Books Are Like Candy Corn

My List For The 2012 TBR Pile Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 01:24:00 +0000

I've run out of space for my books so this challenge seems like the right choice. Roof Beam Reader has inspired me to pick 12 books that have been on my shelf (or floor) for at least a year and published before 2011. Here's my list so far. Are any of these titles on your TBR list?

1. Still Life by Louise Penny
2. The Last Dickens by Matthew Pearl
3. The Man Who Loved Books Too Much by Allison Hoover Bartlett
4. The Fat Mat, A Tale of North Pole Noir by Ken Harmon
5. The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley
6. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows
7. The Blue Boy by Rakesh Satyal
8. The Little Book by Selden Edwards
9. Imaginative Qualities of Actual Things by Gilbert Sorrentino
10. The Tower, The Zoo and The Tortoise by Julia Stuart
11. The Singer's Gun by Emily St. John Mandel
12. Hemingway Deadlights by Michael Atkinson

Sign up closes in just a few hours. I'm running to meet a deadline. That's been my story in 2011!

Ivan and Misha by Michael Alenyikov: Free Book

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 10:21:00 +0000

There have been many thought provoking and insightful reviews written this month on the TLC book tour of Ivan and Misha by Michael Alenyikov. Many have called it a top ten read of the year. I agree.

Sally's review from Bibrary Book Lust is a favorite, "it's like a Russian nesting doll, with stories inside stories, each of them revealing something grander, but demanding a greater share of attention to appreciate what you’ve found."

How can I top that? This is a problem when you're at the end of the tour of a popular book and trying to think of a new twist that has yet to be mentioned.

I will say this...

If you'd like a chance to win my gently used book, leave a comment with your email address. I'll pick a winner on October 8 for Yom Kippur. And if you live outside of the USA, you can enter too.

The only reason I'm letting it leave my shelf is because I received a PDF copy from TLC Book Tours. (The
E-book is not available yet and I hope it will be soon).

Back to the story, Alenyikov writes with passion and heartfelt honesty. After losing two parents recently I could relate to the sons' relationship with their father and his to them. Alenyikov brilliantly shows both sides. For me the father's story was my personal favorite.

I'm still trying to figure out the last story. It's hard to read about dying with AIDS. I need more time to digest and let it sink in. The other reviewers are ahead of me on this one. Who is Vinnie?

Response from Author: Michael was kind enough to write to me today about the last short story. "It's the only story I wrote independently of the others...(and)...the first story I wrote when I started writing fiction in mid-life. An author shouldn't have to explain."

My Comment: I agree with you Michael. It's like asking a painter to explain the art he/she has created.

Response from Michael:

"Just to clarify: What I meant about an author not needing to clarify his/her work is that I tried hard not to confuse the reader, needlessly. And if readers are confused then I wonder if I did a good job guiding them along. That last story was asking more from readers: to make a leap to a narrator who was a very minor character in earlier stories.

I actually had two other stories I cut at the last minute because while they were quite good I decided it was asking too much of the readers (one story was about a gay Swiss UN Peacekeeper in East Timor and Bosnia -- and I introduced a half-brother to Ivan and Misha about whom they knew nothing.)

The larger question of what does a work mean, what should it mean, is hard for an author and I leave that up to the readers. As the author my deepest feeling is that these are characters, emotions, events, thoughts, sentences I've lived with for many years. I'm always surprised at what readers pick up on, feel most strongly about, etc. I think when we see authors on TV talking about their work they've kind of rehearsed lines that make it seem as if the author had those themes in mind all along, when in fact, a good deal of the time when writing one is quite in the dark about the impact of one's words, one's characters."

My Comment: Thanks Michael for your thoughtful discussion. I don't think I was in the right place emotionally for the last chapter. And because of this, I missed a key element. I understood the story was from an earlier time and remembered that Kevin was Misha's former lover.

This collection of stories of two fraternal twins, both gay, who move to New York with their father from Kiev is one I'll come back to. Stay tuned.

My thanks to TLC for the complimentary copy and including me on this tour.

The Upright Piano Player by David Abbott: Book Review

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 03:42:00 +0000

Do you think someone in their late 50's or early 60's is elderly? Keep in mind that I'm 54 when you answer this loaded question.

Here's why I ask.

I'm reading reviews for this book that describe the lead character as "old." It caused me pause and I looked in the mirror. I'm just a few years younger than Henry who is the protagonist in The Upright Piano Player. And I have gray hair too, but damn I feel young. Others may not think so at first glance.

There are many generations in this book but the central characters are prime time. I was hooked immediately. The book could have been a melodramatic soap opera with its many tragedies, instead it became a rich character study for me and contemporary British writing at its best.

Henry's world is turned upside down when he's asked to leave the company he founded. Through flashbacks we learn about Henry while watching him chart his present course. The author moves brilliantly between time periods with ease, even if his characters do not.

We see people close to Henry die. Torn relationships over the past are worked through. Henry becomes a victim and stalked by someone much younger. He's sometimes understood but not always.

I'm reminded that 50 plus looks old when you're young, but once you've arrived at this point in your life it doesn't feel that long ago when looking back. Scary, huh?

I left a comment on Dan's Journal and received a complimentary copy of this book.

The Upright Piano Player by David Abbott was first published in Great Britain in 2010; my version is the first American edition by Doubleday. ISBN 9780385534420, 264 pages.

Saturday Snapshot: Shaka For Books

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Sat, 03 Sep 2011 18:39:00 +0000

Rob Meets Hawaii Book Blog

At the start of summer I attended my first book festival. That's the good news. The bad is that I could only squeeze in about two hours. I was doing writing projects for clients in Honolulu the same weekend as the Hawaii Book and Music Festival.

My two hour visit gave me a chance to hear Roseanne Barr speak, the last 15 minutes anyway, and mystery writer Douglas Corleone.

I also had the opportunity to meet my first book bloggers. Misty and Alex were there from Hawaii Book Blog. I loved their "Shaka For Books" t-shirt and bought one on their website. It's become THE shirt when I volunteer at our library book sales.

Now that summer is almost over, although living on Kauai feels like it's endless, I'm looking forward to fall celebrations. I'm heading to the North Shore for a swim at Hanalei today and plan some downtime to relax and maybe write a book review.

How are you spending Labor Day weekend?

Saturday Snapshot is hosted weekly by Alyce from At Home With Books.

The Blue Moon Cafe by Rick Reed: Book Review

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 08:38:00 +0000

"Tearing. The man doesn't even have time to scream."

I usually don't read books about people getting ripped apart and things that go bump in the night. So it's interesting to me that I ended up reading (and liking) The Blue Moon Cafe.

This story about werewolves causing havoc in Seattle's gay community offered suspense and even romance. The good looking men between its cover were caught in a love triangle with bite.

I found myself tapping my Nook screen as fast as possible to see what happened next. Sometimes it was because of the passion between Thad and his mysterious hunk named Sam. Other times it was the suspense of the attack that kept me on edge. Especially when characters I had grown to like found themselves about to be shredded.

When I was working on this review yesterday, I was going to tell you that I handled the violence okay. But last night I got up in the middle of the night when I couldn't sleep, sat down with a bowl of my homemade granola, and could have sworn something was lurking outside in the darkness.

Creepy, huh? Thanks to Rick Reed I may be looking over my shoulder for awhile.

With its high intensity scenes and strong characters, prepare to rip into The Blue Moon Cafe and howl.

The Blue Moon Cafe, by Rick Reed, received the 2010 Rainbow Award for Book Of The Year. Published by Amber Allure. Visit the author's website at Rick R. Reed. I'm participating in the GLBT Challenge for 2011. The Blue Moon Cafe has graphic violence and sexual scenes between men.

Sunday Salon with The Upright Piano Player

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 17:57:00 +0000

Every so often I take my books and head up to the North Shore of Kauai for a weekend away. Since I live upcountry Kauai, the chance to be next to the beach is a treat for this candy corn loving guy.

Last year I brought The Brontes Went To Woolworths with me. Some of you may remember my difficulty getting into this quirky story. Once I did, I loved it.

This time I came with my brand new Nook. I know. I said I would never buy one. But I did. And I like it.

I also packed a book I just won, The Upright Piano Player by David Abbott. When I opened it and smelled the fresh paper and heard the sound of a new spine cracking, it was like falling in love again. This experience is something that the Nook can't duplicate.

Yesterday I had the luxury of reading The Upright Piano Player in one day. While not really a beach read, the story captivated me. There's also a bookstore woven into the plot although it isn't mentioned often. Here's a quote you may like from page 222:

"Between a book's covers there may be passion, bile, mayhem, or murder, but in the quiet spaces where it awaits its fate (either acceptance or indifference) all is calm."

I feel a review coming this week. Watch for it. Right now I'm going to make coffee with my hand roasted beans and sit outside where a glorious rainbow appears over the ocean.

What are your Sunday plans?

A Sportscaster's Guide to Watching Football: Book Review

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 08:46:00 +0000

Do you remember that old Rock Hudson movie, Man's Favorite Sport? Rock plays an author who is an authority on the sport of fishing. The problem is that his character doesn't know how to fish.

Now it's my turn. I don't understand football even though my friends think I do.

In high school it was assumed that we all knew how to play. I remember running around the field in P.E. without having a clue what I was doing or who to tackle. Yes, I found myself on the ground a lot looking up at the sky. This was the pre-Internet 1970's when there was no Google to help or lifeline to call.

Now many years later, and with gray hair that just happened over time, I've decided to correct this deficiency. My goal this fall is to (a) understand the game of football and (b) develop a vocabulary to engage in meaningful dialogue when I find myself watching the sport with friends. This will replace the smile and nod of head.

Author Mark Oristano to my rescue. His (autographed) book, A Sportscaster's Guide to Watching Football, arrived last night and I read it immediately. Right from the start it felt approachable at only 146 pages. This is the book for the novice wanting to understand the game.

Oristano is passionate about football and tackles the topic with an entertaining narrative. He scored a touchdown in my opinion. (See, the vocabulary is already working).

Sprinkled throughout the book are "Cool Things To Say During a Game." And the Ultimate cool thing that ends the book (no spoiler alert!). Here's one example. When someone is frustrated by an incomplete pass I can smile knowingly and say, "I'll have to wait for the films." I love it.

There are also 12 "Time Outs" with interesting side notes. My favorite is the first one about Mike Ditka. He went up to the Ref when a penalty was called against the Cowboys, and calmly asked if the guy was a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. After the man said, "No," Ditka replied, "Good" and then screamed,"because that was the worst g--d---- call I've seen in my entire %#*# football career!"

This fall when football season comes around, I'm going to be ready.

A Sportscaster's Guide to Watching Football by Mark Oristano. Copyright 2009. Synergy Books. ISBN 978-0-9821601-1-4.

Scalping the Red Rocks: Book Review

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Mon, 23 May 2011 23:09:00 +0000

When I was reading Scalping the Red Rocks by Greg Lilly, I enjoyed not only the murder mystery but also the relationship between two men, Derek and Topher.

Gay alert! Yes, we're talking gay murder mystery here. Instead of taking us into the bedroom of these two men, however, the focus is on their emotional connection. Another word might be romance.

I also liked how being gay was not the focus of the book. It seemed normal and accepted behavior which it should be.

Of course the setting is Sedona which has a liberal and new age feel. I've been there and have seen its beauty. It's not hard to imagine what would happen if a big development like the one Lilly writes about, might ruin the view and community for locals. With so much disapproval by community members, it might lead to, yes, m-u-r-d-e-r.

But scalped? This is my first mystery where the dead guy ends up with a final hairdo.

Derek is the new guy in town (an outsider) and wants to solve the mystery of his real estate agent's death. Actually, it's his Aunt's agent. Derek is there to help her relocate. The dead guy had ties to the development, as does Derek, so he has a personal stake in solving the crime. Plus, Derek is the one who found the body.

Lilly writes a good mystery. The ending surprised me. And about that relationship between Derek and Topher? Well, you'll have to read the book and see for yourself if something develops between them.

What's the most unusual death you've read in a mystery?

(Scalping the Red Rocks by Greg Lilly, copyright 2010, Cherokee McGhee, ISBN 9780979969461). I'm linking this review to the GLBT 2011 Reading Challenge.

Saturday Snapshot for May 7

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Sun, 08 May 2011 00:07:00 +0000

I'm starting my return to book blogging with Saturday Snapshot. This is a weekly event hosted by Alyce from At Home With Books. I took this photo several weeks ago on Easter Sunday. When I posted it on Facebook, a friend said it looked like the head of a giant shark coming out of the water.

The views are spectacular as you walk along the ancient Makawehi Lithified Cliffs to Mahaulapu Beach. We live about 15 minutes from the trailhead which begins at Shipwreck Beach on Kauai.

Finally, I want to thank everyone who didn't delete me during my blogging hiatus. It's just been a difficult time but things are going better. Our Auntie passed away at the end of February. She lived with us on Hospice for most of last year before going to long term care. After her death we felt out of balance and put all our energy into work. Now that life is returning to normal, my reading is picking up again. Reviews are coming!

You Don't Love This Man: A Book Review

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 07:34:00 +0000

You Don't Love This Man
by Dan DeWeese

Harper Perennial, Copyright 2011
336 pages, ISBN 9780061992322

Rob's Rating: 5/5

Quote from book: "The illusion of a wedding's uniqueness is probably as false as the illusion of a marriage's permanence..."

From the book jacket: "A Novel About Fatherhood, Marriage and Bank Robbery."

It takes a great writer to turn every day life into a fine novel. DeWeese artfully captured the dance we do around relationships in his book, You Don't Love This Man. Interwoven into his writing are beautifully written observations of his characters and their innermost feelings.

I wasn't hooked at first. But sometimes when I stick with a book, I find that a strong connection is formed. For this to happen I need to identify positively with the characters. I also liked that I did not always understand what was happening. It kept me reading to see each character revealed like a piece of clay formed into a work of art.

You Don't Love This Man reminded me of something I read several years ago, The Weekend by Peter Cameron. The similarity between the two is how each novel focused on a point in time and an event that brought its characters together.

The protagonist in You Don't Love This Man is a middle aged guy named Paul. Written from a man's perspective, Paul feels like every man. A unique soul who often goes unnoticed. He's trying to understand the people around him and how he fits into each life. In the end he starts to understand himself better while questioning the choices he's made.

The characters are finely woven together in a complex connection of relationships on the wedding day of Paul's daugher. DeWeese develops each person with grace. I couldn't put the book down after the first chapter. It's a winner. If you've been around the block a few times with some bumps and bruises, consider adding You Don't Love This Man to your collection.

For more information, visit the author's website. My thanks to Trish at TLC Book Tours for a chance to read and review "You Don't Love This Man." Due to unexpected life events, my review is a week late. For the list of all tour stops, visit TLC Book Tours.

Sunday Salon: Lemon Pie and Murder

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Sun, 20 Feb 2011 07:14:00 +0000

This week's winner of a $10 Gift Card to Mystery Lovers Bookshop is Ricki from Reading Challenged. There's still time to enter next week's drawing. MLB offers free shipping too with $10 minimum orders.

Update from last week: I told you about the lemon meringue pie Jeff was making for me and my new bed and breakfast. Well, I took my first reservation today for the beginning of March. And that pie was fantastic. The crust perfection. He served it on a plate that belonged to my mom. I think the plate even predates me.

Book News: I'm finishing up Paige Shelton's sequel to Farm Fresh Murder. She was kind enough to send an ARC of Fruit of All Evil to me. It's scheduled for release on March 1. I'm loving it. Can't wait to post the review. But first I have a long overdue review of One Man's Paradise by Douglas Corleone to publish.

Borders Leaving Kauai: This is bad when you live on an island. My closest bookstore will be Honolulu which requires an airline flight. I'm saddened by the news of lost jobs and a community gathering place. People have started a "Save Borders Kauai" Facebook page but I doubt it will have much impact. Did any of you get hit with a Borders closure?

Lots of writing this week: Mostly for business. I have some good client prospects and need to submit four proposals by Tuesday. Look for book reviews later in the week.

Triumph of the City: Book Review

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 08:17:00 +0000

Triumph of the City
by Edward Glaeser

Penguin Press, Copyright 2011
338 pages, ISBN 9781594202773

Rob's Rating: 4/5

Quote from Book: "Great cities are not static, they constantly change and take the world along with them."

This is the first time I've been asked to review a book written by a Harvard professor. And when you consider where I live, I may seem like an odd choice for a book about cities.

According to author Edward Glaeser "...Americans should live in denser, more urban environments."

I'm the opposite by choosing to live on an island considered to be one of the world's most isolated. I feel like a rebel after reading this book. And if I agree with Glaeser, I should feel guilty at the same time.

Even though Glaeser makes a strong case for cities, I'm not moving. And yet, I've always been attracted to them. In truth, I love New York.

Glaeser's writing provokes thought and controversy depending on your beliefs. He excels at analyzing the great cities of the world including their history and challenges. Glaser provides research and insight on how to make our cities better and stronger. His work serves as a blueprint for the future. Skyscrapers are not an endangered species in Glaeser's world.

Here are a few of my favorite quotes from Triumph of the City:

"An open city can't exist in a closed nation." (page 251)

"There is no such thing as a successful city without human capital." (page 223)

"Information technology is changing the world, making it more idea intensive, better connected and ultimately more urban." (page 37)

"Poverty often shows that a city is functioning well." (page 257)

Environmentalists may cringe a few times while reading Glaeser's work. Actually, the author suggests that they "...toss copies of this book into the recycling bin."

I won't even mention his take on Thoreau. Okay, I will because it's just too good: " a somewhat underemployed Harvard graduate," and "Thoreau's walk in the woods did much more for his soul than for the woods themselves."

Glaeser is biased towards cities. And I'm biased towards small towns. But I like to be challenged and Glaeser succeeded.

My thanks to Trish at TLC Book Tours for the opportunity to host. Visit the TLC website for a list of blogs participating. For more information on Dr. Edward Glaeser, read his bio on Wikipedia.

Sunday Salon: Valentine's Weekend

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 10:01:00 +0000

This week's winner of a $10 gift card to Mystery Lovers Bookshop is Michelle at The True Book Addict. If you're feeling lucky, enter by Saturday for next week's drawing.

Cooking. We're picking fresh lemons today from our yard. Jeff's making a lemon meringue pie for my Valentine's gift. This was my grandpa's favorite and ended up being mine too. I'm not sure yet what recipe he's using. Maybe he'll try the one from Paige Shelton's mystery, Farm Fresh Murder.

New Business. Do any of you stay in bed and breakfasts when you travel? I became a fan of them long ago. Last month we decided to turn our home here on Kauai into one. I'm picking books for the room. Maybe the bed and breakfast murder mysteries by Mary Daheim would be good? You can view our listing on Airbnb. And if you come to Kauai, be sure to consider a stay with us.

Next Review. I have a book review for TLC due tomorrow. It's a work of nonfiction which I seldom write about. Come back tomorrow and hear my thoughts about Triumph of the City by Edward Glaeser.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Movie Review: Bedrooms and Hallways

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Thu, 10 Feb 2011 21:56:00 +0000

This British comedy from 1998 has the wonderful Jennifer Ehle in a supporting role. I loved her in Pride and Prejudice and more recently in The King's Speech. Other familiar faces are a trimmer Simon Callow from Four Weddings and a Funeral and Kevin McKidd from Grey's Anatomy.

Bedrooms and Hallways grossed just under $17,000 in its opening weekend here in the United States. It played one screen. Maybe that's why it escaped my radar.

While watching the movie I had several bursts of laughter that felt good. As one Netflix reviewer said, "it's a cross between Friends and Absolutely Fabulous." I think that's a good comparison. It's also a wonderful spoof on group therapy. I also liked how the gay and straight friends supported each other.

The movie centers around Leo played by Kevin McKidd. The opening shows his friends gathered for a surprise birthday party. We have no idea how everyone is connected and why Leo is unhappy. At the end I didn't feel like a stranger to the group. The movie takes us back in time to understand each relationship better.

Synopsis from Netflix: "At the suggestion of a friend, gay Leo (Kevin McKidd) enters therapy after many failed relationships make him fear for his social life. In a group session (led by Simon Callow), Leo comes clean about his feelings for a straight member of the group (James Purefoy), which leads to an affair between the two. The situation becomes further complicated by the appearance of Leo's high school sweetheart (Jennifer Ehle), who still has feelings for him."

With wit and sophistication, Bedrooms and Hallways delights. This will appeal to all audiences both gay and straight. The movie offers up strong performances and engaging dialogue from the heart.

Rob's Rating: 4/5

What do you think about this question: Can gay and straight men be friends?

Winner: The Girl In The Green Raincoat

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 02:41:00 +0000

A winner was chosen Super Bowl Sunday by random number. I'm just a day late in posting. The Girl In The Green Raincoat by Laura Lippman goes to:

Congrats, Elly. And for those who didn't win, I hope you'll have a chance to read the book soon.

Win $10 Gift Card to Mystery Lovers Bookshop: I'm Giving Away Three

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 01:23:00 +0000

For Valentine's month I'm offering three $10 gift certificates at Mystery Lovers Bookshop. With their free shipping* on $10 minimum orders this makes for an extra sweet deal. I'll choose a winner every Sunday starting February 13 and ending February 27.

When you leave a comment on this post you'll have one chance to win each week. Share this on Facebook or Twitter and get a second chance each time I draw a name (be sure to leave a comment that you've do so).

Week One Winner (February 13): Michelle at The True Book Addict
Week Two Winner (February 20): Ricki at Reading Challenged
Week Three Winner (February 27): TBA

"Lonely bookseller seeks transactional fulfillment with interested mystery reader. I cannot offer either Pina Coladas or walks on the beach but we do have a wonderful assortment of brand-new mysteries....with all this snowy weather, why not let us deliver your books to your door with free shipping and outstanding service." Mystery Lovers Bookshop Facebook Fan Page

After reporting one of their slowest months ever in January, I hope you'll help them out and order a book. They offer a wide range to choose from. Toss in superior customer service and you're in for a treat.

Mystery Lovers Bookshop, winner of the 2010 Raven Award from Mystery Writer's of America, is located in the Pittsburgh metro area. When I worked at PITT, I used to shop there often. Now that I'm in Hawaii their on-line store has continued our association.

If you have a mystery you'd like to order should your name be chosen, please leave the title in your comment. This is optional. I'm always interested in new books to try.

Join Mystery Lovers Bookshop on Facebook, shop on-line or in person at 514 Allegheny River Blvd., Oakmont, Pennsylvania.

*Free Shipping on $10 minimum purchase valid only to U.S. addresses.

The Girl In The Green Raincoat: Review and Free Book

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 08:53:00 +0000

The Girl in the Green Raincoat
by Laura Lippman

HarperCollins/William Morrow Publishers
Copyright 2008, 158 pages, ISBN 9780061938368

Rating: 4/5

Quote from Book: "One man, three wives. Two dead, one missing."

My Plot Summary in 100 Words or Less: There's more to the missing girl in the green raincoat than private investigator Tess Monaghan ever imagined. She's watched the girl walking in the park every day with her dog. Then one day she spots the dog running through the park alone. What happened? The problem is that Tess can only watch the action from her bed. She's confined there in the final months of her pregnancy. Friends can help her do the legwork. And Tess has a strategic mind to unravel clues. But not everyone wants secrets revealed and Tess may find her pregnancy is more final than she intended.

My Reaction: Once you're in Lippman's grip there's no letting go until the climactic end. Lippman puts a new spin on Hitchcock's Rear Window and makes it her own. Told with style and plot twists even Hitchcock would find impressive.

Lippman knows how to write believable characters that readers connect with. And she can also send a chill up your spine when there's danger. I felt a roller coaster of emotions at the end.

After I finished the novel I couldn't stop thinking about the story. I finished on Tuesday and it's still lingering in my mind. There are messages to take away from the book and to learn from. One is about family and relationships. The most important message is one that I can't discuss for fear of spoiling the ending. My advice is to grab a copy of your own and see where the green raincoat takes you.

Win A Free Copy: Thanks to the slowness of media mail coming to Hawaii, I have two copies of The Girl in the Green Raincoat from the publisher. One is going to a lucky reader. Maybe you? The other stays in my private library. I'm not letting this one out of my sight.

Limit Two Entries Per Person: Comment on this post and you're automatically entered. For an additional entry share this review on Facebook or Twitter. Leave a second comment that you've done so.

Contest is open to everyone. I'll even mail the book outside the United States. Winner to be announced on Sunday, February 6. A random number generator will select the winner.

My thanks to Trish at TLC Book Tours for the opportunity to be a host. Visit the TLC website for a list of blogs hosting this tour. An added Mahalo to Megan from HarperCollins for sending me the review copy.

For more information on award winning author Laura Lippman, visit her website and Facebook fan page.

Christmas Eve at Friday Harbor by Lisa Kleypas

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Sun, 23 Jan 2011 18:48:00 +0000

Christmas Eve at Friday Harbor
by Lisa Kleypas

St. Martin's Press, Copyright 2010
211 Pages, ISBN 9780312605865

Rating: Recommended

Quote From Book: "I didn't know turkeys could fly."

Have you ever picked out a book because the setting is somewhere you've been to? That happened to me with Christmas Eve at Friday Harbor. This time I didn't have to buy the book, I won my copy on Lesa's Book Critiques.

If you haven't heard of Friday Harbor, it's located on the island of San Juan in Puget Sound. Anyone who grew up in Washington (like me) knows that San Juan Island's claim to fame is the Pig War. It was declared on the island back in 1859 between British and American troops. The only bloodshed was a pig which our side killed and was the reason war was declared.

While (fortunately) not part of Kleypas' book, her story does explore battles of the heart that her characters need to work through to find happiness. Along the way she drops in the atmosphere of coffee bars and island life in the Pacific Northwest. Not to mention potent men which caught this reader's attention.

Kleypas writes characters you want to get to know. And she adds humor to some of their situations. There's a Thanksgiving scene you won't want to miss. The book could have taken a more somber tone but Kleypas strikes a balance of believable emotions and situations.

So what's the story about? In a nutshell there's Mark who is raising his niece and involved with the wrong woman. Enter Maggie who runs a toy shop and is a widow with lots of past hurts. The two seem right for each other but too many obstacles may get in their way. You'll have to read the book to see if true love prevails.

When I was almost through reading I suddenly wondered what happened to Christmas. It's featured in the title. And the book cover shows sailboats lit for the holiday. As it turns out Christmas is only mentioned in the final fourteen pages. Which means you can enjoy Christmas Eve at Friday Harbor at any time of year.

Busy Body by M.C. Beaton

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 22:36:00 +0000

Busy Body
By M.C. Beaton

Minotaur Publishing, Copyright 2010
278 pages. ISBN 9780312387013

Rating: 4/5

Quote from Book: "What sinks of iniquity these little villages can be."

Have any of you read all twenty-one books in the Agatha Raisin series by M.C. Beaton? I've read seven so far and not in any particular order.

In case you've never met Agatha before, she's an ex-Londoner who now lives in the Cotswolds. Formerly head of a PR firm in London, Agatha now heads up her own detective agency. Think of her as a middle aged, more modern version of Miss Marple.

Plot Highlights

When the latest book, Busy Body, was released I decided to see what Agatha has been up to. Last time I checked she was getting married to James. Apparently it didn't work out and Agatha is alone again. I wonder if these two will ever get it right?

With her romantic life a mess and the holidays approaching, Agatha leaves England to spend Christmas in Corsica. The holiday she fantasizes doesn't materialize. Agatha throws in the towel to return to her village for Christmas.

During her brief absence a real Scrooge has been running around the village citing people for their decorations. The village can't even put up their holiday tree without being fined for safety violations.

Is it no wonder that this Scrooge ends up dead with so much animosity between him and the villagers? And the woman who may have seen his murder soon follows in the same path.

With two murders to deal with our Agatha has a lot on her plate. James makes an appearance again too but I'm not saying anything about a future romance. It's not until the next Christmas rolls around that Agatha can tie up all the loose ends.

My Thoughts

Busy Body can be read any time of year. While Christmas plays a role at the beginning and end, the plot moves between two continents over a twelve month period.

This is another fun cozy from M.C. Beaton that sparkles. With its rich character development and well thought out mystery, I was sad to see the book end. Spending time with Agatha is like visiting an old friend over tea. She's welcome in my home anytime.

If you haven't read an Agatha Raisin book you can start anywhere in the series. M.C. Beaton does a great job introducing facts from previous books. You'll catch up in no time.

What's your favorite Agatha Raisin novel?

My Santas for 2010: No Longer Secret

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Wed, 29 Dec 2010 18:56:00 +0000

Thanks to my two Secret Santa bloggers, I'm starting the New Year with books from my wish list and some new cyber friends!

First up is Patty at Reflections From The Hinterland who participated in the Book Blogger Holiday Swap. It turns out that Patty lives near my hometown of Spokane.

Her package to me included Lemon Tea Bread made from an old family recipe. Lemons are a favorite of mine and her bread has been enjoyed throughout the season. My books from Patty included There Goes The Bride by M.C. Beaton, The Cruelest Month by Louise Penny and Homicide in Hardcover by Kate Carlisle.

My next package came from Melissa at Must Read Faster. It turns out that we are each others Book Lover's Secret Santa. My Amazon package from Melissa was beautifully wrapped and included a deluxe paperback edition of The Brutal Telling by Louise Penny.

I also participated in Book Bloggers Holiday Card Exchange. Cass at Bonjour, Cass! sent me greetings from a cold Boston a few weeks ago (which I'm sure is even colder now). She recommends I read The Stupidest Angel by Christopher Moore. It's sitting right now on my long TBR shelf.

My other card came from Ryan at Wordsmithonia. His book recommendation is Deck The Halls by Mary and Carol Higgins Clark. I found a copy last week at Borders for $3.99 and purchased right away. Ryan also suggests I read author Timothy James Beck which I plan to do in the new year.

Have you read any of the titles I received? If you have a favorite let me know.

Midwinter's Eve Giveaway: One Man's Paradise

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 05:19:00 +0000

Welcome to the Midwinter's Eve Giveaway Hop. If this is your first time here, I hope you'll subscribe to my updates and come back for more. I love to write about mysteries, food, fiction and classics.

This short hop offers a chance to win something book related on each of the 125 participating sites.

For my giveaway, I'm pleased to offer a new hardcover copy of the mystery, One Man's Paradise by Douglas Corleone.

Winner of the Mystery Writer's of America First Crime Novel Award, this is the promising debut from author Douglas Corleone. He's a former attorney from New York City who now lives on Oahu. I met up with Doug two weeks ago and he's an impressive guy.

My review of One Man's Paradise is coming next week. I can tell you right now that you won't be disappointed. It's a well paced who-done-it with plenty of action, court room drama, beautiful women and a spectacular Hawaii setting.

Entry Details: Giveaway is open to USA and Canada. Just comment on this post to enter. Be sure to include an email address unless it's on your profile. All giveaways on this hop close on Wednesday, December 22, at 11:59pm. Winner has 48 hours to respond or another entry will be chosen.

I'm also including the list of the other participating blogs. Enjoy the hop and Happy Holidays!

Christmas Cookies by Lisa Zwirn: A Book Review

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 08:52:00 +0000

Christmas Cookies: 50 Recipes To Treasure For The Holiday Season
By Lisa Zwirn

William Morrow, Copyright 2008
134 pages, ISBN 9780061376962

Rating: 5/5

I discovered this cookie book two years ago at my local library. After I made one recipe I had to buy the book. Which recipe made the sale? Maple Walnut Cookies with maple icing. They became my surprise cookie hit last season.

The book includes tips and beautiful pictures that make you want to bake. Or at least dream about baking. Lisa also offers recommendations for gifting cookies and hosting a cookie exchange.

I'd love to share a recipe but they are all copyrighted. There's a way, however, I can get around it. One of the recipes is similar to a cookie my Mom made for me growing up in the 1960's. I'm including her recipe and then a summary of the updates to it from Lisa's book.

Russian Tea Cakes (Mom's Recipe from 1960)

Six Ingredients: 1 cup butter, 1/2 cup confectioner's sugar, 1 tsp. vanilla, 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 tsp salt, 3/4 cup chopped walnuts.

Directions: Cream butter and sugar; add vanilla. Work in four sifted with salt. Mix in nuts. Form into one inch balls and bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes. While hot, roll in confectioner's sugar. Makes 4 dozen.

New update for the same cookie from Christmas Cookies by Lisa Zwirn

The ingredients are the same except 2 tsp. of vanilla extract is recommended (instead of 1 tsp).

Prep is slightly different from my Mom's recipe. Cream butter first then add sugar followed by vanilla and salt. Flour is next (no sifting needed) and finally nuts. Lisa used pecans in place of walnuts but either is fine. She suggests that the nuts be finely chopped.

The dough is formed into a large ball and then refrigerated for 30 minutes before forming into one inch balls. Oven temp reduced to 375 and cooking time to 12 minutes. Use parchment paper on the cookie sheet. Cool cookies for 5 minutes before rolling in sugar (just before serving or storage recoat the cookie with sugar).

What cookies are you making this season?

In addition to the cookies I mentioned here, I'm also baking Lisa's Sugar Cookies and Iced Lemon Rounds (using fresh lemons from my tree). If I have time I'll bake her Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti. I better get back to the kitchen with just a few days left before Christmas.

Sunday Salon: A Mix of Riskrem, Library Thing and Sedaris

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Sun, 05 Dec 2010 18:58:00 +0000

Ending this week: My free giveaway for A Little Fruitcake: A Childhood in Holidays by David Valdes Greenwood (enter by midnight, December 5). You can also comment on my Chronicle Haul-idays post by December 10 for a chance to win $497.49 in books (if I'm the lucky winner).

Holiday Trip: I've got a busy day planned here on Kauai as I get ready to island hop to Oahu. We're heading over to Honolulu for a week of holiday activities. It would be a lot easier if I could load up the car and drive the 100 miles. Instead I'm confined to one suitcase for the plane and need to leave extra room for the shopping I plan to do. I always bring more books than I can read. This time I've narrowed it down to two: One Man's Paradise by Douglas Corleone (in progress) and Charles Jessold, Considered As A Murderer by Wesley Stace (a restart; maybe the second time is the charm).

Riskrem, A Scandinavian Christmas Rice Pudding: Several people asked for the recipe when I mentioned it this week on the Virtual Advent Tour. Mine came from the December 2005 issue of Sunset magazine. When I make it I use whole milk and reduce the amount of whipping cream. Otherwise it's too rich for me. Don't forget to add a whole almond; the lucky recipient gets a gift. I usually serve this Christmas morning.

Library Thing: Anyone doing Santa Thing? I am for the first time this year. When I read the profile of the person I'm choosing books for, I was impressed that all her books were neatly tagged by category and she had a wishlist. My profile, however, had no organization. I didn't even know you could have a wishlist. That all changed yesterday when I brought organization to my profile. I have 544 books which means I shouldn't buy any new books. Right.

Sedaris: I took a break from holiday books this week and read Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk. Do you think its dark humor will be a thumbs up or down for me? You may have to wait a week to find out. With our Hanukkah party tonight I think my reviews will be on hold. My partner is giving me the look right now that I should get off computer. Have a good week everyone.

Virtual Advent Tour: Happy Christmanukkah

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 10:01:00 +0000

Welcome to Day Two of the Virtual Advent Tour. For the fifth year in a row, the Virtual Advent Tour is making its way around the book blogging community. Every day from December 1-24, a group of us share holiday posts. Today it's my turn along with Amy Reads, Jenn's Bookshelves and Staying Awake.

Aloha! My holidays celebrate both Hanukkah and Christmas. Right now we're planning a Latke party on Sunday for the 5th night of Hanukkah. On Christmas Day I'll be making my Norwegian Christmas Rice Pudding called Riskrem. All holidays here on Kauai include an ocean swim and no snow or ice.

Favorite Book Tradition: For the past three years I've started each season reading, A Little Fruitcake, by David Valdes Greenwood. I'm giving away a free copy on December 5 (international entries accepted). The book reminds me of my own childhood growing up in the 1960's.

2010 Recycled Ornament: Last year I shared an ornament with you I made from a container of SPAM. This year I have a Royal Mounted Police ornament. It was actually the top of a large souvenir pencil I purchased in Canada. I cut off the lower section, painted the bottom black and inserted a small nail on top so I could wrap around a wire hanger.

New Tradition: I started playing flute this year after a 35 year break. It began as a way to honor my late mother who always wanted me to play in an orchestra. Thanks to music lessons and lots of practice, I'm performing tonight with the Kauai Wind Symphony. That's right...TONIGHT! I'm nervous and will be practicing all day.

Cookie Tip: Form your cookie dough but instead of baking, freeze instead between layers of waxed paper. That way you can bake as needed and always have cookies on hand for guests.

Here's wishing each of you Happy Holidays and Mele Kalikiamka from the Garden Island of Kauai.

Chronicle Books Haul-idays: Comment For A Chance To Win

noreply@blogger.com (Rob) — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 23:23:00 +0000

Chronicle Books came up with a brilliant marketing idea. Ask bloggers to pick $500 in books from the Chronicle website, then post their list of titles for everyone to see. One lucky blogger will be chosen to win his/her haul plus a lucky reader who left a comment. It's all part of their "Happy Haul-idays" giveaway.

So far over 200 bloggers are participating. And I'm sure many will be buying a book or two from Chronicle after searching through their inventory. The only thing that can save me from hitting the Pay button is shipping cost. I live in Hawaii and their free shipping with $35 purchase doesn't apply to me.

What do you think of my list? If my math is correct, which can be an issue for me, the total comes to $497.49. There are so many good choices. I'd love to read, Holiday Hero: A Man's Manual to Holiday Lighting which I urgently need. Actually I'd love a chance to own them all.

If you live in the 50 States or District of Columbia, and like my list of titles, be sure to leave a comment for a chance to win these books with me (if I'm chosen the lucky winner). Deadline is December 10, 2010.

HOLIDAY THEMED
Christmas Trees (fun and festive ideas), $15.95
Great Pumpkins (crafty carvings for Halloween), $14.95
Holidays On Display (the art and industry of holiday displays), $24.95
Holiday Hero (A Man's Manual to Holiday Lighting), $9.95

FOOD RELATED
The Tea Deck (50 Ways to Prepare, Serve and Enjoy), $14.95
Tea and Crumpets (Recipes and Rituals), $19.95
New Vegetarian (75 Fresh, Contemporary Recipes), $19.95
Flour (from Boston's Flour Bakery and Cafe), $35.00

TRAVEL
City Walks Architecture: New York (25 Walking Adventures), $18.95
Manhattan Skyscrapers, $50.00
Around the World (The Grand Tour In Photo Albums), $55.00
The Lost Border (The Landscape of the Iron Curtain), $40.00
Souvenirs of Great Cities: New York (with pop-out illustrations), $6.95

CRAFTS
Paper + Craft (25 projects you can make with paper), $19.95

CHILDREN'S
Shadow (a cool looking children's book), $15.99

SPORTS
Kelly Slater: For The Love (on this surfer's wish list), $35.00

BIG TICKET ITEM
Dante's Divine Comedy (boxed set), by Sandow Birk, $100.00