed as deeply, especially will, but Lora’s gradual return to life is well done. The pacing is a bit off - the section in the middle goes on a little too long, and the emotional scenes at the end a little too late - but that’s a minor quibble. The book ends with such heart (and a few tears), that it was well worth reading.
Sometimes a book has such a good ending, it makes the rest of the book seem better. I'd probably grade most of this book as a 4, but the last couple of chapters push it almost into keeper territory.
A Season in Eden by Megan Chance
(1999, American West) 6/6/06
Grade: 4.5
Four years after her marriage, Lora’s heart has grown cold, shuttered by tragedy. When her husband Eli announces that he’s going away to find work, she barely notices. But as she spends the summer on the farm with hired hand will, she begins to see the world again - and when Eli comes home injured, she has to find a way to live and love again.
An emotional, heartbreaking book that vividly depicts a time and place. Lora’s coldness is hard to understand at first, but as her secret is revealed, she becomes more understandable. The men aren’t developed as deeply, especially will, but Lora’s gradual return to life is well done. The pacing is a bit off - the section in the middle goes on a little too long, and the emotional scenes at the end a little too late - but that’s a minor quibble. The book ends with such heart (and a few tears), that it was well worth reading.
Sometimes a book has such a good ending, it makes the rest of the book seem better. I'd probably grade most of this book as a 4, but the last couple of chapters push it almost into keeper territory.
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Deja Vu All Over Again
I was expecting this book to be even more of an angst-fest than the last one - my favorite kind of read!
Forgiveness by Jean Brashear (HSR 1267)
(2005, Contemporary Series) 5/28/06
Grade: 3.5
The same story from Coming Home is told again, this time from the perspective of Victoria and Sandor. Victoria ran away after her brother’s death, determined to escape the pain and guilt. After living on the streets for six years, she returns home in desperation - and finds everything changed. But for her son’s sake, she’s determined to try again.
A lovely story of hope and healing, this might have been a better read as a stand-alone. Sometimes telling the same story from a different perspective is enlightening, but more often, it’s just repetitive. The love between Ria and Sandor isn’t given enough focus, since so much of the book is a repeat of the last one (in some cases, word for word the same). I wanted to learn something new, instead of just getting an expansion of the last book.
These two books were obviously written to go together, but I think the author should have thought through what it would be like to read them back-to-back. I wanted to know more about Victoria, and this wasn't enough.
Forgiveness by Jean Brashear (HSR 1267)
(2005, Contemporary Series) 5/28/06
Grade: 3.5
The same story from Coming Home is told again, this time from the perspective of Victoria and Sandor. Victoria ran away after her brother’s death, determined to escape the pain and guilt. After living on the streets for six years, she returns home in desperation - and finds everything changed. But for her son’s sake, she’s determined to try again.
A lovely story of hope and healing, this might have been a better read as a stand-alone. Sometimes telling the same story from a different perspective is enlightening, but more often, it’s just repetitive. The love between Ria and Sandor isn’t given enough focus, since so much of the book is a repeat of the last one (in some cases, word for word the same). I wanted to learn something new, instead of just getting an expansion of the last book.
These two books were obviously written to go together, but I think the author should have thought through what it would be like to read them back-to-back. I wanted to know more about Victoria, and this wasn't enough.
Second Time's The Charm
I tried to read this book a few months ago, but got tripped up by all the characters (about ten of them are introduced in the first chapter). I'm glad I gave it a second chance.
Coming Home by Jean Brashear (HSR 1251)
(2005, Contemporary Series) 5/27/06
Grade: 4
When their 14 year old son was killed in a drunk driving accident - caused by their 18 year old daughter - Cleo and Malcolm’s long marriage fell apart. But now, six years later, Victoria is back, with a son of her own - and despite the pain, Cleo and Malcolm can’t help remembering the love and joy they once had.
This book was like being thrown into the middle of a soap opera. Once I’d figured out the characters, the story was heartfelt and compelling, if a bit overpopulated. The chemistry between the hero and heroine was wonderful. The secondary characters were well drawn as well, but the story could have used a bit more focus - the girlfriend’s pregancy seemed like one conflict too many, especially with so many other relationships to explore. But in the end, the strength of the characters carried it through.
Despite a few flaws, this is what HSR does best - angst and romance in a contemporary setting.
Coming Home by Jean Brashear (HSR 1251)
(2005, Contemporary Series) 5/27/06
Grade: 4
When their 14 year old son was killed in a drunk driving accident - caused by their 18 year old daughter - Cleo and Malcolm’s long marriage fell apart. But now, six years later, Victoria is back, with a son of her own - and despite the pain, Cleo and Malcolm can’t help remembering the love and joy they once had.
This book was like being thrown into the middle of a soap opera. Once I’d figured out the characters, the story was heartfelt and compelling, if a bit overpopulated. The chemistry between the hero and heroine was wonderful. The secondary characters were well drawn as well, but the story could have used a bit more focus - the girlfriend’s pregancy seemed like one conflict too many, especially with so many other relationships to explore. But in the end, the strength of the characters carried it through.
Despite a few flaws, this is what HSR does best - angst and romance in a contemporary setting.
Sometimes Simple Works
The title is awful - a good reason to be grateful for honest reviews, because I would never have picked this up if it hadn't been recommended.
Legally Tender by Michele Dunaway (HAR 1100)
(2006, Contemporary Series) 5/26/06
Grade: 4
After her marriage fails, Christine Jones moves to the small town of Morrisville with her young daughter, to accept a partnership at a local law firm. But she didn’t know her position was at the expense of favorite son (and hunk) Bruce Lancaster - who she now has to work with.
A simple story, but the likeable characters and easy writing style carry it though. The hero and heroine are smart, they don’t jump to conclusions but work through their problems - and they have definite chemistry together. The book does drag a bit at the end, when the author seems to run out of things for them to do (odd, since the lawsuit story is kind of dropped) but overall, a nice, enjoyable read.
Such a nice change after all the run-around-and-shoot books recently.
Legally Tender by Michele Dunaway (HAR 1100)
(2006, Contemporary Series) 5/26/06
Grade: 4
After her marriage fails, Christine Jones moves to the small town of Morrisville with her young daughter, to accept a partnership at a local law firm. But she didn’t know her position was at the expense of favorite son (and hunk) Bruce Lancaster - who she now has to work with.
A simple story, but the likeable characters and easy writing style carry it though. The hero and heroine are smart, they don’t jump to conclusions but work through their problems - and they have definite chemistry together. The book does drag a bit at the end, when the author seems to run out of things for them to do (odd, since the lawsuit story is kind of dropped) but overall, a nice, enjoyable read.
Such a nice change after all the run-around-and-shoot books recently.
It's Hard To Live Up To High Expectations
It must be hard to be an author who has written so many exceptional books - I probably hold someone like Justine Davis to a higher standard, since I can't help thinking of books like The Morning Side Of Dawn when I assess her books.
Second-Chance Hero by Justine Davis (SIM 1351)
(2005, Contemporary Series) 5/26/06
Grade: 3
When a sabateur threatens an air strip in Belize, security expect John Draven is on the job - but he doesn’t expect to see Grace and her teenage daughter, the woman he saved from an earthquake months before, and who is still struggling from the after-effects. But despite his solitary life, he’s thought about her ever since.
As always, Justine Davis creates compelling, sympathetic characters. But the focus here is on the suspense, and every time I started to get interested in the development of the hero and heroine, the focus shifts to “who done it”, much to my frustration. I really liked the hero and was expecting more of an exploration of who he was, rather than who he could shoot. The denoument of the mystery is kind of interesting, but still, it took up too much of the book.
The next time I'm tempted to pick up a book that looks overly "suspense-y", I should think twice. Even if the author is someone I've liked before.
Second-Chance Hero by Justine Davis (SIM 1351)
(2005, Contemporary Series) 5/26/06
Grade: 3
When a sabateur threatens an air strip in Belize, security expect John Draven is on the job - but he doesn’t expect to see Grace and her teenage daughter, the woman he saved from an earthquake months before, and who is still struggling from the after-effects. But despite his solitary life, he’s thought about her ever since.
As always, Justine Davis creates compelling, sympathetic characters. But the focus here is on the suspense, and every time I started to get interested in the development of the hero and heroine, the focus shifts to “who done it”, much to my frustration. I really liked the hero and was expecting more of an exploration of who he was, rather than who he could shoot. The denoument of the mystery is kind of interesting, but still, it took up too much of the book.
The next time I'm tempted to pick up a book that looks overly "suspense-y", I should think twice. Even if the author is someone I've liked before.
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