Book Review- Michael Connelly- Lost Light

Michael Connelly- Lost Light (Warner Books 2004) 3.75 Stars

Every officer has a case that got away. The one they couldn’t catch. For retired officer Harry Bosch it is the Angella Benton case; one he had for about four hours. Her death was linked to the armed robbery of two million dollars from a movie set, but neither case was ever solved. Now he is looking into it and he is finding that people more powerful than him do not want him digging into the case.

This book was really hard to get into, I only kept reading because it was a Harry Bosch novel. That being said, about a quarter of the way through the pace picked up and things started to get rolling. From that point on I was hooked. The plot was good, it certainly kept you guessing. I never would have seen the last chapter coming if I had not read later books in the series. I found the characters were good, but not great, Connelly has certainly done a better job of character creation. I do wish that he had found some way of making the beginning more interesting. I would recommend this novel to those who enjoy Connelly and the Bosch series.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- James Patterson and Andrew Gross- 3rd Degree

James Patterson and Andrew Gross- 3^rd Degree (Warner Books 2005) 3.75 Stars

Detective Lindsay Boxer is going for a jog when a house explodes nearby. Rushing inside she saves one child, but also locates three dead bodies. As a threatening message turns up, more people begin to die. Her crew is back together to help her solve this case, and this time one of them is in grave danger, in the sights of a merciless killer.

I loved the introduction for this book, it grabbed my attention right off the bat, and did not let go until the end. The plot was fast-paced and kept you wanting more right through to the end. I did find myself hoping that it would be a little more unpredictable, as it was obvious what was going to happen. I did not find that there was a lot of character development in this book, and would have liked to of seen more, as it would have made the book stronger. This series has the potential to be really good, but they need to take a little more time when writing to improve them and give them that special touch.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Elmore Leonard- Hombre

Elmore Leonard- Hombre (HarperTorch 2002) 2.5 Stars

Getting on the stagecoach no one had any idea just what kind of a trip it would be. John Russell, who has been raised as an Apache, but is returning to live as a white man, is finding out how hard that is going to be. Nobody wants anything to do with him on the stage, but when they are attacked by outlaws they must rely on him to keep them all alive.

I found this book really hard to get into. I never did find myself drawn into this book. The plot was kind of weak and did not get intense until the last little bit. I also found myself not liking any of the characters, which made it even more difficult to enjoy. That being said I loved the way it was told; it seemed like it was being told to me over a campfire. This shows just how great a storyteller Elmore Leonard is, he just needs to work on execution.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Ridley Pearson- The First Victim

Ridley Pearson- The First Victim (Hyperion 1999) 3.75 Stars

Lieutenant Lou Boldt is investigating three women’s deaths. They were found in a shipping container that was washed overboard during a storm. The shipping container was filled with illegal immigrants from China. He will find himself competing with reporter Stevie McNeal in a race for information as she hunts down her missing friend who was doing an investigative report on the illegal alien scam. Meanwhile he is also trying to work both with and against other departments who wish to take the case away from him.

I liked this novel. It was a different kind of thriller than I am used to seeing on the market these days; so it was kind of refreshing. The plot was a kind of two-fold one, two different purposes for the investigation, and moulding into one investigation. It was fairly intense in the latter half and was really hard to put down at the end. I like the characters in this book, they were really well done, especially Boldt. We see both the work side and the personal side of Boldt as he struggles to come to grips with his wife being healthy and having found religion. It was a perfect balance between the two. At times I did find that Pearson was a little wordy, which was kind of distracting at first, making the book harder to get into. I would definitely recommend this book, and will certainly read more books in this series.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Phyllis Reynolds Naylor- Shiloh

Phyllis Reynolds Naylor- Shiloh (Dell Yearling1991) 3.25 Stars

When a young beagle follows 11-year-old Marty Preston home, he has no idea just what he is in for. The dog shows signs of being abused, but Marty’s parents make him bring the dog back home. Marty has grown to love the dog and will not let it live a life of cruelty. He will do whatever it takes to save the dog he has named Shiloh, even if it means holding the dog secretly.

I read this book when I was in school, but could not recall what I thought of it, although I do remember my brother loving this novel. I found that it was a rather slow moving novel that was kind of hard to get into. I think that animal lovers would enjoy the book a lot more than I did. The characters were really well done; they jumped off of every page. However the plot was shallow and was lacking that certain something that would have grabbed me and drawn me in. That being said, it was beautifully written and you can see the author’s skill on every page. Overall it was an okay book.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- David Baldacci- The Christmas Train

David Baldacci- The Christmas Train (Warner Books 2004) 3 Stars

After an unruly airport moment, Tom Langdon has been banned from all American airlines for two years. Now he finds himself on a journey across America by train. He is supposed be meeting his girlfriend in time for Christmas, but he never anticipated all that he would encounter on his soul searching trip.

I thought that this novel was alright. I may have enjoyed it more if I was into romance type novels. The characters were very strong, and memorable; Baldacci’s writing skill shone through with every page. The plot was not deep, but it was not meant to be. It also had many twists and turns that drove the book forward. Everyone on board the train was searching for something. My main complaint was that I was getting bored, but that may be the thriller-enthusiast in me. It was a cutesy story, and I am not really into that. I also felt that it was a little, I don’t know, unlikely to happen the way that it did in too many places. That being said Baldacci is an amazing author and I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves a good romance, or enjoys Christmas-themed books.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Ted Dekker- Thr3e

Ted Dekker- Thr3e (Center Street 2010) 3.75 Stars

Kevin Parsons has had a rough childhood, yet he has overcome. He is living a good life in seminary school, but someone has now decided that he must share his secrets with the world. A man named Slater has begun calling Kevin with strange riddles, telling him to confess his sins or things will start blowing up. Kevin wishes he knew what sin he needed to confess, before time runs out and people begin dying. It is a race against the clock as his best friend Samantha tries to help him figure things out.

I liked this book. It was odd, as most of Dekker’s books are, but it was very intense. We see Dekker’s usual good versus evil theme, with another odd twist. The plot was not overly deep, but it had many twists and turns that were unexpected and a couple that were. I love the way Dekker gets you thinking one way and then turns you the other. One thing I did feel was lacking was the realism, or likelihood factors. Things happened and I found myself saying, “Right!” The character of Kevin was very well done, but the other characters could have used a little work. Overall, I liked this novel. Another great read by Dekker.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Barry Eisler- Requiem for an Assassin

Barry Eisler- Requiem for an Assassin (Onyx 2007) 3.25 Stars

John Rain kills for a living, but now he is being forced to kill three people. His payment is his friend’s life. His friend has been captured and the only way to get him back is to follow the demands he is given. He quickly realizes that it might be a setup, and he now has to take steps to prevent his own capture.

This novel had a pretty good introduction that made me want to read on. However it was very wordy and Eisler includes a lot of unnecessary details that slowed down the book. I loved the action scenes and how capable Rain is. I also enjoyed his fights with himself over his killings; it added a depth to the character. The other characters in the book though, I did not feel like we got to know. Overall I got kind of bored with this book, as I kind of drowned in the fluff.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Linwood Barclay- Never Look Away

Linwood Barclay- Never Look Away (Anchor Canada 2010) 3.25 Stars

David Harwood is a reporter on the hunt. He is digging up dirt on a privately owned prison wanting to move into Promise Falls, but his newspaper does not seem to be backing him. Deciding to take a break for a day, his family goes to a new amusement park. First his son briefly goes missing and then his wife disappears. Now he must try to locate his wife and wade through all the lies he uncovers, but finding the truth may just destroy everything he thought he had going for him.

I found this novel really hard to get into. The first third was kind of slow moving, but the last two thirds were fast-paced. I enjoyed how much you had to think to figure out just what was going to happen next, although it wasn’t completely unpredictable. I did enjoy seeing the return of Detective Duckworth; although at times he seems a little slow on the uptake. Most of the characters in this book were not really strong in my opinion, just okay. The situations in this novel were not all that realistic, and I must say especially the ending. I was not impressed at all with the ending, it was a disappointment. Overall it was an okay book, but I have seen better by this author.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Lee Child- The Hard Way

Lee Child- The Hard Way (Dell Publishing 2007) 4.25 Stars

When Jack Reacher watched a man in New York City drive away in a Mercedes, he had no idea just what was coming his way. The car belonged to Edward Lane who has many mercenaries working for him, and it contained a million dollars worth of ransom money. Jack Reacher now finds himself working for Lane in the search for the man’s wife and step-daughter. When Reacher finds out just who his employer is and what he has done in the past, he wants to put a stop to everything, but is it too late to put a stop to what he has gotten rolling?

I love the uniqueness of the introductions that Lee Child has a way of working into his books. I do tire of how Reacher always ends up working alongside a woman; it gets old when it happens in every single book. I love how fast-paced and action packed the book was. It grabbed my attention early on and did not let go until the very last page. Then it ended off with an excellent ending that popped. The plot was pretty good and showed that even in a series Lee Child can write something new, that being said I would like to see him write something outside of his comfort zone (non-series). I love Reacher’s character. He is a hard-nose, no nonsense kind of man, who will stop at nothing to see his sense of justice done.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- James Ellison- Panic Room

James Ellison- Panic Room (Pocket Books 2002) 3.5 Stars

When Meg gets a divorce, she decides to move to a new home with her daughter. She never expected the home to have a panic room, nor that she would end up needing it. Three men break into her home on their first night in the home and suddenly she finds herself protecting her daughter in a desperate attempt to stay alive. Hiding away in the panic room, they watch as the men attempt to gain access.

I watched this movie when it came out, which is the reason why I grabbed this book when I saw it. The movie was okay and the book followed suit. It was an okay book that got off to a very slow start. It did pick up about a third of the way through and it was pretty fast-paced from then on. I was finding that it did lack a little depth and could have been written a little stronger. I did enjoy the book though, mostly the intensity. I would have also liked stronger character development, as I found it lacking that department. Overall it was an okay book, and I am undecided about whether or not I would recommend it.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- John Vornholt- Starfleet Academy: Capture the Flag

John Vornholt- Starfleet Academy: Capture the Flag (Minstrel Books 1994) 3.25 Stars

Geordi LaForge is in his first year of Starfleet Academy and after beating a competitive cadet in a game, he must now face him in an elimination game of capture the flag. Geordi is scrawny and not very athletic, yet he has been chosen to be captain of one of the four teams. To make a point he has chosen a team of similar beings who are also always chosen last. Now he must face a stronger, more athletic team, and use his brain to outsmart them.

I liked the introduction to this book, as it was different from the norm, and made you curious about the rest of the book. Then it kind of tanks off and gets boring, taking awhile to get to the main point of the novel. I was driven on only by the knowledge that this was my favourite book in this series when I was growing up. When it got to the point I really enjoyed the book and I love what it has to teach children about how being toughest and strongest is not always an advantage in life, you also have to be able to use your head. The ending was cheesy and predictable, but was also kind of amusing, and I could see kids loving it. I would recommend this book to young sci-fi fans.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Suzanne Collins- Mockingjay

Suzanne Collins- Mockingjay (Scholastic 2010) 4 Stars

Normally I give a book description, but with this series it is difficult to without giving out key details to previous books. So I will not do one.

Like the other books in this series, this book got off to a slow start. However, it does not take long to pick up the pace, and once it does, it really grabs your attention. Collins worked on developing background on the well-known characters and showing how they are changing from the pressures of the violence they have seen. I enjoyed seeing them do what I have been wanting them to do all along, rebel. I am not sure why anyone would have gone along with the Hunger Games for as long as they did. I see fear, but wouldn’t death be better than giving up your children every year? Being a guy I was not drawn in by the torn feelings of Katniss, between her two suitor choices, but I can see young girls understanding her perfectly. It was another well-done book, and a great conclusion to the Hunger Games series, that being said I would have liked a strong ending to the book, it all seemed a little too perfect for me. I would definitely recommend this series to young adults.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Harlan Coben- Back Spin

Harlan Coben- Back Spin (Dell Books 2009) 3.75 Stars

When a young teenage boy disappears in Philadelphia during the U.S. Open championship, Myron Bolitar is asked by the mother to discreetly look into the matter. The mother, golf sensation Linda Coldren, has one stipulation; there must be no police involvement for fear of the repercussions of the kidnappers. Her husband is trying to win the championship and Myron can’t help but wonder if someone is attempting to sabotage his chances. Myron is forced to discover what it is like to be alone, and just how dangerous life can get.

I enjoyed this novel, even if it did not quite have the same flare that this series normally does. Again I got to chuckle at Myron’s witty sarcasm, but we did not get as much from Win this time, for reasons you will discover as you read the book. I loved how this novel was used to deepen Win’s character, show us more about his past and why he has become the man that he is. Coben has done another wonderful job of working his magic on the plot. There were certainly some interesting twists involved and they were used to increase the suspense, drawing in the reader’s attention. I do wonder why Coben writes so much about finding a missing person, he does a great job of it, but it would be nice to see something different once in a while. That being said, I would recommend this book to mystery fans.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Michael Connelly- The Scarecrow

Michael Connelly- The Scarecrow (Grand Central Publishing 2008) 3.75 Stars

Jack McEvoy has cracked many a case wide open with his journalistic prowess, but now he finds himself being laid off for making too much money. Wanting to go out with a bang he digs into the case of Alonzo Winslow, a young punk who says he is being wrongly accused of murder, yet he has confessed. McEvoy must figure out just what Alonzo confessed to and in the process he discovers a connection to an identical murder in Las Vegas. In his search, he warns the killer of his hunt and finds himself a target as well.

This book took me quite some time to get into, and I found myself wishing for a better introductory chapter, especially from such a seasoned author. However, when it did pick up it really got intense. The plot moves a long at a fast pace for the latter two-thirds of the novel. I also love the characters in this book, and it is interesting to see how McEvoy does his job so well. Normally in thrillers we see ourselves hating the journalists, yet in this book we are engrossed in McEvoy’s work. I enjoyed seeing the return of Rachel Walling, and their tense relationship. It was interesting that Connelly did not try to hide the guilty party from us in this book, which made you cringe as they make wrong assumptions; this is different from Connelly’s usual style. Overall I did enjoy this novel and would certainly recommend it to thriller fans.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Peter Lerangis- Spy X: The Code

Peter Lerangis- Spy X: The Code (Scholastic 2004) 2.75 Stars

When Andrew and Evie move to yet another new town they never could have pictured what it would be like. With their father being a military man and their mother having disappeared a year ago, they move around a lot. Their mother left a note for them when she left and now they have received a mysterious package from what they assume to be their uncle. They are not sure who they can trust and just what is going on.

I never really got into this book at any point in time. It was alright, but not overly interesting. I do however think that the next instalment in this series would be better. I loved the characters in this book, they were very well done. It is certainly a character driven novel. The plot was slow moving, but did build up towards the end, leaving it off for an interesting start to a next novel. I am not sure how interested kids would be in this novel, but there may be kids who would like it.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- James Patterson with Andrew Gross- 2nd Chance

James Patterson with Andrew Gross- 2^nd Chance (Little, Brown and Company 2002) 3.75 Stars

When what looks like a racially driven spree of murders rocks San Francisco, recently promoted Lindsay Boxer is on the hunt. She must unearth the truth behind these murders. Are they connected? If so what is the connection? What is really happening here? She is bringing the Women’s Murder Club back together to try to solve this case, before this killer ends every hope of the spree ending. Can they do it before it destroys them?

I loved the introduction to this book as it captured my attention immediately, which set the stage for the rest of the book. The book was fairly fast-paced and I enjoyed the many twists this book took, knowing Patterson you kind of knew that he had to be misleading you in some way, which is great. I do think that the characters could have used a little work, but they were not bad. I do have to kind of wonder when I see “with Andrew Gross” on the cover, just how much did Patterson write and how much “editing” did he do? I would keep reading this series as it isn’t a bad read, but I would like to see if Patterson would be able to write a book by himself, rather than co-writing every single book he comes out with now.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- David Ellis- Line of Vision

David Ellis- Line of Vision (Berkley Books 2002) 4 Stars

When Marty Kalish fell in love with a married woman, he never imagined that he would end up in court because of it. Accused of murdering the woman’s husband, he is in a fight for his life. Things are adding up against him, he was at the scene of the crime at the exact time of the murder, and made the mistake of confessing to the murder to the police. The question is what did he confess to, and can he work enough magic to get himself out of this mess?

I do not like very many legal thrillers, but David Ellis has a way of writing them so that I enjoy it. This book was written in a different way from all the other legal thrillers, and I found it refreshing. The characters are really well done, but you find out at several points that you really don’t know the characters all that well. I loved the way that Ellis threw in twists here and there that completely catch the reader of guard, and make you go “What?!” I found myself cheering for Marty in court, even though I knew that I should not be. I liked the introduction as it draws you in and makes you want to find out what is going on, however the ending I felt could have been a little stronger, though I did like the last sentence and it ties things up with a finality not normally seen. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes legal thrillers.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Jeffery Deaver- Shallow Graves

Jeffery Deaver- Shallow Graves (Pocket star Books 2000) 3.5 Stars

John Pellam is a movie location scout. Coming into the town of Cleary he never would have imagined that his life was about to change. Things are falling apart in their movie deal and a brutal murder has Pellam trapped in a twisted web of violence. He has to figure out what is going on before it is too late.

I was not impressed by the way this book started it was a little slow and boring. It did, however pick up that pace as it went, true to Deaver’s reputation. The latter half was very interesting and had some great twists. I love the character of Pellam, he is very likeable and I would certainly consider reading another book with this character in it. The action scenes were enjoyable and intense, which made for a gripping last half. However I did not think that the ending was as strong as it could have been, though it wasn’t terrible either. Overall I wasn’t overly impressed; it was just an average read for me. I have certainly seen better by this amazing author.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- William W. Johnstone- Honor of the Mountain Man

William W. Johnstone- Honor of the Mountain Man (Pinnacle Books 1998) 2.75 Stars

After a strike on his home, Joey Wells now wants revenge against the Mexican vaqueros who shot his family. Jacob Murdock has hired the vaqueros and has control over the town. Joey Wells will have to deal with Murdock if he is going to deal with the vaqueros and the only gunfighter he is going to have on his side is Smoke Jensen. Now they’ll have to free the town, and rid it of Murdock and his hired guns.

Normally I enjoy this series, but this one was an exception. I did not find that it had the same quality of writing. He was focusing on action and not on building the plot, or developing the storyline. He had a tonne of flashbacks that included extra action. I am not sure what he was trying to do with these flashbacks, whether he was trying to develop characters better or just give extra action, but I found that it distracted from what was going on, and made it hard to focus. I do love his action scenes, but they were far from real. He made it so that every time bullets flew Cal got hit by a bullet, but seemed to recover extremely fast, this dropped realism a fair bit. Johnstone should have gone back to the drawing board with this one.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Avi- The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle

Avi- The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle (Avon Camelot 1997) 3 Stars

Thirteen-year-old Charlotte Doyle is now a passenger on the ship Seahawk, setting sail for the first time. She has been warned not to make the voyage on this particular ship, but for Charlotte there is no other option. She must now sail on a ship with a captain who rules a crew who hates him. He shows no mercy and his crew wants nothing more than to see him gone. Now Charlotte seems to be stuck in the middle of a battle she wants nothing to do with.

It took me a long time to get into this book. The introduction did not grab me; it was just good enough for me to keep reading. Then we see Charlotte on the ship and you kind of wonder what is going on. I did not really start enjoying this book until two-thirds of the way through. The last third was really good and I did enjoy the twist that Avi threw in. I do wish that the book had been less predictable, it would have made it easier to get into. I loved the depth of the characters, and sailing books make for an interesting setting, as they are at the mercy of the weather and the ocean. Overall I would only recommend this book to those who love books about sailing.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- David Morrell- Scavenger

David Morrell- Scavenger (Vanguard Press 2007) 4.25 Stars

When Frank Balenger wakes up after being drugged, he finds that the woman he loves is now missing and both of them seem to be trapped inside some sick game. The Game Master is pulling the strings, giving them instructions on what to do. They can choose to follow instructions and search for a 100-year-old time capsule, or disobey, but the consequences of disobedience are deadly.

The introduction to this book made me wish that I had read the previous instalment in this series, as I kind of felt like I was missing something. I picked up the gist of it quickly and it did not take long to get into this book. It draws your attention in and makes it difficult to put the book down. I enjoyed how the plot was intense and fast-paced. It weaves a web of clues that takes the characters on a trip of horror, through some psychopath’s idea of a game. I did think that the characters were a little weak, as if the author was relying on the fact that you have read the previous book. The setting made up for this though as it included some very interesting areas to explore. It was an interesting idea for a novel and I would recommend reading it, but would also recommend reading Creepers first, as this book will make more sense; I will be looking for it.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Ridley Pearson- Steel Trapp: The Challenge

Ridley Pearson- Steel Trapp: The Challenge (Disney Editions 2008) 4 Stars

When Steven Steel Trapp gets to go to the National Science Challenge, he does not expect to be running from both the law and criminals. After trying to do a good thing by running a briefcase back to the owner, he now finds himself trapped in something he cannot stop. He has snuck a look inside the briefcase and is shocked by what he has seen. A new found friend, Kaileigh Augustine, assists him in trying to solve this case, before time runs out.

I really enjoyed reading this book. It had a good introduction that draws the reader in and makes them want to read more. The characters were interesting and I do not think that young readers will have any trouble connecting with them. Although not likely to happen, the situations were realistic in nature. It was a fast-paced, action-packed book, with a great plot. One think that I did think was very realistic was the fact that Kaileigh was able to get away from her “nanny” and remain undiscovered, I am pretty sure that she would have had trouble travelling on her own and not attract attention at that young of an age. Overall though it was a pretty solid read for young adults, and I would have no problem recommending it.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- JJ Ritonya- Sunset

JJ Ritonya- Sunset (Createspace 2009) 2.75 Stars

When the majority of the world’s population dies suddenly, three different survivors in three separate locations must struggle to survive in the new world. Two days after the mysterious deaths the bodies suddenly disappear and are replaced by zombies, who come out to play after sunset. Living has just become more unlikely, but zombies aren’t their only threat.

I must say that I had no idea that this was a zombie book before reading this, the author’s description of the book does not tell the potential reader this. As a reader it would be nice to know this before going into the book. I do think that the whole zombie thing is way overdone in movies, so reading a book about it doesn’t really excite me. That being said it wasn’t a horrible book, not a book I would have chosen to read, but better than I would have expected a zombie book to be. I did not really get drawn into this book at any point, mostly because, I thought that it was a little hard to follow four different people in different locations, it was distracting. I also found it odd that two of the characters we were following were written as “I”; I would have preferred if one person was “I” and the rest by name, correcting this perspective issue would be an asset in the upcoming sequel. I wasn’t overly impressed with this novel, but if you like zombies or are looking for a Halloween read, I would recommend reading this novel.

For more of my reviews check out my website, http://www.tonypeters.webs.com/

Tony Peters
Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping
http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Augusten Burroughs- A Wolf at the Table

Augusten Burroughs- A Wolf at the Table (St. Martin’s Press 2008) 3.75 Stars

I will let the author describe his book. With "A Wolf at the Table," Augusten Burroughs makes a quantum leap into untapped emotional terrain: the radical pendulum swing between love and hate, the unspeakably terrifying relationship between father and son. Told with scorching honesty and penetrating insight, it is a story for anyone who has ever longed for unconditional love from a parent. Though harrowing and brutal, "A Wolf at the Table" will ultimately leave you buoyed with the profound joy of simply being alive. It's a memoir of stunning psychological cruelty and the redemptive power of hope.

At first I was not sure about whether or not I would like this book, it being a memoir and all, but I actually found myself enjoying it. The introduction grabs your attention, and then you cut back in time, only to come to that introduction at a later time. I liked the way that he did this. It was interesting and sad to see how his father tormented him mentally and neglected him. The psychological damage from this kind of childhood can only be detrimental, and we see this throughout the book. I kind of connected with his at certain points of this book, as he craved for the love of a parent. In my case it would not be about my father, but about my mother. At first I rated it a four, but lowered when I figured I was rating it higher for personal reasons. I would recommend this only to those who do not mind reading books about abuse. It certainly is a tough read.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Peter David- Starfleet Academy: Survival

Peter David- Starfleet Academy: Survival (Minstrel Books 1993) 3 Stars

When the colony on Dantar is wiped out, the cadets and young Klingons are left stranded. Worf must try to lead this young group in their quest or survival. They are fighting among themselves, but quickly discover that they may not be the only ones on the planet. The only way they are going to survive is to come together and work towards getting off the planet.

This book was just an average book. At no point was it gripping, yet it wasn’t boring either. I did enjoy seeing the group come together though, and how they had to work as a team to solve the crisis before them. I also enjoyed a couple of the twists thrown in, they were unexpected. It did have a level of predictability though. The introduction wasn’t really gripping and could have used some more work, and the ending was a little disappointing. Overall though it was not a bad book; if you enjoy Star Trek you will like this book.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Suzanne Collins- Catching Fire

Suzanne Collins- Catching Fire (Scholastic 2009) 4 Stars

After winning the Hunger Games with her teammate Peeta, she returns home to what should be a better life, but things are not as she had hoped. Her best friend Gale no longer wants anything to do with her and Peeta feels the same. With rumours flying around about rebellion among the districts, Peeta and Katniss realize that they have caused it. Now they are on the Capitol’s Victory Tour and they must convince the Districts that they are still very much in love, or their will be terrible consequences.

Continuing on with the Hunger Games series, it was interesting to see what life has in store got Katniss next. Getting off to a slow start it was still interesting to see life in the District. It was great to see rebellion talk happening as I am sure that that is exactly what would happen. I was captivated by how much change started to take place when the President felt threatened and how much it caused Katniss to fight to keep things from exploding. The latter half of the book was great, very intense and attention-grabbing. It also had a great ending that leaves you wanting to read more, which will be continued in the next book in the series, which I cannot wait to read.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Linwood Barclay- Too Close to Home

Linwood Barclay- Too Close to Home (Bantam Books 2009) 3.5 Stars

The family next door to the Cutter family is brutally murdered one night in the quiet town of Promise Falls, where the most action comes from the misfit mayor. Now the Cutter family is wondering if they are going to be next. Coming to surface are deep secrets everyone had hoped would stay hidden in the past and things are just a little too close to home.

This novel is not as good as the first novel I read by Barclay, but was decent. I did find that it did not really grab your attention until the last half of the book, but then the last half draws you in and won’t let you go. It had some great twists to it some I saw coming, but the big one I certainly had no idea it was going to happen. I also did not see it ending the way it did. I did enjoy the characters; they fit into their roles wonderfully and were all deep enough for whatever position they were in. I especially liked the humorous mayor. I do wish that it had had a more interesting start, but that being said it was not a boring start. Barclay seems to have knack for twists and for ending well. I would recommend this novel to anyone looking for a good thriller.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Lee Child- One Shot

Lee Child- One Shot (Dell Books 2009) 4.25 Stars

When a sniper takes out five people outside a DMV building, an ex-military man is quickly arrested and the evidence against him is staggering. Now the man is asking for Reacher. Unable to locate Reacher they are shocked when he suddenly shows up. Opposite of Reacher’s intentions, he is quickly learning that this airtight case may be unwinding, and another man may actually be in control of everything that has been happening. Teamed with a young female defence attorney, he must uncover the truth and remain alive in the process.

This action-packed novel is certainly a must read. The plot was intense and full of unexpected surprises. The characters in this novel fit their roles completely and all had an amazing depth to them. Most importantly though, is the fact that Jack Reacher once again kicks butt and butts heads with villains. It was a little weird not seeing the main character, Jack Reacher, until 50 pages into the book. I understand why he did it this way, but would have preferred it if he had a found a way to introduce the main character sooner. Overall though I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I would recommend this to anyone looking for a good thriller.

For more of my reviews check out my website, http://www.tonypeters.webs.com/

Tony Peters
Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnappinghttp://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/

Book Review- Debbi Mack- Identity Crisis

Debbi Mack- Identity Crisis (Lulu 2009) 3.5 Stars

Attorney Sam McRae is now looking into the disappearance of one of her clients, who had been the victim of a domestic abuse. Melanie Hayes is being looked for by the Mob, which is putting Sam in a tough spot. Her life in danger she must find Melanie before the Mob. In order to locate Melanie she must become allies with a private investigator who is on the opposing side of her case. She finds herself doing things she never imagined, including breaking and entering into a strip club.

This is a debut novel by Debbi Mack and was sent to me for reviewing. I did enjoy this book. The main character was interesting and well-crafted, making her easy to follow in the story. The plot was good and made for an easy, but good read. I did find that it had a bit too much fluff in it, especially for such a short book. By fluff I mean that we were sometimes given more information than we needed, and it did slow things down. That being said though, it was still a pretty fast-moving book, with a good flow to it. I also found that the villains in the book were great, love the whole mob thing. It did have several good twists, not unpredictable, but decent enough. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a good mystery.

For more of my reviews check out my website, www.tonypeters.webs.com

Tony Peters

Kids on a Case: The Case of the Ten Grand Kidnapping

http://authortonypeters.blogspot.com/