Biological Deception

Geoffrey Bott’s Biological Deception is a sharp, globe-trotting thriller that blends espionage, science, and moral ambiguity into a layered narrative about trust, corruption, and survival. From the opening pages set in Windhoek, Namibia, where a diamond transaction turns deadly, the story launches into a fast-paced series of events that pulls its protagonist, Daniel Cross, into a tangled web of deceit stretching from Africa to California and beyond. Bott wastes no time establishing tone or tension, and with his cinematic style, readers will get drawn in quickly.

At its core, Biological Deception is a story about the collision between intellect and instinct. Cross, a British-born scientist and engineer, is recruited to authenticate a rare diamond, a task that seems straightforward until a sniper’s bullet kills his partner in front of him. What follows is a spiraling descent into international intrigue involving Russian oligarchs, a mysterious insurance agent, and covert U.S. intelligence operations. Bott’s protagonist is intelligent but flawed, the kind of reluctant hero who questions his own moral compass as much as he questions the loyalties of those around him. Readers will appreciate the realism of Cross’s reactions: fear, guilt, and curiosity are his constant companions.

Bott explores deception not just as an external threat but as an internal struggle. Scientific precision clashes with human unpredictability; truth and trust become relative. The novel frequently poses unspoken questions: what’s real, who can be believed, and how much knowledge is too dangerous? The scientific details, especially surrounding gemology, identity fabrication, and counterintelligence, add depth without becoming cumbersome. Bott clearly did his research, grounding the fiction in plausible global dynamics and real-world motivations.

Bott’s writing is precise and confident. He favors realism over flash, focusing on dialogue, internal thought, and carefully observed detail. Scenes shift fluidly between continents, and his pacing balances introspection with bursts of action. The blend of scientific intrigue and espionage recalls Michael Crichton or Tom Clancy, but Bott’s focus on personal morality sets his work apart.

Biological Deception will appeal to readers who enjoy international thrillers with intellectual substance. Those interested in the ethics of science, intelligence work, or the blurred boundaries between good and evil will find much to ponder. It’s also a strong pick for readers who appreciate mature characters dealing with danger not as adrenaline junkies but as reluctant participants in forces larger than themselves.

In sum, Bott delivers a sophisticated, well-researched thriller that fuses scientific credibility with human vulnerability. Biological Deception is less about the diamond at its center and more about the human cost of uncovering the truth, a theme that lingers long after the final chapter.


Biological Deception

Geoffrey Bott’s Biological Deception is a layered, globe-spanning thriller that takes readers deep into a world of scientific intrigue, political corruption, and moral uncertainty. What begins as a simple assignment for Daniel Cross, a respected scientist sent to verify a rare diamond in Namibia, spirals into a deadly chase involving international crime syndicates, espionage, and a tangled web of deception that tests both intellect and integrity.

What makes this novel stand out is Bott’s skillful control of pacing and detail. His prose moves quickly but never feels rushed. Each location, whether the bustling streets of Windhoek, the polished calm of a Los Angeles estate, or the cold precision of a government facility, is drawn with visual clarity. Bott’s descriptive style has a clean, cinematic rhythm that makes every scene easy to imagine. His background research clearly shows; the scientific and technical elements feel authentic, yet they never overpower the story. Instead, they add credibility to the unfolding mystery.

Daniel Cross is not your typical spy-thriller hero, and that’s one of the book’s strengths. He’s analytical, cautious, and very human. Bott allows readers to see the cracks beneath his composed exterior, his fear, confusion, and guilt, which makes him more relatable than the usual unshakable action protagonist. His journey feels like a gradual unraveling, both of the global conspiracy and of his own moral compass. As a reader, I appreciated how Bott didn’t rely on brute force to drive the story but on intellect, conversation, and psychological tension.

Equally compelling is Chantelle Dunhill, a woman caught between danger and desire. She’s elegant, intelligent, and unpredictable, traits that make her one of the novel’s most memorable characters. Bott’s portrayal of her is careful and layered; she’s not written as a stereotype or mere romantic distraction but as a woman navigating survival in a world dominated by men and power. The chemistry between her and Cross is undeniable, but what lingers most is the uncertainty of trust that underlies their connection.

Biological Deception examines how greed, ambition, and science intertwine to blur moral boundaries. The story feels eerily contemporary, touching on issues of global manipulation and technological ethics. Bott’s writing style keeps the novel grounded even as the stakes grow higher.

Ultimately, Biological Deception is a thinking person’s thriller: intense without being sensational, intelligent without being inaccessible. It will appeal to readers who enjoy complex plots, morally conflicted characters, and writing that respects both intellect and emotion. Bott delivers a story that’s as thought-provoking as it is suspenseful.


Biological Deception

Geoffrey Bott’s Biological Deception is a thriller that is international in scope and deeply personal in its execution. Instead of the archetypal spy or hardened operative, the story centers on Daniel Cross, a scientist who gets thrust into a dangerous world of diamonds, cartels, and covert intelligence operations. What makes the book engaging is precisely this contrast: Cross is not trained for espionage, yet his knowledge and quick thinking become his only means of survival.

The novel opens in Namibia, with Cross tasked to verify the authenticity of a rare diamond. The sequence where he performs his scientific tests under the scrutiny of armed guards captures the blend of technical precision and nerve-wracking tension that defines the book: “This is not the diamond Robert is buying, Cassandra,” he whispers when the results prove suspicious. It’s a moment that sets off a cascade of betrayals, culminating in Cassandra’s shocking death outside the diamond outlet. The scene is written with cinematic immediacy: bullets shattering stone, a body collapsing, and Cross suddenly on the run.

The book also leans heavily into geopolitical intrigue. Bott draws on a cast of international characters, including Serbian middlemen, Russian oligarchs, African contacts, and even CIA operatives.

What keeps the narrative moving isn’t just the action but the emotional stakes. Cross is haunted by Cassandra’s death, waking “in a deep sweat whilst shaking; I still feel her blood on my skin.” These moments of raw vulnerability elevate the story above a simple caper. They remind us that the costs of deception are not abstract; they’re paid in human lives and lingering trauma.

Bott’s writing style is direct, at times almost blunt, but that straightforwardness suits the material. He doesn’t linger in poetic flourishes but instead pushes readers forward with crisp dialogue, rapid transitions, and a sense of urgency. The pacing mirrors Cross’s own mindset: always calculating, always moving, always looking for the next escape.

Readers who enjoy works by Robert Ludlum or John le Carré will recognize the familiar themes of espionage entangled with personal compromise, but Biological Deception feels fresher because of its protagonist. Cross isn’t a spy mastering tradecraft; he’s an intelligent man trying to reconcile his role as a scientist with forces that care little for science, truth, or life itself.

Biological Deception succeeds because it threads the excitement of international suspense with the disquieting realization that knowledge alone doesn’t guarantee control. For readers who like thrillers with intellectual depth, a touch of romance, and plenty of moral gray zones, Bott’s novel delivers an experience that is as thought-provoking as it is fast-paced.


Biological Deception

Geoffrey Bott’s Biological Deception is a taut, globe-spanning thriller that blends espionage, high-stakes science, and a web of dangerous relationships. From the opening pages in Windhoek, Namibia, where protagonist Daniel Cross is sent to verify the authenticity of a rare diamond, the novel wastes no time in throwing readers into intrigue. What begins as a seemingly straightforward scientific evaluation rapidly escalates into murder, deception, and a descent into an underworld where oligarchs, cartels, and intelligence agencies all circle the same prize.

One of the strongest threads running through the book is trust and betrayal. Cross, a seasoned scientist with a sharp analytical mind, quickly discovers the supposed diamond may not be what it seems. When shots are fired and Cassandra Mikhailov, the woman traveling with him, dies in his arms, the story pivots from mystery to survival.

There is a thin line between science and politics in this book. Cross insists multiple times, almost defensively, “I am a scientist,” as if clinging to that identity could shield him from the chaos he has stumbled into, although his expertise is precisely what makes him valuable and expendable to those orchestrating the larger game. Bott’s portrayal of how knowledge can be weaponized in global markets and political maneuvering gives the book a sobering edge that resonates beyond its fictional plot.

There is also an undercurrent of personal vulnerability that makes Cross more than a stock action hero. His reflections on past heartbreak, divorce, and reliance on transactional relationships with women add layers to his character. Even when drawn toward Chantelle Dunhill, the beautiful insurance agent with opaque motives, he recognizes the peril of mixing attraction with espionage. Their exchanges brim with tension, alternating between moments of tenderness and the uneasy suspicion that she could be manipulating him.

Bott keeps the pacing brisk, moving readers from Namibia to Los Angeles, Sacramento, and beyond. The narrative often feels cinematic, filled with luxury settings, expensive tastes, and sudden bursts of violence. Yet it is balanced by quieter moments of grief and introspection that keep Cross human and relatable.

Biological Deception will appeal strongly to fans of espionage thrillers, international crime dramas, and stories where science collides with politics. Admirers of authors like Daniel Silva or Frederick Forsyth will find familiar terrain here, though Bott gives the novel a unique scientific lens and a protagonist who is less spy than reluctant participant. At the same time, readers who enjoy character-driven suspense, where relationships and loyalties are as fragile as the evidence being tested, will find plenty to sink into.

In the end, this is not simply a story about diamonds or covert deals; it is about the cost of knowledge, the fragility of trust, and the ways individuals are swept into global forces larger than themselves. Bott’s revised edition feels particularly timely, echoing the real-world concerns about clandestine biological and resource exploitation he acknowledges inspired the updates.

As a reviewer, I found myself both entertained and unsettled, a combination that speaks to the book’s success. Biological Deception is a story that keeps you turning the pages quickly, but also leaves you thinking long after you close the cover.


Finding Alexey

I found myself drawn deeply into Fazle Chowdhury’s Finding Alexey, not just for its layered storytelling but for its exploration of how personal loss, ambition, and memory shape who we are. The novel is a rich blend of political intrigue, corporate drama, and emotional reckoning, anchored by a protagonist whose strength is as formidable as her vulnerabilities.

At the heart of the story is Sofia Tresca, a powerful CEO navigating the treacherous world of international finance while quietly fighting her own mortality. The opening scene, where she rides through rain-soaked streets of Baghdad after a sobering oncologist’s visit, immediately sets the tone for the book’s duality: public power against private fragility. This is a theme carried throughout the novel: how women, particularly those in high-stakes leadership, must constantly balance appearances with inner truths. As a reader and as a woman who wears many hats in my own family and career, I felt the tension acutely.

Chowdhury does an excellent job weaving in the ghosts of Sofia’s past, most notably Alexey, whose absence haunts her every move. Through flashbacks and conversations, we see how his memory lingers like an open wound, shaping her decisions and relationships years later. The novel asks difficult questions about regret and unfinished love: what happens when words are left unsaid, and how does one continue to live with those shadows? I found these reflections especially poignant, thinking about the legacies we leave for our children and the moments we wish we could reclaim.

The political and financial backdrop of the novel is equally compelling. Chowdhury immerses readers in the high-stakes world of oil acquisitions, sanctions, and global negotiations. The Petro Anchor deal, for instance, is not just a business transaction; it becomes a metaphor for risk, sacrifice, and the price of ambition. These boardroom battles mirror the personal ones Sofia faces, underscoring the idea that choices, whether professional or intimate, carry consequences.

What resonated with me most, however, was the interplay of friendship and rivalry. Sofia’s relationship with Carol Cottington, full of wit, competition, and reluctant affection, reminded me of the complex bonds many women carry across decades. There’s both comfort and frustration in these friendships, and Chowdhury captures that dance with authenticity.

Themes of memory, power, betrayal, and resilience run through the novel. Sofia is both a woman shaped by her father’s formidable legacy and one fighting to assert her own. The reappearance of old acquaintances, like Avi Perski, forces her to confront the past while questioning the sincerity of those around her. Can people truly change, or do they simply get better at hiding their motives?

In Finding Alexey, Fazle Chowdhury gives us a story that is as much about international intrigue as it is about the private, fragile spaces of the human heart. Readers who enjoy political thrillers with emotional depth will find themselves fully absorbed.


What Would Philip Roth Do?: A Memoir

Reading Matthew Check’s What Would Philip Roth Do? feels like sitting down with a brutally honest older friend who insists on telling you every misstep, every awkward hookup, and every late-night existential spiral. The twist, of course, is that he does it all while bantering with the imagined ghost of Philip Roth, who pops in like a sarcastic Obi-Wan Kenobi from Newark.

The book is funny, awkward, and sometimes wildly uncomfortable, but that’s the point. Check doesn’t shy away from oversharing, whether it’s his first time fumbling through sex with Paulette or his bizarre Madrid adventure with Isabella, who slaps him mid-flirtation and accuses him of being “a rapist” before demanding he hit her. These episodes aren’t just lurid stories; they’re the raw material for Check’s exploration of how desire, shame, and creativity get tangled together.

For me, one of the most engaging parts of the memoir is the way music runs parallel to romance. When relationships collapse, the banjo steps in to translate the mess into melody. After Isabella storms out, he finds himself humming a tune and scribbling lyrics: “Como si fuera la luz de la luna/te diera la risa de tus sueños." It’s clumsy Spanish, but it captures how rejection fuels his creativity as much as connection.

The Jewish identity stuff hit home too, though not in the heavy, lecture-like way you sometimes get in memoirs. Instead, it shows up in quick jokes about circumcision confusing his Spanish lover, or in the Shehecheyanu blessing he mutters the first time he plays banjo on a Madrid balcony. It’s a mash-up of heritage, humor, and horniness that feels surprisingly relatable, especially if you’ve ever tried to balance cultural expectations with the chaos of your twenties.

Readers who like memoirs that don’t polish the edges will enjoy this read. If you’re into Roth, Bukowski, or any writer who embraces the awkward and the ugly as part of being human, you’ll appreciate Check’s voice. Musicians and creatives will also connect with his obsessive practice, the way he describes the banjo roll as “spotting a unicorn” when it finally clicks.

It’s not a “safe” read. There are cringeworthy moments, sexual misadventures, and plenty of Jewish-mother guilt, but that’s what makes it feel alive. What Would Philip Roth Do? is hilarious, and strangely affirming: a reminder that art often comes from our most humiliating and complicated experiences.


What Would Philip Roth Do?

Matthew Check’s memoir, What Would Philip Roth Do?  is as irreverent, searching, and painfully honest as the title suggests. At its core, this is a book about a Jewish musician wrestling with questions of identity, love, art, and meaning, all while guided, sometimes harassed, by the imagined voice of Philip Roth. What emerges is both a coming-of-age narrative and a meditation on how art and artists shape our inner lives.

From the opening chapters, Check makes it clear that Roth is not simply an author he admires, but a phantom presence he converses with. “Hi, Matt,” the Roth in his head quips. “Haven’t seen you since your Mexican-Jewish girlfriend dumped you. Are you still putting jalapeños on your challah?”

The voice is at once playful, caustic, and probing, forcing the narrator to confront his choices. This ongoing dialogue gives the memoir an unusual texture: part confession, part literary séance.

Themes of sexual awakening and romantic misadventure run throughout. His early encounters, described with a frankness that will make some readers squirm, also lay the groundwork for deeper reflections on unrequited love. As he writes about Paulette, his high-school crush who inspired his first song on the banjo, he realizes that music became the outlet for feelings he couldn’t otherwise articulate. Romance and bluegrass intertwine repeatedly, each failed relationship sparking another melody.

Jewish identity is another central thread. Check wrestles with cultural expectations, family pressures, and the weight of history, often filtering his anxieties through humor. His time in Spain, where he brings the banjo to the streets of Madrid and stumbles through awkward romantic entanglements, underscores his sense of being both insider and outsider. Later, his volunteer work in Israel sharpens these questions, as he learns what it means to carry his heritage into unfamiliar contexts.

This memoir will resonate most with readers who appreciate candid explorations of the messy intersections of art, sex, and identity. Fans of Philip Roth will find themselves amused, and perhaps unsettled, by the way Roth’s ghostly commentary punctuates the narrative. Musicians, especially those drawn to the obsessive practice of an instrument, will recognize the banjo’s role as both tormentor and salvation.

At times, the book is raw and unfiltered; at others, it’s funny in the best Rothian sens, cutting and self-aware. For readers willing to embrace both the cringe and the insight, What Would Philip Roth Do? is a memoir that captures what it means to search for voice, love, and belonging in a world where nothing ever quite fits.


Becoming ECOACTIVE

"Becoming ECOACTIVE is a profound invitation to live with conscious intention in a reactive world. With wisdom that bridges psychology, spirituality, and ethics, Stephen McGraw offers a model of living that transforms reactivity into purposeful connection. His voice is both compassionate and deeply human, guiding readers toward self-awareness, forgiveness, and genuine mutual growth. This is more than a self-help book; it’s a blueprint for becoming a healing presence in every interaction, human or digital." —Kyle Eaton, San Francisco Book Review


Adrift: A Novel

Peggy, Drew, and their son, Samson, live on a canal boat while Drew attempts to write a novel. They don’t have much money, causing Samson to be bullied at his school. Drew continues to move their boat farther from town, claiming there are too many distractions and noises. As their isolation increases, so does the tension. The family, Adrift on a peaceful canal, is anything but peaceful, and circumstances only get darker.

I’m a bit conflicted about this story. It is well written, with complicated characters, but there are dark themes, so it feels wrong to say I enjoyed it. If you’ve ever been gaslighted, this book will be a hard read. The author really showcases what that’s like for someone and how you can’t help but question everything. Again, the word enjoy seems wrong in this situation, but if you enjoy slow-burning thrillers that are more realistic than they should be, this is a book for you to read. I would also encourage you to speak up if you think someone might be in this type of situation and not dismiss them as crazy. It’s a form of abuse and should be recognized as such.


Boleyn Traitor: A Novel

Jane Boleyn serves as Queen Anne’s lady-in-waiting, which she is happy to do as her sister-in-law. Jane has served in the court of King Henry VIII since she was eleven and knows all the secrets, which she tells to her patron, Sir Thomas Cromwell. Jane knows she will have to do whatever it takes to survive this king, who changes religion and laws to suit his own needs. Everyone lives and dies at the pleasure of the king. By the end, Jane will be known as the Boleyn Traitor, but there is more to her story, and she faithfully served five of Henry’s six wives. Not many women survived King Henry that long.

It’s been twenty-five years since Gregory wrote The Other Boleyn Girl, which was my first foray into historical fiction. How can you not be captivated by this King and his many wives? The Tudors definitely left their mark on history, and Gregory brings these characters to life. You will feel like you are in Henry’s court, do all you can to not say the wrong thing, and end up beheaded. If you enjoy historical fiction, I recommend you add this to your collection.


Squirrel

Squirrels with their fuzzy tails and mischievous antics readily amuse many, but others, like dedicated bird watchers, will only complain about their predatory habits. In this fascinating account of the characteristics of this populous group that also includes chipmunks and marmots, author Nancy Castaldo fluently translates the scientific studies describing the behaviors, importance, and crises affecting these creatures. Squirrels are adored by many solely due to their appearance and behavior, and have become symbolic icons to many. The almost three hundred species of squirrels are found throughout the continents with the exception of Antarctica, and display varying sizes, builds, and colors, such as those named the red and gray squirrels. Each of the chapters describes varying aspects of this rodent, such as the nut and seed gathering, focusing on their secretive hiding of the food stash in the ground while wary of any observers. These hidden caches are magical seed banks that revive plantings during natural times, but most essentially aid plant revival following disasters. Read how this impish creature has been used for target practice by hunters, how they are used for food, and why they are being threatened by habitat loss and competition. This is an engrossing read about this delightfully pesky neighbor, accompanied by engaging squirrel illustrations.


When Auggie Learned to Play Chess

I learned the complicated yet fun game of chess several years ago from my dad. Reading When Auggie Learned to Play Chess reminded me of those feelings, but, when I got the hang of it, it became exciting. Auggie is a young Romanian boy who recently moved to his new home with his dad, or Tată. He's homesick and wants to go back, but his dad makes a deal - to learn chess and see if this changes his mind. Auggie isn't convinced, but agrees, and notices how it changes his outlook on things; he begins to see his classmates as chess pieces, and his knowledge of chess might help him make his first friend.

 I enjoyed Auggie's story because it is realistic: it has been several years since I moved to my current place, but it's scary when it happens. Learning chess really can be confusing and frustrating, but, like most things, once you figure it out, it's easy enough. I loved the illustrations in the book because they are colorful and beautiful. This story is great for readers of any age, but particularly for those going through a life change or have an interest in chess.


Evergreen: The Trees That Shaped America

As the forests become thinner and giant trees suffer losses, author Trent Preszler takes the reader through a course in history, looking at how the evergreens have been used and abused. Recounting the piney fragrance of the formerly traditional holiday Christmas tree, he describes how it is now being replaced by more affordable plastic replicas, which do not shed needles. However, there is still a traditional search for the most outstanding giant evergreen to decorate Rockefeller Plaza. It is interesting to note that the Pilgrims sought wealth in wood when they journeyed to the new land, since medieval England had lost its forests. Strong wood was essential for ships, and tall, strong trees were primarily for the masts.  Ancient cultures used the tallest tree trunks for their temples; Venice is underpinned by clever wooden foundations.  Look around and note the residues of evergreens in utility poles, railway ties, firewood used on Mississippi steamboats, early airplanes, and think of all the structures requiring the strength of the pines and cedars consumed. Tragically, giant sequoias were hewn for display, and time will not permit their regeneration in our lifetime. We talk of oil and coal as energy resources, but these are the ghosts of ancient trees, while our current trees continue to be consumed.  This historic tour through our evergreen connection is revelatory and refreshing.


Thinking Ethically: A Handbook for Making Moral Choices

In an era of entrenched ideological divides, this book emerges as a thoughtful compass for navigating moral ambiguity, reminding us that ethical reasoning is both universal and deeply personal.  Each of the fourteen chapters aims to address an ethical issue. These include: breaking promises, killing an innocent person to save many, favoring friends and family, and hiring practices. Every chapter opens with a relatable real-life scenario, probing initial intuitive responses before layering in complexities that challenge and refine those instincts. This iterative process often oscillates between perspectives, culminating in the refrain that ethical outcomes frequently depend on context, though one chapter affirms that some actions may indeed be universally wrong.

The book excels in fostering empathy and critical thinking; by emphasizing shared moral fundamentals – like honesty and harm avoidance – the text bridges divides, encouraging readers to appreciate differing viewpoints without descending into relativism.  The accessible prose and practical examples make it an engaging handbook for lay audiences, promoting reflective dialogue in a polarized world. However, this emphasis on nuance can occasionally feel evasive, especially for those seeking more prescriptive guidance. Swinging between arguments with varying intensity may dilute depth in favor of breadth, leaving complex philosophical traditions underexplored. Overall, this book is a valuable resource for cultivating moral agility, though it shines brightest for readers open to embracing uncertainty.


The Wildes: A Novel in Five Acts

Louis Bayard's imagining of the relationship between Irish literary giant Oscar Wilde and his wife Constance is inventive and, at times, quite compelling, but -- as a whole -- The Wildes is a bit too uneven to be fully successful.

Bayard uses the conceit of a five act structure to tell this story. It's a clever choice given that Oscar Wilde is best known for his works of drama and his novel The Picture of Dorian Gray. Bayard present Wilde as a man who, much like his protagonist in Dorian Gray, does not want to grow up despite having a wife and two sons. He wants to spend time with robust young men and passes it off to his wife as though he is the great benefactor of these young, emerging poets. Constance believes this as she believes in her husband's talent and goodness, but when he is brought up on charges of gross indecency related to a relationship with Lord Alfred Douglass, Constance must confront the truth.

These sections of the book are witty and driven with urgency. They don't last long enough. Wilde's incarceration and death are glossed as is Constance's own death; instead, their sons Cyril and Vyvyan are given far too many pages to keep the story moving.

Still, if you are an Oscar Wilde fan and interested in another perspective on this life, The Wildes is worth a read.


Frida the Rock-and-Roll Moth: A Story About Finding Your Confidence

Frida is cool. Frida likes to rock. Her biggest fan is her Aunt Edna. Frida has her own style, and she likes it all until she meets other moths under the big light and decides that maybe she isn't that great or special. She tries to change her entire self to fit in, but that doesn't feel right either. Maybe just being herself is the best life. Luckily Frida has her Aunt cheering for her the whole time.

This is a really cute book with a positive message: that even when you are feeling down, being true to yourself is the best thing of all! The illustrations are really cute. My favorite part is meeting under the big light, which I am guessing is some human's porch light.


Beasts of the Sea: A Novel

Beasts of the Sea is the debut novel of Finnish literary scholar Iida Turpeinen. First published in Finland, her Helsingin Sanomat Literature Prize-winning novel has been translated for the global market. More than historical fiction, Turpeinen weaves together explorational, environmental, colonial, and religious histories. Broken into three parts, the novel starts with the 1741 Great Northern Exploration led by Captain Bering, featuring young naturalist Georg Wilhelm Steller and his discovery of the Steller's sea cow. She then covers the governor of Alaska, offering a prize for anyone discovering the intact skeleton of this aquatic giant, and the illustrator who gave the world a glimpse of the now-extinct mammal. The book concludes with the Museum of Zoology in Helsinki restoring an antique skeleton.

Turpeinen's historical fiction is as informative as it is bleak—as much of history is when we strip away romanticized versions and tell the actual stories. Much of Turpeinen's work explores how human greed and callous disregard for the environment and wildlife caused the extinction of many species, including the Steller's sea cow. Although her novel is a work of historical fiction, Beasts of the Sea is a well-written account of the past and a warning for the future.


A Killer Motive: A Novel

Six years ago, Stella’s brother, Max, disappeared from a beach party. She’s never given up looking for him and decided to help others as well by starting her true crime podcast, A Killer Motive. She’s been able to help other families, but not her own. While being interviewed on a radio show, she makes the statement that she would bring the abductor to justice if she just had one clue. That statement leads to a series of events that has Stella playing a very dangerous game with a killer with life and death stakes. But Stella will do whatever it takes for just the possibility of bringing her brother home. ||If you enjoy McKinnon’s other books or if you enjoy serial killer murder mysteries, then this book is for you. Stella was hard to like until the epilogue and the identity of the killer was a bit hard to swallow based on the victimology, but I understand what the author was trying to do. Overall, it was an entertaining read with a deadly game of cat and mouse.


Dungeon Runners: Ocean Chase

The next dungeon runner game is on, and Team Triple Trouble is ready for a crazy dungeon unlike any other they have ever ventured into. This time, they will be exploring under the ocean. Each team is put down under the ocean in a diving bell, where they have to enter a cavern and then try to work together to complete a puzzle, but seaweed is blocking the way. The creatures under the sea are like nothing they have ever seen before, so read this book to see if they can survive and win.

I like this book, especially the illustrations. My favorite creature they encountered was the Narghoul, because who doesn't love a creepy narwhal? I really like this fun series and look forward to more of them.


Alice Éclair, Spy Extraordinaire: A Spoonful of Spying

Alice Eclair, Spy Extraordinaire: A Spoonful of Spying is the second book in the Alice Eclair series, featuring a young French girl who is a French pastry chef by day and a spy by night. On her second big mission, she and her mother are at the 1937 Paris Exposition, to bring their company more business, and to look for spies against France, trying to get plans for a top-secret plane that will change the look of traveling by being faster and easier than ever before, who also have some of the "good" spies held hostage. Alice meets new friends who unknowingly help her on her assignment. On this mission, Alice continues to make her yummy and beautiful sweets while learning about airplanes and getting a taste of the fashion industry.

I enjoyed A Spoonful of Spying as much as her first mission, A Recipe for Trouble, but for different reasons - in this one, I enjoyed the fashion aspect, but so far, both books have had lots of thrills from start to finish! Alice seems like a relatable girl around my age, so it's enjoyable to read about her adventures.


Outside

If Razzi ever thought that going outside was attractive, Ollie’s death stopped that cold. When he died, Razzi became First, in charge of and the example for all the other younger kids. A quick health check revealed that Razzi needed a heart, and through breakthroughs in science and medicine, her body accepts a heart from a greyhound. Soon after her recovery, she notices that she doesn’t like chocolate, wants to chase the new family pet, and now loves ham. She also needs to go outside, to follow a close connection to a dog she’s never seen. Making a plan, she packs her bag and stows away on a supply run. What she finds, what she learns, will change how she views the world and the walls of The Refuge that kept her hidden away.

Shedding some disbelief is necessary for this tale, where Razzi takes on greyhound characteristics, but it is a perfect segue for young readers to young adult writers like Neal Shusterman and Suzanne Collins. The story is thrilling, adventurous, and mysterious, defying genre designations. Similar to Alone by Megan Freeman, this one is perfect for reluctant readers and thrill seekers. A real page turner.


War Games

I am a big fan of Alan Gratz, and his newest book War Games is another 5-star read for me, like all his others! In War Games, a young American girl named Evie is with her gymnastics team in Berlin for the 1936 Olympics. While there, she receives a mysterious note that catches her by surprise from strangers who offer her gold, but in a different form than a medal. Evie must work with her roommate, Mary, and the new friends she makes to bring home the gold for her and her family.

 War Games has as much action and excitement as Gratz's other books, making it easy to enjoy and lose track of time while reading for hours. I can't picture myself making the same choices as Evie, but it was fun to read how it turned out for her. I learned a few new things about Hitler, who is also featured in the book.


I'm Very Busy: A (Nearly Forgotten) Birthday Book

I am a big fan of Oliver Jeffers because I haven't read one of his books that I didn't like; so I was excited to read I'm Very Busy! This one did not disappoint me. A young girl goes around to her friends, asking them to do something fun with her; each of them is "already busy" doing things that don't seem too busy to me. Not until she casually mentions to her last friend that she asks, do they know that it is her birthday, and then they feel bad about their excuses and start scrambling to put together a birthday party. The girl shows that she "forgives and forgets" what they said to her, because their actions spoke louder than their words. It was sad to think about, but I'm glad it got a happy ending. I would recommend this book to any reader who is looking for a quick, fun read.


The Bear Who Wanted to Dance

A little bear named Rita sees a ballet, and it changes her life. She knows she wants to dance. She does the right thing and signs up for a dance class with Monsieur le Fox. It is there that Rita meets Wanda, a slender, graceful dancer. They become fast friends. They spend their time dancing and dreaming of being great dancers. Rita works hard. She doesn’t just practice her dancing, but she also works to become stronger. Monsieur le Fox announces he will soon choose the prima ballerina. Rita gets so nervous when she sees her big shadow that she falls. Can she make her dream come true?

Author Stephanie Stansble has written a very sweet story that young girls will love. While there are lessons about friendship, resilience, building confidence, and more, there is nothing didactic about the writing. Stansble’s storytelling is simply lovely, and youngsters will want to hear this story over and over. The illustrations by Wendy J. Warren are enchanting. She uses soft colors and lots of fun details in her gorgeous drawings. Young listeners will be completely engaged. This will become a favorite very quickly.


Hazel and Mabel: Two Hearts Apart

Hazel and Mabel: Two Hearts Apart tells the story of best friends Hazel and Mabel, who do nearly everything together. Hazel is a bear, and Mabel is a skunk. Then, one day, Mabel moves away. Hazel and Mabel write letters to one another, and over time, they both meet new friends. When Mabel comes to visit Hazel, they are both excited. However, both of them have changed over the years, and it seems like they no longer have much in common.

This is a sweet story about friends who grow apart, only to find common ground and remember why their friendship worked so well in the first place. Children ages 3 to 10 will love the easy-to-understand story and colorful illustrations. I especially loved the details the illustrator used in each picture. The characters' expressions and the magical backgrounds will make children smile from ear to ear. This is a book that the whole family will enjoy reading over and over again.


Come Back Out, Mole! (Somos8)

Mole is just going about his day when a thunderstorm pops up and because moles can't see very well he did not see it coming, so he gets scared and runs into his hole. Moles friends try to put their heads together to do everything to get mole to come back out but it is no use. Finally, his friends come up with a plan to trick him to get him to come out since it seems he might miss his own birthday, but you have to read this book to find out what happens.

This is a cute book and we really like the illustrations of all the cute woodland animals. My favorite part of this book is when the friends remember Mole's birthday and have surprise party for him.


Outside In and the Inside Out: A Story About Arnold Lobel

I'm not as much of a non-fiction fan as a fiction one, but I enjoyed Outside In and Inside Out: A Story About Arnold Lobel for several reasons. One reason is from the outside: that it is about a man and the author of a book series (Frog and Toad) that I am familiar with and have enjoyed reading and hearing read to me over the years. Another reason is from the inside: the illustrations are colorful, and the way the story is told is kid-friendly and unique compared to other books I've read. I noticed maybe one thing said about him that didn't seem too kid-friendly, but only because I read different things about him did I catch on, and the way it was presented in this book was a good way for younger readers. This book is informative and enjoyable, making it a worthwhile and fun read for readers of all ages, especially those who enjoy learning new things about people, places, or things.


Black Gold: The Rise, Reign, and Fall of American Coal

The danger was known before the explosion hit the Centralia No. 5 Coal mine on March 25, 1947. Miners and a safety inspector had expressed concern about the combustible coal dust, yet mine owners took no action to improve conditions. 111 men were killed, and the aftermath brought nothing but finger-pointing. The life of a coal miner can be grueling and dangerous, yet the mining of coal was vital to heat homes, power steam engines, and steamships. While the early years of coal mining saw exploitation of workers, the United Mine Workers of America obtained better pay and conditions for the men through the use of work stoppages and strikes. While once a key energy source, coal has been replaced by other fossil fuels(oil, natural gas). Coal’s lasting impact lies in climate change, deforestation, and black lung disease.

Black Gold superbly recounts significant moments in the rise and fall of the coal industry in America. Author Bob Wyss provides a wealth of history about coal, but also the lasting effects of its mining and burning on the population and environment. Black Gold succeeds as both a history of the fossil fuel and a social commentary on its negative effects. This book makes for indispensable reading.


Life Hikes: Walking through Loss to What Comes After

Dr. Renée Brown Harmon’s Life Hikes is a moving essay collection that blends memoir, nature writing, and reflections on grief into something both deeply personal and universally resonant. I found myself drawn in by the book’s balance of vulnerability and resilience, its exploration of what it means to live authentically after loss, and its reminder that healing rarely takes a straight path.

At its heart, this book is about the long journey of grief following the author’s loss of her husband, Harvey, to younger-onset Alzheimer’s disease. “None of the means of transportation could get me to the other side of grief quite as well as my feet,” Harmon writes, underscoring one of the book’s central themes: movement (literal and emotional) can carry us through pain. Her hikes through mountains, meadows, and coastlines are more than exercise; they become metaphors for navigating the uneven terrain of sorrow and rediscovering joy.

The structure of the book mirrors this journey. In Part One: Beginning Again, Harmon recalls how hiking with her husband eventually gave way to solo treks after his decline. These passages struck me as tender and familiar, the way small rituals can hold a family together in hard times. In Part Two: Moving Onward, she weaves in essays about unexpected encounters, from a pelican mistaking her foot for food to moments of startling kindness from strangers. These stories remind us that life’s interruptions, whether comic, tragic, or both, carry their own wisdom. Part Three: Coming Home to Myself focuses on acceptance and self-discovery, offering reflections on perspective, spirituality, and resilience.

A theme that recurs throughout is the non-linear nature of grief. Harmon acknowledges that loss doesn’t follow predictable stages. “I wish grief was a clear-cut, linear process that led straight to acceptance,” she admits, before describing the reality of cycling through denial, anger, and despair, sometimes all in a single day. This honesty is one of the book’s strengths; it never oversimplifies, but instead validates the messy, unpredictable truth of grieving.

Harmon explores spirituality as love, not bound by dogma but expressed through compassion and presence. She speaks of the “god-spark” within each of us, the divine light that can guide us through even the darkest paths. For readers who may not identify with traditional religious language, her approach feels inclusive and hopeful.

Who will find solace and meaning in Life Hikes? Caregivers, widows, and anyone living through the aftermath of loss will see their own struggles reflected in Harmon’s honesty. Lovers of nature writing will appreciate the vivid way she captures the healing power of the outdoors. And readers seeking spiritual insight without heavy doctrine will find her reflections accessible and encouraging.

As I closed the book, I felt as though I had walked alongside Harmon, not just on trails through Appalachia, the Alps, or the Redwoods, but along the winding inner roads of grief, resilience, and renewal. Life Hikes is more than a memoir; it’s a gentle companion for anyone finding their way forward after loss.


Adjusted Reality: Supercharge Your Whole-Being for Optimal Living and Longevity

As a woman in her early forties juggling career, family, and the realities of midlife, I found Sherry McAllister’s Adjusted Reality both grounding and uplifting. This isn’t just another book about “wellness” or “self-care.” It’s a holistic framework that redefines what health can look like when we stop treating symptoms in isolation and start nurturing the whole self: mind, body, and spirit.

From the opening chapters, McAllister paints a vivid picture of our fragmented healthcare system and its limitations. She compares it to living with monsters under the bed as children: “Modern healthcare is fragmented and disjointed…we are afraid of asking the ‘wrong’ question and being rejected or outright dismissed." That metaphor resonated with me. So often, health becomes about fear: fear of a diagnosis, of another prescription, of feeling powerless. McAllister flips that narrative, offering empowerment through knowledge and imagination.

One of the book’s strongest features is its clear organization around the “Foundational Seven”: Investment, Replenishment, Nourishment, Movement, Adjustment, Contentment, and Revitalizement. These pillars serve as a roadmap for readers who want to move beyond quick fixes into sustainable, meaningful health practices. I especially appreciated the emphasis on “Investment," a reminder that what we put into our health now pays dividends later.

The personal stories woven throughout add heart to the science. In one striking account, McAllister recalls a young woman (herself, as she later reveals) whose car accident left her in chronic pain. After months of frustration with conventional medicine, chiropractic care restored her health. The lesson? “The symptoms are different from the problems, and you’ll see the body respond in good time with healing. It’s not about the symptoms; it’s about the cause of the problem.” Her vulnerability in sharing this makes the book relatable rather than prescriptive.

Themes of resilience, balance, and empowerment run throughout. McAllister acknowledges grief, fear, and trauma but reframes them as opportunities to reconnect with hope: “You can’t have hope and be unable to cope, and you can’t cope without the light of hope. Hope and the ability to cope are inseparable.” As a reader, I felt encouraged rather than chastised, a crucial distinction in health writing.

This book will resonate with a wide range of audiences, including:

Busy professionals who feel burned out and disconnected from their well-being.

Midlife women balancing family demands with their own health needs.

Patients seeking alternatives to the over-medicalized, pill-first approach to healthcare.

Anyone curious about chiropractic care and its role in whole-being health.

I see Adjusted Reality as both a guide and a gentle nudge. It’s not about perfection but about creating alignment between body, mind, and purpose. As McAllister writes, “We are better than one.” This book reminds us that we don’t have to navigate health alone; hope, community, and knowledge can adjust our reality toward something brighter.


Entering the Fascist-Marxist Twilight Zone

On September 22, 1939, two European powerhouses met to celebrate the vanquishing of a common enemy. The Russians met their German allies, and a celebratory parade was held in Brest-Litovsk, recently the victim of Nazi aggression but also symbolic for the two countries as the countries had signed a peace treaty in 1918, ceasing their hostilities during World War I. The alliance between Nazi Germany and Soviet Russia had been cemented by the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact in August 1939, yet the insatiable need for territory pushed the Nazis to break the treaty and invade the Soviet Union in June 1941. History has seen Fascism and Marxism as two extremist ideologies, but at opposite ends of the spectrum, with Fascism being linked with the Far Right and Marxism connected to the Far Left.

However, as the disputed but accurate quote states…”History is written by the victors.” As the research of author L.K. Samuels cogently illustrates, the double cross of the Soviets by the Nazis and the Soviet role in their defeat led to a rewrite of history. Historical textbooks have held to the belief that Fascism and Marxism are polar opposites. Yet significant historical figures such as Winston Churchill saw little difference between the two ideologies. The two central figures in the Fascist orbit, Benito Mussolini and Adolf Hitler, had expressed their affinity for Socialist or Communist beliefs early on in their rise to power. The statist governments of both Hitler and Mussolini bore a striking resemblance to Lenin and Stalin in certain aspects, such as social welfare, antipathy towards capitalism, and nationalization of unions. The Governments of Italy, Germany, and Russia under Mussolini, Hitler, and Stalin exuded virulent Anti-Semitism, which had been a characteristic of the founder of Marxism, Karl Marx.

The war between the Fascist forces and the Marxist(or Communist) forces may have ended in 1945, but the battles are still being fought in the modern day, led by groups such as ANTIFA and Neo-Nazis. The violent methods espoused by both groups in achieving their objectives signal more a kinship than either would openly acknowledge.

Entering the Marxist-Fascist Twilight Zone is the well-researched follow-up/sequel to the excellent book “Killing History” (2019). Author L.K. Samuels puts forth a provocative viewpoint, but provides research along with reasoned arguments in pushing his case for the commonalities between the ideological factions. The book doesn’t rely on rhetoric to be persuasive, so much as a litany of literary and scholastic works to show how the line between Fascism and Marxism is a lot more muddled than previously believed. Samuels succeeds in authoring a book that will generate conversation and might lead to a re-evaluation of the established narrative. This is a significant work that makes for a pensive read.


Entering the Fascist-Marxist Twilight Zone: The Collected Works of L.K. Samuels and the Free Riders Groupe

L.K. Samuels’ Entering the Fascist-Marxist Twilight Zone is an unflinching and densely researched exploration of what the author calls “history’s dirty little secret," the ideological overlap between fascism, Marxism, and other collectivist movements of the 20th century. Written in an assertive yet scholarly tone, Samuels challenges conventional political narratives, arguing that the left-right spectrum has been distorted to obscure the shared socialist roots of totalitarian regimes. For readers accustomed to linear political classifications, this book opens with a jolt: “Hitlerism is brown Communism, Stalinism is Red Fascism,” Samuels quotes from a 1939 New York Times editorial, setting the stage for his central thesis that fascism and communism are, in essence, “symmetrical phenomena.”

Throughout the book, Samuels combines historical analysis with a provocative libertarian sensibility. He draws on a vast array of sources to demonstrate that many early observers recognized the kinship between fascist and communist systems. The opening chapter, “Hitler and Mussolini: History’s Dirty Little Secret,” dismantles the assumption that fascism was a right-wing reaction to socialism. Instead, Samuels reveals how Benito Mussolini, “the Lenin of Italy,” viewed himself as a Marxist revolutionary who simply exchanged class struggle for nationalism. He writes, “Mussolini wasn’t a monarchist, a capitalist, or a rightwing churchgoer. He was fervently anticlerical, an avowed atheist, and a well-known Marxist during the early years of his life.”

The themes that emerge are both historical and philosophical: the danger of collectivism in any form, the cyclical nature of authoritarianism, and the ease with which political movements rewrite their origins. Samuels warns of what he terms “the collectivist illusion,” in which state power, whether under the banner of equality, nationalism, or social justice, inevitably tramples individual liberty. His critique of modern governance is implicit yet pointed, particularly when he draws parallels between “fascist corporatism” and modern economic interventionism, such as “Obamacare smacking of a corporatocracy.”

The audience for Entering the Fascist-Marxist Twilight Zone is broad yet specific: historians of political ideology, libertarian thinkers, and readers skeptical of mainstream historical narratives will find it invigorating. It also appeals to students of political philosophy interested in how terms like “left” and “right” have evolved and been weaponized, over time. Readers seeking a comfortable reaffirmation of political orthodoxy, however, may find themselves unsettled by Samuels’ relentless challenge to accepted dogma.

Ultimately, the book succeeds as both a historical anthology and a cautionary manifesto. As Samuels reminds us, “History does repeat itself, and usually to the detriment of the ignorant.” In tracing the blurred boundaries between fascism and Marxism, he invites readers into a twilight zone of ideology where moral certainty gives way to uncomfortable truth.

Entering the Fascist-Marxist Twilight Zone is not light reading. It demands critical engagement and rewards readers with a sweeping, contrarian vision of history that dares to redraw the map of political identity. Those who appreciate intellectual fearlessness and meticulously sourced argumentation will find Samuels’ work both challenging and essential.


The Seven Souls of Esmerelda Black

"Dark, seductive, and utterly spellbinding, The Seven Souls of Esmerelda Black pulls you into a world where survival demands bargains with the Devil. N.K. Brown’s prose brims with atmosphere, painting both horror and beauty in every scene. Esmerelda is a heroine you can’t help but root for, even as she navigates sin, vengeance, and impossible choices. This is  fantasy at its most intoxicating: dangerous, daring, and impossible to put down." —Faith Williams, Seattle Book Review

OR

In the shadowed streets of Victorian London, Esmerelda Black isn’t just a medium — she’s a soul thief bound by a desperate pact with the Devil, stealing fragments of the living to rescue her sister from eternal damnation. Yet every stolen sin births unforeseen dangers, and when the darkly magnetic Dorian Rosewood blackmails her into a sham engagement to further his own ambitions, secrets and simmering desire threaten to consume them both.

 Poised between forbidden magic, moral ambiguity, and a deadly deadline, Esmerelda must navigate treacherous alliances that blur the line between salvation and damnation. The Seven Souls of Esmerelda Black is a richly atmospheric gothic historical fantasy that will enthrall fans of dark romance, sinister bargains, and morally charged intrigue.


The Wireless Operator: The Untold Story of the British Sailor Who Invented the Modern Drug Trade

Harold Derber is one of those barely known men who has accomplished extraordinary things. In his case, it’s through a mix of being overshadowed by the historical events his actions took place and, as his life went on, dabbling in criminal enterprise. A quick internet search of his name illustrates this perfectly. The first several links refer to this book. The first, which does not mention the book, is about his death in 1976, his name prefaced by the phrase “drug trafficker”.

But before he got involved in the Colombian drug trade and pioneered a method to sneak weed out of international waters and into the United States, Harold Derber was Hyman Tuchverderber, a Jewish boy growing up in 1940s Manchester, soon to be involved in World War II as a radio operator.

Tuch brings us from those early days into a breathless whirlwind of a life, following Derber from World War II to the nascent nation of Israel, then across the Atlantic to the Americas. Readers get to know not only Derber as a dangerously lively man but also the cast of characters surrounding him: politicians and drug traffickers, soldiers and lovers. It’s a fascinating story, and one I couldn’t help being swept up in.

The best part of the book, in my opinion, was that it showed Derber in relation to the rest of the rapidly changing world. The post-war decades were times of political tension and upheaval, which often translated into social change as well. The saying “no man is an island” makes perfect sense in relation to this book. Derber is shown intertwined with the world that shaped him and which he, in turn, helped to shape.

The breakneck pace doesn’t always serve the writing, though. At times, it’s easy to lose details or lose track of characters. People, especially those in the outer circles of Derber’s work, are introduced quickly, and it’s too easy to see them fall by the wayside until they’re suddenly brought up again.

On the whole, though, I found myself fascinated by the book, and by the new insight I gained into a part of history I have always taken for granted. I was born into a world that seemed to have always known the international drug trade, to the point where I never thought about how it might have started or who might have been involved. I recommend this book to anyone interested in those seedier sides of history.


Reading The Wireless Operator feels like discovering the blueprint of a legend no one told us existed. David Tuch reconstructs the astonishing life of Harold Derber, a Manchester-born Jewish kid who became a British Merchant Navy wireless operator during World War II, only to later carve out a reputation as a smuggler, gunrunner, and, ultimately, one of the architects of the modern drug trade. For a nonfiction biography, it reads with the pacing of a thriller while staying rooted in meticulous historical research.

What struck me right away was the intimacy of the storytelling. In the opening chapter, we meet Hyman Tuchverderber, the boy who would become Harold Derber, slugging it out in the Jewish Lads’ Brigade boxing ring. “Intense, obsidian eyes hinted at a depth of understanding beyond his years," Tuch writes, sketching a portrait of a teenager hardened by poverty, antisemitism, and the looming threat of war. From there, the narrative moves seamlessly into the chaos of the Manchester Blitz, his training in wireless telegraphy, and his first perilous voyages across U-boat-infested waters.

The sections at sea were some of my favorites. There’s a chilling moment when Derber intercepts a distress call in the “Great Quiet Zone,” only to realize that acknowledging it might endanger his own ship. “Alone in the swaying radio room, he closed his eyes, straining to catch any hint of a response. But there was only silence as the ship continued its course." That mix of moral conflict and sheer survival instinct captures what makes Derber such a fascinating, complicated figure.

But the book doesn’t stay confined to war stories. As Derber evolves from sailor to smuggler, the narrative widens into a global tale of organized crime, Cold War politics, and shadowy intelligence operations.

What elevates this biography is Tuch’s careful balance between fact and interpretation. He’s transparent about the challenges: gaps in the record, conflicting testimonies, even outright lies from those who lived through it. That honesty gives the book credibility, even when the events seem stranger than fiction.

I’d recommend The Wireless Operator to readers who enjoy narrative nonfiction in the vein of Erik Larson or Ben Macintyre, stories where espionage, war, and crime collide in unforgettable ways. It’s also a must for anyone fascinated by how personal survival can shape global history. College students, history buffs, and even fans of gritty crime sagas will find themselves hooked.


I found David Tuch’s The Wireless Operator to be a captivating and unsettling account of one man’s extraordinary life. On the surface, it tells the story of Harold Derber (born Hyman Tuchverderber), a British Merchant Navy radio operator who transformed into a smuggler, gunrunner, and eventually a key figure in what the author rightly calls the birth of the modern drug trade. But beneath the action, the book is layered with themes of identity, loyalty, survival, and the often-blurred line between honor and criminality. The opening chapters are rooted in Manchester during the Second World War, showing a young Jewish boy coming of age under the shadow of bombings, Blackshirts, and family hardship. These sections are as much about cultural identity and resilience as they are about war. Tuch’s descriptions of Derber’s time in the Merchant Navy are vivid and harrowing: convoy battles in the Atlantic, Morse code crackling in the “Great Quiet Zone,” and the reality of survival when a U-boat could surface at any time. The sea passages alone would make for a worthy memoir, but they are only the beginning of a larger odyssey.

As the narrative moves into the 1950s and 1960s, themes of reinvention and exile emerge. Derber becomes an opportunist in the post-war world, blending espionage, organized crime, and entrepreneurial daring. He is drawn into alliances with figures as diverse as Fidel Castro’s government, American mobsters, and Colombian suppliers. The “freedom ferry” episodes, in which Derber exploited maritime loopholes to smuggle both people and contraband, highlight the tension between idealism and profiteering. At times, the story reads almost like a thriller, yet the author continually grounds it in historical context through archival material, intelligence reports, and interviews.

What struck me most, however, was the persistent theme of identity. Derber changes his name, hides his Jewish heritage, and reinvents himself again and again, depending on the political or criminal climate. This fluidity raises questions about how much of survival depends on adapting oneself versus holding fast to roots. Tuch makes clear that Derber was neither purely hero nor purely villain; he was a survivor in a world that often left little room for moral clarity.

Stylistically, the book balances scholarly rigor with narrative energy. The author’s note acknowledges the challenges of separating truth from legend, and while Tuch occasionally fills gaps with plausible reconstructions, he is careful to distinguish between fact and speculation. The result is both entertaining and credible, a rare blend in true-crime and espionage history.

Fans of maritime history and WWII memoirs will appreciate the first sections, while those drawn to organized crime, Cold War intrigue, or the origins of the global narcotics trade will be engrossed by the later chapters. It’s also a strong recommendation for book clubs that enjoy debating moral ambiguity—was Derber an adventurer, a criminal, or something in between?

In the end, The Wireless Operator is about more than one man’s life. It is about the messy, complicated ways history is shaped by individuals who refuse to fit neatly into categories of hero or outlaw. For anyone interested in the untold stories that lurk between official records, this book is a must-read.


Tamanrasset, Crossroads of the Nomad

For the first hundred pages of Tamanrasset, I pictured myself writing a very different review than this. I was impressed by the use of language and the richness of the setting, but the characters left me unimpressed. I was given the beginning of a story, then thrown into the beginning of yet another, without knowing the character more than on the surface level. I certainly didn’t think I knew them well enough to care about them.

The further I read, the more I grew to appreciate the book. The richness of the setting remains, and the characters develop no sudden depth, which made me fall in love with them. Most of them remained just as they were, moving through the world, revealing parts of themselves slowly if at all. It’s a subtle way to build character, and it won’t work for everyone, but readers who enjoy a slower-paced book will definitely appreciate it.

The characters will prove to be either the novel’s greatest strength or its greatest weakness. In my opinion, they are both, and which direction they fall will depend on the reader.

I might go so far as to say that nearly everything about the book could either work in its favor or against it. The characters might be subtle, or they might be flat. My own opinion on them changed not only as I read but also changed character by character. Some intrigued me, while others I found dull. The pace, too, will appeal to some, but others will give up before the end of the first chapter. Parr takes his time with the book, not only in pulling everything together but in telling the story. Events that might take up multiple chapters for another author are finished quickly here, and pages can be spent on reminiscence and rumination.

As I mentioned, I kept going back and forth on how to rate the book as I read it. While I do try to sit back and fully enjoy the books I review, I can never keep the possibility of a final judgment out of my head. With Tamanrasset, it was hard to settle on exactly what I thought of it. Dull at some points, intriguing in others, often poetic but sometimes blunt enough to seem rushed. This book could be one of the literature greats, but at times it feels hampered by its ambitious scope. All the same, I do recommend it to anyone who enjoys great historical epics.


Tamanrasset: Crossroads of the Nomad

Edward Parr’s Tamanrasset: Crossroads of the Nomad is an ambitious and richly detailed historical novel that transports readers to North Africa at the dawn of the 20th century. Spanning Algeria, Morocco, and the vast Sahara, the book is steeped in the textures of the Maghreb, its landscapes, its cultural crossroads, and its violent collisions between European colonial powers and indigenous tribes. At 544 pages, this is no light read, but for those willing to invest in its sweeping narrative, it delivers a vivid and deeply immersive experience.

The novel opens in Oran, Algeria, with travelers and soldiers disembarking under the blazing sun, immediately grounding the reader in a world of contrasts: tourists clutching their guidebooks, French recruits resigned to harsh military life, and locals striving to survive in a rapidly colonized land. This juxtaposition of perspectives is one of the book’s strongest themes. Parr does not settle for a one-sided account; instead, he layers his story with viewpoints from French legionnaires, Arab and Berber tribes, and European outsiders like Isabel Pedersen, a Swedish widow navigating life in Fez. Thematically, Tamanrasset explores empire, faith, survival, and identity. Through Sergeant Jacques Demoreau, a hardened veteran of the French Foreign Legion, we see the toll of endless skirmishes in the desert, a life where honor and discipline mask exhaustion and despair. In contrast, through Ahmad ibn Mostepha al-Haybah, son of a Sharif and leader among the Doui-Menia tribes, we witness the determination of indigenous resistance, fueled by both faith and the preservation of ancestral lands. Parr is careful to show that both sides, though enemies, share courage, loyalty, and a deep sense of duty.

Equally compelling is the quieter storyline of Isabel in Fez. Her attempt to reconcile her grief, faith, and sense of belonging reflects a more intimate theme: the search for identity amidst cultural dislocation. Her chapters balance the battlefield narratives, grounding the book in human emotion and reminding readers that the collision of worlds was not only military but also personal.

Parr’s prose is meticulous and evocative. His descriptions of desert caravans, crowded souks, and brutal skirmishes are immersive, often bordering on cinematic. At times, the detail can feel overwhelming, and the pacing may challenge casual readers, but for history enthusiasts or those fascinated by colonial-era North Africa, this depth is precisely what makes the novel rewarding.

Readers of historical epics, such as those by James Clavell or Robert Graves, will appreciate its blend of rigorous research and compelling storytelling. Military history buffs will find the depictions of the French Foreign Legion and desert warfare particularly engrossing. Meanwhile, readers who gravitate toward cross-cultural narratives, where personal identity is tested against political and social upheaval, will find Isabel’s journey resonant.

In sum, Tamanrasset: Crossroads of the Nomad is both a grand saga and a meditation on what it means to survive, adapt, and hold onto one’s identity in times of upheaval. Edward Parr has written a book that will linger with readers long after the final page, not because it offers simple answers, but because it so vividly evokes the complexities of a world at a crossroads.


THE PICASSO JOB

"Avanti Centrae delivers another powerhouse of suspense that crackles with intensity on every page. Every chapter brims with pulse-pounding tension, unforgettable characters, and daring surprises. It’s a novel that seizes your imagination and refuses to let go. Bold, brilliant, and utterly addictive, this is a thriller you’ll be talking about long after the last page." —Kathryn Dare, Chicago Book Review


As a wife, mother, and professional who’s navigated her fair share of complicated work environments, I found Kate Lowry’s Unbreakable: How to Thrive Under Fear-Based Leaders both validating and eye-opening. Lowry tackles a subject many of us know too well: the boss who rules through fear, intimidation, and insecurity, and provides not only survival strategies but also ways to protect your sense of self along the way.

What stood out to me right from the beginning was Lowry’s acknowledgment that fear-based leadership is not some rare occurrence. She writes from experience, sharing that in her decades-long career in startups, consulting, and big tech, the prevalence of such leaders has only grown. As she puts it, “These types of leaders deeply affect the people around them, and engender a sense of powerlessness—so if there is one thing you take away from this book, it is that you are not powerless, but incredibly powerful."

That affirmation alone makes the book feel like sitting down with a wise friend who’s been through the storm and lived to tell about it.

One of the key themes is resilience, something that resonates deeply with me as a mom. Lowry likens identity to a stool: the more “legs” you have (family, values, hobbies, friendships, passions), the more stable you’ll be when one gets knocked out. This metaphor reminded me that while work is important, it can’t be the only pillar holding us up. Many women, myself included, juggle multiple roles, and Lowry affirms that these varied sources of identity are a strength, not a distraction.

Another theme woven throughout is the psychology of fear-based leaders. Lowry describes them as deeply insecure, often driven by shame, and emotionally stunted, sometimes acting more like toddlers than adults. Her breakdown of their predictable patterns, such as win/loss thinking and constant “grading” of others, helps readers see that these behaviors, while painful, are not random. For anyone who has felt like they’re “losing their mind” under a toxic boss, this section provides clarity and calm.

But the book isn’t just a diagnosis, it’s a toolkit. Lowry offers concrete strategies, from “starving the dragon” (withholding the attention these leaders crave) to learning how to respond on the right “radio channel,” which means replying to the emotion behind their words rather than their bluster. These tactics are delivered in short, digestible chapters, making them easy to return to when you need a boost before a tough meeting.

What I especially appreciated were the reflection questions sprinkled throughout. As someone balancing family, career, and personal well-being, I found these moments of pause helpful. They encourage you to not just cope but to think about how you want to show up in your life, regardless of who sits in the corner office.

Unbreakable will resonate with professionals across industries, but especially with those who have felt trapped under authoritarian leadership, whether in the workplace, a community organization, or even within family structures. It’s a book I’d recommend to working mothers, early-career professionals learning to set boundaries, and anyone who has ever left a meeting questioning their worth. Lowry’s tone is direct but compassionate, practical yet empowering. She doesn’t sugarcoat the realities of toxic leadership, but she offers hope: you can navigate these environments without losing your values, your voice, or your sanity.

In short, Unbreakable is less a business manual and more a survival guide for the human spirit in the face of fear-driven authority. And for those of us raising children, managing households, and striving for healthy workplaces, it’s a timely reminder that resilience is not just possible, it’s our strongest legacy.


The Life & Times of Sarah Good, Accused Witch: Salem Stories Prequel

I found The Life & Times of Sarah Good, Accused Witch both deeply moving and profoundly unsettling. Sandra Wagner-Wright breathes life into one of the most tragic figures of the Salem witch trials, a woman too often remembered only as a name on a list of the condemned. In this meticulously researched and carefully imagined narrative, Wagner-Wright restores Sarah Good’s humanity, weaving her struggles, griefs, and resilience into a larger tapestry of early colonial life.

The novel begins long before the infamous witchcraft accusations, grounding us in Sarah’s youth as Sarah Solart, the daughter of a tavern keeper in Wenham, Massachusetts. Wagner-Wright situates readers firmly in the 17th-century Puritan world, capturing the weight of patriarchal control, the precariousness of inheritance, and the rigidity of social expectations. Through intimate domestic scenes such as family disputes, court hearings, and tavern life, we witness how Sarah’s future is constrained from the start. The period detail is rich, yet never heavy-handed, immersing readers in the rhythms of colonial life while foreshadowing the dangers to come.

Sarah’s poverty and defiance set her apart, making her an easy scapegoat in a fearful, rigidly religious community. Wagner-Wright shows how the forces of gender, class, and faith converged to seal Sarah’s fate. Equally powerful is the exploration of intergenerational legacy. Sarah’s young daughter, Dorothy, is accused alongside her mother, which represents the devastating reach of suspicion and hysteria. The novel also examines the corrosive nature of communal fear. Characters like Thomas and Ann Putnam remind us that ambition, jealousy, and personal grievance often cloaked themselves in religious zeal. These tensions ripple across the narrative, illustrating how ordinary disputes could escalate into deadly accusations when stoked by fear of the devil.

At its heart, this is a story of endurance. Sarah emerges as a complex and sympathetic figure, sometimes sharp, sometimes weary, but always striving to maintain dignity in a world that denied her agency. I was particularly struck by how Wagner-Wright allows us to see Sarah not as a victim frozen in history, but as a woman who loved, fought, mourned, and resisted. The final chapters, tracing her imprisonment and execution, are heartbreaking, yet they also illuminate her courage in the face of injustice.

Though set in the late 1600s, the novel feels timely. Marginalization, the dangers of unchecked authority, and the weaponization of fear resonate strongly in our own era. Readers who appreciate historical fiction that balances authenticity with emotional depth will find this work both engaging and thought-provoking. It would appeal to those who enjoyed Stacy Schiff’s The Witches or Kathleen Kent’s The Heretic’s Daughter. Sandra Wagner-Wright has given us more than a novel; she has given voice to a woman silenced by history. The Life & Times of Sarah Good, Accused Witch is a compelling, meticulously crafted exploration of resilience and injustice. It reminds us that behind every trial transcript and execution date lies a human story: one worth telling, and remembering.


Vows From the Heart

As a woman who has attended her share of weddings, both traditional church ceremonies and contemporary celebrations, Tom Portz’s Vows from the Heart resonated with me as both practical and deeply moving. The book is less a conventional read and more a guidebook of love, structured around vows that speak to diverse relationships, cultural expressions, and the unique ways couples articulate commitment.

At its core, this book underscores love as a universal bond while acknowledging the individuality of each couple. Portz organizes the vows into categories that reflect different circumstances: “Vows for Every Couple,” “From a Woman to a Man,” “Non-binary Couples,” “Living with a Disability,” and even “Later in Life.”

This structure highlights a theme of inclusivity, reminding readers that marriage vows are not one-size-fits-all but should reflect lived experiences and shared values. The universality of love blends seamlessly with the need for personal voice, which makes the book adaptable across traditions and identities.

One of the most striking elements is the intentional acknowledgment of nontraditional couples. Seeing sections for same-sex and non-binary couples felt affirming; it recognizes that love exists in many forms, and all deserve equal celebration. As someone who values representation in literature, I found this refreshing. Too often, wedding resources are framed narrowly, but Portz broadens the lens to honor diversity without tokenizing it.

The vows themselves range in tone, from solemn and spiritual to playful and whimsical. Some, like “Calm and Safe” or “Every Atom,” emphasize trust and emotional safety.

Others, like “Chocolate Ice Cream” or “Jump With Me,” inject humor and modern imagery, showing that vows can be joyful and lighthearted while still meaningful. There are also faith-centered options, such as the “Christian Orientation” section, which offers vows grounded in values of humility and devotion. This spectrum speaks to another key theme: the multifaceted nature of love, which is serious, fun, spiritual, and practical all at once.

Beyond sample vows, Portz also provides guidance on how to prepare. He encourages personalization, using one’s partner’s name, and speaking confidently in front of loved ones. The author's suggestions about making notes or even reading vows aloud rather than memorizing them felt both compassionate and realistic. These touches make the book not just a resource, but a supportive companion for what can be a nerve-wracking moment.

Vows from the Heart succeeds as a heartfelt and inclusive manual for couples stepping into marriage. Its strength lies in its balance of timeless romance with modern inclusivity, offering language that is adaptable to many voices and experiences. I would especially recommend it to couples looking for inspiration that affirms their individuality while connecting them to a universal tradition of love. This is a book not just for those planning a wedding, but for anyone who values how words can capture the depth, joy, and promise of love.


Vows From the Heart

Tom Portz’s Vows from the Heart is a deeply thoughtful and heartfelt collection that manages to be both practical and profoundly moving. At its essence, this book serves as a guide for couples searching for the right words to capture their love during a wedding ceremony, but it reaches further, offering reflections on commitment, intimacy, and the enduring bonds that unite people.

What immediately stands out is the clarity of the book’s organization. Portz divides the vows into categories tailored to a wide range of couples: traditional pairs, same-sex and non-binary couples, those marrying later in life, and even partners navigating life with trauma, disability, or blended families. This inclusivity feels refreshing and compassionate. For someone like me, who has seen marriage evolve over decades, both in personal life and in society, it is gratifying to see such intentional acknowledgment of love in all its forms.

Equally notable is the balance between universality and intimacy. Many vows are written in broad, poetic language, quoting Aristotle or Shakespeare, while others hinge on the small details of shared lives—a favorite constellation, the comfort of holding hands, or even a beloved pet dog. This blend allows couples to find vows that feel authentic, whether they want grand declarations or tender, private touches.

Some of the vows are steeped in youthful passion, brimming with first-kiss excitement and playful promises. Others, particularly those in the “Later in Life” section, carry the wisdom of experience, recognizing love’s ability to endure loss, change, and second chances. For couples entering marriage after having lived significant chapters already, these words resonate with quiet strength and dignity.

Portz also incorporates spiritual and faith-based vows, giving space to couples who see their union as part of a larger divine plan. Yet he balances that with vows rooted in humor and lightheartedness—vows about chocolate ice cream, silly jokes, and shared adventures. This range captures what marriage truly is: solemn and sacred, but also joyous, messy, and full of laughter.

The introduction and “How This Book Can Help You” section are written in a friendly, encouraging tone. Portz gently reminds readers that there is no right or wrong way to speak their vows: whether reading from a page, memorizing lines, or improvising, the act itself is what matters. His advice to personalize vows with specific names, stories, and details shows a clear understanding of how personal touches transform a ceremony into a memory.

Vows from the Heart is more than a simple template book; it is a celebration of love in all its diversity. For younger couples, it offers words to steady their emotions when nerves might overwhelm. For those of us who have lived and loved across decades, it affirms the truth that love remains the most powerful force, whether expressed in solemn poetry or playful whispers.

I would recommend this book not only to engaged couples but also to clergy, officiants, or even family members asked to participate in ceremonies. It is a generous gift of language; words that will be remembered long after the wedding day itself has passed.


Vows From the Heart

I found Vows from the Heart by Tom Portz to be both touching and immensely practical. This book is more than a collection of words; it is a heartfelt guide for couples looking to capture the essence of their love and speak it aloud on one of life’s most important days. What struck me most was its balance: the writing is romantic without being overly sentimental, deeply personal yet versatile enough to adapt to any relationship.

The introduction sets the stage beautifully, recounting how the author overheard a bride-to-be on a flight fretting over writing vows. That moment of empathy inspired Portz to compile this book, and the result is a thoughtful resource filled with vows suited to many types of couples, whether traditional, spiritual, playful, or non-binary. Portz reminds us, “Let your vows be a part of your unique day. Enjoy it all.”

The book’s organization highlights the diversity of love and commitment. Themes emerge clearly:

Unity and Oneness: In “A Single Soul,” Portz echoes Aristotle: “Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies. ”This reflects the timeless idea of two lives merging into one.

Simplicity Over Materialism: “Bobbles and Treasure” emphasizes that shiny possessions pale in comparison to love: “With you, I don’t care about anything more than simply being with you.”

Safety and Refuge: In “Calm and Safe,” vows describe a partner’s presence as a shield against life’s chaos, offering a sense of peace.

Whimsy and Humor: For couples who want lightheartedness, there are vows like “Dog,” which ends with a playful, “And so will the dog.”

Inclusivity: I especially appreciated sections tailored for non-binary couples and those living with disabilities, affirming that every kind of love deserves to be celebrated in authentic words.

Portz’s style is warm, lyrical, and accessible. Some vows sparkle with poetic imagery while others are refreshingly candid. This variety ensures that readers can find something resonant, whether they are solemn romantics or spirited jokesters.

This book is perfect for engaged couples overwhelmed by the pressure of writing vows, but it’s also inspiring for anyone reflecting on love and partnership. Wedding planners, officiants, and even those renewing vows later in life will find meaningful language here. It suits both couples who want to recite a vow word-for-word and those who prefer to adapt and personalize.

Vows from the Heart is a reminder that while weddings are fleeting, the words spoken that day carry forward into the marriage itself. Portz gives us permission to cry, stumble, or laugh while delivering them, knowing that the effort is what matters most.


Vows From the Heart

As someone who has stood at the altar, carefully stringing together words that felt both deeply personal and nervously inadequate, I found Vows from the Heart by Tom Portz to be a gift of inspiration and reassurance. This book is not simply a collection of wedding vows; it is a wonderfully written guide to one of the most intimate and vulnerable moments in a marriage ceremony. Portz takes what can feel like an overwhelming task and transforms it into a celebration of love, individuality, and shared commitment.

From the very first pages, I was struck by the accessibility of the writing. Portz doesn’t approach the subject with formality alone; instead, he blends warmth and practicality. The introduction, inspired by an overheard conversation with a bride-to-be struggling to write her vows, sets the tone beautifully. He recognizes that not everyone feels naturally gifted with words, yet everyone deserves to voice their love in a way that feels authentic.

The structure of the book makes it especially useful. Vows are grouped into categories ranging from traditional expressions of devotion to playful, lighthearted promises, and even those crafted with inclusivity in mind for LGBTQ+ couples and non-traditional partnerships. There are vows for young couples starting fresh, for partners marrying later in life, for families blending together, and even for those living with disabilities or recovering from trauma. This breadth makes the book feel modern and considerate, recognizing that love takes many forms and that every couple deserves vows that honor their story.

Several selections stood out to me. “A Single Soul,” which draws from Aristotle’s idea of love as one soul inhabiting two bodies, captures the profound intimacy many couples feel but can’t always articulate. Meanwhile, vows like “Buckets and Bunches” or “Dog” bring humor and sweetness into the mix—perfect for couples who want their personalities to shine on their wedding day. As a mother, I was especially moved by the sections highlighting family and generational connections, recognizing how marriage often expands beyond two people to embrace children, parents, and extended loved ones.

What I admire most is the encouragement Portz gives readers to adapt the words: to underline passages, make notes, and insert personal details. Rather than treating vows as something to recite verbatim, he frames them as a flexible canvas for love. It reminded me of how my own vows, though short, reflected my husband’s and my shared humor and trust. Reading this book, I found myself imagining how my children might someday draw from it, weaving in their own experiences when they take this step in their lives.

Vows from the Heart is not only for engaged couples. It’s also a gentle reminder for those already married of the promises we once made and the depth of love that sustains us. Portz captures both the solemnity and joy of this milestone, creating a resource that feels as timeless as it is practical. For anyone preparing to say “I do,” this book is a wise and heartfelt companion.


Double Progression: A Kelsey James Fitness Mystery: Book Two

Kelsey James is a fitness instructor at Fox Fitness who knows how to get the best from her clients/students. Kelsey is attentive and personable, and is as much a friend as she is a trainer. When she notices something is off with her client, Jennifer, she is willing to listen with a sympathetic ear. Jennifer has suspicions that something is going on with her husband, Grayson. Grayson has been out of town at random intervals, and Jennifer worries that Grayson is having an affair. Jennifer has confided in the right person, as Kelsey is a part-time investigator with past success in solving the enigmatic.

Kelsey begins a cursory investigation and learns that Jennifer’s concerns are valid, as Grayson has been unemployed for a lengthy stretch of time, making his trips seem even more suspicious. Jennifer’s curiosity leads her to conduct an unorthodox investigation of her own, involving her and her identical twin sister switching places in an attempt to glean information from the other’s spouses about Grayson. Unfortunately, Jennifer is unaware that Grayson isn’t the only person in her family keeping secrets, and some nefarious business lies behind it all.

Kelsey’s concern for Jennifer only increases as she gets pulled further and further into Grayson’s secret world. The heart of a cop beats inside Kelsey, and while she is a trusting person, she also knows when to be skeptical of someone's motives. There are people in proximity to Jennifer and Grayson who pose a danger, and this becomes more evident when a dead body turns up where Grayson was seen. Kelsey will need to proceed with both stealth and expeditiousness in helping her latest client.

The genuine and charismatic Kelsey James returns in the terrific sequel Double Progression”. Kelsey James is a refreshing take on the amateur sleuth character, a person who treats her clients with empathy and concern. Kelsey’s latest case offers a study in contrasts, as her client Jennifer is suffering under the weight of secrets and lies from those closest to her, whereas Kelsey’s family is close-knit and devoted to each other. Author Kristina Fox adeptly sets the tempo for this clever mystery early on as Kelsey’s perceptiveness allows her to pick up on Jennifer’s anxiety. As the story progresses, Fox throws in more than a surprise or two to keep the reader guessing at the eventual outcome. Double Progression is filled with interesting characters, tantalizing plot twists, and a more than satisfying conclusion. Fox continues to impress with her narrative weaving.


Double Progression

“In Fox Fitness, Kelsey James works as a personal fitness trainer. She is both attentive and charismatic to her clients. She is also an amateur sleuth with a keen eye for detail who has been able to crack an enigmatic case or two. In the exciting mystery “Double Progression”, a client’s concerns about her secretive husband lead Kelsey down a rabbit hole involving suspicious bank transactions, corrupt banks, and the involvement of intelligence agencies. The continuing story of Kelsey James doubles down on the thrills and action.”


Double Progression

"If you’re looking for a novel with fast-paced intrigue, page-turning suspense, and an amateur sleuth that doesn’t know when to stay down, then look no further because Kristina Fox has done it again with her second installment of the Kelsey James mystery series: Double Progression. When one of her clients suspects her husband of cheating, Kelsey puts her detective skills to the test; after all, that’s what friends are for. But what appears to be a cut-and-dry case of marital infidelity turns into an ever-widening dragnet of deceit, deception, and murder. Full of enough twists and turns to keep even the most avid of mystery buffs on the edge of their seats, Double Progression is perfect for fans of Harlan Coben and Lucy Foley." —Beatrice Toothman, San Francisco Book Review


Double Progression

“Twists abound in Kristina Fox's Double Progression, a thrilling and fun crime mystery teeming with deception, infidelity, murder, and a slew of red herrings. Throw in some workouts between revelations, some culinary flair, and a storytelling style evocative of Janet Evanovich crossed with P.G. Wodehouse, and you end up with an unputdownable mystery novel.”—Ben Haskett, Los Angeles Book Review


Kelsey James isn't just a great personal trainer. She's as skilled as they come. Sure, she'll demand those burpees, push you to finish out that set of hammer curls, spot you for those bench presses. You'll leave encouraged and thoroughly butt-kicked after every session. But if you've got issues at home or elsewhere, there's also a good chance she'll take a crack at being your personal investigator, too.

Kristina Fox's Double Progression, her second Kelsey James Fitness Mystery, begins with our main character still savoring the satisfaction of her first case, in which she helped a client solve a grisly murder. Ready to lunge into another mystery, we meet Jennifer Miller: established client, friend, entrepreneur, mother of three, and wife to a seemingly perfect husband. If he would only spill the beans about what he's been up to. Grayson Miller has always gone away for business trips, as anyone would expect of a successful hedge fund manager, but the trips are becoming longer, and the laundry and aromas he returns with don't jive with his stated destination. Inquiries about how this-or-that trip went are met with deflections or vague, one-word answers.

With Kelsey on the case, it's soon discovered that the office he claims to be visiting is not only closed for remodeling, but he doesn't even work for that company anymore. What at first seems like an open-and-shut case of infidelity quickly spirals into a twisty tale of organized crime, undercover law enforcement, and stakeouts. For a personal trainer moonlighting as an investigator, Kelsey is surprisingly resourceful, using everyday objects and services with such skill that she's about as effective as the law enforcement operating alongside her.

A heaping helping of exercise and cooking talk rounds everything out. You'll stand next to Kelsey and her co-workers as they run through exercises tailored for each client, and sit with the gang at dinner, complete with mouthwateringly vivid descriptions of what everyone ordered (sometimes down to the garnish). Crafty readers could probably put together a nice workout routine, not to mention a decent menu.

Fox’s writing is refreshingly accessible, with a colorful cast of characters at whom she’s unafraid to poke fun. She precariously straddles the line between crime fiction and farce, evoking an unlikely combination of Janet Evanovich and P.G. Wodehouse. Double agents, triple agents, safehouses, medical emergencies, unexpected family connections, murder, and even adult twins swapping places to conduct recon in each other's homes (all revealed at the most convenient times) are just a few of the exciting twists and fake-outs employed in Double Progression. Readers will find a lot to love in this lighthearted and fun crime mystery.