Let’s make one thing clear upfront. As other reviewers have said before me, Bosch does not make an entrance anywhere within this novel.
This book was Let’s make one thing clear upfront. As other reviewers have said before me, Bosch does not make an entrance anywhere within this novel.
This book was first published on December 7, 1999 as a stand-alone. And, it features a character named Cassie Black, who also made a small appearance in “The Narrows” (2004).
For the most part, Cassie is our main protagonist, thus making this mostly her story. And, our opportunity as readers to experience Connelly, in his early years, when he created other random characters that could take center stage in his books.
The question is…did it work for this one?
Let’s begin with understanding the title of this book, ‘void moon.’ According to the story, a void moon ‘describes the time after the moon makes its last major aspect in its current sign (astrological), before entering the next one.’
Considering our main character Cassie’s state of transition in life, this becomes a fitting description for how things flow for her. Readers can sense a bit of mystery about Cassie’s character, someone who is trying to start over, but at the same time protect ‘something’ that is very important to her.
What happens when both are threatened?
It soon becomes clear to readers as to what Cassie’s motivations become and why, which puts her directly in the line of fire for trouble. Readers also sense that Cassie shares her role as protagonist with Las Vegas – the landscape, the reputation, and all that happens there.
How will this affect the reading experience?
The story starts off hot, readable, and exciting – making it in the beginning, a quick page turner. It is easy to find Cassie as a sympathetic character with a big heart. But as the story flew into a new gear, it lost a bit of its momentum. The question being, will readers enjoy the chase, or be annoyed by its predictability or unexpected plot twists that seem somewhat cliché?
For those who are interested in trying one of Connelly’s ‘unknown’ characters, this might be a nice break from Bosch. Or, a desire to get back to Bosch even more.
Full Disclosure. I was a fan of Jenkins Reid earlier books. Which means as I started to read more of her, I found myself not as attracted to the storyFull Disclosure. I was a fan of Jenkins Reid earlier books. Which means as I started to read more of her, I found myself not as attracted to the storytelling, as I was before. So, when this one hit the bestseller list, as most of hers typically do, I wasn’t in line to read it. Good Morning America even had it as their book club pick, for June, 2025. Shouldn’t that change my mind? At that time…No.
Then it was donated to my Little Free Library Shed. Regardless of how I felt about it, I knew it would be ‘checked out’ immediately. So, was I willing to give this author and me another chance?
Yes.
But.
Well, before the but, let’s discuss what the story has. A forbidden love. Plot twists. Women as astronauts. LGBTQ+ challenges. Historical perspective of the space program and training. Women empowerment. The legacy left behind. Lots of characters.
What stood out for me….
Jenkins Reid showcases complex characters and a deeply emotional and moving love story not just centered on the feelings of ‘first love’ but how love plays out with our connection to the universe. Especially as the author takes readers to space. There was so much about this aspect of space and training, and women’s challenges navigating a typical man’s world that could be considered a worthy read.
But. And, there is that ‘but’ again. At times the story fell flat in its telling. And, unfortunately it started at the beginning, where readers could easily become bored, frustrated and restless with all the characters and timelines to keep track of. Thus, making it hard to become invested in the story, overall.
And, sometimes the pacing of the story felt rushed and areas that needed more input were lacking. The dialog also didn’t always flow naturally. And, the plot tended to come across as over-emotional at times, with a predictable pretentious ending.
I am most likely an outlier, so I recommend reading other reviews....more
In my haste to give up on reading too many different mystery series, I forgot that I like this one, too. This book series, features DCI Karen Pirie whIn my haste to give up on reading too many different mystery series, I forgot that I like this one, too. This book series, features DCI Karen Pirie who works in the Scottish Highlands. Who could resist reading a story based in an area with such scenic beauty?
Also, I love how real the characters feel. Especially when they say certain things that are relatable. Like when Detective Chief Inspector Niven is reflecting on how things have changed with him since Covid.
Setting…
He is at the scene of the crime, and he is reflecting how much it reminds him of the last film he saw in a movie theater since the pandemic. His thoughts reveal…
“These days, he’d lost the desire to sit in a confined space with a lot of strangers at close quarters.”
I can totally appreciate that feeling. Thank goodness for television streaming which brings the movie directly to us in our own comfy, cozy homes. Which leads readers eventually to…
“A TV series, that’s a different kind of justice.”
Speaking of which, what happens to the concept and reality of achieving justice with cold cases?
DCI Karen Pirie and her team are handed a couple of cold cases. One came at them via a highway mudslide and bones discovered. Who was this person and how did they end up there?
Another cold case to be investigated occurred because a character wasn’t convinced his brother accidentally died. He felt there was something more sinister that occurred. Perhaps murder? Why? What new evidence surfaced that could lead to this conclusion?
In this fast-paced, page-turning police procedural, readers will be thrust into a steady momentum of action as the team tries to reconcile the limited evidence, to get to the truth.
Pirie is a sharp, strong woman character who despite whatever personal stresses may be going on, will stand up for her team and what she believes in to get at the truth. With a strong well-developed supporting cast of characters, readers get the sense of camaraderie and effective detection skills that will lead them towards answers.
So, what happens when Pirie’s team discover the truth? Will justice prevail? Will families get the closure they deserve for their loved ones? And, will the powerful be held accountable?
In this scenic atmospheric series, with realistic characters and complicated cold cases, readers will appreciate the work it took to confront the wrongs, even if the outcome is not expected.
Short chapters also helped, for what may have been considered an otherwise intimidating sizeable book of 432 pages. Could it have been shorter with less of the character’s personal life details? Probably. But it still delivered good action and sleuthing to keep readers engaged.
And, for those who are new to the series, the author does an appreciable job of catch-up, so that this could be read as a stand-alone, or at least remind regular series followers of what occurred last. Especially when it may have been a while since reading the last book in the series. Of course, if one is looking for a series to start, best to start from the beginning to get a full understanding of the characters history....more
Would you believe that I hadn’t picked up a book to read or re-visit in several days? Instead, I spent my time walking, reflecting, enjoying my dogs aWould you believe that I hadn’t picked up a book to read or re-visit in several days? Instead, I spent my time walking, reflecting, enjoying my dogs and my sister’s visit. My sister will be here for a few weeks, but it has been really nice to spend this quality time with her. Since she lives in Idaho, this is a rare opportunity for us. Also, it has been wonderful appreciating the rain that finally came to our part of California these past few days.
And then, after those book-less days, I picked up this one.
How would I describe this story in one word?
Intense.
This is a complex and absorbing story of madness, love, and desperate acts with the Blue Ridge Mountains as a scenic backdrop. In Sullivan’s debut novel, she created a sense of Appalachian life, with its superstitions and beautifully described landscapes, along with some well-developed, life-like characters.
Especially with her lead protagonist, Annie, whose resilience shone through as she worked diligently to solve a supposedly unsolvable case.
Even if the book title doesn’t truly reflect the storyline, it still was edgy, dark, haunting, twisted, and a slow-burn with a skillful plot. And, in reference to the book title, if readers were looking for witches, they won’t find them here. Still, it is a character-driven mystery that will most likely appeal to those readers attracted to psychological thrillers....more
What happens when single-parent Karen learns she has Stage IV breast cancer? It is no surprise that she wonders who will love and take care of the mosWhat happens when single-parent Karen learns she has Stage IV breast cancer? It is no surprise that she wonders who will love and take care of the most precious part of her when she is gone. Jacob, her 6-year-old son.
Especially when Jacob now wants to meet and know his father, who when Karen first announced she was pregnant, and instead of sticking around, left her.
How will Karen handle this with her son, as she faces the cancer, too?
This book is Karen’s love letter to her son.
Other than the abrupt ending, this story was…Engaging. Honest. Raw. Emotional. Thought-provoking.
“Lost light. I wanted to see the lost light.” “What?” “You can always find it. Even in the dark, even underground.”
“Twin skyrockets are going off inside“Lost light. I wanted to see the lost light.” “What?” “You can always find it. Even in the dark, even underground.”
“Twin skyrockets are going off inside me. …To Paradise Road. To bright, blessed days and dark, sacred nights. It led to the place where lost light came from. My lost light.”
Back and forth in time I go with one of my favorite characters, Harry Bosch. With this read, I find myself in the midst of another story (that I had not read yet) that was originally published in 2003. The 9th in the series. Obviously, a bit further along since “The Black Ice” premiered in 1993, (2nd in series); and, I offered my review here in September, 2025. And, certainly not as far along as “The Crossing,” which I posted this October, 2025. If interested, reviews are below.
Bosch is now retired from the Los Angeles Police Department (L.A.P.D.). And, trying to find his footing in this new retirement phase of his life. Of course, being Bosch, retirement doesn’t come easily, or last too long.
A fellow police officer named Lawton Cross, who was paralyzed in a shooting a few years ago, asks him to look into his last case. Readers can feel Bosch coming alive from this request…
“I felt something stirring inside that had been absent for a long time. A small tug toward the darkness I one time knew so well.”
Cross’s investigation which was cut short by the shooting that took him down, and killed his partner, was now a cold case. Open-Unsolved. It involved the murder of a woman working in the movie industry. And, a heist of two million dollars from the movie she was working on. Could her death be related to the robbery?
And, of course, the L.A.P.D. upper echelon don’t want Bosch to investigate this one.
Why?
It doesn’t take long for Bosch and readers, to recognize that there is more to the story here. And, as readers we are led on a relentless pursuit for answers by Bosch that leads to some twists and turns that leave readers breathless, at times.
What will Bosch discover?
Also, Maddie, Bosch’s daughter, makes her entrance for the first time. A bit of a mystery surrounds this experience, too. But her presence also creates something in Bosch that readers have not seen before.
In this particular outing, (originally published in 2015, and #18 in the series), former detective Harry Bo“When did the crossing of the line happen?”
In this particular outing, (originally published in 2015, and #18 in the series), former detective Harry Bosch, who has been retired from the L.A.P.D. is approached by his half-brother, Mickey Haller, also known as the Lincoln Lawyer, to help him on a case. Not one to typically work for the defense, or in support of known criminals, Bosch is skeptical that Haller’s client is innocent.
Still, Haller convinces him to look into the murder of a cop’s wife who had an important city position. Soon it is clear that the novel is contemplating a single, unsettling question – how could Haller’s client’s DNA turn up on her if he’d never met her, nor was there any prior connection between them? Stranger murder, or…?
As Bosch investigates, Haller is falsely pulled in for a D.U.I. and his investigator, Cisco is run off his motorcycle. What is going on?
Who could possibly be so concerned about Haller’s case? And, why?
And, why are others being targeted? (To say more would give away spoilers.)
Connelly is a master at creating tension and suspense. Thus, making readers do the unavoidable…turn pages quickly! And, Bosch being the professional he is, knows exactly what to do and say and how to get what he needs to crack the case wide open.
Readers, stay with this page turner. With Connelly giving readers his creation Bosch, and some courtroom drama, there is always something exciting happening from one page to the next!
Last thought…Although this could be read as a stand-alone, don’t make this Bosch story your first. If you have never read this character series before, it is best to start at the beginning....more
“And just in case no one ever told you – you’re worthy. Of love. Of family. Of home.”
Yarros’ books, “Iron Flame,” “Forth Wing,” and “Onyx Storm,” have“And just in case no one ever told you – you’re worthy. Of love. Of family. Of home.”
Yarros’ books, “Iron Flame,” “Forth Wing,” and “Onyx Storm,” have flown off the shelf of my Little Free Library Shed each time I placed them on display. I was always excited, because I knew there were a lot of Romantasy readers in my neighborhood. (Not my genre, so I haven’t read them.)
So, when this one was donated, I had to look twice, that this was the same author. Especially since the plot didn’t resemble her epic best-selling romantic fantasy tales.
However, it is a contemporary romance, so in many ways she is still keeping true to her writing focus. And, this one came out before her Romantasy series hit the scene. Was this a way for the publisher to re-introduce her earlier stories?
Part epistolary writing and basic storytelling, readers will find themselves engaged at the beginning of each chapter with a letter to and from our main protagonists, Ella and Beckett.
Ryan, who is in the military, suggested his sister, Ella write to his military best friend Beckett, whom he has referred to only by his nickname, Chaos. Ella, a strongly independent single mother is in Telluride, Colorado running her grandmother’s B and B after her death. She has twins, Colt and Maisie who are the center of her life. Beckett has no family, or friends, outside his military working Labrador retriever dog, Havoc, and Ryan. So, this letter exchange lay open their lives – even as strangers.
And then, Ryan writes the last letter. (Hence: the title of the book.) So, Beckett and Havoc come to Ella and her children. Even if Ella proves resistant to the idea. But Beckett doesn’t tell her he is Chaos. Why?
What impact will this hidden truth have on the two?
It would be remiss of me if I did not include triggers, even if they may appear to give away some of the plot. I just ask, that even with these triggers, please don’t presume their meaning is obvious. Just know that most likely, readers may be affected by them.
Triggers: Pediatric cancer. Adoption. Death of a child. Death of a family member/friend.
The triggers will no doubt add an emotional component to the story.
This is a character-driven, poignant, moving story that will no doubt tug on the heart. Because it is heart-felt, soul-stirring, heartbreaking and heartwarming. About love in all its many forms. (Including dog-love!)
In many ways, as beautiful as this premise is, at times the story felt like an overwrought melodrama. Was the story trying too hard to grab readers attention?
Still, if readers can stick with it, the story may melt anyone’s defenses. Because it is a story about illness, loss, grief, forgiveness, hope, second chances, found family and healing. And, how a battle-worn soldier with a loving obedient dog, and, a steely stubborn woman, attempt to work through their vulnerabilities. And, it is also about the children. Two amazing kids who are uplifting even in the midst of great challenges, and adversity.
So, if this sounds appealing, it has all that is needed for anyone looking for deeply drawn characters that readers can connect to easily. Which makes it a story about the durability and strength of the human spirit.
“Hope is good. Feel it. Because we have no idea what’s coming around the corner.”
“Grief means you had someone worth grieving.”
Will all these characters find their way to a happily-ever-after? (No spoilers from me.) Just keep the Kleenex close....more
“A window opens, and I hear the cranes gathering to fly south.”
I am still weeping as I attempt to find words to share with you how I feel about what I“A window opens, and I hear the cranes gathering to fly south.”
I am still weeping as I attempt to find words to share with you how I feel about what I just read here. So very grateful that this was a donation to my Little Free Library Shed. Now, I get to share it with the neighborhood.
This is a story that touches on end-of-life, healing relationships, and the love of a good dog. Definitely the love of a good dog. Any of us who have a pet, treasure our special connection, and the emotion we experience when their best interests are in our hands to consider.
So, what does one do when our life is now in the hand of caregivers, and we no longer have the strength or ability to give our special companion the best part of us? Let alone ourselves. This is Bo’s dilemma. An 89-year-old man whose body is failing him. Everyday use to be filled with daily walks in the woods, and everything that mattered for both him and his dog, Sixten.
What happens for Bo, if he is no longer able to do these daily events? Does he have to give in to his son, Hans, who says it is time to say goodbye to Sixten, because Bo is unable to care for him? The thought that Bo can’t have his dog next to him, at this last stage of life, is painful to consider. But shouldn’t he also be concerned about what is best for Sixten, his dog?
What will happen? (No spoilers from me.)
This is their journey. Bo and Sixten. Heart-felt. Compelling. Thought-full. Bittersweet. Dramatic. Lifelike. Realistic. Well-developed characters. Well-drawn plot.
“Now I hold my life in my hands and feel its warmth. I breathe gently on the embers. I make them glow.”
How many of us ever consider the impact of our “Now I hold my life in my hands and feel its warmth. I breathe gently on the embers. I make them glow.”
How many of us ever consider the impact of our ONE STAR reviews? Having written a few, I know I contemplate everything before attaching any stars to my review. Especially if it is going to be just ONE STAR.
Why?
Because there is a chance that someone reading my review may make a decision about the book based on my opinion of it. And, that matters to me.
Before attaching that lonely one star⭐️, I examine and think about all aspects of my feelings, reactions, observations and concerns about the book, prior to assigning stars.
But I also know that regardless of my rating, in many ways I am somewhat anonymous. Unimportant. Just a person reading a book and offering my thoughts on it. I am not attached to a major newspaper, or magazine, or online blog, or YouTube program, or part of a celebrity circuit in which what I have to say really matters…on a large stage.
So, when our character, Alex Lyons, who is deeply ensconced in theatre, and happens to write for a popular newspaper, that ONE STAR review reaction to the show he just watched…it matters. To his readers. And, they will most likely respond in kind to his powerful words. By probably not attending the show he just openly lambasted.
What he doesn’t expect is what Hayley, the ‘target’ of this review, will do in kind. Because his words also mattered to her. Especially after humiliating her with a one-night stand, as well, when she didn’t know who he was and how his words would impact her.
And, this is the crux of the story. Her reaction to him. His reaction to what she does. And, how we as readers are supposed to feel about either of them.
Sophie, a colleague of Alex’s is our narrator. And, through her words we learn more about all that occurred, as well as Alex’s ‘qualities.’ And what Hayley has created based on Alex’s so-called reputation.
This is Runcie’s debut novel. She has a thoughtful, lyrical way with words that can easily impact readers as she provides us with so many moments to breathe in.
“…he kissed her. And it rose within him, that addictive one-night-only falling in love feeling, taking him over like a warm bloom of drunkenness.”
Still, as readers we can’t help but hope there are learning lessons here. For these two characters. About understanding, forgiveness, caring about the impact of their words.
And, that becomes the interesting journey for readers, too. The question being, will we connect to Alex and Hayley? And, hope for the best possible ending? Especially if we question our own ‘feelings’ about these characters and their ‘issues.’ Because even if Alex is displayed in a certain way, did what Hayley do make her any better? (No spoilers from me.)
Amusing at times, compelling at others, this book would make for a great book discussion selection. As well as an opportunity for any of us to pause as we consider the impact of any of our reviews.
Still, having said that, it truly is a pleasure to write and read reviews, through words and stars, that share exactly what we experienced from our reading journey. Some of our profile pages share our own interpretation of what each star means to us. And yes, it would be nice if Goodreads provided .5 ⭐️opportunities for ratings. But they don’t, even if we do.
So, here is mine for this book…
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 rounded up for making us think. About actions and reactions.
I’d like to offer my appreciation to the author who is also an arts journalist, for what she shares in her ‘Thank You’ section at the end…
“To everyone whose work I’ve ever reviewed: thank you for making something worth talking about.”
I couldn’t believe it when this 1993 Harry Bosch novel was donated to my Little Free Library Shed that I hadn’t read it! This is the second in the serI couldn’t believe it when this 1993 Harry Bosch novel was donated to my Little Free Library Shed that I hadn’t read it! This is the second in the series. And, considering I am fairly up-to-date on most things Bosch, including ALL the television series that feature him (Bosch, Bosch Legacy, Ballard, and even The Lincoln Lawyer), I saw this as a compelling reading opportunity.
How so, you wonder?
Well, when one has read Bosch from the beginning to his current mature self, and then goes back to the beginning again, I see this as a rather observant place for a reader to be. Watching an early version of Bosch again.
What will we as a reader pick up about him that we may have missed? What could we possibly re-learn about him? What can we appreciate about the early investigative skills that need to be utilized when technology and forensics were still in some of its early stages? And, will we be able to appreciate the investigative skills utilized from Bosch’s point-of-view?
So, off to the past I go.
Black ice = “the drug of the twenty-first century…coke, heroin and PCP…”
“There is no trap so deadly as the trap you set for yourself.” – ‘The Long Goodbye’ by Raymond Chandler
Christmas Day. Harry Bosch is on-call. But he isn’t called. The scanner tells him that something is going down. So, Bosch decides to show up on scene anyway.
A narcotics cop has been missing and presumed dead. And, now he shows up. As an apparent suicide. A one-line note is discovered.
What could this note mean? The chief asks Bosch to notify the wife.
The visit. The note. Bosch’s instincts tell him that all is not as it seems. And, we as readers can’t help but want to believe Bosch’s instincts.
But the bureaucrats don’t want Bosch to put his energies into the suicide cop, they have several cases they would rather him review and close at least one before the New Year.
So, what happens when one of those cases that Bosch picks just happened to be the last case handled by the suicide cop, on the same day he checked into the motel where he was apparently found dead from suicide? Also, the victim of this last case, was also discovered at the diner that suicide cop always ate at with his team. And, why would the big boss, suddenly dump these same cases on Bosch? Should Bosch believe in coincidences? Should we as readers?
Can we as readers turn pages fast enough to find answers? As well as appreciate the nuances of Connelly’s descriptions?
“The elevator was crowded and smelled like stale breath.”
This younger version of Bosch is fierce, unafraid, gritty, a loner. He is addressing these cases and digging deeply, even if he is irritating the chain of command. What readers know most about Bosch is that he is loyal to nobody but the truth. And, he will go the distance to get answers even if it means breaking the rules to get there.
What will he discover about these cases?
For me, I appreciated the opportunity to be with this younger version of Bosch. Readers will also appreciate the scenic read, with the Hollywood Hills landscape and landmarks, and some travelling to Mexico as they follow Bosch on his journey to solve the case(s).
I have appreciated Bosch’s maturity over the later books, and his giving up smoking, which doesn’t happen until Connelly’s 17th novel, “The Burning Room” which is mentioned within the plot. It is amazing how irritating it can be for a non-smoker (me) to have to be witness to the constant lighting of cigarettes, even if it is not real – it still feels real. And, it has been nice to see him partner up with others in the solving of cases in future books.
This is a quick, fast-paced, thrilling, page-turning crime mystery that will most likely please Bosch fans even with his imperfections in these early years. But was this the type of ending that we have come to appreciate from Connelly? Well, let’s just say he has done better. But for those of us who love Bosch, (even as this earlier version), we still do. Even if he is an irritating, loner, smoker here. He is Bosch, after all....more
“I hope you will tell her she was a perfect baby, born at dawn under a pink sunrise.”
I have been a fan of epistolary style storytelling for quite some“I hope you will tell her she was a perfect baby, born at dawn under a pink sunrise.”
I have been a fan of epistolary style storytelling for quite some time now. Most recently sharing my joy last month (in my 2025 on Goodreads review, August stand-out picks) when I read and reviewed, “Kate & Frida” by Kim Fay. If interested, my review of that book is below.
So, when I heard about this book, I immediately got on the waitlist on June 16, 2025 at my local library to read it. Once it came in on September 4, 2025, I began reading it along with another book I had already started. And, then I just kept reading it, as if it were the only book in the world to read.
On the book cover, author Ann Patchett declares…
“A cause for celebration.”
On page 6 of the hardcover version, the character, Sybil Van Antwerp, our main letter writer, sends Ann Patchett, a letter. A full circle moment?
This is Sybil’s story…her life, her thoughts, her sentiments, her relationships – through letters. (And, the responses she receives.) And, Sybil does not hold back. Through the correspondence she shares, we learn about her past, and the challenges she is facing in the present.
So, who is Sybil really and what makes her so easy-to-read?
“It is the correspondence that is her manner of living.”
A direct-not-afraid-to-say-what-she-thinks kind of character, Sybil displays herself openly for readers to witness and appreciate. There is also a gentleness to her we come to understand as layers of her life are peeled open and laid before readers. Who is she writing to – how is she feeling – what story is she telling – what experience are we as readers coming to learn about as Sybil writes her letters, and we eagerly read them.
There is a touching, heart-full, lyrical soul-full-ness within these pages, of a woman’s life filled with accomplishments, friendship, love, guilt, regrets, grief, insights, forgiveness and heart. There is also a slight mystery.
“I have missed you all this time,…but the fact is that I got every moment of you there was.”
The letters, which translate to the culmination of this book, are moving, elegant, sometimes laugh-out-loud funny, heart-warming, well-crafted, and poignant.
Readers will also appreciate the many other book titles mentioned, and familiar named ‘author’ letters that are included as part of the correspondence.
This is a delightfully charming story that expresses itself in a truly imaginative way. It has the ability to hold readers attention from the beginning to the end.
October, 1895. Granville. Normandy coast of France.
There are many passengers of a variety of classes, innocently and unknowingly boarding a train heaOctober, 1895. Granville. Normandy coast of France.
There are many passengers of a variety of classes, innocently and unknowingly boarding a train headed for disaster.
Based on a true story, the author introduces readers to the experience of what it is like to be on this train before disaster strikes. With characters readers are uncertain who is leading to this probable ‘tragic’ end. Or why. Or even if they are the cause of what is to happen. Thus, a tension builds along the way leading readers to suspect and question everything.
And yet, that isn’t the main point of the story.
The story builds traction also because of its characters.
The tremendous cast of characters is a statement on the randomness of social standing, races and nationalities who just happen to be in the same ‘locked room.’
And, as readers, we come to understand, that this train, is headed in the same direction, with all these characters – and something, is going to happen, maybe because of one of them – or not.
And, for the most part, each character was based on a real historical person. Even the train itself, felt like a character – Granville, Engine 721.
Making this story, truly character-driven.
The question for readers…will anyone survive?
This book is a riveting narrative that also serves as a sharp social commentary. Which makes it a good historical book discussion selection.
Be sure to read the Author’s Note at the end to find out what really happened with the train and its passengers in 1895....more
There is something to be said about fast-paced, page-turning, can hardly catch my breath, engrossing thrillers. Because authors seem to know how to prThere is something to be said about fast-paced, page-turning, can hardly catch my breath, engrossing thrillers. Because authors seem to know how to provide readers with short chapters, and intense, break-neck speed, moving and compelling mystery reading experiences.
And, for the most part, I am truly a fan of this author. And, yes, this book does provide all of the above.
And, with this story, he definitely had me at the first page. But…
Oh, and I do hate those buts. There were those moments that the story devolved into something that just felt more contrived, than believable.
But I still continued to read. A but that works both ways, I guess.
The premise of the story being that a former detective, now emergency room doctor, was now being requested to consult on a cold case. Which sounded intriguing. And, for me, I was still invested in finding out how this cold case could possibly be solved.
But because of the many plot twists, I felt distracted and somewhat overwhelmed as a reader. The other side of the but, again.
And, even if some parts were resolved in a very dark, edgy, twisted way, the author also chose to leave the story in a way I don’t appreciate…with a cliffhanger. I apologize if this is giving away a spoiler. But this is one of my greatest pet peeves in any story. I prefer a beginning, a middle, and an ending with books that I read. Period.
For some a cliffhanger means, that the author is opening this up to a continuing series. Because there is some unfinished business. And, if that excites others to wanting to continue on, then this may be a great first in the series for others to pursue.
For me. Nope. I’m done. And, disappointed.
But please read other reviews. I am most likely an outlier, who just got too disappointed by the overabundance of twists and being left hanging....more
There is something sad and haunting about this book. Not in the way that it makes anyone think that it is spooky season. But in the way that touches tThere is something sad and haunting about this book. Not in the way that it makes anyone think that it is spooky season. But in the way that touches the heart and emotions, knowing that people are driven to do things sometimes – possibly to survive, or because they may not know better.
What drives any of us? What memories create us? Who are we or what do we become because of what happened to us – or what we may choose to become because of what occurred in our past?
This is the story of lives touched by a haunted past.
We have the snow child. We have someone known as Mr. B. We have a tremendous supporting cast of characters. And, our main protagonist, Naomi on a mission as ‘the child finder.’ (Hence: the title of the book.)
And, yet, if this mission is accomplished, so much more will be discovered. And, whether it is a happy ending, or not, readers will feel many emotions, including the tragedies, heart-break, and haunting that touches all those affected when children are lost and hopefully found.
A powerful, heart-wrenching, deeply touching reading experience....more
Consider the title of this book. Do we ever really know how this, whatever this is, ends? I can only assume that this might be the direction our life Consider the title of this book. Do we ever really know how this, whatever this is, ends? I can only assume that this might be the direction our life chooses to take. Right? Maybe. Hmmm… ...more
At the same time, I was reading this book, I was also reading, “The Summer Guests” by Tess Gerritsen in which her Martini Club had picked Ackerman’s bAt the same time, I was reading this book, I was also reading, “The Summer Guests” by Tess Gerritsen in which her Martini Club had picked Ackerman’s book as their group’s book discussion selection. I thought it was a fascinating coincidence. Especially, when they started to get into their own discussion about birds. As a side note, I finished, but decided not to review “The Summer Guests.” Sometimes books are just for reading.
Let me first start by sharing my admiration for this book cover. It is the only painted color illustration offered of a bird in the whole book. Which is a shame. But it is absolutely stunning. The spectacular blue and gray feathers of this California Scrub Jay comes through vibrantly. Look at the claws as it clutches onto the stem of the plant/tree. And, the serious look in the eye with the white streak above it, is just gorgeous. Unfortunately for me, I really had hoped there would be more color illustrations of birds throughout the book. Still, the black and white bird illustrations that were offered at the beginning of each chapter are a nice treat. But this book cover illustration by Eunike Nugroho is something to be truly acknowledged, and that is why I am mentioning it.
Now let’s talk about the title of the book. I love the way the author starts this book. She is very clear that birds have gotten the short end of the stick, so to speak, when it comes to perception about their intelligence.
To be honest, any of us who are animal lovers, probably believe our pets are intelligent and have an innate ability to communicate with us. I already get this from my corgi dog Oliver with the way he can either shame face me into submission, or soften me because he is telling me everything, I need to know about what he needs from me in any given moment. So, those of us who have pets, obviously already believe in their abilities to creatively interface with us.
So, it is not surprising to any of us who have an affinity for animals, that we might wonder about ‘birds’ intellectual abilities to communicate, and especially their ability to communicate with humans. The more that science can bridge this gap, the more aware we can be in understanding them, their needs, and meeting and appreciating those needs. Or, at least appreciating what they bring to humans and nature, overall.
This is the beauty of this book. Helping readers reimagine our understanding of “bird brains.” To see and appreciate them differently. And, readers can certainly appreciate the author’s sense of wonder about birds.
Last minutes notes for consideration…
Throughout the book, Ackerman provides many explanations in layman’s terms of complex studies done on birds. Those birds with language skills are captivating. The studies are easily translatable, making them understandable for readers. Also, this book can be read at a slow pace, if desired. I chose to read this book in-between my novels, thus the slow pace worked well for me. I also appreciated that the book could be utilized as a teaching tool…especially for those who enjoy birdwatching, or are fascinated with birds in general....more
“A year and an instant are equivalent in a monotonous life.”
This one was a Pulitzer finalist. It is also the author’s debut novel. It seems this autho“A year and an instant are equivalent in a monotonous life.”
This one was a Pulitzer finalist. It is also the author’s debut novel. It seems this author does well in Pulitzer territory, having won it in 2023 for his novel, “Trust.” Review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
This is a western tale, about a Swedish immigrant named, Hakan Soderstrom in the mid-19th century of America. Unfortunately for Hakan he boards the wrong ship and gets separated from his brother, consequently ending up in San Francisco.
And thus, his new trek begins to find his brother. Without knowledge of English, many quirky people and challenges await him. Which allows readers to be engaged in his awkward and wayward journey.
The author should be praised for his well-developed characters, and his ability to give readers a sense of time and scenic landscapes, even if the story is told at a slow-pace. ...more
“What’s the best thing about being a storyteller? That’s easy. You get to cheat…to live many lives, not just the one you’re born to.”
Sometimes reading “What’s the best thing about being a storyteller? That’s easy. You get to cheat…to live many lives, not just the one you’re born to.”
Sometimes reading certain books are like having conversations with best friends. Where we can talk so openly with each other. Like sharing about our greatest fears, or the sensitivities we have about our families.
This book of essays is called ‘Life and Art.’ And, that in a sense is the beauty of what this book is all about – Russo giving his readers an inside view into his writing process. How many authors do this for us? Giving us the feeling that we are his best friends. Important people to him, because we are his readers. The ones he intends on pleasing. Telling us about…
Life.
And, the art of the story.
How they both relate. How they both come to be. For him. And, in so doing, how it relates to us. The reader. Him essentially breaking down his writing process. For us. And, maybe for himself, too.
I loved being in the midst of “Life and Art” where he is telling it like it is in his honest and in-your-face kind-of-way. And, I love the way he shares with his open heart, too. So much so, that I have to believe his essays – stories, were cathartic for him.
I have been reading this book, in-between novels. And, as I finished the last page, I couldn’t help but be amazed by a sea of sticky notes staring back at me. Where was I going to place all the ‘quotes’ of what he said that stood out to me?
Well, as it so happens, I decided to add a few to the famous author’s Goodreads quotes pages. Please check out some of those below. Maybe some will have meaning for you, too? If so, click on the ones you like, and they will be added to your profile page, too.
So much of what he shared resonated with me. His discussion of his feelings, thoughts, observations, experiences, life in general, observations of others, America – yesterday – today – a probable future? …wow. I was so there with him.
So much about what Russo writes in his fiction I have truly appreciated. But certainly, this discussion in his essays were so – real and raw.
Of course, be-ing an open-minded reader helps. And, even if he isn’t writing from a political point-of-view, his writer’s perspective helps to showcase his observations with an open heart and directness. Which really is the first part of his essays – the life of the story.
I need to pause for a moment.
Interestingly enough, as I am reading this book on essays, Oprah just shared that his book, “Bridge of Sighs” was announced as her August 2025 book pick. Not that he needed her attention for anyone to read his book or books, but I am glad she chose him. “Bridge of Sighs” https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1... was originally published in 2007. It centered on small-town life in upstate New York. And, it certainly deserves a re-release. One I haven’t yet reviewed, but remember was a hit with our library book discussion group when we discussed it years ago.
Back to this book.
To be honest, I could feel everything he was discussing in his ‘life’ section as if it had personally happened to me, too. I think as readers connect with the subjects in his essays (particularly his discussions about the pandemic), I have a feeling it will hit some personal notes for some, too.
And then, there are the subjects of:
Anxiety. Family life experiences. The impacts of family life decisions on him as a person and his role as an author and playwright. And, how it affected him, and the creation of his characters. The perspective he brought to his stories/characters because of these observations/experiences.
And, then there is the second half of the book… the art of the story. What he refers to as “the lives of others.”
The character development.
“…The how of writing a story that requires some degree of transcendence: how do you go about bridging the gap between what you know and what you don’t and sometimes can’t?”
In other words, he may create a character based on someone he met, but now he embellishes that character so that it fits his narrative. And thus, a story is born.
The art. Of the story.
There is so much to appreciate about what Russo shares within these pages. It is like a masterclass in fiction writing for anyone who loves to write, or even read.
And, as we consider his words, we can be reminded about how much we are all touched by words and conversations. And, our humanity in feeling things. Deeply.
When we read books, we connect to characters for so many different reasons. Why not connect to an author, and appreciate their innerworkings, too.
Russo opened his personal door to readers through his essays by inviting us in. I recommend this book as a wonderful invitation into the mind of an author.
A couple of last notes.
Especially touching was his discussion about Paul Newman. Completely heart-felt. For all the right reasons. And, lastly his words about George Floyd. There is so much more for us to grow and learn as humans caring about others.
If you are unfamiliar with Richard Russo the author, or haven’t read him yet, consider picking up one of his books. Certainly, now that Oprah is recognizing him this month, might be a good time to start! My favorite will always be, “Straight Man.” Certainly, reading his book of essays is always recommended, too. Like this one....more
I would have not known about this book, had it not been recommended by Goodreads friend, Brendan Shea. So, I did what I typically do, when books are rI would have not known about this book, had it not been recommended by Goodreads friend, Brendan Shea. So, I did what I typically do, when books are recommended. I check with my local library if it is available. Fortunately, it was, so, on June 2, 2025 I ordered it. I finally received it on August 2, 2025. And, today, August 7, 2025, I am posting my review.
What if you were 9 months pregnant on a mission to buy a crib and mattress at IKEA, and then the ultimate earthquake hits? What?! Well, in Annie’s case, she certainly hoped to survive!
And, as she does, her greatest dilemma is finding her way to her husband, Dom, who is supposedly working in town. What she soon finds out is that he was off chasing his dreams on stage in the worst possible place, the epicenter of the earthquake.
As Annie walks herself through the devastation, readers learn through trips to the past, there is a lot about Annie and Dom to navigate and overcome as she tells her story to readers and unborn ‘Bean.’
What will Annie come to discover and experience in the end?
A measured, fast-paced, easy-to-read, one-sitting reading experience (for me) that will have readers turning pages quickly to find out what will happen. Thank you, Brendan for recommending this book to me....more
Loading...
