Category Archives: Thriller

A Murder of Crows – David Rotenberg – Blog Tour

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murder of crowsDecker Roberts is back, and he always knows when you’re telling the truth.

David Rotenberg first introduced Decker Roberts and his unique gifts in the critically acclaimed thriller The Placebo Effect. Since Decker’s last run-in with the NSA, he’s been trying to remain off the radar, searching for his estranged son, Seth. Decker’s synaesthetic abilities, once a lucrative gift, are increasingly becoming a liability.

When a vicious attack wipes out the best and brightest of America’s young minds, devastating the country’s future, Decker is forced to step out of the shadows and help track down the killer. And as the hunt brings him in contact with other people of “his kind,” Decker begins to realize that there may be depths to his gifts that he had never even imagined.

Meanwhile, several parties are secretly tracking the progress of Decker’s son, trying to determine if Seth has the same powerful gift as his father. Decker is determined to go to any lengths to find his son, but along the way he will have to face down enemies, both old and new, as well as struggle with whether Seth even wants to be found.

David Rotenberg’s thrilling sequel to The Placebo Effect is full of suspense and will challenge what you think you know about people who have special “gifts.” From rural Africa to downtown Toronto, the paths of Rotenberg’s colourful characters intertwine as they move toward a conclusion that none of them can see coming. – Publisher’s Website

Decker is one frantic father.  When looking for his son, he’s in the middle of something else horrific that happens.  Can he get out of it, no.  In this second installment, Decker meets some other “special” people who have some of the same gifts he has, finds more about who and what his gifts entail.

I dove into this book as soon as I received it.  I wanted to know more about Decker, his friends – if they wanted to harm him or help him.  Right now, that is still up for debate, but in this second installment of the Junction Chronicles, I’m as deeply into it as I ever was before.  I for one want a happy ending, but with things going as they are, I am not sure.  The book ends at that pivotal point in the book where you all will go nooooooooo!! and wanting to know what happens.

We will have to wait until book three, probably next year to finally find out what exactly does happen with Decker, his son, and everyone else in the cast of characters of this nail-biting thriller/mystery.  I can’t wait!  Maybe I can bribe the publisher or the author for a peek…we shall see ha!

David’s Website – Goodreads - David’s Acting Website - Reading Group Guide - Placebo Effect Review - Q and A with David

 

The Poisoned Pawn – Peggy Blair – BLOG TOUR

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blair_poisonedpawn_pbWhen Cuban Inspector Ricardo Ramirez is dispatched to Canada and told to bring home a priest found in possession of child pornography depicting Cuban children, he knows his job will be hard enough. But it gets worse once he’s in Ottawa, and women in Havana start dropping dead from a mysterious toxin. Worried about his family, powerless to help pathologist Hector Apiro, and faced with the threat of a Canadian travel advisory that could shut down Cuban tourism, Ramirez tries focus on his mission. As he does, he untangles a web of deceit and depravity that extends all the way from the corridors of power in Ottawa to those of the Vatican, and uncovers a cold-blooded killer.

The Poisoned Pawn is the gripping, fast-paced sequel to the award-winning, critically acclaimed mystery The Beggar’s Opera. Evoking the crumbling beauty of Old Havana and featuring Inspector Ramirez, a man haunted by the victims of his unsolved cases, it’s perfect for fans of Donna Leon and Martin Cruz Smith who love exotic settings and unforgettable characters.  - Publisher’s Website

I really have to say, Peggy is getting better and better with her 2nd book in the Inspector Ramirez series.  She has penned a book that has everything tucked away in a concise and entertaining series.  Even though this book is set mostly in Canada, Inspector Ramirez’s mind is as clear as ever, even with the sub-zero temperatures.  He has more things up his sleeve during this investigation that I would have thought of, but he does it with class and grace.

Do not underestimate him!  I want the next book to come out already! My earlier review of Peggy’s first book is located here, so go and take a look.  Also, the Begger’s Opera is now available in the U.S., so if you live there, go and get yourself a copy and get ready to immerse yourself in Cuban Culture, and Mystery Writing at it’s finest.

Much Thanks to Peggy and Penguin Canada for allowing me to take part in the blog tour again.  Always looking forward to great new emerging Canadian Talent! I’m so happy to be able to bring this to you along with many, many more that I have loved.  So, go and get both books in the series if you haven’t read them, and the first in the U.S. and are new to Peggy’s work.  I can attest that you will not be disappointed in the least !

If you are looking for other view points on this book and her first, the blog tour isn’t finished yet.  You can go to these blogs and see what they had to say about Peggy’s newest work.

Feb 25 -  The Literary Word
Feb 26 -  Curled Up with a Good Book and a Cup of Tea
Feb 28 -  Just a Lil Lost
March 4 -  A Bookworm’s World
March 5 -  Serendipitous Readings  – That’s Here !
March 6 –  Literary Treats
March 7 - Thrifty Momma ’s Brainfood 

Excerpt – Peggy on Twitter – Peggy’s Website - Goodreads - Facebook – Peggy’s Blog - My review of The Beggar’s Opera – Q&A w. Peggy

The Red Pole of Macau – Ian Hamilton

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In The Red Pole of Macau, Ava’s half-brother Michael is desperate to pull out of a multi-million-dollar real estate deal in the territory of Macau. The developers are threatening to halt construction unless Michael and his business partner put up another $80 million; the bank is looking for repayment on their loan; and her father is prepared to sell everything to protect his first-born son.

When Ava enlists Uncle for help, she discovers his health is failing and is forced to turn to a former client, the cunning and seductive May Ling Wong. As Ava follows the money trail, she finds herself drawn deeper and deeper into Hong Kong’s dark and deadly world of organized crime.

Will Ava protect her family’s future? Or will this job lead to a violent end . . . – Publishers Website

Fangirl Moment when this arrived in the mail !! The fourth installment of Ian Hamilton’s Ava Lee Series ! I admit, I was engrossed in another book when this one arrived, but it was literally starting me down from the living room table, I had to put down the other book, until this one was read cover to cover, in the middle of reading I’m sending my thoughts to Ava with things like “Get That Sucker!” as well as other expletives that I can’t divulge here.  Tee hee!

I absolutely LOVE Ian’s collection so far, and wont give up on reading them until the last one has been shed, the plots revealed, and Ava has ridden the world of evil and people who are trying – yes, trying to take something away from people who a) don’t deserve it, or b) are being greedy!

I found out something quite interesting (at least to me) Some have commented on Goodreads that the constant name dropping of fashion brands, and of course her Starbucks Via in the books have turned people off the books.  But, when I was at Word on the Street in Toronto, I found out by the publicist that in fact in the Asian culture, that is what they do, they go by designer names, etc.  It is just their culture.  No more no less.   And I realize that here in Canada or anywhere else that sounds a bit much or irritating, but Ian has toned it down so to speak.  You won’t hear as much of it in the books, but you do see some of it.

So, now that I’m done gushing about Ian and his Ava, go and get the books all right?!?  They are FANTASTIC!  Ava comes out with a new book in February, so get caught up would you !!

Browse inside - Ian on Twitter - Ian on Facebook - Goodreads - Ian’s Website

I really wish there were some book trailers for Ava, She would kick some serious ass in them !

Guilt by Degrees – Marcia Clark

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Someone has been watching D.A. Rachel Knight—someone who’s Rachel’s equal in brains, but with more malicious intentions. It began when a near-impossible case fell into Rachel’s lap, the suspectless homicide of a homeless man. In the face of courthouse backbiting and a gauzy web of clues, Rachel is determined to deliver justice.

She’s got back-up: tenacious Detective Bailey Keller. As Rachel and Bailey stir things up, they’re shocked to uncover a connection with the vicious murder of an LAPD cop a year earlier.

Rachel suspects someone knows the truth, someone who’d kill to keep it secret. Harrowing, smart, and riotously entertaining, GUILT BY DEGREES is a thrilling ride through the world of Los Angeles courts with the unforgettable Rachel Knight. – Publishers Website

I am really liking Rachel !  In Marcia’s 2nd fiction book, Rachel is becoming more and more one of those literary characters that won’t be soon forgotten.  With her steely determination to find out who did what, when, where and make them pay has me almost cheering ( in a non fangirl squealing mess). I have to save that for a Canadian Fictional Character, sorry Marcia !!

I’m liking the action, the information Marcia effortlessly passes on as Rachel follows this case to the bitter end…literally.  Bailey her 2nd hand person, definitely gives the bad guys a run for their money.  I wonder if there are really tough female detectives like this in real life.  More than likely!

I have to say, Marcia has definitely hit the genre running and probably won’t give up the fight anytime soon.  The Mass Market comes out in March, but you can still get a hardcover more than likely.  If you liked her first book Guilt by Association, you will definitely like this one.  I’m looking forward to her next installment.

I have had a few instances where I have chatted with Marcia on twitter and on Facebook, she is really quite personable so don’t be shy and say hi.  Just be nice and respectful…

Marcia’s Website – Facebook – Twitter -

 

 

The Orphan Master’s Son – Adam Johnson – TLC Blog Tour

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Pak Jun Do is the haunted son of a lost mother—a singer “stolen” to Pyongyang—and an influential father who runs a work camp for orphans. Superiors in the state soon recognize the boy’s loyalty and keen instincts. Considering himself “a humble citizen of the greatest nation in the world,” Jun Do rises in the ranks. He becomes a professional kidnapper who must navigate the shifting rules, arbitrary violence, and baffling demands of his Korean overlords in order to stay alive. Driven to the absolute limit of what any human being could endure, he boldly takes on the treacherous role of rival to Kim Jong Il in an attempt to save the woman he loves, Sun Moon, a legendary actress “so pure, she didn’t know what starving people looked like.”

In this epic, critically acclaimed tour de force, Adam Johnson provides a riveting portrait of a world rife with hunger, corruption, and casual cruelty but also camaraderie, stolen moments of beauty, and love. – Publishers Website

At first, I got this book mixed up with another book, so initially I had said no; then as I was going through some other things I decided to click the link for it and realized my mistake.  Once I was finished reading the description, I said yes to reading this particular book.

It did sound intriguing at first, but once I opened it up to actually read it, I was astounded, shocked, and scared for the people of North Korea.  To be subjected to unspeakable acts of abuse by their government was one thing, having a fictionalized account was another.  Where most of the things were most likely accurate and not unheard of.    But then there is this main character Pak Jun Do who first lives in an orphanage where his father is the orphan master, then onto a labor camp, who then you see working in varying different jobs, until he is in one of the most coveted jobs – as taking over one of the more prominent people in North Korea.   Through his wild rides through the bureaucracy, to the United States, and back again, he serves as the novels hero in some respect – trying to be invisible but yet in his final position to free a woman and her children from the ravages of the living conditions, the propaganda, and harshest living conditions to be free.

It had taken me a bit of time to fully read this novel.  At first, I thought it was a unusual story, but as you delve further into it, it’s the story of probably many of the people of this communist country – less the assumptions of different characters of course.  I have read somewhere that the author had taken one trip to North Korea to research this novel, and i cannot believe that he captured it so effortlessly.  My impression is that of shock that people are still made to live like this in the world now.  (Here I go wearing my heart on my sleeve again…)  If you are interested in at least a fictionalized account of North Korea, the people and other things, then this is the book for you.  I felt as if I was inside the country ducking to hide wherever I could so I wouldn’t be captured much like some of the characters in the book.

Goodreads - Excerpt – Reader’s Guide - Facebook

 

Thanks to the women at TLC Book Tours for including me in this tour ! Here are the other blogs where you can find this book and other thoughts:

Tuesday, August 7th:  Booklover’s Book Reviews

Wednesday, August 8th:  The Bowed Bookshelf

Thursday, August 9th:  Unabridged Chick

Monday, August 13th:  As I Turn the Pages

Tuesday, August 14th:  Gone Bookserk

Monday, August 20th:  Life in Review

Tuesday, August 21st:  Unabridged Chick – author interview

Wednesday, August 22nd:  Lit and Life

Thursday, August 23rd:  Bookish Habits

Monday, August 27th:  The Scarlett Letter

Tuesday, August 28th:  Book Dilettante

Tuesday, September 4th:  Serendipitous Reading

Monday, September 10th:  Peeking Between the Pages

Tuesday, September 18th:  You’ve GOTTA read this!

TBD:  Col Reads

TBD:  So Simply Sara

Comic-Con Episode IV: A Fan’s Hope – DK Publishing

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Oscar-nominated filmmaker Morgan Spurlock teams up with Joss Whedon and comic book legend Stan Lee to provide an insider look at the unique experience that is the San Diego Comic-Con. An annual four-day event that originally showcased comic books and science fiction, the convention has expanded over the years to include film, horror, anime, manga, animation and video games. The largest event of its kind in the world, Comic-Con is the quintessential center of pop culture today. From what Comic-Con is, what goes on, and how it became what it is today, this illustrated companion to the film offers an unprecedented look at this annual event.

  • Includes interviews with Frank Miller, Matt Groening,Kenneth Branagh, Ellen Page and Seth Rogan

Morgan Spurlock was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary for Super Size Me. He followed up with the well received Where in the World is Osama Bin Laden(2008), and produced three seasons of his acclaimed television series 30 Days. Spurlock also conceived, wrote, and directed The Simpsons’ 20th Anniversary Special in 3-D. His feature-length adaptation of the New York Times Bestseller Freakonomics was released in Fall 2010. He is also the author of Don’t Eat This Book!, based on his documentary Super Size Me.- Publishers Website

I have never been to one of these festivals, but by the looks of it from inside these pages, it would have to be one of those most fantastical places, albeit, for a week or two.

The fans, the costumes, the panels, and of course the sneak peeks into movies or anything else you wanted to know about is all there.  It would be one of those one moments in time, where you would experience everything at once.  What a whirlwind!

I really loved the enthusiasm that the fans have for their most loved comic, movies, graphic novels and so much more.  What would you want to do there ? I think I would want to experience a little of everything.  That is if I had time to do so! Below, check out some of the costumes, fans, celebrities, and more inside the book.

Comic-Con Site – Comic-Con Twitter – Facebook – YouTube

#22 – Sidney Sheldon’s Angel of the Dark – Tilly Bagshawe

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It was his first big murder case—and one of the bloodiest and most violent crimes LAPD detective Danny McGuire would ever encounter. Andrew Jakes, an elderly multimillionaire art dealer, had been brutally murdered in his Hollywood home, his lifeless body tied to his naked young wife. Raped and beaten, the lovely Angela Jakes had barely survived the attack herself. Gazing into her deep, soulful eyes, Danny swore that he’d find the psychopath behind this barbarous act. But the investigation didn’t turn up a single solid lead, and within days of Angela’s release from the hospital, the stunning young widow—Danny’s only witness—had vanished.

For ten years Danny McGuire could not forget the sweet face of Angela Jakes and the terrible crime that had shattered her life; his obsession with her nearly cost him his sanity. Now in France, thousands of miles from the past—with a new life, a new job with Interpol, and a ravishing new wife—he’s happier than he’s ever been . . . until he meets Andrew Jakes’s estranged son, Matt Daley.

Curious about his father’s murder, Matt has been digging into the cold case—and made some shocking discoveries. Three killings nearly identical to his father’s have taken place across the globe. The victims were elderly, newlywed millionaires, their young wives assaulted. And in each case the widow, the sole beneficiary of the will, donated her newfound wealth to children’s charities and then vanished. Could it be true? Had the Jakes killer struck again? If so, Danny knows he must tread carefully or risk losing everything for good.

The evidence points to a single killer—a brilliant and ruthless criminal who travels across the globe under a string of assumed identities, cleverly keeping one step ahead of the law. Joining forces, Danny and Matt pursue this intriguing shadow from Los Angeles to London, New York to Italy and the French Riviera, in a tantalizing game of cat and mouse filled with promising leads and frustrating dead ends. When another murder fitting the profile occurs, Matt heads to Hong Kong, hoping to get answers from the latest widow, Lisa Baring, and perhaps uncover the hard evidence they need.

But Matt becomes besotted with the irresistible beauty, nearly derailing the investigation, and Danny wonders whether Lisa is truly a victim or something more sinister. When a break in the case sends Danny to Mumbai, he knows he must act quickly, for the clever killer is poised to strike again.

A fast-paced story full of mystery, glamour, excitement, and spectacular twists that build to a stunning ending, Sidney Sheldon’s Angel of the Dark is quintessential Sheldon from first page to last. – Publishers Website

I was looking forward to this book, since Sidney Sheldon or rather the genre that he had meticulously made into a best-selling series had been great.  I was a bit disappointed with this one.  Tilly Bagshawe has taken over the series from the master after his passing, and I have to say it was a great premise, but for me, it fell short in its delivery.  Smaller than the earlier books, I just kind of thought it a bit rushed in its delivery, some things weren’t described in detail as much as it had been before.  I think that fans of Sidney and his work may find it a bit different, but Tilly does a grand job of attempting to integrate his style of writing and hers into one cohesive style.  For me, I’m divided.  Although, I was excited to have a chance of reading some Sidney Sheldon style mystery/thriller/detective type book, for me it just left me going huh?at the end of it.

Tilly’s Website – Sidney’s Website – Browse Inside

 

#21 – Stray Bullets – Robert Rotenberg

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In The Guilty Plea and Old City Hall, critically-acclaimed Canadian author Robert Rotenberg created gripping page-turners that captured audiences in Canada and around the world.

Rotenberg’s bestsellers do for Toronto what Ian Rankin has done for Edinburgh and Michael Connolly for Los Angeles.

In Stray Bullets, Rotenberg takes the reader to a snowy November night. Outside a busy downtown doughnut shop, gunshots ring out and a young boy is critically hurt. Soon Detective Ari Greene is on scene. How many shots were fired? How many guns? How many witnesses?

With grieving parents and a city hungry for justice, the pressure is on to convict the man accused of this horrible crime. Against this tidal-wave of indignation, defence counsel Nancy Parish finds herself defending her oldest, and most difficult, client.

But does anyone know the whole story?

Stray Bullets is Robert Rotenberg’s third intricate mystery set on the streets and, in the courtrooms, of Toronto. – Publishers Website

I have to say Robert’s newest novel set in busy Toronto is another winner !!  It doesn’t let up, it keeps amping up, by the time you have finished the book it’s like you have gotten off a runaway train plus or minus a few details.  With Robert’s busy legal practice, I cannot fathom how he can churn out a book every year with all the edits and re-writes !! I was introduced to his work last year when The Guilty Plea came out for a blog tour along with a mini Q and A , he just keeps going and going.  His narrative is set just perfect along the storyline he is creating.  There are no awkward jumps or starts -  it is a smooth sailing as much as a murder case whodunit can be right?

I am looking forward to much more from this Canadian who continues to get my read on !! I hope you will discover him and say yes, you are a new and excited fan!!  It doesn’t hurt either that he is being compared to Ian Rankin from Scotland and Michael Connelly from California!!

Robert’s Website – Facebook – Twitter – Goodreads – Read an Excerpt

 

#19 & #20 – Double Post – DK Star Wars – The Secret Life of Drones and Star Wars – Year By Year – A Visual Chronicle – DK Books

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Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be C-3PO or what R2-D2′s function is?

Well now you can find out in Star Wars: The Secret Life of Droids from DK’s newest Star Wars series. Learn about the many types of droids from large and fearsome droidekas, to the smart and helpful astromech droids.

The Secret Life of Droids looks at the classic Star Wars galaxy from a fresh, new perspective, and features a timeline giving the reader a quick-reference overview of the events and information featured. Interactive and dynamic pages presenting events thematically rather than chronologically will allow young readers to uncover droid technology and discover each of its individual functions! – Publishers Website

 

AND…

 

 

 

 

 

From the first release of Star Wars: A New Hope in 1977 to the 2009 second season of The Clone Wars, Star Wars Year By Year: A Visual Chronicle is an unparalleled chronological journey through the making of the most epic science fiction series ever! Featuring incredible illustrations and stills, the book chronologically details the history and development of the Star Wars movies; the events, press, and logistics surrounding the making of each movie; and exclusive interviews with people who worked behind the scenes. The year-by-year format includes images from the movies, TV series, comic books, video games, and novels as well as movie posters, memorabilia, book covers, and more. – Publishers Website

I cannot say enough about DK’s Books !! I love each and every one of them !!!  Since it is May 4th, and it is May the 4th Be With You, this is an extra special day for Star Wars and DK !!  I have many of their books, but the specific topics they publish about are I have to say the absolute best of any of the books out there !!  They add imagination, full colour photography, interesting ways of actually giving you the information so you are engaged and informed at that really boring office party or wherever you are, just to make that awkward situation just a little better.  And who doesn’t know about star wars right?!?

Everything you wanted to know about droids but where afraid to ask?  The secret life of droids is the book for you.  Has your child who is obviously old enough to have watched one or all the movies wondered this question, have no fear; all their questions and then some are incorporated into this small book for any age, young or old.

In the Year by Year compilation, if you are one of those “fans” that go to the conventions, have been a fan of the movies and or the Star Wars movement since the start, and don’t have this book, this is the time to get it!

Inside the cover is an envelope that has 2 high quality pictures that are special to the book.  It does have a thick cover to enclose the book so that you can display it with pride along all of your other Star Wars books, figurines, movie posters.  Yes, I know you do, just nod your head and agree, I know you want to!

The Year by Year book is something! It is the ultimate pop culture collection, from George Lucas’ initial career of a movie maker, to what inspired him to everything in between; this is the greatest Star Wars Lovers Paradise !!

And from today until May 6th, if you live in Canada and buy any of the DK Star Wars Books at any of the Chapters/Indigo/Coles family of stores, DK Canada will make a donation to the Indigo Love of Reading Foundation.  For more information, click on this link and get to buying some of the books you don’t have already in your collection!!  Or just joining in on the celebrations that are going on today throughout Canada !!!

Here is a sneak peek inside The Secret Life of Drones and Star Wars Year by Year – A Visual Chronicle to see what I am talking about !

StarWars 2012

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#16 – The Winter Palace: A Novel of Catherine the Great – Eva Stachniak

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From award-winning author Eva Stachniak comes this passionate novel that illuminates, as only fiction can, the early life of one of history’s boldest women. The Winter Palace tells the epic story of Catherine the Great’s improbable rise to power—as seen through the ever-watchful eyes of an all-but-invisible servant close to the throne.

Her name is Barbara—in Russian, Varvara. Nimble-witted and attentive, she’s allowed into the employ of the Empress Elizabeth, amid the glitter and cruelty of the world’s most eminent court. Under the tutelage of Count Bestuzhev, Chancellor and spymaster, Varvara will be educated in skills from lock picking to lovemaking, learning above all else to listen—and to wait for opportunity. That opportunity arrives in a slender young princess from Zerbst named Sophie, a playful teenager destined to become the indomitable Catherine the Great. Sophie’s destiny at court is to marry the Empress’s nephew, but she has other, loftier, more dangerous ambitions, and she proves to be more guileful than she first appears.

What Sophie needs is an insider at court, a loyal pair of eyes and ears who knows the traps, the conspiracies, and the treacheries that surround her. Varvara will become Sophie’s confidante—and together the two young women will rise to the pinnacle of absolute power.

With dazzling details and intense drama, Eva Stachniak depicts Varvara’s secret alliance with Catherine as the princess grows into a legend—through an enforced marriage, illicit seductions, and, at last, the shocking coup to assume the throne of all of Russia.

Impeccably researched and magnificently written, The Winter Palace is an irresistible peek through the keyhole of one of history’s grandest tale. – Publishers Website

I absolutely LOVED this book.  Eva portrays these two women with such confidence, surety, and conviction in what they believe in and what they will do to get it.  I am sure that Catherine the Great, and all of what she has done in the past surely has her heroes and haters, but I really liked this book.

It is filled with drama, dilemmas, fighting and intrigue, and if you haven’t read it yet, go and get it I LOVED this book!

Reader’s Guide – Eva’s Website – Facebook – Twitter


#10 – The Wild Beasts of Wuhan – Ian Hamilton

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The Third installment in the wildly popular Ava Lee series, The Wild Beast of Wuhan uncovers the secret world of art fraud.

In The Wild Beasts of Wuhan, Uncle and Ava are summoned by Wong Changxing, “The Emperor of Hubei” and one of the most powerful men in China, when he discovers that the Fauvist paintings he recently acquired are in fact forgeries.

Ava uncovers a ring of fraudulent art dealers and follows their twisted trail to the Netherlands, the Faeroe Islands, Dublin, London, and New York. But the job is further complicated by Wong’s second wife, the cunning and seductive May Ling, who threaten to interfere in Ava’s investigation.

Will Ava find the perpetrators and get the Wongs’ money back? Or will May Ling get to them first… – Publishers Website

Oh Ava, how I have missed you !! You are smart, sexy, agile in more ways than one, you always manage to get things done no matter the consequences, the difficulty hunting down the bad guys, making all right with the world until the next situation comes up.  Ian surely has hit his stride with the series and his main character Ava.  This time it is about forged art, and although she isn’t sure she can produce results, you hang on while reading to see what happens next.  When I received this book I believe I actually squealed (possibly even jumped up and down a bit, but shhh don’t let anyone  know ok?)

There is also something new in the book or in her world – Ava has a love interest, which changes it a bit, but it is a good change.  I’m not sure how this will affect future books, we will just have to wait and see.  AS a matter of fact, Ian has just signed a new contract with House of Anansi – Spiderline to a new deal which will have 3 new books in the mix after the Fall release of The Red Pole of Macau.  So, I am just as excited  and honoured to be allowed to read these before anyone else when it hits the stores.

So, if you haven’t already read my reviews of Ian’s earlier novels in this series they are Book 1 – The Water Rat of Wanchai – Book 2 – The Disciple of Las Vegas and this one of course.  So, I cannot get enough of Ian’s series so far, what about you?I just wish that I could get all of the books at once and read them from start to finish ! Ian?!?  House of Anansi ?!? are you listening …hint hint ha!

Ian’s Website – Facebook – Twitter – GoodReads - Reading Guide – Read an Excerpt

#9 – The Inquisitor – Mark Allen Smith

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A spectacularly original thriller about a professional torturer who has a strict code, a mysterious past, and a dangerous conviction that he can save the life of an innocent child

Geiger has a gift: he knows a lie the instant he hears it. And in his business—called “information retrieval” by its practitioners—that gift is invaluable, because truth is the hottest thing on the market.

Geiger’s clients count on him to extract the truth from even the most reluctant subjects. Unlike most of his competitors, Geiger rarely sheds blood, but he does use a variety of techniques—some physical, many psychological—to push his subjects to a point where pain takes a backseat to fear. Because only then will they finally stop lying.

One of Geiger’s rules is that he never works with children. So when his partner, former journalist Harry Boddicker, unwittingly brings in a client who demands that Geiger interrogate a twelve-year-old boy, Geiger responds instinctively. He rescues the boy from his captor, removes him to the safety of his New York City loft, and promises to protect him from further harm. But if Geiger and Harry cannot quickly discover why the client is so desperate to learn the boy’s secret, they themselves will become the victims of an utterly ruthless adversary.

Mesmerizing and heart-in-your-throat compelling, The Inquisitor is a completely unique thriller that introduces both an unforgettable protagonist and a major new talent in Mark Allen Smith. – Publishers Website

When I received this book, I was really excited when I opened the envelope and read the back immediately.  A lump had formed in my throat when I did read the back.  It nearly had sounded like a very similar book I had read before, almost too mush the same.

As I opened the pages and started reading, I soon found out, it was nothing like the earlier book I had read.  Completely different.  I was so relieved, and dug into it as fast as I could read, and found it to be a really great read.  I believe it had taken me a day or 2 to read it from start to finish, the plot and characters were interesting, the premise intriguing, and hopefully, we will have another book soon, because I want to know what happens to Geiger.  Does he come back to exact revenge, or goes back to doing what he has been – exacting the truth from people.

On the back of the galley I received, it states that it was to be released sometime in January, but when I went to their website, it stated sometime in April.  So, I contacted the person who sent it to me because I wanted to double-check if there was an embargo on the book and not to publish my review too early, but since there wasn’t here it is.  If you are a fan of the thriller/action/adventure genre I believe that you will like this book when it is released, so go out and get it.  It is also known as The Truth Hurts

Excerpt – Read – Audio – Goodreads – Facebook Page – Website – Twitter

#8 – The Beggar’s Opera – Peggy Blair

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In beautiful, crumbling Old Havana, Canadian detective Mike Ellis hopes the sun and sand will help save his troubled marriage.

He doesn’t yet know that it’s dead in the water—much like the little Cuban boy last seen begging the Canadian couple for a few pesos on the world famous Malecon.

For Inspector Ricardo Ramirez, head of the Major Crimes Unit of the Cuban National Revolutionary Police, finding his prime suspect isn’t a problem—Cuban law is.

He has only seventy-two hours to secure an indictment and prevent a vicious killer from leaving the island. But Ramirez also has his own troubles to worry about. He’s dying of the same dementia that killed his grandmother, an incurable disease that makes him see the ghosts of victims of unsolved murders. As he races against time, the dead haunt his every step … – Publishers Website

What a breath of fresh air ! I loved Peggy’s tale of Cuba, intrigue, suspense, action and adventure.  She kept me guessing all through the novel, just when I thought I knew who the bad guy was, I was so totally wrong!   She had woven a tale that I am almost sad that I got to read the first book of three, because now I want to read them all at once ! Oh well, we will just have to wait until Peggy is finished writing those book don’t we?  Peggy, I just hope that I am one of the first on that list to be able to get a sneak peek before everyone else (I love my job reviewing) I think just because of that, I get a sneak peek at books that I loved and gush about before any of the public does! Too bad the pay isn’t better ! ha ha !!

So, if you are a fan of the thriller, action, adventure genre, then this new to you and me author will have you glued to wherever you’re reading this and will have you there until you have read the last word on the page.  Then you will think to yourself, Peggy!! Hurry Up!! I want more please !!

Stay tuned, I have a Q and A with Peggy that I have done recently with her, as well as a list of other blogs that are on her Blog Tour so you can see what they had to say about Peggy’s first book of three.  It will be posted immediately here after I am done this post.

Beggars Opera Site – Peggy on Twitter – Goodreads – Peggy’s Website – Facebook – Peggy’s Blog – Read an Excerpt

 

The Placebo Effect – David Rotenberg – Q and A

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Please welcome David to the blog, read on what he had to say about what I had asked and a special peek inside something he is writing this moment…..

SR:  If you had to choose would you rather write books for the rest of your life or continue to teach, direct actors? Why?

 DR:  I actually need both. The writing makes me a better teacher, the actors I work with make me a better writer. My initial profession was as a professional stage director. I ran an American Regional Theatre for years an actually directed a few times on Broadway. When I came back home, to Canada, I couldn’t manage to get into that line of work up here, don’t really know why

SR:  In your novel, synesthesia is prominent in the main characters attributes, have you or someone you know come across a person with these abilities? If so, was that one of the main reasons you had used it in your novel The Placebo Effect?

DR:  No one I know has such abilities. I’ve always written about people with special abilities, the five Zhong Fong novels are about a man with exceptional talent in a world where special talents are not honored. When I directed the first Canadian play in the People’s Republic of China the first thing the Artistic Director of that theatre said to me was, “You must remember that you can always be replace”-a fine hello, how was your flight!

Synesthesia simply gives and access to the ‘other.’ There is a lot of material on synesthesia; some of the most interesting is actually the documentary on Mr. Tammet and his extraordinary abilities. There is also a gentleman called the human camera, you can find YouTube stuff on both, and BBC documentaries. As well Mr. Tammet has an interesting book.  Rainman was based loosely on the man who Mr. Tammet thought of as his spiritual father-he passed away a few years back.

SR:  Do you think the world as a whole could make use of Decker’s talent of knowing when people are telling the truth given the state of the world today?

DR:  Sure would simplify a he said/she said situation, don’t you think?

SR:   Is there a special place that you read? Write? If so, where and why?

DR:  I’ve had a private locked room for over 40 years. I usually write there. When I’m stuck I go to the store and buy a nice pad of paper and a new pen and write in long hand for a while. I tend to read in bed, quite late into the night, although often when I’m writing I’m not able to read.

SR:  When can we expect book 2 and three of the Junction Chronicles? 

DR:  Book two of The Junction Chronicles is with the publisher, it’s entitled A Murder of Crows. You’ll have to ask them when it’s going to come out! As well, I have a subseries that I’m working on called Seth’s Dream. At this point it’s two volumes long, very much speculative fiction, don’t know when/if it will get published.

Here’s the opening of A Murder of Crows

Ch. Prologue – An Idyll of Thoughts at T – Plus 4 Days and 16 Seconds

THOUGHTS: This is a foolish country. And this town with its obsessively symmetrical old church is ridiculous.
These people believe they will live forever. They hide death behind walls and bury it in places with names like Pleasant Valley and Peaceful Rest. We in the East know that death is neither pleasant nor restful.

Perhaps we spend too much time thinking about our deaths – but death is real. It is the only certainty. And to refuse to confront a certainty is foolishness. A foolishness that all these Americans will be forced to abandon when we force them to understand that Judgement awaits everyone – everyone.

Look at all these kids and their parents. Look at them. So self-satisfied. So convinced they are special – the chosen ones. And they all love America. Well why not? America has made the parents wealthy and is going to make most of these privileged kids rich too. While backed by their military might this horror of a country makes the rest of the world its slaves. And these science profs up there on the stage invented much of the military prowess of this country while these students all around me are preparing to take their places.

All are soldiers of the oppressor.

But there will be justice – even here, on this pampered campus in Upper New York State there will be justice. It will come – as surely as putting NAME OF CHEMICAL together with NAME OF CHEMICAL will cause a massive explosion – it will come.

Be sure to be on the lookout for this first installment into the Junction Chronicles.   Thank You to David and the Publicity Team at Simon and Schuster Canada for allowing me to be a part of this blog tour. I’m really looking forward to A Murder with Crows.

Now, get reading !!

#6 – The Placebo Effect – David Rotenberg

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Decker Roberts has the dangerous gift of detecting the truth. For years this talent proved to be a lucrative sideline to his acting teaching. Only his closest friends know, and he keeps his identity secret from the companies that pay him to tell them if the people they are planning to hire are lying.

But Decker’s carefully compartmentalized life starts to fall apart. His house burns down, his credit cards are cancelled, his bank loan is called and his studio is condemned.

He realizes that he must have heard something in one of his truth telling sessions that someone didn’t want him to know.

Decker has to go on the run and figure out why he’s been targeted. There’s also a government agent hunting him who seems to know absolutely everything about Decker Roberts’ identities, real and false—and other people of “his kind.” How will Decker find out which truth is endangering his life?

Who betrayed him and revealed all his secrets? Decker needs to find answers quickly, before knowing the truth turns from a gift into a deadly curse.- Publishers Website

I really enjoyed the angle of this book.  Synesthesia is an actual phenomenon if you will, it does exist, if you happen to do a google search as I did.  My main question would be would you want to have this sort of magical super-power?  I guess it would have to be said I would love to have one, but not one that would get me into trouble for one, after all I am an angel…tee hee!  David’s writing was engrossing, informative, entertaining, and a terrific waste of time.  Just remember that this is the first in a series I believe of three books, with David giving me a bit of a scoop on the next one in a Q and A I did with him over email recently.   He just so happens to be a fellow Canadian, this isn’t his first book either.  He’s written 5 mysteries set in Modern China, as well as a best-selling historical fiction novel.  I don’t think I will have any resistance in grabbing his next novel, regardless of the setting, he sure can write !

Facebook – David’s Website – Excerpt – Reading Group Questions

Stay tuned, as I have done a Q and A with David, it will be posted right after I am done posting this review !!

#70 – A Trick Of The Light – Louise Penny

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“Hearts are broken,” Lillian Dyson carefully underlined in a book. “Sweet relationships are dead.”

But now Lillian herself is dead. Found among the bleeding hearts and lilacs of Clara Morrow’s garden in Three Pines, shattering the celebrations of Clara’s solo show at the famed Musée in Montreal. Chief Inspector Gamache, the head of homicide at the Sûreté du Québec, is called to the tiny Quebec village and there he finds the art world gathered, and with it a world of shading and nuance, a world of shadow and light.  Where nothing is as it seems.  Behind every smile there lurks a sneer. Inside every sweet relationship there hides a broken heart.  And even when facts are slowly exposed, it is no longer clear to Gamache and his team if what they’ve found is the truth, or simply a trick of the light.  – Publishers Website

I was/am so blown away by Louise’s writing.  With this being my first foray into the land of Louise Penny’s Detective Gamache’s Mystery/Thriller series, I was certainly not disappointed in the least.  She makes you so comfortable as you are sitting there engaged in the realm of the book – Three Pines.  The local celebrities, some famous, some just local ones as Clara has come back from Montreal from her very first art show which  received rave reviews. It is as if you are sitting in the local café eating a pastry and a café au lait, enjoying the people watching from afar.

The morning after is something else entirely – A woman’s body is found in her garden bed of bleeding hearts.  When Chief Inspector Gamache arrives to see the scene and the guests that have inhabited this small sleepy town ( the art scene usual suspects) nothing is at is seems.  As Clara and many others in the book have found out, they are also shocked about who this woman was, the history behind the woman, the relationship this woman has with the visitors – as well as Clara and her husband.  Is it simply a Trick of The Light?

I loved the pace at which she puts you at ease immediately – not too slow, not too fast.  She sets a comfortable rhythm, then as you have gotten comfortable, it is as if she literally rips the chair or rug out from under you – into this world of unknown, until the last word read; you are left out of breath, wondering, waiting for the next opportunity to be entrenched in her web of mystery, like an addict needing that next fix.  I don’t think I have ever been so entranced in a mystery / thriller like this in a long time.  But, I only found this out lately, I cannot wait until I have the chance to read her other work that has been previously published, and of course when the next one will be out in the world so I can devour it just as fast as I did this one.

It also happens that Louise is a fellow Canadian.

Excerpt – Reading Guide – print - online – Goodreads – Facebook – Blog – Website

#69 – Never Knowing – Chevy Stevens

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All her life, Sara Gallagher has wondered about her birth parents. As an adopted child with two sisters who were born naturally to her parents, Sara did not have an ideal home life. The question of why she was given up for adoption has always haunted her. Finally, she is ready to take steps and to find closure.

But some questions are better left unanswered.

After months of research, Sara locates her birth mother–only to be met with horror and rejection. Then she discovers the devastating truth: Her mother was the only victim ever to escape a killer who has been hunting women every summer for decades. But Sara soon realizes the only thing worse than finding out about her father is him finding out about her.

What if murder is in your blood?

Never Knowing is a complex and compelling portrayal of one woman’s quest to understand herself, her origins, and her family. That is, if she can survive. . . . – Publishers Website

I really loved this book!! If you are a fan of mysteries/thrillers then this is the book for you.  I had read this during the summer months when the weather was anything but comfortable.  There have been many things that I have dealt with, so my apologies for posting this later than I normally would.  So, Chevy Stevens is a new to me author, but I am such a fan of how she writes…This book nearly made the hair stand up on my neck.  Almost, but no.

Sara is being stalked.  She doesn’t know by who or why.  It could be because of her past.  Her mother was raped and she was the product of that rape.  Now as an adult, she has her life  nearly complete, ready to get married to her soul mate.  She may be over reacting, but when things start to get out of control, she has no choice but to go and get help.  The thing is…it isn’t really who she thought it was…or is it ?!?

This is the perfect book to read on one of those days where you are stuck in the house, nothing is on TV and you just have to have your fix of something thrilling, mysterious, something that isn’t on TV or you have already watched 2-3 times already..you know the saying 57 channels and nothing on.  It just so happens that Chevy is a fellow Canadian as well, but she lives in the US.  I am for sure going to go and find her earlier novel – Still Missing.

Since the Halloween season is done with, you are now free to not think about ghosts and goblins at your door while reading this !

Read an excerpt – Chevy’s Website – Facebook – Chevy on Twitter


#67 – The Disciple of Las Vegas – Ian Hamilton

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The second novel in the Ava Lee series launched under Anansi’s new crime fiction imprint, Spiderline

In The Disciple of Las Vegas, Uncle and Ava are hired by Tommy Ordonez, the richest man in the Philippines, to recover $50 million in a land swindle that took place in Canada and involves his brother. The Filipino billionaire’s reputation is on the line, and his family is on the brink of disaster.

Ava tracks the missing funds from Canada to San Francisco to accounts in Costa Rica owned by the Moneida, a First Nations band that owns and operates The River, an online poker web site. Ava uncovers an illegal online gambling ring, and follows the trail to Las Vegas. There, she confronts one of the greatest poker players in the world, David “The Disciple” Douglas, and his partner, Jeremy Ashton. Meanwhile, Jackie Leung, an old target of Uncle’s and Ava’s, has made it rich. He wants revenge, and he’s going after Ava to get it.

Will Ava save Ordonez’s family and reputation? Or will Jackie Leung get to her first?- Publishers Website

If you haven’t already read the first book in this thriller of all thrillers, I want you to go and get the first book like NOW !  Ava is back and with a vengenace.  Her Uncle has her on yet another case of embezzlement that goes from Canada to Moneida, Costa Rica, to Las Vegas where she not only finds what she is looking for, but has some unfinished business as well.  Will she be found from a previous case?  Will that person exact his revenge on her?  In book two, you will not only find that, but some back history that Ian seemlessly intregrates into this lush story of the criminal underworld, the shady dealings, money, prestige, revenge and Ava encountering something she hasn’t gotten in a long time.  Here is my previous review of The Water Rat of Wanchai, the first installment of Ava Lee.  The third book is titled The Wild Beasts of Wuhan and fingers crossed will be available in February 2012 !

Ian’s Website – Ava Lee on Twitter - Facebook – Goodreads


#66 – Goliath – Scott Westerfeld

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Alek and Deryn are on the last leg of their round-the-world quest to end World War I, reclaim Alek’s throne as prince of Austria, and finally fall in love. The first two objectives are complicated by the fact that their ship, the Leviathan, continues to detour farther away from the heart of the war (and crown). And the love thing would be a lot easier if Alek knew Deryn was a girl. (She has to pose as a boy in order to serve in the British Air Service.) And if they weren’t technically enemies.

The tension thickens as the Leviathan steams toward New York City with a homicidal lunatic on board: secrets suddenly unravel, characters reappear, and nothing is as it seems in this thunderous conclusion to Scott Westerfeld’s brilliant trilogy. – Publishers Website

Well, this is the third and last book in the Leviathan Trilogy.  As soon as the book arrived, I absolutely could not keep my hands off the book.  Immediately, I tore open the envelope and sat down to start reading.  I was anxious almost to the point of an anxiety attack just to find out what actually happened to Alek and Deryn.  Was Deryn’s ultra super secret found out by Alek?!?  Was he upset?

Did they argue, among other things that were happening on the ship that has traversed the skies all over the world?  Among some very identifiable characters, you also have the talented art work from Keith Thompson that actually accentuates the book perfectly.  If I didn’t love the series so much I would mount some of the artwork and hang it on my walls or at least my son’s walls.  Nick, loves Deryn’s colourful way of expressing herself.  He finished Leviathan back in March when he was in Kentucky at camp.  So when he came home, it was “Bum Rag” this and “Barking Spiders”  that.

So like I had said, I flew through the book at a breakneck pace, with the last few pages remained…Would Alek and Deryn have feelings for one another and live happily after you ask?!?  Well, if I told you..then well I would have to kill you, I don’t give out those secrets, you will just have to read the fabulous ending to end all endings.  Trust me, if you loved the first two books, you will love this one and literally ache for more…My reviews of Leviathan and Behemoth can be accessed by clinking the links.  And so, if you have waited for all three books to be able to read them all at once get reading !

Alan Cumming (The Good Wife) does an absolutely fabulous job of the audio book, so if you are a fan of audiobooks, it doesn’t disappoint !

Fan Scott on GoodReads – Scott’s Website – Facebook – Twitter – Browse Inside

THIS VIDEO CONTAINS SPOILERS !! BEWARE !!

 

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#63 – The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer – Michelle Hodkin

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Mara Dyer doesn’t think life can get any stranger than waking up in a hospital with no memory of how she got there.

It can.

She believes there must be more to the accident she can’t remember that killed her friends and left her mysteriously unharmed.

There is.

She doesn’t believe that after everything she’s been through, she can fall in love.

She’s wrong. – Publishers Website

I loved this book !! Even from the description on the back page, it is THAT intriguing !! After reading it, I am speechless, it was that darn good.

Since it is a young adult title from Simon and Schuster, it will appeal to an older audience as well.  We have a teenager who is coming to terms with the death of 2 of her good friends, she moves away, and more incidents of odd happenings follow her.  She has no memory of the accident, but, as time goes by, she begins to piece things together…She is shocked, scared and doesn’t know what to do.  Until she meets a boy in her new high school who she falls for, but he has his secrets as well.

As time goes by, they are inseparable.  At the end of this book (I believe there are 2 other books being written in the series) There are more questions than answers.  Some of the answers have been taken care of,  the most serious ones…haven’t.

Michelle is a supremely talented writer, I hope that when book 2 comes out, that talent is still here ready and waiting to thrill me like the first book did.  I do get overly critical of young adult books, because of the content.  However, with this book, I threw that out with abandon and absolutely loved this book !! It has all the facets of a thrill ride you will not soon forget.  So, go and get this book !!Make sure you check out the books trailer below – AMAZING !

Michelle’s Website – Michelle’s Blog – Twitter – GoodReads – Browse Inside

#52 – The Witch of Babylon – D. J. McIntosh

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Out of the searing heat and sandstorms of the infamous summer of 2003 in Baghdad comes The Witch of Babylon, a gripping story rooted in ancient Assyrian lore and its little-known but profound significance for the world.

John Madison is a Turkish-American art dealer raised by his much older brother, Samuel, a mover and shaker in New York’s art world. Caught between his brother’s obsession with saving a priceless relic looted from Iraq’s National Museum and a deadly game of revenge staged by his childhood friend, John must solve a puzzle to find the link between a modern-day witch and an ancient one.

Aided by Tomas, an archaeologist, and Ari, an Iraqi photojournalist—two men with their own secrets to hide—John races against time to unearth the dark history behind the old science of alchemy: Is the notion of turning lead into gold possible after all?

Against his will John is taken back to Iraq. Awaiting him is a fabulous underground treasure trove and the truth behind a famous story the world believes is only a myth. - Publishers Website

I have to admit, I really loved the suspense, the adventure, and the narrative in this book ! I literally devoured it in one sitting, one night, I could not put this book down for a moment ! This happens to be book 1 of a three book series.  I just realized that and it answers so many questions I had about the book, so I won’t bore you with them, because they will probably show up in book 2 or three of the series.  It had nagged me for a long time, now I can let it go and see if it appears in the next book, which I cannot wait to read and devour maybe just as fast as I did this one.  D.J. sends you on a thrill ride you won’t soon forget.  This book has been compared to some of Dan Brown’s work, but I wouldn’t believe it for a second.  It is much better !

The Babylon Trilogy Website – D.J. McIntosh on Facebook – Twitter

#45 – Star Wars – The ULTIMATE Visual Guide Special Edition 30th Anniversary – Ryder Windham, Daniel Wallace

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The definitive companion to the entire Star Wars phenomenon, in a special updated edition: Star Wars: The Ultimate Visual Guide uncovers the full story of the amazing Star Wars saga, with more than 1,000 images from the movies, cartoons, comics, and novels, along with merchandise, behind-the-scenes photography, and much more!

This Special Edition features brand-new overviews of the latest comic books, new information on merchandise, as well as a special feature on fan celebrations.

The History of the Star Wars galaxy, Key Characters, technology, droids, aliens, and locations.  Behind the scenes information on the making of the movies.  Collectibles and merchandise, Full colour illustrations from the Star Wars Expanded Universe, Comics, Novels, and Video Games. Publishers Website and Back of Hardcover

Seriously, who hasn’t already seen all of the movies at least once?  Either you were a die-hard fan when the first one came out way back in 1976.  Yes, it has been that long.  But in the world of Star Wars, it is just a moment away in one of the extravagant space ships on some far, far away galaxy that we have all come to know and love.

Who was your favorite character?  Luke Skywalker? Darth Vader? Yoda ? Princess Leia? Chewbacca?  Obi Wan Kenobi? Well they are all here and all of the many new characters that have evolved along the years with new and exciting worlds as well.

This book was originally published in 2005, but it was again updated and republished with new content for the 30th Anniversary in 2007.  Since the series came out there have been novelizations, new series, movies, readers, and comics that keep the universe alive even today.

As my son and I looked through the book, we loved the full colour illustrations and the not so new facts that we never knew about.  A few years ago, we entered a contest from DK in the United States for a Star Wars contest, and he happened to win!  I think the blog was asking what his favorite character was, as DK was releasing one of their now best-selling books Lego Star Wars Visual Dictionary.

Another reason he was so into Star Wars, was that he was about to compete in a Lego League competition where the kids built their own robots and competed on a course doing different things with their somewhat homemade robots.  When they did compete, they WON the spirit award for their participation at the event!

So, as May the 4th Be With You Day begins or ends where ever you may be in our own universe, come and take a look inside this book and the many others that DK Worldwide have published in honor of STAR WARS and May the Force Be With You !!

Above this post is an extra special post about May the 4th Be with You and what DK Canada is doing this year in honor of this humble occasion around the world, so it is so exciting that I can hardly contain myself it WILL be so fun, that is if you choose to participate!! For details go click here

Since this book was republished back in 2007 and it was the 30th anniversary,  since it is 2011 that means an even more special anniversary – the 35th one !! Long live the FORCE !

Star Wars Site – DK Canada – DK USA

This is the trailer for Star Wars trailer from 1997 Special Edition ENJOY !!

Mini Q and A With Author Robert Rotenberg

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I have to say this man is so busy, I cannot see where he finds the time for everything he does! I am even tired reading about it !

Without further interruption, please welcome Robert Rotenberg who has published his 2nd book entitled The Guilty Plea.  It has been released in Canada today, so go out and get it, trust me, you will love it !

With such a busy schedule, what or where, when were you hit with the writing bug? – It is hard for me to remember a time when I didn’t want to write. Tell stories. But the reality of my chaotic life, is that it wasn’t until I was finished being a magazine editor and radio producer that I really sat down to write. Logical time. I’d just started practicing law, was broke so was working about 100 hours a week, we were just having our first of three kids, and of course I was still playing hockey every Monday night. Hey, you need energy to do this job.

Have you taken some or many details from your real life cases and incorporated them into this novel or your previous one? – As you know I’m a criminal lawyer and client confidentiality is paramount. (Unfortunate sometimes, you wouldn’t believe the stories I hear. The other day a new client came in and told me…). In fact it’s not a joking matter, I would never betray a confidence.  So the stories are not from my own cases, or any others. But I truly believe the adage, that the great advantage that fiction writers have over non-fiction writers is that we can tell the truth.

Does life imitate art in some circumstances? – Well, in Old City Hall when Nancy Parish, exhausted, flops into the chair in her office and is overwhelmed by the volume of voice mails, emails, letters, demands on her time. Ask any criminal lawyer.

As the lawyer in the book, do you follow the same principles in your real life practice – not letting yourself believe or disbelieve your clients? – The best chess players always try to see the board from their opponent’s point of view.

If you could choose between being a lawyer for the rest of your life or being a writer, what would you choose? – Simon & Schuster want to sign me for two million dollars a book for the next ten years. Brad Pitt wants to star in Old City Hall, and Angelina (I call her Angie now) is dying to play Sam in The Guilty Plea. John Grisham and Scott Turow want to spend the winter with me in Hawaii working on the screenplay.  I think I’ll go back to bail court (where I was on Monday) for a few more clients.

If you had died and had the chance to come back as anyone or anything you wanted what would it be? Why? – See answer to question 5

What is the one talent besides writing would you want to have? – A better slap shot. Thirty years of playing hockey and it still sucks. But hey, I’m an excellent passer.

If you could live in one place in the whole world where would it be? Why? – Paris me manque. With money this time.

I see on your website that you volunteer for a Rehab Clinic in Toronto.  What was the main reason you decided to go this route?  Have you seen  the worst case scenario ever, and the person has turned around to make a full recovery and a good representation of being clean and sober? – I am the least addictive person you will ever meet. But for 20 years I’ve seen people and families torn apart and destroyed by addiction. And yes, I am extremely proud to say that I’ve seen so many of my clients totally turn their lives around. It is the greatest part of my job.

Do you have any pet-peeves? What would they be? – Those tiny tea pots you get in restaurants that always spill no matter what you do. The way we treat poor people in this rich city.

#44 – The Guilty Plea – Robert Rotenberg

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On the morning that his headline-grabbing divorce trial is set to begin, Terrance Wyler, youngest son of the Wyler Food dynasty, is found stabbed to death in the kitchen of his million-dollar home.

Detective Ari Greene arrives minutes before the press and finds Wyler’s four-year-old son asleep upstairs. When Wyler’s ex-wife, a strange beauty named Samantha, shows up at her lawyer’s office with a bloody knife, it looks as if the case is over.

But Greene soon discovers the Wyler family has secrets they’d like to keep hidden, and they’re not the only ones. If there’s one thing Greene knows, it’s that the truth is never simple. - Publishers Website

I really enjoyed this thriller. This is Robert’s 2nd book, I haven’t had the opportunity to read his first.  If it is anything like this novel I am in for a treat.  Well written, deeply plotted to have you thinking about who really did it, will have you turning the pages as fast as you can read, so that you can learn who did it, why, and the secrets that are hidden inside the Wyler family.  Brilliant from the first page.

Stay tuned after this review of Robert’s newest book, as I got to do a Q and A with him recently during his ultra busy full-time law practice, his writing this book, the publicity for it, and the many other activities that he does.  I swear I don’t honestly know where he finds the time!

Today, just happens to be release day !! So go out and get the book !

Robert’s Website – Robert on Twitter - Robert on Facebook -Read the First Chapter - Follow Simon and Schuster on Foursquare

#42 – Guilt By Association – Marcia Clark

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Los Angeles D.A. Rachel Knight is a tenacious, wise-cracking, and fiercely intelligent prosecutor in the city’s most elite division.

When her colleague, Jake, is found dead at a grisly crime scene, Rachel is shaken to the core. She must take over his toughest case: the assault of a young woman from a prominent family.

But she can’t stop herself from digging deeper into Jake’s death, a decision that exposes a world of power and violence and will have her risking her reputation–and her life–to find the truth.

With her tremendous expertise in the nuances of L.A. courts and crime, and with a vibrant ensemble cast of characters, Marcia Clark combines intimate detail, riotous humor, and visceral action in a debut thriller that marks the launch of a major new figure on the crime-writing scene. - Publishers Website

I really liked this book ! Very intelligently written, Marcia takes it one step further in Guilt By Association.  Wise cracking, Good Looking,  with the tenacity, humour, and no-nonsense attitude, with a smidgen of screw you thrown in, she gives the book and her characters that edge that I haven’t seen before.  As for the usual fare of cop and lawyer hooking up scenario, thankfully which isn’t in the book gives it even more authenticity.

Who knows what will happen in the second book, but, I’m hoping that it is just as good or even better than the first.

Listen to an excerpt – Marcia’s Website