Page 43 - Novelist Post – J.D. Barker and more

NOVEL • STORY • LITERATURE
THICK AS THIEVES
by Tonya Kappes
Thick As Thieves is a delightful, suspenseful cozy mystery with charming characters and a captivating Southern setting. Highly recommended!
Thick As Thieves, the latest installment in Tonya Kappes’ Kenni Lowry Mystery series, is a delightful blend of Southern charm, hu- mor, and suspense. Set in the quaint town of Cottonwood, Kentucky, this cozy mystery follows Sheriff Kenni Lowry as she navigates a web of secrets, lies, and small-town politics to solve a perplexing murder.
Kappes excels in creating a vivid, engaging setting that feels like a character in its own right. Cottonwood is brought to life with its qu- irky residents, local gossip, and the ever-present Southern hospitality. The author’s attention to detail and her ability to capture the essence of small-town life make the reader feel as though they are part of the community.
Sheriff Kenni Lowry is a compelling protagonist. Her determina- tion, wit, and relatability make her a character readers can root for. The dynamic between Kenni and her ghostly grandfather, Poppa, adds a unique twist to the narrative. Poppa’s spectral presence provides both comic relief and valuable insights, making their interactions a highlight of the book.
The plot of Thick As Thievesis well-crafted, with enough twists and turns to keep readers guessing until the very end. Kappes skillful- ly balances the mystery with moments of humor and heart, ensuring that the story remains engaging throughout. The pacing is brisk, and the dialogue is sharp, reflecting the author’s knack for capturing the nuances of Southern speech.
One of the strengths of this book is its ensemble cast. The suppor- ting characters are well-developed and add depth to the story. From Kenni’s loyal deputy, Finn, to the eccentric townsfolk, each character plays a crucial role in unraveling the mystery.
Thick As Thievesis a thoroughly enjoyable read that will appeal to fans of cozy mysteries and Southern fiction. Tonya Kappes has once again delivered a charming, suspenseful, and heartwarming story that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next adventure in the Kenni Lowry series.
SISTERS OF FORTUNE
by Anna Lee Huber
Sisters of Fortune is a beautifully crafted historical novel, rich in detail and emotion, with unforgettable characters and gripping plot twists.
Anna Lee Huber’s Sisters of Fortune is a captivating historical novel that masterfully intertwines mystery, romance, and the complexities of familial bonds. Set against the rich backdrop of 19th-century Europe, the story follows the lives of three sisters—Eleanor, Char- lotte, and Georgiana—as they navigate the treacherous waters of society, love, and fortune.
Huber’s meticulous attention to historical detail is evident from the very first page, immersing readers in the opulent yet perilous world of the Victorian era. The author’s ability to weave historical facts with fiction creates a vivid and believable setting that enhances the narrative’s authenticity. The sisters’ distinct personalities and their evolving relationships are portrayed with depth and nuance, making them relatable and compelling.
Eleanor, the eldest, is a strong and determined character whose sense of duty often conflicts with her personal desires. Charlotte, the middle sister, is a free spirit whose artistic inclinations and romantic entangle- ments add layers of intrigue to the plot. Georgiana, the youngest, brings a sense of innocence and curiosity that balances the trio. Their individual journeys are skillfully interwoven, creating a tapestry of suspense and emotio- nal resonance.
The novel’s pacing is well-executed, with each chap- ter revealing new twists and turns that keep readers en- gaged. Huber’s prose is elegant and evocative, capturing the essence of the period while maintaining a modern readability. The themes of sisterhood, loyalty, and the pursuit of happiness are explored with sensitivity and insight, making the story both thought-provoking and heartwarming.
Sisters of Fortune is a testament to Anna Lee Huber’s talent as a storyteller. It is a must-read for fans of histo- rical fiction and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted tale of love, mystery, and the enduring bonds of family. This novel is sure to leave a lasting impression and is highly recommended for your next literary adventure.
THE FRIEND
by Sigrid Nunez
A beautifully written, deeply moving exploration of grief, friendship, and healing through an unexpected bond with a Great Dane.
Sigrid Nunez’s The Friend is a poignant and deeply moving exploration of grief, friendship, and the unexpec- ted ways in which life can offer solace. The novel centers around an unnamed narrator who, after the sudden death of her close friend and mentor, finds herself the reluctant caretaker of his Great Dane, Apollo. As she navigates her profound sense of loss, the bond she forms with the dog becomes a source of unexpected comfort and understan- ding.
Nunez’s prose is both elegant and unflinchingly honest, capturing the complexities of human emotion with a rare sensitivity. The narrative seamlessly weaves together reflections on literature, the nature of writing, and the intricacies of human relationships, creating a rich tapestry that resonates on multiple levels. The relations- hip between the narrator and Apollo is depicted with such tenderness and authenticity that it transcends the typical pet-owner dynamic, becoming a profound meditation on companionship and healing.
The novel delves into the narrator’s internal struggles, her memories of her friend, and her reflections on the literary world, all while she grapples with the challenges of caring for a dog that is as large as he is gentle. Apollo, with his silent yet powerful presence, becomes a mirror to the narrator’s own journey through grief, offering her a sense of purpose and a new perspective on life.
The Friend is not just a story about loss; it is also a celebration of the enduring power of love and the ways in which it can manifest in our lives. Nunez’s ability to con- vey the depth of her characters’ inner worlds makes this novel a deeply affecting read that lingers long after the final page. The book is a testament to the healing power of companionship, whether it comes from a human or an animal, and it beautifully illustrates how connections can help us navigate the darkest times.
REVIEW CORNER
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