Thursday, October 31, 2013

Halloween, Blogiversary, The Boy in the Snow, and a Giveaway


Today’s post, like many I’ve had lately, is a mixture of various things that at first glance have no connection with each other. At the same time, all things I will tell you about today do interact sort of like Six Degrees of Separation.

happy-halloween-42First, for all of those throughout the U.S. – young and old alike – who are celebrating today…HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

This day of fright and candy lends its self to so many books and movies featuring mysteries, thrillers, and even comedies. It’s a day youngsters get treats for playing pranks and adults get to dress up like kids again and revisit a bit of their own youth.

Wonder what will be the most popular costume this Halloween? Are you dressing up and if so, as who or what? Do you have a fun Halloween story you’d like to share with us? Well, I’m wearing my witch’s hat today so HAPPY TRICK OR TREATING to all.

Next up, a blogiversary. Today (Oct. 31st) marks four years since I ventured into the wonderful, zany world of blogging. I can’tcandles believe it’s been that long, but I can believe I still don’t have a clue what I’m doing. This is my 1,349th post. WOW, where has the time gone?

I have meet such wonderful readers, authors, book promoters, publicists and publishing representatives throughout these years that it’s overwhelming. I can’t say THANK YOU enough to all the amazing people who visit this blog. Y’all are truly awesome. I could ramble on for weeks and never completely express my appreciation to everyone. THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH for your support and feedback.

Now for the main focus of this blog, a review (and a giveaway) of a new crime thriller, THE BOY IN THE SNOW by M.J. McGrath. Thanks to Laura and the fine folks at Penguin Group, I have 2 print copies of this intriguing book to giveaway. Please see the end of the post for the details.

THE BOY IN THE SNOW by M.J. McGrath

boy in the snow coverReaching for a throw to ward off the chill, I realized I had been captivated not only by the story but also by the setting in author M.J. McGrath’s latest novel, THE BOY IN THE SNOW.

In this second Edie Kiglatuk mystery, McGrath has cast the Alaskan setting as much a character as her protagonist Edie. Her vivid descriptions brings the setting to life placing the reader in the middle of the snow and cold Edie calls home.

Half-Inuit Edie Kiglatuk is on her way to help her ex-husband Sammy in his bid to win the famous Iditarod dog sled race when she gets a bit sidetracked. Lead by a spirit bear, Edie discovers a dead infant in a small wooden box in the forest.

Officials believe the death has something to do with the Dark Believers, a sinister offshoot of a Russian Orthodox sect since it was discovered on their land. However, Edie doesn’t see it that way as she believes there’s more to it.

Meanwhile, the office of Alaska governor is up for grabs and the election is heating up. The last thing Anchorage Mayor Chuck Hillingberg wants is Edie’s discovery made public.

THE BOY IN THE SNOW is a gripping mystery that will have you clinging to the edge of your seat. The story flows smoothly and at a quick pace. The twists keep you guessing as painful secrets aren’t revealed until the last few pages.

McGrath has developed realistic and likable characters. She has given them strengths, but also faults and worries that readers can relate to. An eye for detail, McGrath surrounds the reader with the Alaskan territory, its people and ways.

This is the second installment in the Edie Kiglatuk Mystery series, but can be read as a standalone. Make sure you have a cup of hot coffee and a blanket handy as you immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Alaska and this enthralling tale. 

The Boy in the Snow by M.J. McGrath, An Edie Kiglatuk Mystery, Penguin Books, @2013, ISBN: 978-0143124146, Paperback, 400 Pages 

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

GIVEAWAY DETAILS:
This giveaway is for two print copies of THE BOY IN THE SNOW. The giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. only.

To enter this giveaway, please send me an e-mail (mcbookshelf@gmail.com) with the subject line, “Win The Boy in the Snow.” Your message should include your name and mailing address. The deadline to enter this giveaway for a chance to win a copy of THE BOY IN THE SNOW is 8 p.m. (EST) on Friday, Nov. 8.

Well, it’s been a long post today but I bet you’ve figured out the common connection these three things have in common --- books. Do you see any other connections? Thanks again for stopping by today and every day. Y’all are THE BEST!!

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Barefoot By The Sea and a Giveaway


Barefoot coverAs the cooler temperatures of fall close in around us, it’s fun to pick up a book and be transported to warm, sunny beaches. With that in mind, I’d thrilled to be participating in author Roxanne St. Claire’s blog tour for BAREFOOT BY THE SEA.

As part of this amazing tour, Roxanne is sharing an excerpt from her new release and offering an awesome giveaway – a full print set of BAREFOOT BAY books (4 in all) to one lucky winner (more on that at the end of the post). In addition, she is also offering SIGNED copies of BAREFOOT BY THE SEA through her local bookstore so check out this link - http://bit.ly/18lyqlq - for more information.

If you’re a Facebook fan then you can connect with Roxanne there, as well. She will be hosting a live FB chat on today (Oct. 30th) from 8 until 9 p.m. (EST). You'll be able to ask her all your burning questions about the characters and the series.

BAREFOOT BY THE SEA is available to purchase at the following links:
http://bit.ly/1biwJUZ
http://amzn.to/1adNfoX
http://bit.ly/16vEDNn

Remember, the signed copy can be purchased at this link: http://bit.ly/18lyqlq

Here’s a synopsis of BAREFOOT BY THE SEA:

When you think you know your heart's desire . . .
 
Tessa Galloway is a gifted nurturer-her verdant garden at Barefoot Bay's new resort is living proof. If only the woman who can grow anything could grow what she wants most: a baby. Her friends think the right guy will come along, but Tessa doesn't want to wait. All she needs is the perfect donor to make her dream come true. Then John Brown is hired at the resort. If anyone could make beautiful babies, it's this gorgeous, mysterious man. So why does Tessa suddenly find herself wanting so much more?

Can you give up all your dreams for love?

It's been three long years since John Brown had to leave his old life. Forced into the witness protection program, he's desperate to be reunited with his toddler twins. When he gets that chance, there's a catch-he must prove he's got a steady job and a new wife. Landing a gig as a chef in Barefoot Bay is easy enough. And falling for lovely Tessa is even easier. The hard part? Can he win the heart of a woman who prizes honesty-when the truth may shatter it?

Tessa wants a baby, but “John” won’t give her that. Ian wants a wife, but he has to lie to get Tessa to be his. As they take tentative steps toward making their personal dreams come true, the unexpected happens and their feelings deepen and grow. Then there’s only one choice to make: will one of them have to give up everything for love? 

BarefootbytheSea

BAREFOOT BY THE SEA is the fourth in the Barefoot Bay “quartet” but it is NOT the last Barefoot Bay book! There will be six more titles in the next year or so...three of them coming very soon this winter. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

St. Claire, RoxanneFirst published in 2003, Roxanne St. Claire is a RITA® Award-winning author of thirty novels, including her bestselling Bullet Catchers and Guardian Angelinos series. Her critically acclaimed books have been published in numerous languages and recognized with multiple awards including the National Readers' Choice Award, the Daphne du Maurier Award, and the HOLT Medallion, all for best romantic suspense. She currently lives on the east coast of Florida with her husband and two teenagers. 

For more on Roxanne and her work, check out the following links:
http://www.roxannestclaire.com
@RoxanneStClaire
http://facebook.com/RoxanneStClaire

GIVEAWAY DETAILS:

This giveaway is for the Barefoot Bay Series (4 print books in all) and is open to residents of the U.S. only.

To enter this giveaway, please send me an e-mail (mcbookshelf@gmail.com) with the subject line, “Win Barefoot Bay Series.” Your message should include your name and mailing address. The deadline to enter this giveaway for a chance to win the Barefoot Bay Series is 8 p.m. (EST) on Thursday, Nov. 7.

GiveawayV1

AN EXCERPT:
Here’s an excerpt to entice your reading taste buds even more. Thanks for stopping by today and Happy Reading!

“Tessa,” he said softly, looking from side to side for a second. “I have to tell you something about me. Something you didn’t ask in your interview.”
Interesting, since he didn’t even answer the questions she did ask. Still, she waited, dying to see where he’d go with this.

“I don’t shy away from anything,” he finally said. “When I see something I want, I get it.” He gave her a hard, straight look.

Did he mean the job as chef or…her?

“So, what are you here to get?”

“My plan is that we start all over again.” Reaching down, he lifted her hand and very slowly drew off the gardening glove, sliding one finger out at a time out of the rough canvas. She couldn’t do anything but stare at his large, tanned, masculine hand undressing her much smaller one, her throat parched and every nerve ending dancing at the touch.

“We could shake on it,” he said, dropping the glove to the ground but still holding her hand. His skin was warm. A little rough, a little dry, but very warm. “But I’d rather do this.”

He lifted her fingers to his lips, barely brushing the knuckles, the sensation shooting fireworks down her arms. “To new beginnings, pretty Tessa. A new job, and a new…” He looked up from her hand and met her gaze, his own so serious she forgot to breathe again. “Friendship.”

For a moment, she stared at him, a thousand emotions erupting like a volcano in her chest. Disbelief and excitement and desire and disbelief and longing and—yeah, mostly disbelief.

“What is it?” he asked.

“Well, I’m not really trusting by nature, so I’m fighting the sensation that you might be full of shit.”

He laughed. “I deserve a chance.”

Did he? “And you’ll probably get one, but what happened?”

He lifted both brows. “I want the job.”

“So you’re suddenly Prince Charming? After being guarded, evasive, and walking out in the middle of an interview?”

He curled his fingers around her hand and sighed with resignation. “I guess I’m going to have to do some seriously high-quality groveling.”

“Major high,” she agreed.

“Let’s start with dinner tonight. We can finish the interview.”

Obviously, he didn’t know she’d called all his references and they glowed like polished gold, and he certainly didn’t know about the wedding planners and the urgent need for a chef. Instead, he’d come to grovel and take her to dinner.

“I’ll give you time to clean up and change for our date,” he said, as if she might be looking for an excuse to say no.

As if a groveling man offering dinner and looking like a sex god fell into her lap on a daily basis.

“I thought it was an interview,” she said.

He shrugged. “You call it an interview, I call it a date.”

“I call it a pretty remarkable turnaround for the guy who suggested a one-night stand of tongue-tattooing the last time we talked about going out.”

His smile was sinfully slow and so damn confident. “Haven’t you ever changed your mind about something,Tessa? Ever looked at a situation in the light of day and realized you’d need a new approach to get what you want?”

She tried to ignore the little thrill of his words and be smart about this. “What about trust?”

He lifted his brows. “What about it?”

“Did you change your mind about the advice you gave me in the bar? Or don’t you remember when your one word about trusting you was ‘Don’t’?”

She could have sworn a little bit of color left his face.

“How else are you going to know if you should or not unless you have dinner with me?”

She couldn’t argue with that logic. Or maybe she just didn’t want to.


Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Off The Shelf: The Heavens Rise by Christopher Rice


The book I’m taking off the shelf today to tell you about is perfect for this Halloween season. It’s a riveting tale involving the supernatural by a masterful author.

TheHeavensRise-CoverMultiple New York Times bestselling author Christopher Rice (yes, son of Anne Rice) returns to New Orleans in his first-ever, supernatural novel THE HEAVENS RISE, featuring a group of teenagers who find themselves with mysterious and dangerous powers. He brilliantly conjures the shadowed terrors of the Louisiana bayou—where three friends confront a deadly, ancient evil rising to the surface—in this intense and atmospheric new supernatural thriller.

My name is Niquette Delongpre and on the night before my mother’s forty-seventh birthday, my entire family vanished without a trace. Everyone assumed the swamp swallowed them. They were wrong. The real story begins weeks earlier, in the very soil of the place we called Elysium, which means “final resting place for the heroic and virtuous.” An ironic name, given that the secret unearthed there has the potential to change the course of human history.

It’s been a decade since the Delongpre family vanished near Bayou Rabineaux, and still no one can explain the events of that dark and sweltering night. No one except Niquette Delongpre, the sole survivor who ran away from the mangled stretch of guardrail on Highway 22 where the impossible occurred . . . and kept on running. Who left behind her best friends, Ben and Anthem, to save them from her newfound capacity for destruction . . . and who alone knows the source of her very bizarre—and very deadly—abilities: an isolated strip of swampland called Elysium.

An accomplished surgeon, Niquette’s father dreamed of transforming the dense acreage surrounded by murky waters into a palatial compound befitting the name his beloved wife gave to it, Elysium: “the final resting place for the heroic and virtuous.” Then, ten years ago, construction workers dug into a long-hidden well, one that snaked down into the deep, black waters of the Louisiana swamp and stirred something that had been there for centuries—a microscopic parasite that perverts the mind and corrupts the body.

Niquette is living proof that things done can’t be undone. Nothing can bring her parents back. And nothing can save her. But as Niquette, Ben, and Anthem uncover the truth of a devastating parasite that has the potential to alter the future of humankind, Niquette grasps the most chilling truths of all: someone else has been infected too. And unlike her, this man is not content to live in the shadows. He is intent to use his newfound powers for one reason only: revenge.

Here’s what critics and others are already saying about this captivating story:

       “Creepy, chilling, and almost impossible to put down all describe the new novel by New York Times bestselling author Rice…This is a horror novel, but in the telling of this page-turner, Rice also manages to deftly address issues of race and class in the Big Easy.” — Booklist

       “My first foray into the world twisted by New York Times bestseller Christopher Rice [THE HEAVENS RISE] will absolutely not be my last. With rich, multi-layered characters merging into the lush backdrop of pre- and post-Katrina, south Louisiana, Rice had my attention from the start…In Rice’s world, nothing is as it seems. Every twist and unexpected revelation fell into place smoothly and kept me engaged, wanting to rush ahead to see what may be next. I’ll be first in line looking forward to the next amazing story.” — Suspense Magazine

       "Christopher Rice has written an amazing horror novel with more twists and turns than a mountain road. You'll think you know your destination . . . but you'll be wrong." — Charlaine Harris, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Dead Ever After

       “Christopher Rice has crafted a rich and haunting world in The Heavens Rise. This story of a tormented family and the events that have led to their destruction and onward into the future is tense, tight, disturbing and made very real by a very talented author who obviously knows his way around the Big Easy. An excellent read!” — Robert McCammon, #1 New York Times bestselling author of I Travel By Night

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Christopher Rice is the author of four New York Times bestsellers. The son of author Anne Rice and the late poet Stan Rice, he was raised in New Orleans. He now resides in Los Angeles, where he is a co-host of the Internet radio program, The Dinner Party With Christopher Rice & Eric Shaw Quinn

For more on Christopher and his work, visit his website or find him on Facebook and Twitter.

Christopher is also on tour promoting his new book. The following book signings are with his mother, Anne, who is promoting her own new book, THE WOLVES OF MIDWINTER, which published Oct. 15.

* DALLAS – Oct. 29th, Barnes and Noble (7700 W. Northwest Highway), 7 p.m.
* LOS ANGELES – Nov. 2nd, Barnes and Noble (189 The Grove Drive), 2 p.m.
* SAN FRANCISCO – Nov. 5th, Books Inc. (Opera Plaza, 601 Van Ness), 7 p.m.
* TEMPE – Nov. 14th, Changing Hands (6428 S. McClintock Drive, Tempe, AZ), 6 p.m.

Thanks so much for stopping by today. I hope I’ve grabbed your interest in this enthralling new book that will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. Just in case I haven’t, I leave you with this entertaining book trailer to entice you a bit more. Happy reading!!

Monday, October 28, 2013

Mary Elizabeth The Spotless Cow On Tour



I’m delighted to be participating in author Sal Barbera’s Pump Up Your Book Virtual Book Tour for his children’s book, MARY ELIZABETH THE SPOTLESS COW.

Not only has the author written a charming story for youngsters, but he’s also helping children through his book sales. During the author’s tour (which ends Dec. 27th), purchase MARY ELIZABETH THE SPOTLESS COW from the Sweetles website for only $12 (list price: $17.99). When you buy this book, 50% of net proceeds go to Phoenix Children’s Hospital Child Life Program to make a difference in the lives of children with critical and life threatening illnesses. Visit their website for more information.

I’ll share my thoughts on this delightful book, give you a bit of background on the author, share an excerpt from the book, list the other blogs participating in the tour, and leave you with a fun book trailer to entice you even more.


Mary-Elizabeth-Spotless-Cow coverEveryone wants to fit in with those around them and be liked, even a cow.
Author Sal Barbera has crafted an amusing and inspiring tale about a cow who arrives at a new farm and wants all the new cows to like her despite her differences. Mary Elizabeth has no spots, while all the other cows have many spots.
The spotted cows don’t want to have anything to do with Mary Elizabeth since she’s different. Not giving up on having friends, Mary Elizabeth comes up with a crafty plan.

Because of her clever plan, Mary Elizabeth makes friends and teaches them all that friendship is more than skin deep.

This is a charming story that uses humor and planning to teach youngsters how to overcome obstacles. The beautiful illustrations throughout the book will capture youngsters’ imagination and hold their attention as the story unfolds. 

This is a delightful story that will be enjoyed by young and old alike. It’s a fun way to teach children without them feeling pressured. MARY ELIZABETH THE SPOTLESS COW is the first in a series of Sweetles stories that are certain to be family favorites.

Mary Elizabeth The Spotless Cow written and illustrated by Salvatore Barbera, Background Designs by Sheri H. Barbera, Sweetles Press, @2012, ISBN: 978-0985061111, Hardcover, 32 Pages 

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the author as part of his virtual book tour in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Sal is the author and illustrator of “A Sweetles Dream”® book series. As the Creative Director for Hartman-Barbera llc, a family
media and entertainment company, he is also an animator, sculptor, painter and all around fun guy. Sal lives the phrase: “A day without laughter is a wasted day.” To that end, he uses his writing, illustrating and animation skills to create endearing characters and comedic stories.

Sal's sense of humor and empathy for his characters explore personal and social situations in ways that makes it enjoyable for both adults and children to experience together. Born in New York City, Sal moved to North Bergen, NJ where he grew up on a steep hillside neighborhood with his four older sisters. He currently lives in sunny Arizona with his wife and artistic partner, Sheri, who he defines as his inspiration. On any given day Sal might be painting, sculpting, drawing, animating, writing or enjoying one of his favorite pastimes: cooking, television, movies and golf.

For more on Sal and his work, visit his website at http://www.salbarbera.com.

AN EXCERPT…

Once upon a time........
there was a farm in Ohio with lots of Cows.
They all had many spots to be proud of.
One day,
a truck pulled into the farm.
The back door opened
and out came a new Cow.
The other Cows were so
excited to have a new friend!!
But
as the new Cow came out of the truck
the other Cows looked on in shock!!!
"Oh My!’’
“What on Earth?!"
It seems the new Cow,
whose name was Mary Elizabeth,
had no spots!
“Where are your spots??!!’’
demanded the Cow called Anna Belle.
“I don’t have any spots.
I was born spotless, you see.’’
Well, Anna Belle and the
other Cows were horrified.
(Not mad, you had to be very careful about mad)

OCTOBER TOUR PARTICIPANTS ( additional tour information is available on his tour page):
October 1st - Interview at Blogcritics
October 2nd - Book spotlight at The Writer’s Life
October 3rd - Book review at Classic Children’s Books
Book spotlight at As the Pages Turn
October 4th - Book review at Alicia Finn Noack
October 7th - Book spotlight at 4 the Love of Books
Book spotlight at Literarily Speaking
October 8th - Book review at A Year of Jubilee Book Reviews
Book spotlight at Between the Covers
October 9th - Book spotlight at The Book Rack
October 10th - Book review at The Children’s and Teens’ Book Connection
October 11th - Guest post at Paperback Writer
Book spotlight at Review from Here
October 14th - Interview at Straight from the Author’s Mouth
October 15th - Book spotlight at Broken Teepee
Book spotlight at Beyond the Books
October 16th - Book review at Lynn’s Corner
Book trailer reveal at If Books Could Talk
October 17th - Guest post at The Story Behind the Book
October 18th - Interview at The Children’s and Teens’ Book Connection
October 21st - Book review at My Devotional Thoughts
Book spotlight at Deco My Heart
Book spotlight at A Year of Jubilee Book Reviews
October 22nd - Book review at 4 the Love of Books
October 23rd - Guest post at Mayra’s Secret Bookcase
October 25th - Book review at Mary’s Cup of Tea
October 30th - Book review at Maureen’s Musings
October 31st - Book review at Blooming with Books
Guest post at Lori’s Reading Corner

Now the book trailer for your enjoyment. Thanks for stopping by today and remember, books make wonderful gifts!

Sunday, October 27, 2013

Sunday Salon: Audrey Bunny and a Giveaway


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Photo Source
We’re quickly coming to the end of October as cooler temperatures begin to blanket much of the area. It’s also time for another Sunday Salon where we can discuss books.

Books – all sizes, genres and formats – are always fun to discuss. Even though I don’t have children or grandchildren, I can’t resist checking out new books for my young cousins. 

With that in mind I have a darling book to tell you about today and the wonderful folks at Flyby Promotions are offering a copy as a giveaway to a lucky visitor. I’ll share my thoughts on the book, tell you a bit about the author and illustrator, give you the giveaway details, and leave you with a book trailer featuring the author who talks about this enduring story.

AUDREY BUNNY by Angie Smith

Audrey_Bunny_coverAt times there is too much emphasis placed on being perfect whether it’s being the perfect size, having the perfect clothes or having the perfect looks.

Author Angie Smith has created a delightful children’s story about a stuffed bunny who is afraid she will never be loved because of a slight imperfection over her heart. Then one day a wonderful thing happens and she is selected by a little girl named Caroline.

Caroline names the bunny Audrey and takes her home. Audrey is thrilled but afraid Caroline will return her to the store when she finally sees the imperfection. Audrey does everything she can to keep the spot hidden, but she soon discovers just how special she really is.

The stunning illustrations by Breezy Brookshire enhance the story. Readers will be captivated by the beautiful drawings. The story will be easy for young children to follow as the vivid illustrations hold their attention.

This is a charming and sweet story that will tug on adult heartstrings, while youngsters will delight in its adventure. The author has crafted a timeless tale that we are loved by God just the way we are and can be loved by others no matter our imperfections.

The author also includes a Parent Connection page in the book. This page features discussion questions and activities parents can share with their youngsters.

AUDREY BUNNY will entertain youngsters as it teaches them a beautiful lesson of unconditional love and understanding.

Audrey Bunny by Angie Smith, Illustrated by Breezy Brookshire, B&H Publishing, @2013, ISBN: 978-1433680458, Hardcover with jacket, 32 Pages 

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the book promoter in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. In addition, "Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Angie Smith is the wife of Todd Smith (lead singer of Dove Award winning group Selah), best-selling author of Mended, I Will Carry You, and What Women Fear, and one of the most popular speakers and blog writers in the country. She holds a Master’s degree in Developmental Psychology from Vanderbilt University and lives with her husband and daughters in Nashville, TN.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR:
Breezy Brookshire is the illustrator behind Clementine Pattern Co., Noble Rose Press, and The Breezy Tulip Studio. She shares a home studio with her sister Emily Rose, and lives with her family in Marion, IN.

GIVEAWAY DETAILS:
This giveaway is for one print copy of AUDREY BUNNY

To enter this giveaway, please send me an e-mail (mcbookshelf@gmail.com) with the subject line, “Win Audrey Bunny.” Your message should include your name and mailing address. The deadline to enter this giveaway for a chance to win a copy of AUDREY BUNNY is 8 p.m. (EDT) on Monday, Nov. 4th.

Here’s the book trailer for your enjoyment and maybe to entice you to pick up this charming book. It would make a great Christmas gift. Thanks so much for stopping by.

Saturday, October 26, 2013

State vs. Lassiter by Paul Levine


State vs LassiterJumping into a series isn’t always easy, but author Paul Levine crafted his latest Jake Lassiter novel, STATE VS. LASSITER, in such a fashion that it’s easy to follow for new or returning fans of this suspenseful series.

Jake Lassiter is a criminal attorney who tends to use the justice system to his advantage when defending a client in Dade County, FL. It seems Lassiter will have to put his talents to use helping his own defense attorney when he’s charged with murder.

When Lassiter is awaken on the beach by an officer, he thinks he’s facing a loitering charge. But things quickly go downhill when he discovers he’s a suspect in the murder of his girlfriend/banker, Pamela Baylins. The previous night Lassiter and Baylins were enjoying dinner out as part of an expensive weekend getaway when they got into a heated argument. Lassiter had received a call informing him his trust accounts had been tampered with. He confronted Baylins, who was overseeing those accounts, resulting in them arguing all the way back to their hotel room. 

Baylins is found dead in their hotel room, strangled with Lassiter’s missing belt. To further complicate things, Baylins apparently sent an email implying Lassiter was the one tampering with the trust accounts. As the evidence against him mounts, Lassiter has to use every tactic he and his lawyer know to get to the bottom of the murder. 

Levine quickly pulls you in as you try to piece together Lassiter’s movements and determine who the killer is and why. The characters are well-developed and realistic. There is the right amount of humor woven throughout to lighten the mood while still keeping you in suspense. 

STATE VS. LASSITER moves at a smooth, quick pace. It’s filled with action and suspense and just even twists to keep you on the edge of your seat. Lassiter is a protagonist you will quickly develop a fondness for with his mixture of witty personality and self-disapproval. As a standalone read, this is a good place to start the series. However, don’t be surprised to find yourself longing to know what earlier escapades Lassiter has gotten himself into and out of.

This is a fun, entertaining read that will be hard to put down.

Author Paul Levine’s website is http://www.paul-levine.com/
 
State vs. Lassiter by Paul Levine, A Jack Lassiter Novel, CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, @2013, ISBN: 978-1492184874, Paperback, 284 Pages 

FTC Full Disclosure – A digital copy of this book was sent to me by a book promoter in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

Thanks for stopping by today. Do you enjoy courtroom thrillers?