2 Book Rec!

Bear, Otter, and the Kid by T.J. Klune

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Three years ago, Bear McKenna's mother took off for parts unknown with her new boyfriend, leaving Bear to raise his six-year-old brother Tyson, aka the Kid. Somehow they've muddled through, but since he's totally devoted to the Kid, Bear isn't actually doing much living—with a few exceptions, he's retreated from the world, and he's mostly okay with that. Until Otter comes home.

Otter is Bear's best friend's older brother, and as they've done for their whole lives, Bear and Otter crash and collide in ways neither expect. This time, though, there's nowhere to run from the depth of emotion between them. Bear still believes his place is as the Kid's guardian, but he can't help thinking there could be something more for him in the world... something or someone.(less)


This novel was an unexpected surprise wrapped up in fresh dialogue and unique characters. It surpassed all my expectations. I particularly loved the Kid who was a reincarnation of Obi-wan Kenobi. The pain and angst leaps off the page, as does the love and shared moments of pure unadulterated joy. 5+ stars and highly recommended.






Buddha on the Road by Jeff Pearce

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Burma is known as "The Golden Land." And for Brin Harper, Burma means golden memories from a youth spent in an exotic country with his mother, an accomplished diplomat. But today Brin Harper is an NYPD homicide detective haunted by his mother's suicide, and his grief is slowly eroding his relationship with his journalist boyfriend, Richard. Now a set of vicious murders is about to dredge up secrets and bitter regrets from thousands of miles away and many years ago. The trail leads to a strange monk who doesn't behave at all like a holy man. Brin is faced with a range of suspects, including the American widower of dissident Marlar Swe, to his on-again, off-again lover, Aung, a quiet professor who has survived time in Burma's infamous Insein Prison. As the killer claims more victims, each murdered in a fashion inspired by Burmese culture, Brin must confront his own past and play a duel of wits with the monk, trying to decipher what his role is in the case. And there are more disturbing personal revelations waiting for him than just exposing a psychotic murderer


I was attracted to this novel by the title and the excellent review posted on Jessewave. I could relate to Brin Harper as I also grew up a 'foreigner' in an Asian country. Trying to blend both worlds can be challenging and very often confusing. Mr. Pearce described Brin's conflicting loyalty and interpersonal relationships perfectly. I was lost in Burmese culture for two days and so grateful for having picked up this gem of a book. This author is an artist with words, painting beautiful pictures that take you right into the heart of this beautiful country. It's primarily a murder mystery but there is a paranormal aspect to it as well. It's spiritual, romantic, and very exciting. I was on the edge of my seat until the very end. Highly recommended.