The Noble Path by Peter May

 The Noble Path is a thriller set in Cambodia and Thailand amid the bloody reign of the Khmer Rouge. A rescue mission turned to an escape mission amid suffering and betrayal.

Night Shadows (Forbidden Iceland #3)

"Night Shadows" by Eva Björg Ægisdóttir is a captivating psychological thriller that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. With its chilling atmosphere, complex characters, and intricate plot, Ægisdóttir demonstrates her mastery in the genre, delivering a dark and suspenseful story that keeps readers guessing until the very end.

Set in the atmospheric backdrop of Reykjavik, Iceland, "Night Shadows" follows Detective Inspector Elma, a dedicated and resilient investigator, as she tackles a puzzling case. When a series of brutal murders shocks the city, Elma finds herself entangled in a web of secrets and hidden connections that span decades. As she delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers a dark underbelly of corruption, revenge, and long-held grudges.

One of the strengths of this novel is Ægisdóttir's ability to create a palpable sense of unease. The author masterfully weaves together descriptions of the Icelandic landscape, weather, and folklore, adding an extra layer of atmosphere and tension to the narrative. The bone-chilling setting becomes a character in itself, intensifying the feeling of impending danger and providing an eerie backdrop to the unfolding events.

The characters in "Night Shadows" are multifaceted and realistically flawed, which makes them relatable and adds depth to the story. Elma, in particular, is a compelling protagonist. Her determination, intelligence, and vulnerability make her a character that readers can invest in and root for. The supporting cast, including her colleagues and suspects, are equally well-developed and contribute to the overall complexity of the plot.

The plot of "Night Shadows" is intricately woven, with numerous twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. Ægisdóttir expertly reveals just enough information to maintain intrigue while withholding key details until the opportune moment, heightening the suspense throughout the novel. The pacing is generally well-maintained, although there are moments where the story loses some momentum, causing a slight lull in the otherwise gripping narrative.

Furthermore, the exploration of Icelandic folklore and its connection to the crimes adds an intriguing layer to the story. Ægisdóttir seamlessly blends the modern-day investigation with ancient legends, creating an engaging juxtaposition of old and new. This element adds depth to the overall narrative and showcases the author's talent for weaving together different threads to create a cohesive and immersive reading experience.

However, "Night Shadows" does require a certain level of patience from readers. The intricate plot and extensive cast of characters can be overwhelming at times, and some may find themselves losing track of certain storylines. Additionally, while the atmospheric descriptions contribute to the overall mood, they occasionally overshadow the pacing of the plot.

In conclusion, "Night Shadows" is a mesmerizing thriller that will satisfy fans of the genre. Eva Björg Ægisdóttir showcases her talent for crafting suspenseful narratives filled with intricate details and compelling characters. With its chilling atmosphere, unexpected twists, and exploration of Icelandic folklore, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking a dark and immersive psychological thriller.

True North by Gary Eller

Gritty and sad. Be prepared for vivid living conditions of Indians, side by side with a white culture during and after the depression. It emphasises all the negative aspects of racism. Finding love in all the wrong places is a natural occurrence and its results are as expected. As we read we are flooded with the work ethic of the Indians which I find to be exaggerated although the living conditions have more than a hint of truth to it. 

Tender Victory: A Novel by Caldwell Taylor

The title of this book should be "No Good Deed Goes Unpunished". The preacher has overwhelming kindness bringing five orphans from war ravished Europe but naïve for thinking that humanity can separate prejudice. Evil can rear its ugly head no matter where you are or under what circumstances. Expecting a warm welcome, he is surprised at the hatred he faces. A Pulitzer Prize winner with emotions that run overboard, sometimes to the extreme. A book suited for those who wear their heart on their sleeve.

The Traveling Man (The Travelers #1) by Michael P. King

The Travelling Man is the second book in the series although the first one written. The con artists are a husband and wife team and the story takes place 20 yrs. after the first one. Still a team and still not trusting each other. They are ready to con one other and any passing mark, especially if the mark is dishonest. In this mode of operation they usually make more enemies while putting their lives in danger. The book is fast paced from beginning and throughout the story. To con is their way of life and they are not above murder to fill their pockets and keep them out of jail. 

Edge of Eternity (The Century Trilogy, #3) by Ken Follett

I am always glad to read a Follett epic, this one especially so since I lived through most of it and the events are familiar. To tell the story, he has taken the characters, their relatives, acquaintances and ancestors and woven it into the fabric of world changing and everyday events. I have a better understanding of the period when all the events are tied together. It is unfortunate that his political leanings sometimes take precedence over unbiased writing. At times his writing slipped into the area of  descriptive porn which was unnecessary. 

Traitors of Rome (Eagle #18) by Simon Scarrow

 Another saga in the lives of Cato & Marco. For the most part it is two concurrent stories. The book seems to have taken on the appearance of a diary as far as the actions of Cato is concerned. Marco on the other hand has come more to the forefront, bringing out his finer points. It is almost like introducing a new character and a way of prolonging the series. Marco can now take on a life of his own. 

Darkest Corners of Texas (An Al Quinn Novel Book 7) by Russ Hall

 I started reading this book and the first three chapters were all about his dog. I felt that the author was having trouble finding a story and was dragging this part out. Reading farther along, I got the impression that everyone carries a gun. In pockets, purses and tucked into their belts. I've been to Dallas and never saw a pistol tucked into anyone's belt. It is not a style of writing that I like so I never finished the book. 

I can't understand why people doing a review have to do a summary. You can find that on the back of the book. Probably it's to make the review appear longer. In a lot of reviews that I have read I have noticed that the actual review might be only one or two sentences. If so, let the review be one or two sentences. It's a waste of time reading the synopsis over and over. A rant, after reading the reviews of all seven books.

The Double Cross (The Travelers #0.5) by Michael P. King

This is a story of a con man and his student and the training involved for the purpose of taking revenge on his former partners. It looks like the first book in the series but it is actually the fifth book written. I didn't know what to expect but I was pleasantly surprised. It was non stop action with a bit of violence. Since it is the fifth book and practice makes perfect, I am hoping the first books are just as good. 

Midshipman Bolitho and the Avenger (Richard Bolitho, #2 by Alexander Kent

The second in the Bolitho series. Home on a short leave, Bolitho is suddenly called back to serve on a small ship where his brother happens to be Captain. You would expect rivalry between the two brothers but that doesn't happen. This seems to break away from what usually happens in these kind of stories. This is the only surprise as the story falls into the type that I have seen a dozen times, a routine story with a lack of imagination.

Richard Bolitho — Midshipman (Richard Bolitho, #1) by Alexander Kent

This is the first of the Bolitho series. It is more of a short story than a novel. Being short, it doesn't waste a lot of time on dressing, although some explanations seem to be left out, making you wonder. As the story starts he already has a four year career behind him. A career that seems to have been easy going as it now takes a turn for the worse. He suddenly becomes aware of the prejudices and cruelty that surround him. The story seems to lack strength.   

Corsican Gold by Dave Bartell

 

This is a youthful attempt to write an adventure story. Darwin, a graduating college student, returns to his roots in Corsica and reminisces about his past and hopes it will help mould his future. A meeting with an English woman leads to an immature attempt for a sexual encounter. While exploring caves they come upon a lost treasure which no one seems to have noticed in the last four hundred years. A short story suitable for the teenage market. An excellent cover.

Death in the Andamans by M.M. Kaye

This is a murder mystery with the background of the Andamans Islands, another British enclave in the Indian Ocean. Three couples, Christmas house guests, have their love affairs interrupted by a number of murders. Isolated by a hurricane, fortified by endless brandy & sodas, they take on the solving of these murders as a parlor game. 

When the murders solve themselves, the story, awash with political incorrectness, reverts back to the three couples and the inevitable happy ending.   

Dead Man's Footsteps (Roy Grace, #4) by Peter James

This is a story of multiple threads and as you read the chapters, you wonder what they could possibly have to do with each other. Each incident is a story in itself and I didn't know what to expect. This author is excellent at running different storylines, bringing them all to a page turning end. Very appropriate title. 

Hamer's Quest - Jack Walker

Hamer's Quest is a book of fiction, a total fabrication bordering on the absurd. I wanted a western, something different from my usual reads but was disappointed by my choice. The pages are filled with name dropping of famous people, products and books, all to fill in pages. In a western one expects the usual fare of gunplay but this has been replaced by explanations of faith from old time religion, running on for pages and pages. Silly conversations make up another large part of the book. I am giving it three stars because it might be suitable as a screenplay.

Fair Warning (Jack McEvoy #3) - Michael Connelly

 

A crime story that has us believing that and old reporter is a seasoned member
of the information highway. The book has great flow and holds us from beginning
to end. It leaves us with the belief that there are more stories to come.

Death in Zanzibar

 

A novel of young love and murder written before the time of political correctness. With this group of misfits, this book could be an ad for any type of alcoholic drink. We are teased by the naïve love of our teen age heroine, which turns out to be a red herring. She eventually falls for the other young man, who seems to face the possibility of becoming an alcoholic. 

Gone to Darkness (Sydney Rose Parnell, #4) by Barbara Nickless

It was a great story. Too bad the author had to resort to such vulgar language. The vulgarity in the banter was unnatural. You don't need it when the story is good. You have to stay away from this book if foul language offends you. Four stars instead of five.

Ramage's Mutiny (The Lord Ramage Novels, #8) by Dudley Pope

This was a good story. Still had some parts with excessive explanations but much better than the first few books. Not too much moaning and complaining about his girlfriend.

Ambush (Sydney Rose Parnell, #3) by Barbara Nickless

 

What I can say about this book is that it is continual excitement from beginning to end. Great book.