A Book A Week

In a recent review, I noted that my husband has recently reignited his passion for reading. Following our joint reading of Michael Crichton's Timeline earlier this month, we embarked on a journey through C.S. Lewis's iconic Narnia series. Although I've traditionally been the only reviewer for A Book A Week, I thought it'd be enjoyable to have Johnathan share his own thoughts and post a review. Enjoy!

In 2014, I earned a B.A. in History. This could go without saying, but I have read my fair share of books. So much so that for the better part of the last decade, the idea of reading anything seemed like a massive chore rather than something I would want to do for pleasure. While my husband has written for this blog for well over 10 years now, I have always thought, "How fun it would be to add my own contribution to this space?" I only needed the right inspiration. With a recent re-watch of Disney's The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, I found myself surprised at how much I loved the story and decided it was time to read the original novel by C.S. Lewis.

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe follows four siblings through a fantastical journey that takes them from the WWII-era United Kingdom to a land of magic and danger hidden in the back of an old wardrobe. The grave stakes that consumed much of the human world at this time were all too familiar in this land called Narnia, where an evil witch had been cruelly inflicting her will for a century. The four siblings are empathetic to the plight of the Narnians, but they do not have the knowledge or experience to fight against such a powerful foe. That is, until the arrival of Aslan, an all-knowing, omnipotent "king" of kings of Narnia . . . who also happens to be a lion. Aslan's appearance is his first since the witch took control of Narnia, and he is a beacon of hope for all who oppose her. As events unfold and consequences created by sibling rivalries emerge, the conflict comes to a head and sets the stage for a clash of beastly proportions: lion vs. witch. Good vs. evil.

Like many fellow millennials, my introduction to this story began with the movie version. In reading the novel, I was surprised to see how faithful the movie was to the original plot. Some scenes are even word-for-word reenactments. Some pieces of the plot were more fleshed out in the movie, and in hindsight, this adds to the story rather than takes away--specifically, the final battle. The novel is as charming and fun as I hoped, as any good child's story should be. One of my favorite aspects of the novel is that C.S. Lewis leaves much to the reader's imagination to interpret the mechanism of plot elements, like how the wardrobe leads to Narnia. It's never revealed how it works. The reader just knows that it does. I often have trouble following the complex logic of world-building that occurs in other fantasy novels. This simplistic approach of C.S. Lewis is refreshing and, to be cliche, magical. All said and done, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a delightful read, and I encourage anyone who thinks they might be interested to give the novel a chance. 

For more information, visit the author's website. 

The current news headlines vividly illustrate American politics' intense and dysfunctional state. While political contention, tit-for-tat exchanges, and a self-serving approach have always been characteristic of the political landscape, the emergence of Donald Trump elevated these dynamics to an unparalleled level. Author Robin Peguero is intimately familiar with this environment. He recently played a pivotal role as an investigative counsel on the historic Select Committee Investigating the January 6th Attack on the U.S. Capitol. Observing the hearings unfold, the entire spectacle seemed almost surreal, undoubtedly providing Peguero with ample inspiration for his latest novel, One in the Chamber. Having had the opportunity to review his debut novel, With Prejudice, a compelling exploration into the dynamics of a jury during a murder trial, I was eager to delve into his newest work. 

The novel begins with gripping intensity. On the eve of the presidential election, the nation is on edge. Supporters from both political divides believe a loss could signify a dramatic shift in the country's direction. On Capitol Hill, influential congressmen and their large teams of interns anxiously monitor the  election results. By night's end, two undeniable truths will emerge: a new president-elect will be chosen, and a well-known U.S. Senator will be found dead, the victim of a shocking murder.

Peguero rewinds the narrative from its explosive opening, taking us back several months before the fateful election night. Here, we meet Cameron Leann, a modest young man from Iowa who lands an internship position at the Capitol despite lacking significant funds or political experience. He soon finds himself amidst the grandeur of the Capitol building, about to serve as an intern for one of the Senate's influential "Gang of Six."

In this elite circle, Cameron is introduced to a tight-knit group of fellow junior staffers, each assigned to a different member of the Gang of Six. These twenty-somethings, diverse and representative of the nation's population, are remarkably intelligent. Diverse, though they may be, they all share a singular sentiment. Each of them harbors a deep disdain for their respective bosses. As the political landscape heats up, with debates surrounding a controversial Supreme Court nomination and the looming election, tensions within the group intensify. Alliances are tested, deceit becomes commonplace, and emotions are boiling. While readers are privy to the story's eventual tragic outcome, the journey to that pivotal night is equally tumultuous and riveting.

In One in the Chamber, Robin Peguero masterfully refines the character-driven storytelling and intricate plotting that distinguished his debut novel. The book seamlessly blends personal dramas, political maneuverings, and a gripping murder mystery into an irresistibly engaging narrative. Peguero offers readers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the American political system, navigating its complexities without drowning the reader in tedious details. He strikes a perfect balance, providing enough insight into the legislative process to lend authenticity to his tale while skillfully grounding the more salacious elements of the plot.

Each chapter concludes with a tantalizing glimpse into the future, presenting snippets of the characters' interrogations following the shocking murder. This narrative device heightens the suspense, propelling readers to eagerly turn the pages. One in the Chamber evokes the suspenseful political intrigue of the show "House of Cards" while channeling the dramatic twists and turns reminiscent of "How To Get Away With Murder." The story culminates in a satisfyingly unpredictable finale that had me glued to the pages until the very end. Once again, Robin Peguero delivers a standout novel that captivates and thrills.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 25)

Lately, I've reignited my appreciation for John Grisham's novels. While some of his newer works have been hit or miss for me, Grisham consistently offers compelling stories with engaging characters and insightful commentary that goes beyond mere plot twists. One book that stands out from his recent releases is Camino Island. This novel diverges from Grisham's usual legal thrillers, focusing instead on a daring rare book theft and the subsequent quest to reclaim the stolen items. Even without Grisham's typical legal backdrop, the memorable characters and the enchanting tropical setting of Camino Island made it a favorite of mine. Now that the weather in South Texas has warmed up, I felt it was the perfect time to dive back into that captivating world with its sequel, Camino Winds.

In our previous encounter with Bruce Cable, the proprietor of the independent bookstore Bay Books on Camino Island, he had earned a significant sum from his involvement in the ransom of stolen F. Scott Fitzgerald manuscripts. Known as a booklover's bookseller, Bruce has always nurtured relationships with the island's resident authors, hosting popular book signings that always draw a crowd. As Camino Winds begins, Bruce is preparing to host a book launch for his friend and local author, Mercer Mann. Mercer has penned a bestseller since her involvement in the missing manuscript drama and is on the brink of releasing another. Just as Mercer's book kick-off festivities get underway, Hurricane Leo takes an unexpected turn, targeting Camino Island directly. Despite the mandatory evacuation order issued by Florida’s governor, leading most to secure their homes and evacuate, Bruce opts to remain and face the storm head-on.

The aftermath of Hurricane Leo is catastrophic, leaving behind a trail of destruction that leaves businesses, residences, and lives shattered. Among the storm's apparent casualties is Nelson Kerr, a thriller author and a friend to Bruce. Mysteriously, the injuries Nelson sustained suggest that the storm might not be the sole reason for his death. With the local police stretched thin and struggling to cope in the wake of the storm, Bruce begins to suspect that the menacing figures from Nelson’s novels might not be purely fictional. Complicating matters further, Nelson's new manuscript is reportedly stored on his computer. Could this document hold the clues to his death? As Bruce delves deeper into the mystery, the revelations he uncovers are more startling than any of Nelson’s narrative twists—and potentially more perilous.

Diving into Camino Winds, I was immediately embraced by the comforting familiarity of Grisham's characters and the setting he masterfully crafted in the preceding book. His talent lies in presenting deceptively straightforward scenarios that captivate readers. The notion of a bookseller and his associates probing a mysterious death in the aftermath of a catastrophic hurricane promised an irresistible premise. True to form, the initial half of the novel races ahead, weaving a web of suspense and punctuating it with Grisham's signature dry humor, which lightens the mood effectively.

Halfway through, however, it felt like Grisham lost his narrative direction. What starts as a concise murder mystery soon spirals into an overstuffed thriller, replete with many characters and subplots that lack genuine suspense. The plot sprawls, leaping forward in time and shifting between locations, diluting the urgency that had been so palpable in the story's earlier sections. While the conclusion neatly ties up loose ends, the absence of significant obstacles along the way makes the resolution feel unearned. Given my genuine appreciation for the initial installment, I found this sequel quite disappointing. With a third Camino installment set to release soon, one can only hope that Grisham returns to form and addresses the shortcomings of this entry.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 24)

Mark Twain's Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is a cornerstone of American literature, garnering both admiration and critique since its initial publication in 1885. While celebrated as a quintessential "great American novel," its legacy is not devoid of controversy. Early detractors took issue with its use of vernacular English and its meandering narrative, following the exploits of the eponymous Finn as he navigates the Mississippi River. In more contemporary times, scrutiny has intensified over its portrayal of race, particularly its liberal use of the n-word throughout the text. Nevertheless, Twain's exploration of boyhood and his satirical commentary on America's entrenched racial attitudes and notions of freedom render the novel a rich subject for study and reflection.

Author Percival Everett, renowned for his incisive wit and willingness to tackle contentious themes, brings his formidable talent to bear in reimagining Twain's classic work. With a career spanning four decades, Everett has crafted sharp, thought-provoking novels that push boundaries and challenge conventional norms. Upon learning of his latest endeavor, a reinterpretation of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn titled James, I anticipated a literary treat. Few writers are as adept as Everett at navigating the complex interplay of tones and themes present in Twain's seminal work. After all, this is the same author who masterfully blended comedy with a narrative on lynching in his 2021 novel The Trees, a feat that seemed impossible until I experienced it firsthand. Armed with high expectations, I eagerly delved into James, poised to witness Everett's unique perspective on this timeless tale.

As the title implies, James offers a fresh perspective by narrating the story through the eyes of Jim, the enslaved man who accompanies Finn on his adventures in the original narrative. Percival Everett immediately distinguishes Jim from his portrayal in the original text by endowing him with an intellect that defies the era's expectations. Jim and his fellow enslaved individuals lead a dual existence, seamlessly transitioning between sophisticated English when among themselves and deliberately employing "incorrect grammar" in the presence of their white owners. Through this simple yet powerful device, Everett exposes the absurdity of racism in America, highlighting how the enslaved people consciously contribute to perpetuating the illusion of Black inferiority for their own safety.

While the novel adheres to many of the original storyline's beats, Everett injects a clearer sense of purpose by orchestrating Jim's escape from enslavement after a botched theft. Concealed in the underbrush, Jim encounters Finn, who has staged his own demise and seeks refuge. Predictably, the white populace implicates Jim in Finn's supposed demise, triggering a relentless manhunt. This imbues James with a sense of urgency absent from Twain's original text. While retaining familiarity with key plot points, Everett introduces fresh scenarios that heighten tension and the underlying social commentary permeating the narrative. Whether or not readers are acquainted with Mark Twain's source material, Everett's reimagining offers a compelling and thought-provoking experience. For those familiar with the original work, Everett's additions infuse the story with an enhanced sense of humanity. James is another stellar addition to Everett's oeuvre, showcasing his adeptness at crafting intricate plots, nuanced character development, incisive humor, and poignant social critique.

For more information, visit Amazon and Goodreads.

(2024, 23)

Lately, my husband has rekindled his interest in reading. While I indulge in a couple of books every week, he has refrained from reading for pleasure for more than a decade. As a history major, his academic journey involved consuming numerous nonfiction volumes, providing valuable knowledge but transforming the act of reading into a more laborious task than a leisurely pursuit. Following his recent successful foray into a historical fiction/mystery novel, he suggested we embark on a joint reading venture. Our chosen book was Michael Crichton's Timeline, a bestselling 1998 novel that seamlessly blends elements of thriller and historical fiction, catering to both of our literary preferences.

In the vast expanse of the relentless Arizona desert, a lost couple stumbles upon a bewildering sight—an individual on the roadside caught in a trance, uttering incomprehensible rhymes, unable to discern his identity or the reason for his presence. Stranded with no means to seek immediate assistance, the compassionate couple places the enigmatic man in the back of their car and rushes him to the nearest hospital. The medical staff, like the good Samaritans, is confounded by his condition; his mental disarray is accompanied by a rapid physical decline. Before the night concludes, he succumbs to his mysterious affliction, leaving unanswered questions surrounding his inexplicable state.

Meanwhile, in France, Professor Johnston and his team of student archaeologists meticulously unearth a medieval city's ruins, progressing carefully to ensure the site's preservation. The pace proves too sluggish for their corporate financiers, whose impatience clashes with the meticulous work of the historians. Balancing historical research with corporate interests becomes nearly impossible, pushing the archaeologists and corporate representatives to their limits. While Professor Johnston embarks on a journey to the financiers' corporate headquarters in an attempt to mend their fraying relationship, his team makes a startling discovery at the excavation site. Soon, the students are also whisked away to the corporate headquarters, where they are introduced to a mysterious technology that promises to revolutionize the study of history through firsthand experience. Although it initially appears as if torn from the pages of science fiction, they will soon discover the very real dangers associated with it.

In its attempt to echo the success of Michael Crichton's classic adventures like Jurassic Park, Timeline incorporates familiar elements, including mysterious technology with promises of scientific advancement and corporate gain. Following a recurring theme in Crichton's work, academics take on the role of heroes tasked with uncovering the truth behind the new technology and highlighting its ethical dilemmas. While this formula made Crichton's previous novels smart, page-turning reads, it falls flat in Timeline.

Despite the surface-level engagement provided by the familiar elements, a closer look reveals that the story lacks the depth and cleverness it aspires to achieve. The characters adhere closely to their prescribed stereotypes, with the villains being overtly evil and the heroes unflinchingly good. While this advances the plot, it fails to create a connection that would make readers invest in the characters. The heroes, in particular, lack depth, making distinguishing between them at various points in the narrative challenging. Even my husband and I found ourselves struggling to keep track of who was who.

While two-dimensional characters can be overlooked if the plot is compelling, Timeline also struggles to effectively utilize its intriguing concept. Numerous narrative threads remain unresolved, and the primary motivation for the heroes' time travel feels contrived, serving more as a means to move characters where the author wants them than as an organic story progression. Despite offering a level of enjoyable escapism, the book ultimately feels unrewarding. While I remain a fan of Crichton's classic works, Timeline, unfortunately, misses the mark. 

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 22)

There exists a profound connection between Southerners and religion, a bond deeply ingrained in the fabric of Southern culture. As a native of South Texas, my early years were shaped by regular Sunday masses and cherished memories forged within the embrace of various church events. Over time, my relationship with faith underwent a transformation, one marked by contemplating the inherent contradictions within the religion I was taught to embrace. Religion, while a potent ethical guide for many, has been exploited throughout history to serve personal gains and hidden agendas. In her latest novel, Midnight is the Darkest Hour, Ashley Winstead explores this complex interplay in a gripping Southern Gothic mystery that will captivate readers from start to finish.

The town of Bottom Springs in rural Louisiana epitomizes Southern religiosity. Pastor James Cornier, head of the Holy Fire Born Again church, isn't just a local religious figure; he is the de facto leader, enforcing his fundamentalist Christian beliefs upon the entire town. His daughter, Ruth, knows the weight of his teachings intimately, having lived her entire life under his authoritative rule, where a woman's role is confined to silence and obscurity.

Everett and his father were shunned for their lack of church attendance, becoming pariahs of Bottom Springs. Childhood friends Everett and Ruth share a dark secret from years past, vowing never to speak of it again, a vow that gradually eroded their friendship. When a human skull is discovered in the swamp, adorned with peculiar carvings Pastor Cornier deems occultic, rumors of the legendary "low man," a vampiric entity haunting the town for decades, resurface. Everett and Ruth join forces to investigate the skull's origins and protect their shared secret, unearthing sinister truths misaligned with the church's teachings in the process.

Midnight is the Darkest Hour unfolds as a meticulously plotted thriller, exploring themes of feminism, religion, and morality. The town of Bottom Springs comes to life through a cast of characters brimming with authenticity, each wrestling with their own perceptions of the world. Pastor Cornier, a sanctimonious figure casting a long shadow over the town and his daughter's life, embodies the type of self-righteous authority familiar to many churchgoers. Ruth's journey to forge her path, diverging from her father's prescribed vision, adds an ominous layer to the narrative. Flashbacks seamlessly interweave with the present-day mystery, offering tantalizing glimpses into unfolding events and hinting at more profound, shocking revelations.

Winstead masterfully introduces the specter of an otherworldly threat, enhancing the narrative with an air of macabre suspense. This element fuels the imagination, inviting readers to contemplate the lurking horrors beneath the surface. At its core, Midnight is the Darkest Hour is a tale of self-discovery and acceptance, exploring the evolving ideologies that serve as ethical compasses in our lives. The novel's gripping mystery, meticulously crafted plot, and well-drawn characters contribute to its resonant impact, making it a compelling read that lingers far beyond the final page.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 21)

I've always believed that a good author can write any story and make it worth reading. In recent years, numerous YA authors have proved that point by successfully transitioning into writing adult thrillers. The likes of Rachel Hawkins, Kate Alice Marshall, Kiersten White, and Ashley Elston have achieved notable success in this shift. Having appreciated the works of these authors, I eagerly accepted the publisher-provided audio version of Amy Tinera's latest book. With Listen for the Lie, she endeavors to join the ranks of fellow YA authors who have made a mark in the thriller genre for adults.

Lucy and Savvy were inseparable in the close-knit Texas town they called home. The epitome of "it girls," they were admired for their beauty and intelligence, the envy of their peers. After high school, Lucy entered a seemingly perfect life, marrying her dream man and residing in a grand house with a sizable engagement ring to match. On the other hand, Savvy embraced a more carefree existence, befriending everyone in town, including, according to rumors, many of the men. Their unbreakable friendship took a tragic turn when Savvy was brutally murdered, and Lucy was discovered wandering the streets, drenched in her best friend's blood. Without any recollection of the night's events, Lucy grappled with the haunting question of whether she was genuinely responsible for Savvy's death. With the entire town convinced of her guilt, the truth didn't even matter. 

Years have passed since that tragic night, and Lucy remains haunted by the blank spaces in her memory. All she knows is that she lost her best friend, and the town she once called home turned against her. Her seemingly perfect life has crumbled, and her husband is no longer in the picture. These days, she resides in Los Angeles, finding success as a romance novelist under a pseudonym. Given the shadow of being an accused murderer, writing under her real name is simply out of the question. Lucy's past comes rushing back when Ben Owens, the creator of a popular true crime podcast, dedicates his second season to solving Savvy's murder. Despite the risks, Lucy agrees to return to the small Texas town to participate in Ben's investigation. Driven by a desperate need to uncover the truth about Savvy's death, even if it means facing her own potential guilt, Lucy takes on the challenge.

Using a podcast format to unravel the threads of a murder mystery has become a prevalent device in modern crime fiction. When executed successfully, it leaves a lasting impact, and Amy Tintera employs this technique to its fullest potential in this instance. She skillfully shifts between flashbacks, present-day interactions, and podcast episodes, intricately weaving a narrative of suspenseful intrigue. The audiobook version of Listen for the Lie, narrated by January LaVoy and Will Darmon, vividly brings the main characters, Lucy and Ben, to life. Grappling with the allegations against her, Lucy emerges as an unreliable narrator, easy to sympathize with yet prompting constant questioning. The standout character, however, is Lucy's grandmother—a scene-stealing, unfiltered Southern belle who adds authentic charm and levity to the murder investigation. The book unfolds as a classic whodunit, enriched by a diverse cast of characters that keeps readers guessing until the very end. With Listen for the Lie, Amy Tintera again demonstrates that a skilled author can adeptly navigate various genres. I, for one, am eager to see what she comes up with next.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 20)

On Friday nights at my home, you can usually find my husband and me glued to the TV, catching the latest episode of RuPaul's Drag Race. This reality competition, hosted by the legendary drag queen RuPaul, is a joyous celebration of queer art, expression, and identity, making it not only culturally significant but also incredibly entertaining. RuPaul has mesmerized audiences for years with his drag persona, delivering a unique blend of humor and fantastical charm. Still, the man behind the supermodel has remained relatively veiled. In his memoir, The House of Hidden Meanings, RuPaul extends an intimate invitation, offering readers a glimpse into his life and laying bare his soul. It gives us a chance to finally meet the authentic RuPaul.

RuPaul always stood out. As a young black boy in San Diego, he grappled with his queer identity in an era when such struggles weren't widely accepted. With his father intermittently present and his mother contending with her own emotional challenges, one thing was evident—RuPaul was destined for stardom. He reflects on the laughter he could evoke from his mother, who predicted his future fame. Despite the hardships, RuPaul embarked on a journey of self-acceptance, learning to embrace and express his true self.

The House of Hidden Meanings doesn't offer a current behind-the-scenes glimpse of RuPaul's life, and there's no mention of the reality show that has dominated his recent career. Instead, the memoir delves into RuPaul's coming-of-age narrative, unfolding alongside significant moments in queer history. As the emerging superstar shaped his identity as a drag performer within the punk scenes of Atlanta and New York, he also played a pivotal role in bringing queer art to the forefront.

In this deeply personal memoir, RuPaul candidly shares his story, steering clear of the glamorous façade of his current stardom. Listening to the audiobook, narrated by the author himself and provided by the publisher, I felt the passion, pride, and pain that underscored his life story. RuPaul confronts the hurdles he faced during his rise to celebrity, offering unfiltered accounts of his struggles with relationships, the challenges of the entertainment industry, and his battle with drug addiction. Ultimately, he discovered strength through his chosen family, self-acceptance, and confronting his demons. The telling of this story makes for an insightful and inspirational read.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 19)

The plethora of streaming services in the entertainment industry has led to a wide variety of content, and many TV shows have their origins in literature. This is precisely the case with the acclaimed spy thriller series on Apple TV+, Slow Horses. As I approached the first season's conclusion, I realized it was adapted from Mick Herron's 2010 novel of the same name. Eager to experience the original source material without spoiling the show's conclusion, I paused my viewing and delved into the book instead.

The world is filled with stories of heroic secret agents who save the day. From James Bond to Jason Bourne, these thrilling adventures capture our imaginations, creating a romanticized view of espionage. But what about the agents who mess up? Indeed, not every mission goes as planned, let alone is successful. No, there are inevitably a few mishaps here and there, and those responsible for them must be handled with care. In the case of Britain's MI5, the "slow horses," as they're called, find themselves separated from the rest of the force, consigned to the disheveled Slough House—a last resort where the blacklisted agents will spend the remainder of their careers doing nothing more than busywork.

Slough House is the last place River Cartwright ever thought he would find himself. As the grandson of a decorated agent, he believed he would follow in his grandfather's legendary footsteps. Unfortunately, River was betrayed by a colleague and bungled a critical mission. Now, he stands on the steps of Slough House, left to try to pick up the pieces of his shattered career. When a young Pakistani student is kidnapped by a far-right group that plans to live-stream their victim's murder, River sees this as an opportunity to honor his duty and redeem himself. It won't be easy, especially as he is meant to remain in the shadows as a pencil pusher for the rest of his career, but River will stop at nothing to try to regain his spot as an agent.

In Slow Horses, Mick Herron envisions a group of antiheroes I couldn't help but cheer for. Unlike the polished agents in Ian Fleming's world, they are a band of misfits, each selfishly striving to escape the purgatory of Slough House and return to the glory of being an active agent. After a compelling start, the novel takes some time to find its footing. I'll confess to feeling a bit weary as Herron introduced each of the "slow horses" and the various elements of the plot. Around the halfway point, however, the story's trajectory began to unfold, and I could not put the book down. The characters bring a wit that injects much-needed levity into the weightier subject matter, resulting in a thrilling read and a promising start to the series.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 18)