join now| sign in| help
Search advanced search
 
Books
Search:

Request Friendship
Send Request Cancel

RJ

RJ

Indie Reviewer, Wife, Mom from TN that loves books & animals...I have a big heart, which sometimes gets me into trouble. :)
I love spending time with my hubby & daughter... whether it's a weekend get-a-way to the Smokies, having pancakes at 2am or just hanging out at the house listening to Disco music & definitely "not acting my age" with... more »
  • TN, USA
  • member since July 21 2007

Reviews

  • Sort by:
 
‹ Previous | 1 2 3 4 5  | Next » Last 
Displaying 21-30 of 61 reviews
  • Written in Blood
    • Rated 4 stars

    “Not once, during either of two frantic calls to Durham 9-11 did Michael Peterson mention the blood...and there was a lot of blood. During the early morning hours of December 9th, as Kathleen lay dying on the stairs, police and rescue personnel rush to the home on Cedar Street.

    Connecting the complex sequence of dots that convinced a jury of his peers that Michael Peterson was indeed guilty of murder would have been the easy part, because the evidence had been painstakingly detailed during the five month trial. But, Diane Fanning takes the reader behind the carefully orchestrated performance in the court room and delivers the journey through the raw, unfiltered eyes of those who lived it. Detailing the crime scene, police procedure, the autopsy and the trial I fully expected, however, this book is chock-full of extras. Intimate conversations between Kathleen and her beloved sister, details concerning the exhumation and autopsy of Elizabeth Ratliff, the suspicious death of George Ratliff and much more. There's also eight pages of photographs that give the reader a glimpse of the Peterson's before, during and the aftermath is punctuated with a single photo of Kathleen's headstone.

    During the trial, the defense displayed an air of arrogance both in and outside the courtroom. And much to the chagrin of Peterson's few remaining supporters, the author pulls no punches describing the showboating behavior of David Rudolf and Thomas Maher, the mysterious discovery of the missing blowpoke and the effect these antics had on the grieving families.

    Superb, unflinching, emotionally gritty at times, Written in Blood is a stinging, in your face novel that paints a haunting picture of the madness that often lurks behind the gates of the nicest communities or in the home right next door. And reminds us all that the monster hiding in the shadows is easily recognized in hindsight...but, that's too late!

    Although the last chapter of this story will be written by the North Carolina Supreme Court, Written In Blood is as complete a history of the Peterson saga as could possibly be written. If you enjoy reading a true crime novel that goes behind the scenes and beyond the glare of the cameras, Written In Blood does not disappoint!

    Happy Reading!
    -RJ
    ”

    RJ wrote this review Thursday, November 1 2007. ( reply | permalink )
  • The Surreal Adventures of Edgar Allan Poo
    • Rated 5 stars

    “
    With the publication of The Surreal Adventures of Edgar Allan Poo this creative team has redefined humor literature, while retaining all the much loved characteristics of a vintage comic book! From the opening scene, the reader is treated to a visually stimulating array of high gloss, celestial dream-scape styled illustrations that captivate the senses and bring the dialogue to life. Dwight MacPherson has masterfully threaded details of Poe's life and writings into the very fabric of this tale. Capturing the essence of Poe's tormented spirit with an imaginative story that would leave the master himself spellbound. The narrative is both intelligent and highly creative, utilizing the many aspects of Poe, MacPherson has etched his characters with surgical precision.
    The story opens with Edgar in, of all places, an outhouse. In the aftermath of his wife's tragic death and the failure of his last book Mr. Poe's creativity has split...literally--becoming Edgar Allan Poo. We follow the absolutely adorable Poo as he makes his way through Terra Somnium, guided by Irving the Rat. Exploring mysterious places like Incubi and Spindle Town in search of the Maghi, the duo face an assortment of creatures and monsters. As bad guys begin crossing into reality, Poo and Poe must fight an epic battle of survival.

    From conception to publication, this has been a labour of love for MacPherson and it shows! The Surreal Adventures of Edgar Allan Poo is a one of a kind literary tale and without it, no collection could be considered complete. This brilliant concept will bewitch and beguile graphic and literature lovers alike, it has something for everyone...and it's a heck-of-a-lot of fun!

    Happy Reading!
    RJ ”

    RJ wrote this review Sunday, October 28 2007. ( reply | permalink )
  • The Good Guy
    • Rated 3 stars

    “Average and easy going, Tim Carrier is a bachelor and a stone mason by trade…what most people would call “a man’s man”…he keeps to himself and prefers others do the same. Having a beer at his friend’s bar, Tim becomes intrigued with a fellow patron’s story. After a few minutes of conversation, the man slides a manila envelope across the bar saying “half of it’s there…the rest when she’s gone.” By the time the significance of the stranger’s words sunk in, it was too late, the strange man had disappeared. A few minutes pass and Krait, the real assassin shows up and assumes Tim is the client! Realizing the magnitude of what he has unwittingly become a part of, Tim removes the information about the mark from the envelope, gives the cash to the hired gun and tells him he’s had a change of heart. If only it could have been that simple.Linda Paquette a stunningly beautiful writer couldn’t imagine who would want to kill her or why. But for now, the reasons were irrelevant because Krait was hot on their trail and he was determined to complete his assignment. Relying on all their wits to stay a step ahead of Krait gets harder and harder, as he seems to anticipate their every move. It soon becomes clear this killer has much more than good instincts and good luck on his side…

    Koontz fans will spot glimpses of his earlier writings throughout the story, although a full fledged return never materializes. Chock-full-of twists and turns, readers will be cheering for the good guy, while trying to figure out the who, what and why. While not the most orignial plot - average guy minding his own business is thrown into a life or death situation trying to protect a beautiful stranger… Koontz has always taken the usual, spiced it up as only he can and delivered an action packed, suspense filled ride that keeps his legions of fans lining up and clamouring for more.

    In recent years I have been more than a little let down by the “put it out there the fans will buy it” writing that has become all too common. Although The Good Guy is a good read I have to give it 3.0-3.5.

    Happy Reading!

    ”

    RJ wrote this review Sunday, October 28 2007. ( reply | permalink )
  • Simple Genius
    • Rated 4 stars

    “David Baldacci is synonymous with mystery, intrigue and suspense. With a distinct flair for weaving a bit of truth into his fictional creations, Baldacci captures the reader’s imagination, while presenting a believable story. Add the talented actor/author Ron McClarty narrating, and Simple Genius is a knock-out, one-two punch. He uses all the narrative tools–and the result is an audio experience second to none!

    After her latest outburst of self-destructive behavior and threatened with jail time, investigator Michelle agrees to enter a private clinic. While she is under treatment, her partner, Sean contacts his ex-lover for an assignment. With funds drying up, he did not have the luxury of holding grudges.

    Suicide or Murder? Officially Monk Turing’s death was ruled a suicide, but Sean was interested in the unofficial version. Monk’s body was found just inside the perimeter of the CIA’s top secret training facility, Camp Peary–known as the “secret place” by the locals. It didn’t take long for Sean to understand that the research conducted there was highly sensitive.

    Monk’s autistic daughter, Viggie, was frightened and had great difficulty expressing her feelings. When anyone got too close she would withdraw into her own world. At times Viggie would play a specific selection on the piano, shout “codes and blood,” then disappear up to her room. When Michelle arrives, Viggie takes to her instantly. Numbers and codes, secrets and stories–Monk had programmed his daughter–and now the only way they could protect her was if she trusted them enough to tell them what she knew. And that was a very big if.

    Baldacci takes the reader on a fast-paced, breathtaking journey into a town’s buried secrets, where lives depend on the codes hidden in the mind of a grieving child. The character interaction, combined with a multi-layered plot line, creates an engrossing story that builds upon itself with the turn of each page. Baldacci successfully ties up all the threads in a shocking, but satisfying conclusion.

    Happy Reading!
    ”

    RJ wrote this review Sunday, October 28 2007. ( reply | permalink )
    • Rated 4 stars

    “With numerous early reader tools available today the Bob Books series truly starts at the beginning. Arriving in a sturdy, compact, brightly colored blue box are twelve books, perfect for little hands just learning the art of holding a book and turning pages independently. Each book is comprised of 12 pages, containing three letter words. Because young readers are easily distracted by glossy, high color images, utilizing simple, black and white drawings help children remain focused on the words first and the pictures second. The gradual addition of new sounds, improves and expands the vocabulary of very young readers. Thus instilling confidence and nuturing the natural desire to learn new things.

    It's important to remember that every child is different - parents have to decide (independently) what is best for his or her child and at what stage you feel it is appropriate to introduce educational/learning tools. Keeping in mind that it's never too soon to start fostering an education based environment.

    I recommend Bob Books to all parents, care givers and teachers... it would be wonderful to see these colorful little boxes on shelves from coast to coast. The best way to encourage a new generation of readers is to start early! I will share Bob Books with my grandkids...someday!

    Happy Reading!
    RJ
    3Rs-Real Reader Reviews

    Extra Information:

    Bob Books have been divided into 5 sets, each gradually adding new sights and sounds featuring a controlled vocabulary.
    As a teacher, the author Bobby Lynn Maslen created simple, easy to read stories for her students. These would eventually be organized and released in the form of Bob Books. Each of the five boxed sets are uniquely color coded and continue your childs progression into the world of independent reading. The beginning set that introduces young children to the basic idea of connecting letters and organizing them to make words and utilizing phonics to sound words out.

    The Magic of Bob Books from Scholastic
    5 sets
    Set 1: Beginning Readers (blue box) = 12 books, 12 pages each, 3 letter words, consistent sounds

    Set 2: Advancing Readers (orange box) = 12 books, 16 pages each, Primarily 3 letter words, consistent sounds & sight words.
    Set 3: Word Families (yellow box) = 10 books, 16 pages each, 8 stories + 2 activity books. Short vowels
    continue, adding blends & compound words

    Set 4: Compound Words (gray box) = 4 books of 16 pages each + 4 books of 24 pages each. New blends,
    more sight words, & longer compound words

    Set 5: Long Vowels (red box) = 4 books of 16 pages each + 4 books of 24 pages each. New blends, more
    sight words, & longer compound words. Strong emphasis on long vowels.
    ”

    RJ wrote this review Thursday, October 18 2007. ( reply | permalink )
  • Power Play
    • Rated 5 stars

    “

    Power Play
    by Joseph Finder
    ISBN:0-312-34748-0
    fiction * 384 pages
    St Martin’s Press
    www.josephfinder.com

    Power Play is a clever, action packed read that’s firing on all cylinders…intelligent, intriguing and absolutely entertaining– a boardroom blockbuster that demands to be read in single sitting and leaves you breathless, yet wanting more.

    When CEO, Peter Rawlings, suffers a fatal heart attack while golfing at Pebble Beach, Cheryl Tobin is named as his replacement. In Hammond Aerospace’s male dominated executive suite, this wrinkles more than a few oxford button downs. Then a competitor’s newly designed plane crashes in a ball of flames during an air show in Paris. Which results in millions of dollars in new contracts, as customers scramble to get in line for the new Hammond jet. Because of this unexpected development, VP, Michael Zorn is unable to attend the annual executive retreat. On the day of their scheduled departure, his assistant, Jake Landry is summoned to attend the event in his place.

    The lodge is located on an isolated Canadian lake, hidden deep in the vast British Colombian wilderness, where guests are treated to all the perks with none of the disturbances. Miles from the nearest cell phone or laptop King Chinook Lodge was the ideal place to brain storm and bond. Unfortunately, it was those very same characteristics that made it the perfect target for a high stakes kidnapping. And as fate would have it, the assistant, that wasn’t supposed to be there is the executives only hope for survival and the string that unravels a well planned ransom scheme.

    This was one of the best books I have read (in any genre) and will certainly remain in my top 10 for a very long time.

    The author has gone to great lengths to ensure the dialogue is as accurate as possible…the result is a wholly engrossing, exciting story that’s nearly impossible to put down! Modern issues, such as corporate kidnappings and glass ceilings, money laundering and sabotage are written with a depth and understanding that lend an unusual air of credibility to this novel.

    King Chinook Lodge is an integral part of the story, both allowing the danger to present itself and propelling the situation to its climatic and unavoidable culmination. Throughout the novel, fragments of the past are revealed, allowing the reader to become emotionally connected and invested in the story. Disturbing and thought provoking “Power Play” is a top notch thriller that is immensely satisfying and wildly entertaining!

    We all hope there’s a Jake Landry character on our bus or staying in our hotel…or in the next Joe Finder novel! I can’t wait!

    Happy Reading!
    RJ
    3Rs-Real Reader Review

    ”

    RJ wrote this review Wednesday, October 17 2007. ( reply | permalink )
  • The Secret of the Lonely Grave

    The Secret of the Lonely Grave

    by Albert A. Bell Jr
    • Rated 4 stars

    “Although middle schoolers are the primary target audience, The Secret of The Lonely Grave is a strong, thought provoking read, that easily grabs the attention of book lovers of all ages. Set in Western Kentucky this is an entertaining story that tackles controversial, difficult and painful topics in meaningful, age appropriate ways. While the characters are dealing with contemporary issues such as child abuse, single parent homes and school bullies, there’s a valuable history lesson at the heart of the book, that shines the light of truth on racism, slavery, bigotry and the indelible human spirit.

    Walking to and from the bus stop, best friends, Steve Patterson and Kendra Jordan pass the old cemetery where Kendra’s sister Moniqa is buried. They have visited the cemetery many times and have always been curious about one particular grave, that of six year old, Amanda, buried in the mid 1800’s. The grave was set off by itself, some distance from all the others, for that reason they nicknamed it “the lonely grave.” When they notice flowers on the forgotten grave, they decide to stake out the cemetery. Thinking if they identify who is visiting the grave they can solve the mystery.

    The friends soon discover the identity of the mysterious visitor– a recently widowed college professor, named Doc. Intelligent and kind, he too had been intrigued by the “lonely grave.” Doc guides the two friends as they spend the summer researching church and historical society records and talking with local residents. When they find evidence that suggests the infamous Underground Railroad may have passed through their small town, they realize this mystery goes far beyond the little girl’s grave.

    Steve’s grandparents are anything but enthusiastic about his detective exploits and demonstrate a hush-hush attitude. It now seemed entirely possible that his family had taken part in the betrayal of a local family that had assisted many escaped slaves well over a hundred years ago.

    Confronting difficult topics with a stylistic flair that educates and entertains, Bell utilizes modern themes and incorporates present day challenges into the lives of the characters. The story provides a forum for open discussions about the impact of slavery, equality and the power of the human spirit.

    An informative, entertaining and thought provoking read, I recommend this book to all young readers. It would be beneficial for middle school history classes to add this book to their reading lists.

    Happy Reading!
    RJ
    ”

    RJ wrote this review Wednesday, October 10 2007. ( reply | permalink )
  • The Penny: A Novel
    • Rated 4 stars

    “
    How many times have you walked past a penny on the ground without so much as a second thought? Jenny Blake did just that, and then for some unexplainable reason, turned, ran back and retrieved the penny from the hot asphalt. At the tender age of 14 Jenny had no way of knowing the significance of her actions on that blistering summer day in 1955.

    The Blake family lived in St. Louis, which during the 50's and early 60's was a hotbed of racial tension. So when Jenny, a white girl, befriends Aurelia,
    a black girl recently integrated into the same school, she must keep the friendship a secret. Although Aurelia's family welcomes Jenny into both their home and church, the same acceptance could not be found within the Blake household. Jenny's father in an abusive, horrible man, that mistreats his daughters in every conceivable way. Working for Miss Shaw, the local jeweler, Jenny begins to see Christianity at work, in small ways that others barely notice. Yet, no matter how hard she prays, her fathers abuse continues and she struggles to understand why God seems to be ignoring her pain. With Miss Shaw's guidance, and Aurelia's unwavering friendship she continues building her faith, one step at a time. Little by little God's truth is revealed to her....."God doesn't always make something go away because we pray, He often gives us the strength to stand up to it." And that knowledge changes her life and that of those around her.

    The authors indelible ability to recognize the miraculous wonders of God, even the smallest of details, is but one of the many things that makes "The Penny" a beautifully moving reading experience. Despite your religious convictions, this is a wonderful story where the authors reveal their inspirations subtly and slowly, never preachy, over-bearing or offensive, "The Penny" is much like the soft-spoken, loving direction one receives from a beloved parent. There's something for everyone in this heart-felt, inspirational story. The narration is exceptionally well delivered, adding depth and conviction to the reading experience.

    I highly recommend this novel to any reader that simply enjoys a strong, powerful story. (Just make sure you don't start listening (or reading) until you have several hours of free time... you will not want to put it down.)

    Happy Reading!
    RJ
    3RS
    ”

    RJ wrote this review Wednesday, October 10 2007. ( reply | permalink )
  • Look Into the Eyes of Evil

    Look Into the Eyes of Evil

    by P. K. Parker
    • Rated 4 stars

    “ FBI Special Agents Chris Delone and Marc Cullen are on the trail of a diabolical serial killer, known only as “Cutthroat”. With the identity of the bad guy revealed very early on, this is more an action packed, heart stopping detective drama than mystery novel.

    The depth of this killer’s depravity is chilling, utilizing modern technology, as well as, chemical substances to incapacitate his victims Cutthroat continues to ratchet up the stakes. The inevitable showdown with detective’s takes a stunning turn, when Cutthroat discovers that the woman he considered his ultimate prey has found sanctuary in the arms of agent Chris Delone. Enraged and on the edge of absolute insanity, the killer simply adjusts his plans to include both Holly and the agent.

    Parker writes with distinct voice and stylized action that is exciting and entertaining. A definite no holds barred, gutsy detective novel that takes the reader deep into the psyche of a social deviant that preys on the innocent. Although I would like to see a bit more character development, as individuals, to give the reader the opportunity to become emotionally invested in all aspects of the story, “Look Into The Eyes of Evil” is a good read that sets a solid stage for future installments.

    I look forward to reading the entire Badge of Honor series.

    Happy Reading !

    ”

    RJ wrote this review Wednesday, October 10 2007. ( reply | permalink )
  • The Magic Medallion (Cynthia's Attic) (Cynthia's Attic)
    • Rated 4 stars

    “(Middle School Reading Level/Ages 9-14)
    **2006 USA Book New Finalist Children’s Book Award
    Mary Cunningham’s second book in the Cynthia’s Attic series, reunites best friends, Cynthia and Gus for another trail-blazing adventure. The amateur sleuths have a nose for trouble and just can’t resist the urge to visit the mysterious old trunk in the attic. With non-stop action from cover to cover, there’s more than enough twists, turns and danger to keep readers up past well past bedtime.
    Climbing the dusty stairs, the girls knew that although there were no ghosts, goblins or giant spiders in the attic, the real excitement was in great-grandmother’s old trunk. Expecting things to be just the way they had left them, the girls were shocked to find Cynthia’s great-grandfather’s circus train in-front of the trunk. Magically the girls are thrust back in time, to the year 1914, where they eventually find themselves forced to perform by a nasty hobo clown. Rescued from the sinister Blackie, by the beautiful, fortune teller, Gabriella, Cynthia and Gus have unwittingly become entangled in the theft of her family’s most cherished treasure. The adventure is wrought with danger as the girls must travel through time and locate the magic medallion. Should they refuse, they may never be able to return to their present-day lives.
    In this second volume of the Cynthia’s Attic series, the girls meet a host of new and interesting characters and explore a wide range of settings. This is an irresistible adventure series - that has it all..entertaining, exciting and engaging,– a non-stop, thrilling ride through time. I eagerly await the third installment in this unique series!
    Happy Reading!
    RJ xx
    3Rs-
    Volume 3 in this wonderful youth series will be available December 2008!! Now is the perfect time to explore Cynthia’s Attic with the young reader in your family!
    ”

    RJ wrote this review Wednesday, October 10 2007. ( reply | permalink )
‹ Previous | 1 2 3 4 5  | Next » Last 
Displaying 21-30 of 61 reviews

Missing a review?



© 2006-2009 Shelfari | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | Copyright Policy

Close