Review: The True Meaning of Smekday

Originally published at Sherry D. Ramsey. You can comment here or there.

The True Meaning of Smekday by Adam Rex
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this smart, funny, and delightful book! The audio version is masterfully performed and the characters really come to life for the listener. Perfect for MG/YA (or adult!) readers looking for some fast-paced and fun science fiction.

I didn’t realize before I read this book that the movie “Home” is based on it–from a quick look at the movie trailer my impression is that the book is FAR superior!

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Review: The Silkworm

Originally published at Sherry D. Ramsey. You can comment here or there.

The Silkworm by Robert Galbraith
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I didn’t read the book that came before this one, but I plucked this off the virtual library shelf mainly out of curiosity (because we all know who this author really is, right?). Although I found it sometimes over-written for my taste, the cast of characters was intriguing and it held my interest all the way through. I found the main character a little too reminiscent of Stephen R. Donaldson’s Thomas Covenant–in other words, kind of annoying in his preoccupation with his disability. I don’t mean to downplay such a challenge, but I felt the author overused it as a character element.

At any rate, though, the plot was engaging and the pace leisurely but compelling. I think most mystery readers would enjoy!

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Review: While Drowning in the Desert

Originally published at Sherry D. Ramsey. You can comment here or there.

While Drowning in the Desert by Don Winslow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’ve been on a mystery kick lately, and I’ve discovered some great books and authors I didn’t previously know. This is another one of those, with a smart protagonist, fun and intriguing plot, and such a super supporting character I’d read it again just for him. :) Fast-paced and engaging, great writing–highly recommended!

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Review: The Black-Eyed Blonde

Originally published at Sherry D. Ramsey. You can comment here or there.

The Black-Eyed Blonde by Benjamin Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It’s always a risk to read (or write, come to think of it) a new chapter in the life of a well-known and loved character, but Benjamin Black hits all the right notes in this new Philip Marlowe novel. Black channels Chandler with care, grace and a soft touch, which I found very satisfying. I found that in the audiobook version, while it was very well done, the narrator’s voice didn’t really say “Marlowe” to me. In all other respects, though, the book is a fine echo of a classic Marlowe novel.

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Review: The Ridge

Originally published at Sherry D. Ramsey. You can comment here or there.

The Ridge by Michael Koryta
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Although paranormal/supernatural is not my usual reading fare, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The setting held unique elements and the characters felt very real. The storyline was intriguing and kept me guessing about things up until the very end. Lots of twists and turns made the pace quick and engaging. Solid writing with no missteps, and a satisfying ending.

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