I've enjoyed the Gabriel Allon series for the past few years - but find that the storylines are getting very predictable. Allon always starts out away...moreI've enjoyed the Gabriel Allon series for the past few years - but find that the storylines are getting very predictable. Allon always starts out away from the Agency (Mossad), but somehow gets dragged into an international situation requiring his (and only his) assistance to save the world (and typically the United States). Portrait is no different as the usual gang of suspects is involved in preventing al Qaeda from growing in the wake of bin Landen's death. Silva weaves a good story, but the ending left a lot to be desired from this fan. Silva may have to do what Vince Flynn has done with Mitch Rapp, and write new stories about a young Allon and his adventures. The current Allon is getting old, and should once and for all stay retired from the agency. A good end of summer read....but not Silva's best effort.(less)
A great book with moments of hilarity, mixed in with serious overtones. A must read for anyone who has ever spent time in an office environment - you...moreA great book with moments of hilarity, mixed in with serious overtones. A must read for anyone who has ever spent time in an office environment - you will be able to relate!(less)
Like many of these authors that churn out books, Michael Connelly has also fallen prey to a "good, but not great" effort. The Black Box is the latest...moreLike many of these authors that churn out books, Michael Connelly has also fallen prey to a "good, but not great" effort. The Black Box is the latest in the Harry Bosch series, long known for great writing, grit and intricate plot lines. While The Black Box is entertaining and well thought out, it wouldn't land in the top 5 of the series. In this latest installment, Bosch (who is on the Open/Unsolved Unit) draws a 20 year old case from the LA Riots era - and the unsolved murder of Anneke Jespersen, a Danish photo journalist. Jespersen was found dead in an alley in 1992 during the riots, and long thought a random victim of the crimes happening in the area. Bosch begins to dig, finding the murder weapon, which he traces to some local gang-bangers, but after digging deeper, finds that the gun actually originated in Desert Storm. The plot line twists, and without giving away too much, has Bosch investigating the Army Reserve Unit who was in LA to assist the local police with riot control. Classic Connelly writing throughout, and my only true disappointment is that Bosch, while still a great character, has softened with the inclusion of his daughter, Madeline, and his dating of Hannah Stone. The ending was pure thriller, and had me turning the pages at a rapid pace. I love this series, and although none measure up to Connelly's eariler installments (Concrete Blonde is probably my favorite in the series), this is a good read, and better than any Patterson novel available. Highly recommend.(less)
The book the new movie Jack Reacher is based on, and I have a suspicion that the film in no way will compare to this excellently written novel. A snip...moreThe book the new movie Jack Reacher is based on, and I have a suspicion that the film in no way will compare to this excellently written novel. A sniper in Indiana takes aim from a parking garage and murders 5 seemingly random people, and in the process leaves a trail of evidence that anyone could follow. James Barr, former Army sniper, is picked up as the suspect, and states only one sentence to the DA: "Get me Jack Reacher". So this mystery begins, with Reacher coming to the scene, and surprising all that he wants to bury Barr for a former transgression. Although he has a promise to keep, he nonetheless begins to dig into the investigation and pulling strings that unravel what is a seemingly slam dunk case. Can't state too much more without revelaing major plotlines and some of the twists that Child weaves throughout. I'm a big fan of this series, and if you are too, I highly recommend this installment!(less)
Thoroughly enjoyed this novel and now quite concerned with how Brad Pitt will interpret for the big screen. The book isn't an action adventure like th...moreThoroughly enjoyed this novel and now quite concerned with how Brad Pitt will interpret for the big screen. The book isn't an action adventure like the movie preview indicates, but rather reads like a history book told from the perspective of those who lived and survived the Zombie World War. Brooks does a great job of making the reader feel the emotions of those perspectives (whether it be those surviving, politicians trying to maintain order, or those fighting and in the process becoming someone different) and truly gives the reader a sense of a "true story". Zombies are hot now, whether it be The Walking Dead or other pop culture, and I think this book rates among the best (of what I've seen) of this genre. This book isn't for everyone, but a worthy read if you are willing to gamble on the subject matter.(less)
In the latest Scot Harvath thriller, members of the Carlton Group (the elite team of former military agents) are being assassinated one by one, and Ha...moreIn the latest Scot Harvath thriller, members of the Carlton Group (the elite team of former military agents) are being assassinated one by one, and Harvath himself is targeted. Escaping death, he reaches out to the head of the group Reed Carlton, who has gone dark. Searching for answers and trying to determine whom he can trust, Harvath is in a game for his life. The main plot line is that the Carlton Group has been targeted by a powerful group within the US government that controls too much information, and is using the Patriot Act to spy on Americans. Seemingly ripped from the headlines, and using a storyline that is popping up more and more, the implications of a government spying on it's citizens and having the power to authorize treason by death without trial are hopefully just fiction, and will remain such. This book has the usual action sequences, slick humor and dialog, and an exciting finish. Great summer read!(less)
Probably my least favorite of the trilogy (with the first book being my favorite), this picks up with Katniss and crew trying to take down the Capitol...moreProbably my least favorite of the trilogy (with the first book being my favorite), this picks up with Katniss and crew trying to take down the Capitol. The love triangle continues (Kantiss/Gale/Peeta), however the action and pace of the story do not. I was frankly bored by the non-stop inner dialouge of Katniss (Should I or shouldn't I be the Mockingjay? Should I choose Gale or Peeta? Should I live or die?) and was ready for this to end. Can understand why it's a Young Adult phenomenon, however I'm ready to tackle books with more depth and character development. (less)
Fantastic book chroniciling the life of one of the most brilliant innovators in our history. Having grown up with many of these products, to read the...moreFantastic book chroniciling the life of one of the most brilliant innovators in our history. Having grown up with many of these products, to read the backstory on the ideation and how Jobs through his drive, passion and focus on the smallest details, created remarkable technology was extremely engrossing. He was no doubt a narcissist and could be a complete a&$hole, but the results are one of the most valued companies today (Apple) and a string of products that many of us cannot live without (iPod, iPad, iPhone). We can all only hope that he left some great ideas yet to be flushed out. I didn't drink the Jobs' "Kool-Aid" as some have suggested, but strongly recommend this book as a great read of a great American inventor/success story. (less)
This was probably one of my least favorite of the Jack Reacher series, although it started out fast enough, The Hard Way fizzles mid-way through, and...moreThis was probably one of my least favorite of the Jack Reacher series, although it started out fast enough, The Hard Way fizzles mid-way through, and completely lost my interest by the end. The book starts with Reacher enjoying an espresso in NYC, while unknowingly witnessing a ransom pick up by kidnappers. He is approached the next day in the same coffee shop and asked if he noticed anything, and when he provides details, he is escorted to meet Edward Lane, who's wife and step-daughter have been kidnapped. Lane is a private military contractor, who is all too willing to pay in installments 10.5 million dollars. The story weaves through Lane's previous wife also being kidnapped and murdered, and how his internal team made it happen at his direction. Ultimately, Lane is the bad guy, and it takes 300 plus pages to get to the inevitable confrontation. Just didn't hold my interest like previous novels, and by the time the showdown came, I just wanted it to end. I love this series, but not this particular story. (less)
The second in the Hunger Games trilogy, Catching Fire took a long time to gather steam, and then when it finally did, Collins' takes the route of foll...moreThe second in the Hunger Games trilogy, Catching Fire took a long time to gather steam, and then when it finally did, Collins' takes the route of following the same formula that worked so well in the original. I have to keep in mind that this is geared for young adults - as it could be so much more, but would require more violence and deeper looks into the evil of the Capitol. Keeping it simple for the generation it targets, it's a fun novel, not much substance, and it takes forever to set up the eventual finish. Expected cliffhanger finishes the book and sets up the Rebellion in the finale. A quick read and entertaining.(less)
Thoroughly enjoyed this comprehensive historical account of the early days of ESPN through current reverence as the worldwide leader in sports. The bo...moreThoroughly enjoyed this comprehensive historical account of the early days of ESPN through current reverence as the worldwide leader in sports. The book is written from a completely unique perspective: interviews and direct quotes from 500 staff members, sports stars, celebrities and journalists. Each time period written strings together comments from these individuals to tell the story of ESPN. The authors jump in periodically to change subject matter, or give facts to a given situation. I was fascinated by the sometimes sheer stroke of luck ESPN has had in becoming the dominating force it is today. I particularly enjoyed the Dan Patrick/Keith Olbermann years...and how those 2 defined SportsCenter as we know it today. If you are a fan of ESPN - you'll really enjoy this read!(less)
Really enjoyed this book - and yet another that I couldn't put down! The book is about a simple dinner between 2 families, and more specifically, 2 se...moreReally enjoyed this book - and yet another that I couldn't put down! The book is about a simple dinner between 2 families, and more specifically, 2 sets of parents who happen to be related. Paul and Serge Lohman are brothers, married to Claire and Babette, respectively, who are at a fancy dinner to discuss an incident their sons are involved in. Without revealing major plot lines, leave it for me to say there is a huge twist and an ending that will leave your spine tingling. Herman Koch weaves an amazing story, taking time to give the backstory of the primary characters that leads into the twist - you can almost see it coming, and then when it hits you and finally does, it's too compelling to put it down. I thoroughly enjoyed this quick read - a great start to summer novel. (less)
John Sandford has done a smart thing...as the Prey series has slowed down over the past few books as the Davenport character has been thoroughly explo...moreJohn Sandford has done a smart thing...as the Prey series has slowed down over the past few books as the Davenport character has been thoroughly explored. In Buried Prey, Sandford takes the reader to Davenport's first case as detective, and essentially how he "earns his stripes". The book starts in the present, and with the uncovering of 2 dead bodies, determined to be missing children from a cold case in 1985. Davenport was the investigating officer, and always felt the crime was pinned to the wrong guy...so he picks it up and goes back to his old notes and theories in search for the truth. The first 180 pages recount the past, with the final 180 reverting to present day and unraveling of a 2 decade old mystery. A great summer read - and refreshing to see this series return to form.(less)
Sequel to A Game of Thrones, most of the multiple characters return (those that survive) and are weaved into the fight for control of the Seven Kingdo...moreSequel to A Game of Thrones, most of the multiple characters return (those that survive) and are weaved into the fight for control of the Seven Kingdoms. Much like the first, there is a crazy amount of detail and a littany of characters to keep up with. Politics, deceit and thirst for power all charge the 5 seeking the Iron Throne. Hard to put this down, although it's lengthy. I'm a fan of the series and recommend! The HBO version of book 1 is a great adaptation - check it out!(less)
The latest in the King/Maxwell series - and has them defending a possible serial killer, who is also the nation's best hope for terrorist defense. Edg...moreThe latest in the King/Maxwell series - and has them defending a possible serial killer, who is also the nation's best hope for terrorist defense. Edgar Roy sits in a maximum security prison awaiting trial for the murder of 6 people; King/Maxwell are assigned to the case, with multiple ancillary murders happening all around them. Roy has a "super" eidetic memory, and is the Sixth Man of the government's contracted E-Program (anti-terrorist). A great plot and typical roller coaster action and intrigue. Another great summer read!(less)
Decided to read the first in the Song of Ice and Fire series as I had planned to watch the HBO series. Far too much detail to even begin to describe w...moreDecided to read the first in the Song of Ice and Fire series as I had planned to watch the HBO series. Far too much detail to even begin to describe what happens in this book - however, will suffice to say that it was a slow starter (makes sense when Martin is introducing 30 plus characters and backstory), however picked up about 400 pages in and was a fast moving roller coaster from then on. Game of Thrones follows the struggle for power in the Seven Kingdoms amidst family infighting, incestuous relationships, cunning plotting and scheming, and ultimately love for one's family or house. It was a masterful piece of storytelling, and has me intrigued to follow the battle between Starks and Lannisters in the next novel.(less)
Always been a fan of the Myron Bolitar series, and Live Wire continues the adventures with typical mystery/intrigue storylines. An old client who is p...moreAlways been a fan of the Myron Bolitar series, and Live Wire continues the adventures with typical mystery/intrigue storylines. An old client who is pregnant has had a recent posting on Facebook that the child's father isn't who she thinks it is - and the rollercoaster adventure starts from there. With the typical twists and turns that Coben has long been famous for, Bolitar and Win search for the truth, while along the way reuniting with Myron's long lost brother and sister in law. The characters Coben has created continue to have appeal, through smart dialouge and a unique plot. If you are a fan of this series, or of Coben in general, this will not disappoint!(less)
A fan of Steig Larsson's "The Girl" trilogy, I recently read that Henning Mankell was the best of the Swedish mystery/crime authors, so wanted to give...moreA fan of Steig Larsson's "The Girl" trilogy, I recently read that Henning Mankell was the best of the Swedish mystery/crime authors, so wanted to give his Kurt Wallander series a try. Faceless Killers is the first of the series and spends time giving the reader a background on Wallander and what makes him tick. Much of the novel is spent with Wallander's internal dialouge, and his longing for his recently seperated wife; the love of his estranged daughter; personal weight battle; and the double homicide of an old couple in the Ystad countryside. As Wallander tries to piece together the puzzle of the crime, other murders (unrelated) happen that he is forced to solve. He seemingly goes days without sleep and works maniacally to solve the crimes. There wasn't a lot of heart pounding suspense - and the legal system of the Swedes differs from the States so much that typical policework is anything but. I overall enjoyed the book, but am not yet ready to pass the crown to Mankell as the best yet...(less)
As much as I try - I just can't get into Jeffery Deaver's style of writing, or his lead character Lincoln Rhyme. Don't get me wrong, Rhyme is compelli...moreAs much as I try - I just can't get into Jeffery Deaver's style of writing, or his lead character Lincoln Rhyme. Don't get me wrong, Rhyme is compelling in that he's not your typical detective/homicide investigator, being that he's paralyzed. However, that leaves too much in the hands of his team and on technology - and Deaver just doesn't make either very interesting. In this book, a seemingly "man who knows everything" and has an uncanny ability to use his targets personal information/data against them (making them penniless, putting family in danger). It's an interesting set up, however I was frankly bored with it - and the action sequences just didn't deliver. It is an interesting possibility that an entity (government or otherwise) could control so much information on so many people...maybe big brother is really watching. Skip this...(less)
Being a child of the 80's, I was intrigued by the premise of this book, and the blurb lured me in with how memories of my childhood permeate my life t...moreBeing a child of the 80's, I was intrigued by the premise of this book, and the blurb lured me in with how memories of my childhood permeate my life today. Sirota breaks down his "thesis" into 3 parts: the influence of "Just Do It"; the "Red Dawn" syndrome; and the "Huxtable effect". The Nike phenomenon's impact on our society today held strong for me, as did the majority of his references (of which several were laugh out loud humorous), however, as he droned on during the subsequent Red Dawn and Huxtable sections, I felt he was challenged to stretch this cool idea for a magazine article, into a full fledged book. Sirota's ideas are plausible, however stray towards "conspiracy" theory. By the time I finished up with the Huxtables, I just wanted to finish. If you are child of this generation, there are a lot of recognizable references that will make the book enjoyable. Read it as a fun idea of how our society operates and some interesting parallels with the 1980's.(less)
Follow up to Rubenfeld's "Interpretation of Murder", this book picks up with the primary characters 10 years later, and ignites with the true account...moreFollow up to Rubenfeld's "Interpretation of Murder", this book picks up with the primary characters 10 years later, and ignites with the true account of the 1920 terrorist attack on Wall Street (a mystery still not solved today). Rubenfeld creates a great mystery and is able to take facts and mix them will with the fictional telling of this story. Stratham Younger returns as the lead male and is courting Colette Rousette, a beautiful, but mysterious French woman. A whirlwind of adventure through the streets of New York, to Paris to Vienna. I like the premise of these books - but the mystery just doesn't get me fully vested. Rubenfeld creates a fictional solve to the caper, which he did masterfully. I think it's just the characters that aren't that intriguing and maybe why I'm not more positive about it.(less)
In a recent review I noted my overall enjoyment of the Preston/Child Pendergast series - hitting home runs with every novel featuring this atypical FB...moreIn a recent review I noted my overall enjoyment of the Preston/Child Pendergast series - hitting home runs with every novel featuring this atypical FBI agent. In Gideon's Sword, they stray from the beaten path and follow a largely forgettable character, Gideon Crew. They try to create a compelling backstory for the lead, giving him reason to fall into a world of spies, danger and intrigue - but it just doesn't wash. Crew has the ability to seemingly BS his way into or out of any situation - and the situations he's placed in are so far fetched that I grew tiresome reading them. This book was terrible - due to a non-compelling lead character, a story full of holes and a payoff at the end not worth reading. They set up a sequel - but they will not have this reader returning to see what happens next.(less)
A masterpiece from DeMille and featuring the second installment of Paul Brennar (from the General's Daughter). Recently retired, Brennar is called bac...moreA masterpiece from DeMille and featuring the second installment of Paul Brennar (from the General's Daughter). Recently retired, Brennar is called back into action for the CID to solve a 30 year old murder in Vietnam. A high ranking US Captain murdered a Lieutenant, which was unknowingly witnessed by a North Vietnamese solider. 30 years later, evidence surfaces that Brennar must investigate, and is thrust back into Vietnam where he served 2 tours. DeMille captures emotions from the war and a country after enduring a war - hard to fully describe, but powerful. Can't reveal more without spoiling the ending - however, Brennar is faced with the difficult decision of bringing to light the truth - and the related consequences it will have on our country today.(less)
Have long been a fan of the Preston/Child Pendergast series, so figured I would give Preston's solo work a shot. I couldn't have been more disappointe...moreHave long been a fan of the Preston/Child Pendergast series, so figured I would give Preston's solo work a shot. I couldn't have been more disappointed - this book was a waste of my time. Starts out with a meteor crashing into the bay of Boston, a murder in California of a scientist, and the digging in Asia of gems that are making people sick. They all intermix into the major plot line which is an attack from Mars. Preston tries to create drama where there isn't any - and the characters just don't hold the readers interest. The payoff at the end was a throwaway - seemed to me that Preston knew he had written rubbish and was looking for an escape hatch. Skip this - don't even look at it...horrible.(less)
The latest in the Pendergast series, of which I've long been a fan, but which has recently lost its luster with second rate story lines. I also don't...moreThe latest in the Pendergast series, of which I've long been a fan, but which has recently lost its luster with second rate story lines. I also don't know if its me, or if I just haven't picked up on it before, but the writing seems more disjointed then ever and the tag team between the authors not so seamless. Two Graves is the finale (mercifully) of the Helen trilogy, and picks up immediately after the conclusion of Cold Vengeance and Helen being kidnapped. Skip ahead 100 pages, and Pendergast is in a depression because he couldn't save her, a serial murderer is on the loose, who turns out to be the son he never knew he had (and wait for it, a twin too), and the other characters (Constance and Corrie) are caught up in silly secondary story lines. Frankly, the book lost me there, there wasn't the usual suspense, but I finished anyway and was disappointed in the ending. Too much was too neat and convenient, and like the one Gideon Crew book I read, the primary characters seemingly escape all perilous situations like clockwork, and when an opportunity presents itself to eliminate the problem, it is not taken. Preston and Child have grown lazy and lost my interest - this may very well be my last in the series. (less)
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