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The Twenty Days of Turin
The Twenty Days of Turin
Giorgio De Maria | 2017 | Horror, Science Fiction/Fantasy
6
6.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
This may seem like an unfair review but I can only give this 3 stars because I didn’t exactly understand it. I think that’s mainly because I’m a little slow to the mark sometimes and because I read this in a distracting environment, but this disappointed me and didn’t scare me like I hoped it would.

It was well written, especially since it’s a translation, but parts of it felt disjointed and I found it hard to follow the uncovering of the Library’s secrets and the cause of the disturbing and brutal murders. There was well built tension in this and the white-as-a-sheet nun was pretty terrifying to imagine, but in general, I missed a whole lot of the horror in this.

Reading the translator's introduction (after I had finished the book) definitely helped me “get it” a bit more. Maybe if I had known more about Turin’s history to begin with, I could have connected to the story on a deeper level, but since I had no idea about Turin’s unrest in the 1970’s, that whole subplot went completely over my head.

I hate giving such a little known book a very average review, I like supporting small time authors, but I can’t say much about this author and his work when I have no idea what the hell went on. (OK, that’s an over exaggeration, I half got it).
  
Murder by Page One
Murder by Page One
Olivia Matthews | 2021 | Mystery
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Murder of a Debut Author
Marvey Harris has recently relocated to Peach Coast, Georgia, to take a job in the local library. Among her new friends is Jo Gomez. Jo owns the local bookstore, and this Saturday, Marvey is at the store to support Jo, who is hosting a book signing for the local authors group. When one of the authors fails to return from the storeroom, Jo and Marvey find her dead body on the floor. With the police looking at Jo, Marvey steps in to figure out what really happened. Can she find the killer?

This may be the first in the series, but I already feel right at home. Peach Coast sounds like a great town, and I love Marvey, Jo, and Spence, the third member of their trio. We never meet the victim alive, but I liked how well we got to know her as the story progressed. The rest of the cast could be a little better defined, but I’m sure that will come as the series progresses and they get more page time. The story starts quickly, but the pacing does slow a little in the middle. Still, the climax is logical and suspenseful. There’s a recipe for peach cobbler at the end. While not a culinary cozy, you’ll definitely be craving it by the time the book is over. I’m looking forward to returning to Peach Coast soon.
  
I must say I really enjoyed continuing to read about the characters from the first book. Ella really deals with self esteem issues,but it was so nice to see her come out of her shell. The character of Dorothy was quite fascinating to hear about. I think bitterness over what had happened to her when she was younger really taken a little far. I really don't think that I have ever read another Amish character quite like her.
I also intrigue in reading more about Calvin and Lucy, and I great seeing things through young Katie's eyes.Her determination to get to the library and sign up for the summer reading program was so sweet. The scenes that take place in the Kaffi Haus really had me wanting to find out what going on there.
I also like the continuing story of Maddie and her health issues and Graham part of the story. Though I think Mattie has found her special someone but I am hoping she find out soon.
  
Daring swordfights, a hidden secret, bandits, treasure, true love...Oh yes, Jody Hedlund has delivered another winner of a medieval young adult story.

Lady Sabine has a harrowing journey of self-acceptance ahead of her. Sir Bennet has always strived to remain honorable...Will he be able to follow his heart and love?

I adore that one of my favorite authors has branched out and started a Young Adult series! My only complaint is that the story was too short. I would have loved to have a little more time with Sabine and Bennet...I love the world that Jody has created and the heroes, the knights, are so very swoony! I am excited to read the next book in the series, A Loyal Heart.

I received a complimentary copy of For Love and Honor from the publisher. I also borrowed the audio version from my library and purchased my own print copy. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
  
The Rook (The Checquy Files #1)
The Rook (The Checquy Files #1)
Daniel O'Malley | 2012 | Science Fiction/Fantasy, Thriller
8
9.0 (6 Ratings)
Book Rating
The concept behind The Rook was great, and I did want to read if prior to watching the show. Though, after reading the plot of the show, it seemed to diverge a lot. The story was good enough to be adapted as is, I never understand who makes those decisions.... Then again, I think Stephenie Meyer was involved in the show at some point.
Anyway, so a cool, underground organization of specially, supernaturally talented people exist as a secret service. The lead character, overall, I found likeable and interesting. Normally, I find the amnesia trope a little tiresome.
The one thing I had a major issue with was all the clothing discussion. Do male authors really think women spend THAT much time thinking about their wardrobe? It wasn't necessary, how many times did we need to be told that Myfanwy only had dowdy clothing? Once would have been enough, but it was repeated, over and over. That was really my only problem with the book. I look forward to renting the 2nd book in the series from the library.