Timeline by Michael Crichton

13 Comments »

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)


Midnight is the Darkest Hour by Ashley Winstead

12 Comments »

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)

Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera

18 Comments »

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)

The House of Hidden Meanings by RuPaul

12 Comments »

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)

Slow Horses by Mick Herron

14 Comments »

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)


The House of Last Resort by Christopher Golden

19 Comments »

Do you believe in giving authors a second chance? Not every book resonates with every reader, and there have been numerous occasions when a particular story failed to connect with me. Nevertheless, I am generally open to giving an author's writing another chance before deciding whether it aligns with my preferences. Take horror author Christopher Golden, for instance. I was familiar with his work for years but only delved into his novel Road of Bones last year. While I appreciated the clever setup and the chilling premise, the ending fell short of my expectations. Intrigued nonetheless, I decided to give Golden another opportunity with his latest book, The House of Last Resort.

Overflowing with abandoned villas left to decay, Becchina, Italy, remains largely forgotten, with only a handful of locals still residing there. It has become "...the corpse of a town that didn't even realize it was already dead." Eager to breathe life back into his town, the mayor proposes a final, desperate plan. The city acquires all the deserted homes, offering them to new families at the nominal price of one Euro. The only caveats are that the buyers must commit to a minimum investment to renovate and modernize their newfound residences and live there for at least five years. The concept gains traction, attracting people from various places who relocate to the quaint Italian town to embark on their fresh start.

Tommy and Kate Puglisi, a newly married couple from America, are among the newcomers enticed by the offer. With the flexibility of remote work and the added bonus of Tommy's grandparents living in Becchina, the move is a golden opportunity for the couple. It promises homeownership, quality time with family, and an adventure in romantic Italy. From the beginning, however, things take an unsettling turn. While initially appealing, their dream house on the hill raises reservations as a significant tremor shakes the earth upon their arrival. Even more foreboding is the reaction of Tommy's grandmother, who, instead of sharing in the family's joy, is filled with fear and anger. Nonna knows the house's history, and Tommy and Kate are about to discover they've signed up for more than they bargained for.

In The House of Last Resort, Christopher Golden masterfully constructs a narrative steeped in anticipation and foreboding. The notion of leaving one's home to pursue a better, more balanced life in a different country resonated with me, and I immediately connected with Tommy and Kate. Golden initiates the story with innocence, capturing the protagonist's joy and optimism for a fresh start. As moments of doubt begin to pepper this dream, both the characters and readers are left questioning everything. Even as the true horror became more apparent, I was irresistibly drawn into the story. It all culminates in an ending that poetically echoes the town's history that we learn about earlier in the book. Golden adeptly balances character development with a chilling plot, ensuring a narrative that engages the reader fully. The House of Last Resort delivers everything I seek in a horror read, and it has solidified my decision to explore more of this author's works in the near future.

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

(2024, 17)

Powered by Blogger.