Articles written by Sandy Mitchell

Among the Mad by Jacqueline Winspear: A New Maisie Dobbs Mystery

Two favorite Connelly characters - lawyer, Mickey Haller and LAPD detective Harry Bosch get together to solve a high profile Hollywood murder case. more...

May 25, 2009

Category: Detective Fiction

London between the wars is filled with "forgotten" men, those who served their country honorably who came home shell-shocked and unable to work. Is one capable of murder? more...

May 13, 2009

The Archbishop in Andalusia: Another Blackie Ryan Novel by Andrew Greeley

Category: Cozy Mysteries

"Blackie" ventures away from his home base of Chicago to solve a mystery in Seville, where ghosts of past passions and strive are still very real. more...

Apr 10, 2009

Revenge of the Spellmans by Lisa Lutz: Isabel and her Family's Latest Adventures

Dashing Through the Snow: A Holiday Mystery by Mary and Carol Higgins Clark

The Spellmans are back with another absurd and fun look at this loveably dysfunctional household and their family detective business. more...

Jan 2, 2009

Category: Cozy Mysteries

A winter festival turns into mayhem in this short, but enjoyable holiday tale by the mother-daughter mystery duo of Mary and Carol Higgins Clark. more...

Dec 27, 2008

Bleeding Kansas by Sara Paretsky: A Tale of Passion and Mystery in the Heartland

Devil Bones by Kathy Reichs: Another "Bones" Mystery

The creator of the V.I. Warshawski mystery series shares the history and traditions of her native Kansas in this heartfelt novel of loss and redemption. more...

Nov 20, 2008

Category: Forensic Fiction

The latest Dr. Brennan novel has "Bones" trying to decipher some kind of eerie religious ritual, one that involves bones--both animal and human. more...

Oct 8, 2008

A Carol for a Corpse by Claudia Bishop: A Holiday Cozy from the Inn at Hemlock Falls Series

Category: Cozy Mysteries

The Quilliam sisters, who run the Inn at Hemlock Falls, face financial ruin when their one potential investor is killed on their ski trail. Not a very Merry Christmas. more...

Sep 29, 2008

Lost Girls by George D. Shuman: Sherry Moore is Thrust into the Realm of Human Traficking

Legally Dead by Edna Buchanan: A New Character by the Creator of the Britt Montero Series

The last 30 seconds of the climber's memory weren't pretty, nor were they the expected thoughts of survival and resignation. Instead they told a horrific tale of torture. more...

Sep 6, 2008

The Fourth Watcher by Timothy Hallinan: A New Poke Rafferty Mystery Novel

US Marshall, Michael Venturi spent his career new identities for people in the witness protection program. Now, he's freelancing...with unexpectedly deadly results. more...

Sep 1, 2008

Fearless Fourteen by Janet Evanovich: Another Fun and Quirky Stephanie Plum Mystery

American in Thailand, Poke Rafferty is back in another multi-layered mystery, steeped in Asian tradition and double meanings. more...

Jul 21, 2008

Beach Reading: What to Read in 2008

The latest Stephanie Plum adventure finds the Jersey girl and bounty hunter running security for an aging diva, tracking stolen loot, and babysitting a perp's 14-year-old more...

Jul 18, 2008

The Purrfect Murder by Rita Mae Brown: Another Mrs. Murphy Murder Mystery

What to take to the beach--or-the pool--to read this summer? Here are some suggestions: more...

Jul 3, 2008

Category: Cozy Mysteries

The contentment that Harry's found since her remarriage is short-lived as one of her friends is found with a bloody knife and accused of murder. Is she really guilty? more...

Jul 1, 2008

Strangers in Death, Creation in Death: The Two Latest Eve Dallas Mysteries by J.D. Robb

Category: Detective Fiction

Numbers 26 and 27 in the Eve Dallas series of murder mysteries set fifty years in the future are just as enjoyable--and riveting--as the first one. more...

Jun 30, 2008

The Book of Chameleons by Jose Edwards Aqualusa: A Fanciful, Lyrical Tale of Shifting Identities

Chasing Darkness by Robert Crais: Review of the New Elvis Cole Thriller

The prose of Africa is unlike that of America and the UK. That is eloquently illustrated in this compact and subtle tale by Angolan author, Jose Edwards Aqualusa. more...

Jun 30, 2008

Murder is Binding by Lorna Barrett: The First of the Booktown Series

Three years ago, Elvis Cole helped attorney, Alan Levy acquit a man of murder. Now the man, Lionel Byrd, is found dead with evidence he committed the crime. more...

May 31, 2008

Category: Cozy Mysteries

Stoneham is the kind of town in which you'd like to spend a summer vacation. Lined with bookstores, the small New Hampshire villages is delightful until murder arrives. more...

May 24, 2008

Sundays at Tiffany's by Patterson: A Short, Likeable Love Story by the Mystery Master

Death Walked In by Carolyn Hart: Another Death on Demand Mystery

Jane has few people in her life as a child--only her imaginary friend, Michael. When she meets him in real life years later, what can it possibly mean? more...

Apr 29, 2008

French Pressed by Cleo Coyle: Another Coffeehouse Mystery

Annie and Max Darling are getting set to move into their dream house, a renovated mansion. That is until someone hides something in there--something worth killing for. more...

Apr 25, 2008

Curse of the Spellmans: The Second Spellman Mystery Novel by Lisa Lutz

In this installment of the Coffeehouse Series, Clare's daughter, an aspiring chef with a much-older boyfriend, gets caught up in murder. Can Clare keep her out of jail? more...

Mar 22, 2008

Irish Tiger by Andrew Greeley: Another Nuala McGrail Mystery Novel

The Spellmans are a quirky, yet loveable detective family, whose antics are amusing and very readable. This second book by Lisa Lutz is just as enjoyable as the first. more...

Mar 12, 2008

The Chameleon's Shadow: A Contemporary Psychological Thriller by Minette Walters

Just before St. Patrick's Day, Father Greeley offers readers another dose of the charming "Irish Tiger," Nuala Anne McGrail and her family. more...

Feb 24, 2008

Category: Thriller Fiction

Can a brain injury change an individual's personality? That's the central question in this novel about an Iraq war veteran who always happens to be around for murder. more...

Feb 10, 2008

St. Patrick's Day Murder: Another Holiday Cozy Mystery by Leslie Meier

Category: Cozy Mysteries

Strange things are happening in Tinker's Cover, Maine. An old bar-owner is found in the bay, his strange relatives arrive from Ireland, and crows are appearing everywhere more...

Feb 3, 2008

Bad Blogging 101: The Six Worst Things to Do to a Blog

Category: Blogs

What are the top things bloggers can do to drive readers away from their Web site? They're not as uncommon as one may think. Take a look at these often-found blog killers more...

Jan 21, 2008

Plum Lucky: Another Stephanie Plum Mystery by Janet Evanovich

Double Cross by James Patterson: A Review of the Latest Alex Cross Mystery

Stephanie Plum and her off-beat friends and family are back for another improbable, yet fun romp around South Jersey. more...

Jan 8, 2008

Tombs of Endearment: The Latest Ghostly Mystery by Casey Daniels

James Patterson's latest promises an interwoven plot with two clever, yet diabolical killers. However, the characters are stereotypes and the plot is way too predictable. more...

Dec 29, 2007

Category: Cozy Mysteries

Pepper Martin, a cemetery tour guide and frequent private detective to the dead, meets up with rock legend, Damon Curtis, where else but on the steps of the Rock Hall. more...

Dec 1, 2007

Now & Then by Robert Parker: The Latest Spenser Mystery Novel

Category: Detective Fiction

Parker's Spenser novels, the 35th of which was just released in October, are easy to read and combine a Dashiell Hammett-esqe mystique with modern surroundings. more...

Nov 21, 2007

Playing for Pizza by John Grisham: A Tale of Football and Redemption in Italy

Cornwell's Book of the Dead: The Latest Kay Scarpetta Mystery Novel

John Grisham, best known for his legal dramas, takes a rather self-indulgent side trip in this light tale of a has-been quarterback who finds his life in Italy. more...

Nov 5, 2007

Bones to Ashes by Kathy Reichs: A Review of the Latest Bones Mystery

Patricia Cornwell--and Dr. Scarpetta--are back! After a couple of very forgettable outings, they return (almost) to their top form. more...

Oct 22, 2007

Patterson's You've Been Warned: The Latest Thriller from America's Best-Selling Crime Author

Combining the secrets of Quebec's ancient Acadia with modern forensic technology, "Bones to Ashes" helps Brennan confront a mystery from her childhood. more...

Oct 16, 2007

Last Breath by George D. Shuman: A Review of the Second Sherry Moore Novel

Paranoia or threat, dream or reality --James Patterson's latest thriller draws the reader in with its unique plot. Unfortunately, the novel doesn't deliver an ending. more...

Oct 12, 2007

Sweet Revenge- Diane Mott Davidson: The Latest Mystery by the Queen of Culinary Crime Fiction

Sherry Moore is blind, but has the singular ability to read the last 18 seconds of a person's thoughts. Her talent is helpful to the police, but it's driving her mad. more...

Oct 5, 2007

The Chocolate Jewel Case: The Latest Chocoholic Mystery by Joanna Carl

Goldy Bear, Aspen Meadows favorite caterer, can't seem to avoid a crime scene. This holiday season finds her in the middle of a murder at the local library. more...

Sep 17, 2007

Vineyard Stalker by Philip Craig: His First of Three Posthumous Novels

A house full of guests, no air conditioning, and an alarming number of neighborhood burglaries. What more could go wrong for newlywed, Lee McKinney? more...

Sep 11, 2007

Discount Shopping in Manhattan: Finding Bargains in New York City

The 18th installment of Philip R. Craig's Martha's Vineyard mystery series was finished shortly before his death in May of 2007. It's a fun romp and a fitting tribute. more...

Aug 29, 2007

Category: New York Travel

New York City is known for its luxury shopping, with such stores as Bergdorfs and Tiffany's. But, the "Big Apple" has its share of bargains--if you know where to look. more...

Aug 20, 2007

Outlet Shopping in Puerto Rico: Finding Bargains on Vacation

Category: Puerto Rico Travel

Puerto Rico is best known for its beaches, lively nightlife, spicy cuisine, and spectacular architecture, but the island also houses a number of excellent outlet stores. more...

Aug 14, 2007

An Interview with Sandra Brown: A Bestselling Mystery Author Talks about Writing, Reading, and Life

Review - Simple Genius: The Latest Thriller by David Baldacci

Sandra Brown is one of the most prolific--and bestselling--mystery authors of our generation. She has penned 70 novels, the last 55 of which have hit the "NYT" List. more...

Aug 12, 2007

Review - Decaffeinated Corpse: The Latest Coffeehouse Mystery by Cleo Coyle

Being a genius can be a gift -- and a curse. In his latest novel, David Baldacci proves it's not always easy -- or safe -- being smart. more...

Aug 6, 2007

Quickie by James Patterson: A Review of his Latest Bestseller

A naturally-decaffeinated coffee plant could revolutionize the industry, and make a lot of money. When Clare's friend claims to have done this, murder soon follows. more...

Aug 2, 2007

Review - The Overlook: The Latest Harry Bosch Adventure by Michael Connelly

James Patterson's "Quickie" is just that: Quickly written, Quickly read, and Quickly forgotten. more...

Jul 14, 2007

J. K. Rowling: Learn More about Harry Potter's Creator

It's past midnight when they find the body, shot up on the Overlook. Hours later, they learn that 33 units of radioactive cessium are missing. Is it a terrorist plot? more...

Jul 11, 2007

Review - On Chesil Beach: The Latest Novel from Ian McEwan

Joanne "Jo" Rowling has become a publishing phenomenon. In just ten short years, her Harry Potter books have made her the highest grossing writer in history. more...

Jul 8, 2007

Category: Modern British Fiction

"On Chesil Beach" chronicles just one short night, but manages to pack in a lifetime of regrets and a commentary on life in the 1960s as well. more...

Jul 1, 2007

Review - Body Surfing: The Latest Novel by Anita Shreve

Category: Modern American Fiction

Once widowed, once divorced, and still under thirty, Sydney takes a summer off to tutor a wealthy couple's daughter at their "cottage" on the rugged New Hampshire coast. more...

Jun 20, 2007

Aunt Dimity Goes West: The Latest Cozy Mystery Novel by Nancy Atherton

Mystery Book Review: Love Kills: The Latest Britt Montero Mystery by Edna Buchanan

Recovering from a gunshot wound and the trauma of almost being murdered, Lori Shepherd escapes England with her twin boys and their nanny to the Colorado Rockies. more...

Jun 15, 2007

Mystery Book Review: The Woods: The Latest Thriller by Harlan Coben

Still in shock over the death of her fiance, Britt finds herself immersed in a web of deceipt as she consoles a bridegroom who just lost his bride on his honeymoon. more...

Jun 10, 2007

Toronto Outlet Malls: Shopping around Ontario

"Cope's" memories include watching his father dig in the woods, desparately looking for the remains of his missing daughter. Twenty year later, the memory still haunts. more...

Jun 9, 2007

Category: Ontario Travel

Shopping in Canada offers a savings for most US visitors. Increase your bounty by visiting one of the several outlet malls in and around Toronto. more...

May 24, 2007

Review - Labor Day Murder: Another Holiday Murder Mystery by Lee Harris

Review - The 6th Target: The Latest Women's Murder Club Mystery

When former nun, new mother, and part-time sleuth, Christine Bennett is offered a oceanfront cottage on Fire Island, she's thrilled. But, she finds murder, not shells. more...

May 15, 2007

Review - Set Sail for Murder: The Latest Henrie O Murder Mystery by Carolyn Hart

What should have been a peaceful Saturday ferry ride turns deadly when a passenger opens fire as the boat is docking at the San Francisco waterfront. more...

May 3, 2007

Caves of the Dominican Republic: Prehistoric Beauty

Henrie O is invited by a friend to sail the Baltic Sea aboard a luxury cruise. Not everyone is set on seeing the sights. One passenger has packed murder. more...

May 1, 2007

Category: Dominican Republic Travel

The Dominican Republic has the most extensive cave system in the Caribbean. Not only are these caves fun to explore, many of them contain over 1000 year old artwork. more...

Apr 27, 2007

Kentucky Outlet Shopping: Bargains in the Blue Grass State

Category: Kentucky Travel

Kentucky offers outlet malls all over the state, from Louisville to Lexington. Learn more about these bargain shopping opportunities. more...

Apr 26, 2007

New Hampshire Outlets: Bargain Shopping in the Granite State

Category: New Hampshire Travel

Outlet malls are dotted all over the New Hampshire countryside, especially in the White Mountain town of North Conway. Learn more about the many bargains to be found. more...

Apr 25, 2007

Book Review - Cat Pay the Devil: The Latest Joe Grey Mystery Novel by Shirley Rousseau Murphy

Vermont Outlets: Bargain Shopping in the Green Mountain State

Talking tiger cat, Dulcie, can't wait for her human friend, Wilma, to get home. She's sure something awful has happened to her -- and she's right. more...

Apr 20, 2007

Category: Vermont Travel

Throughout picturesque Vermont, visitors -- and residents, too -- can find a number of outlet shopping opportunities more...

Apr 14, 2007

Mississippi Outlet Malls: Bargain Shopping in the Magnolia State

Category: Mississippi Travel

From northern Mississippi to the Gulf, the "Magnolia State" offers a wealth of outlet shopping opportunities. more...

Apr 8, 2007

South Carolina Outlet Malls: Bargain Shopping in the Palmetto State

Category: South Carolina Travel

South Carolina offers a diverse collection of outlet malls, up and down the Atlantic coast. Learn more about these discount shopping opportunities. more...

Apr 7, 2007

Book Review - Silenced by Syrah: A Wine Country Murder Mystery by Michele Scott

Maine Outlets: Bargain Shopping in the Pine Tree State

Nikki Sands loves her job as wine manager for the luxurious Malveaux Estates winery, restaurant, and spa, until she finds the chef shot in the spa's soaking tub. more...

Apr 6, 2007

Category: Maine Travel

Maine is known for its diverse outlet shopping malls, particularly those in Kittery and Freeport. more...

Apr 3, 2007

Book Review - Puss n Cahoots: The Lastest Mrs. Murphy Mystery from Rita Mae Brown

Maryland Outlets: Bargain Shopping in the Old Line State

Harry, Mrs. Murphy, and the gang are off to a Kentucky saddlebred horse show, but unfortunately they haven't left murder behind. more...

Apr 1, 2007

Category: Maryland Travel

From Hagerstown to Ocean City, Maryland offers visitors -- and residents -- a myriad of outlet shopping opportunities. more...

Mar 27, 2007

Oregon Outlet Malls: Bargain Shopping in the Beaver State

Category: Oregon Travel

In and around Portland, Oregon offers visitors -- and residents -- a variety of outlet shopping choices. more...

Mar 26, 2007

Book Review - Key Lime Pie Murder: The Latest Culinary Mystery by Joanne Fluke

Georgia Outlets: Bargain Shopping in the Peach State

What happens when cake-judging turns to chaos -- and murder -- at the Tri-County Fair? more...

Mar 23, 2007

Category: Georgia Travel

Georgia offers a wealth of outlet malls in and around Atlanta. Read more about these shopping meccas. more...

Mar 20, 2007

Chicago Outlet Malls: Bargain Shopping around the Windy City

Category: Illinois Travel

Greater Chicago sprawls for miles, from Indiana to Wisconsin to Illinois. The region offers some great outlet shopping malls. more...

Mar 18, 2007

Murder on the Ile Saint-Louis: A Review of Cara Black's Latest Paris Mystery

Seattle Outlets: Bargain Shopping in Washington State

When detective Aimee LeDuc gets a late night call for help, she finds an infant lying in her courtyard. Later, a woman is murdered nearby. Could it be the mother? more...

Mar 15, 2007

Category: Washington State Travel

There are several excellent outlet shopping malls within one hour's drive of Seattle. more...

Mar 14, 2007

Book Review - Irish Linen: The Latest Nuala Anne McGrail Novel by Andrew Greeley

Paris Shopping: Fashion, Food, and More in the City of Lights

In "Irish Linen", Andrew Greeley continues his winning combination of likeable Irish-American characters, a lively plot, and just a hint of a homily. more...

Mar 13, 2007

Category: France Travel

One of the most enjoyable things about a visit to the "City of Lights" is shopping in Paris. Paris women - and men -- seem to have a style all of their own. more...

Mar 11, 2007

Vampire Trivia: Beyond Dracula

Category: Horror Fiction

From Bram Stoker's "Dracula" to Anne Rice's Lestat vampire series to Charlaine Harris' fun vampire cozies, vampires and vampire lore are a popular mystery theme. more...

Mar 11, 2007

The St. Patrick's Day Murder: Another holiday mystery novel by Lee Harris

The Passover Murder: Another Christine Bennett Mystery by Lee Harris

St. Patrick's Day in New York City should be all about the parade, friends, and green beer, but the party ends abruptly with one of the revelers is gunned down. more...

Mar 8, 2007

New Inn of Hemlock Falls Mystery: A Book Review of Ground to a Halt

At a Seder, the traditional Jewish Passover meal, one guest goes to the door to symbolically let in the prophet Elijah. When Iris Grodnik does this, she never returns. more...

Mar 4, 2007

Southern California Outlets: Bargain Shopping in the Golden State

The lastest mystery novel by Claudia Bishop in the Hemlock Falls series is a fun read for fans of Meg and Sarah Quilliam, but lacks excitement for new readers. more...

Mar 3, 2007

Category: California Travel

Southern California offers a wealth of outlet shopping malls, from San Diego to Santa Barbara. more...

Mar 1, 2007

Texas Outlet Malls: Bargain Shopping in the Lone Star State

Category: Texas Travel

The huge state of Texas is loaded with shopping bargains, from Houston to El Paso, from Dallas to Laredo. Find out more about this exciting Texas outlet malls. more...

Feb 25, 2007

New York Outlets: Bargain Shopping in the Empire State

Category: New York Travel

From Long Island to Syracuse, New York State offers a diverse collection of outlet stores, with something for every taste. more...

Feb 23, 2007

Cinco de Mayo Murder: Another Holiday Cozy Mystery by Lee Harris

Florida Outlet Shopping: Finding Bargains in the Sunshine State

A twenty year old death, an aging and grieving mother, inexperienced detectives, and conflicting facts -- that's what Christine Bennett sorts through in this May mystery. more...

Feb 22, 2007

Category: Florida Travel

Florida offers visitors a variety of outlet shopping opportunities, in addition to the sun, fun, and theme parks. From the Panhandle to Miami, the bargains abound. more...

Feb 21, 2007

New Jersey Outlets: Bargain Shopping in the Garden State

Category: New Jersey Travel

New Jersey offers visitors and residents a wealth of outlet shopping opportunites, from Atlantic City to Princeton. more...

Feb 20, 2007

Pennsylvania Outlets: Bargain Shopping in the Keystone State

Category: Pennsylvania Travel

From Pittsburgh to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is known for its variety of outlet stores. more...

Feb 19, 2007

Las Vegas Outlets: Bargain Shopping in the Desert

Category: Nevada Travel

Sure, Las Vegas has gambling, restaurants, and glamour -- but it also has some of the best bargain shopping in the US. more...

Milkshake Trivia: More thanJust Ice Cream

Category: Beverages

The milkshake, that quintessential comfort food, is popular throughout the United States, Canada, and Britain. But, how much do you know about this soothing concoction? more...

Michigan Outlets: Saving Money from Detroit to Traverse City

Category: Michigan Travel

Michigan is home to a wealth of outlet stores, from Monroe to Traverse City. Learn where to find all of the bargains. more...

Feb 17, 2007

Indiana Outlets: Bargain Shopping in the Hoosier State

Category: Indiana Travel

Indiana has a variety of outlet shopping opportunites in all corners of the state. Why pay full price? more...

Feb 16, 2007

South Beach Hotels: Staying in Style in Miami

Category: Florida Travel

Miami Beach's South Beach neighborhood has risen from a forgotten gem to one of the most stylish spots in the United States. The hotels there reflect this renaissance. more...

Feb 14, 2007

The Quiet American: A Classic Mystery Book by Graham Greene

Book Review: Death on the Nile: An Agatha Christie, Hercule Poirot Mystery

Graham Greene's tale of 1950s Vietnam is haunting with its glamour, danger, and irony. From a 21st century perspective, its message is eeriely appropriate. more...

Feb 12, 2007

Giverny: Site of Monet's Home and Gardens

Set on a Nile River boat, this Christie classic has all of the ingredients -- glamour, murder, jealousy, and greed. more...

Feb 11, 2007

Category: France Travel

Giverny, located about 45 miles northwest of Paris, is a quaint French village, best known as the home of Impressionist painter, Claude Monet. more...

Discover Greek Sparkling Wine: An Antique Treasure Rediscovered

Category: Greek Food

You've no doubt heard of Champagne, spumante, and of course, California sparkling wines, but are you familiar with the delicate, refreshing sparklers from Greece? more...

Book Review: Step on a Crack: The New Thriller by James Patterson

With his latest release, best-selling author James Patterson introduces a new character -- hard-nosed, gentle-hearted, Irish cop and father of ten, Mike Bennett. more...

Greek Lemon Oregano Chicken: A Traditional Greek Favorite

Category: Greek Food

For me, this is one of the dishes that symbolizes Greek Cooking. It's simple, flavorful, and it uses the bounty of the Greek homeland -- oregano, olive oil, and lemons. more...

Kakavia: Greek Fisherman's Stew

Category: Greek Food

Wherever you find fishermen, you will find a version of this delicious stew. It's traditionally made from the day's catch to feed the crew, but is delicious for anyone. more...

Sherlock Holmes: A Profile of the World's Most Famous Detective

Ohio Outlet Stores: Bargain Shopping in the Buckeye State

With his deerslayer hat, calabash pipe, and quick-witted ways, Sherlock Holmes captured the reading world's imagination in 1887 and hasn't let go. more...

Feb 8, 2007

Category: Ohio Travel

Ohio has a variety of outlet shopping opportunites, from manufacturer stores, such as the Libbey Glass Outlet in Toledo, to spacious Outlet Malls. more...

Feb 7, 2007

Northern Ohio's Free Art Museums: A Treasure Trove of Art and Culture

Category: Ohio Travel

Northern Ohio -- Cleveland, Toledo, and more -- offer a wonderful collection of important art museums. What's more: these museums offer free admission. more...

Feb 6, 2007

Review: The Chick and the Dead: The Latest Cozy Ghost Mystery from Casey Daniels

Book Review: Murder in Montmartre: The Lastest Aimee Leduc Mystery by Cara Black

"The Chick and the Dead," featuring an "undead" 50s poodle-skirted writer, is fun, flirtatious, and feisty. more...

Jan 30, 2007

How to Write a Book Review: Share your Book Thoughts for Fun or Profit

"Murder in Montmartre" is the lastest in a series of Paris-based murder mysteries, featured young, edgy private detective, Aimee Leduc. more...

Jan 26, 2007

Book Review - Cloud Atlas: A Masterpiece by David Mitchell

Book reviews are relatively short personal evaluations. Unlike lenghty book summaries, a good book review gives a sense of the work without giving away the ending. more...

Jan 23, 2007

Book Review - Plum Lovin': The Latest from Janet Evanovich

"Cloud Atlas" is a masterful series of six inter-related tales that span generations and continents to illustrate the basic human condition. more...

Jan 15, 2007

Book Review - The Night Gardener: A Washington DC Murder Mystery by George Pelecanos

"Plum Lovin'" is a fun romp for loyal Stephanie Plum enthusiasts. Fans of series will find familiar characters, but the book is way too short for first time readers. more...

Jan 10, 2007

Book Review - Capital Crimes: Two Novellas by Jonathan and Kaye Kellerman

"The Night Gardener, " George Pelecanos' 13th novel, follows the ressurection of a 20-year old case on the rough and often heartless, streets of Washington DC. more...

Jan 3, 2007

Gifts for Aspiring Mystery Writers: Last Minute Gift Ideas

This husband and wife mystery writing team collaborates on two original novellas, one by him and one by her. It's a great way to compare their styles, side-by-side. more...

Dec 22, 2006

Book Review - Nature Girl: The Latest Florida Mystery from Carl Hiaasen

Still searching for what to get that aspiring -- or sucessful -- mystery writer on your gift list? Consider one of these last minute gift ideas for mystery novelists. more...

Dec 17, 2006

Book Review - Santa Cruise: A Light Holiday Gift from Carol and Mary Higgins Clark

No one writes mystery novels like Carl Hiaasen. His campy characters and tongue-in-cheek prose make his ludicrous situations enjoyable -- and almost believable. more...

Dec 4, 2006

Book Review - Don of the Dead: A fun, first novel by Casey Daniels

This fourth in a series of holiday mysteries by bestselling author, Mary Higgins Clark and her daughter Carol is light, fun, and full of surprises. more...

Dec 2, 2006

Calendars for Mystery Book Lovers: AYear of Mysteries

Playful, crisp, and enjoyable, this first novel, featuring Pepper Martin -- a cemetery guide who sees "dead people" is a fun cozy mystery. more...

Nov 24, 2006

Book Review: Cross: The Latest Thriller by James Patterson

What better gift for a mystery novel fan than a calendar from their favorite novel or author? Or, buy one for yourself and enjoy a year of mysteries. more...

Nov 20, 2006

Gifts for Agatha Christie Fans: Books, DVDs, Games, and More

The latest thriller in James Patterson's Alex Cross series is a quick read, but plagued by one-dimensional characters and hard to believe plot twists. more...

Nov 17, 2006

DVDs for Mystery Fans: Gifts for the crime fiction reader

Agatha Christie mystery fans number in the millions. There's probably one on your gift list this year. more...

Nov 14, 2006

Book Review: Rebecca: A Classic Mystery Novel by Daphne DuMaurier

Looking for something to buy that mystery book lover on your holiday shopping list? Consider a classic, or more recent, mystery movie to complement their reading. more...

Nov 11, 2006

And Then There Were None: A Review of Dreamcatcher's Interactive Computer Game

"Last night I dreamt I went to Manderley again." So begins one of the most subtlely suspenseful and dramatic mystery novels of the 20th century. more...

Oct 23, 2006

Book Review: The Mephisto Club: Tess Gerritsen's Lastest Mystery Novel

Become part of the action on secluded Shipwreck Island as Mr. U N Owen's ten guests start dying off one by one. more...

Oct 9, 2006

Author Profile: Janet Evanovich: From Romance Books to Mystery Novels

The "Mephisto Club" is a group of eccentric (and dangerous?) individuals from around the world who meet regularly to seek and thwart evil. more...

Oct 4, 2006

Stephen King: On Writing: A Mystery Master Talks about his Craft

Janet Evanovich is a contemporary American mystery writer, best known for her "Stephanie Plum" series of detective novels. She is the author of 21 mystery books. more...

Sep 21, 2006

Agatha Christie: Profile of the World's Best-Selling Mystery Writer

Stephen King is a master of the psychological thriller and the modern horror novel. He is the author of over 60 novels and short story collections. more...

Sep 12, 2006

The Messenger by Daniel Silva: The Spy Novel Comes of Age

Agatha Christie, born in 1890, wrote 80 mystery novels and numerous plays and short stories. Her works have sold over two billion copies in 45 languages. more...

Aug 30, 2006

Judge and Jury by James Patterson: A Review of a Bestselling Mystery Novel

The worthy sucessor to the Cold War spy novel is the terrorist thriller. The master of the former genre was John le Carre. more...

Aug 15, 2006

Kiss Me While I Sleep: A Satisfying Mystery Novel by Linda Howard

James Patterson is known for his easy-to-read, fast-paced, engrossing thrillers...and "Judge and Jury," written with Andrew Gross and released in July, is no exception. more...

Aug 5, 2006

Beach Road by James Patterson: The Quintessential Summer Mystery Novel

"Kiss Me While I Sleep," published in 2004, is an action filled thriller with romantic tension, beautiful Paris scenery, and a tight action-filled plot. more...

Jul 22, 2006

Dark Tort is Delicious: Savor Diane Mott Davidson's Latest Mystery Novel

Beach Road by James Patterson manages to pack thrills, interest, and suspense into an easy-to-read summer novel. It's the perfect novel to take to the beach. more...

Jul 10, 2006

Category: Cozy Mysteries

Culinary mystery novels are the specialite du jour, and nobody writes them better than Diane Mott Davidson. more...

Jul 8, 2006

The Seeds of Detective Fiction: The Contributions of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Top 15 Mystery Novels of All Time: How Many Have You Read?

Where did detective fiction come from -- specifically Sherlock Holmes? How did Sir Arthur Conan Doyle discover him? What did Mr. Doyle think of his creation? more...

Jul 6, 2006

Second Sight by George D. Shuman: Another Sherry Moore Mystery

The Mystery Guild of America has listed the top mystery novels of all time. Below are the top 15 on the list. There are the predictable favorites and a few surprises. more...

Aug 11, 2009

Category: Thriller Fiction

Exposure to radiation and a brush with a long-buried military cover-up shakes up blind psychic, Sherry Moore's quiet, contemplative world. more...

Jul 15, 2009

Dog on It by Spencer Quinn: A Chet and Bernie Mystery

Roadside Crosses by Jeffrey Deaver: What Happens When the Cyber World Meets the Real World

There have been plenty of cat detectives, but Chet introduces us to a dog's point of view as he helps Bernie solve a missing person's case. more...

Jun 5, 2009

Just Take my Heart: A New Novel by Mary Higgins Clark

A series of roadside crosses begin appearing PRIOR to the accidents, a grim precursor of death to come. Can detective Kathryn Dance solve this mystery before more die? more...

May 22, 2009

Category: Thriller Fiction

Does a transplanted heart carry with it traits and memories from its donor? That is the question that Mary Higgins Clark's latest thriller explores. more...

May 12, 2009

Ghost at Work by Carolyn Hart: The First of a New Series

Category: Cozy Mysteries

Many things have changed since Bailey Ruth Raeburn lived in Adelaide, Oklahoma...but much has not, such as strong passions and secrets. more...

Feb 9, 2009

Night of the Loving Dead: Another Pepper Martin Mystery

Category: Cozy Mysteries

When Pepper is asked to represent her boss at the cemetery convention in Chicago, the trip is far from relaxing. In fact, it's almost lethal. more...

Dec 29, 2008

My Name is Michael Sibley by John Bingham: A Classic British Murder Noir

Cross Country by James Patterson: Another Alex Cross Thriller

Michael Sibley and John Prosset were close friends since boarding school, so when Prosset turns up murdered, Sibley is more than just surprised. more...

Nov 25, 2008

Category: Thriller Fiction

The latest in James Patterson's Cross series takes the renowned detective to the heart of Africa, where the rules are different...or perhaps non-existent. more...

Nov 5, 2008

Two Recent Craig Holden Mysteries: A Review of Matala and The Narcissist's Daughter

The Spellman Files by Lisa Lutz: The First of the Hilarious Spellman Series

Contemporary mystery writer, Craig Holden's books are dark, yet compelling. They deal with the darker, yet all too believable, sign of mankind. more...

Oct 5, 2008

Chatting with George Shuman: The Author of the Sherry Moore Series Talks to Suite101

A refreshing, unique voice in the mystery genre, Lisa Lutzes "Spellman Files" is sure to be the beginning of a hit series, in the spirit of Carl Hiaasen and others. more...

Sep 24, 2008

Aunt Dimity:Vampire Hunter by Nancy Atherton: Another Adventure of the Paranormal Detective

George Shuman has been a police detective and a resort executive, but his favorite career is spinning tales in the Sherry Moore mystery series. more...

Sep 6, 2008

The Amnesiac by Sam Taylor: A Tale of Things Best Left Forgotten

When her twin boys come home with a tale of a vampire in the woods, Lori is skeptical. She shouldn't be; the sighting holds the clue to strange happenings in the area. more...

Aug 23, 2008

Swan Peak by James Lee Burke: A Dave Robicheaux Novel

Take a Gothic novel, add a murder mystery, cloak it in hidden meanings and a half-remembered past, and you've got Sam Taylor's new, captivating novel. more...

Jul 20, 2008

Category: Detective Fiction

Looking to relax in the wilds of Montana, New Orleans police detective, Dave Robicheaux and his friend and partner, Clete Purcel run into trouble with ties to their past. more...

Jul 17, 2008

Moscow Rules by Daniel Silva: Gabriel Allon Returns in Another Thriller

Category: Thriller Fiction

This latest mystery by Daniel Silva takes Israeli art restorer and master spy, Gabriel Allon deep into modern-day Russia--a place that operates by its own set of rules. more...

Jul 1, 2008

Murder on the Rue de Paradis by Cara Black: Another Aimee LeDuc Mystery

Category: Detective Fiction

When Aimee's lost love suddenly returns to Paris, she is confused, even more when he asks her to marry him. By morning, however, he is dead. more...

Jul 1, 2008

The Front by Patricia Cornwell: A Second Win Garano Murder Mystery

Category: Detective Fiction

Win Garano, a shrewd Massachusetts state investigator and politically saavy, yet cold D.A. Monique Lamont return in Cornwell's latest novel. more...

Jun 30, 2008

King of the Holly Hop by Les Roberts: A Milan Jacovich Mystery

Category: Detective Fiction

If you are thinking of attending your class reunion this summer, you might want to think again after reading Roberts' tale of a reunion turned deadly. more...

Jun 18, 2008

Star Spangled Murder: A Fourth of July Cozy by Leslie Meier

Category: Cozy Mysteries

Dog problems, an invading nudist colony, and lobster poachers: the summer is not turning out well in Tinker's Cove--especially not after murder steps in. more...

May 31, 2008

Carrot Cake Murder by Joanne Fluke: Another Hannah Swenson Mystery

Category: Cozy Mysteries

Culinary cozy mysteries are increasingly popular, and few do it better than Joanne Fluke. Her newest novel combines food, a family reunion, murder...and a few recipes. more...

May 24, 2008

The Appeal by John Grisham: A Disturbing, but Thoughful Courtroom Drama

The Silver Swan by Benjamin Black: Another Thriller by Booker Prize-Winning Author John Banville

Are the judges in your area appointed or elected? If elected, are you sure that special interests are not manipulating your choices? more...

Apr 27, 2008

Where Are You Now: A Thriller by Mary Higgins Clark

Quirke is back and involved in a dark murder that again involves those closest to him, maybe even his own daughter. more...

Apr 13, 2008

Category: Thriller Fiction

Ten years ago, Mac disappeared without a note or a goodbye. Yet, he still calls home every Mother's Day. His now-grown sister wants to find him, but should she? more...

Mar 17, 2008

Murder on K Street: Margaret Truman's Last Murder Mystery

Category: Murder Mysteries

Sauve career politician, Lyle Simmons arrives home after a fund raiser to find his wife dead. His subsequent actions and cool demeanor soon make him the lead suspect. more...

Mar 2, 2008

7th Heaven by James Patterson: Another Women's Murder Club Mystery

An Incomplete Revenge: A New Maisie Dobbs Novel by Jacqueline Winspear

A rash of brutal arson-murders and the missing son of a recent governor has the ladies of the Women's Murder Club very busy. Can these two sets of crimes be connected? more...

Feb 17, 2008

The Race by Richard N Patterson: A Political Novel by a Popular Mystery Novelist

Maisie Dobbs, a psychologist and investigator in London between the wars, returns for her fifth adventure -- this one about a town enveloped in a decade-old tragedy. more...

Feb 4, 2008

Heart-Shaped Box by Joe Hill: Review of a Pulse-Raising Ghost Tale

Timely and troubling, Richard North Patterson's political drama is a departure from his usual thrillers, but no less thought-provoking. more...

Jan 23, 2008

T is for Trespass: Sue Grafton's Latest Mystery Novel: The Kinsey Milhone Series

The latest from Joe Hill is a subtle, creepy thriller, the kind you wouldn't want to read in an old house at night. It's also one of the best novels of 2007. more...

Jan 20, 2008

Cat Deck the Halls: A Christmas Cat Mystery by Shirley Rousseau Murphy

In this 20th installment of the Kinsey Millhone series, Sue Grafton takes on the cause of elder abuse--an all-too-prevalent phenomenon. more...

Dec 30, 2007

Category: Cozy Mysteries

Joe Grey and his talking cat companions return to solve a particularly gruesome Christmas-time murder, a crime that strikes too close to home. more...

Dec 18, 2007

The Top Mystery Novels of 2007: A Look at the the Best of the Year's New Releases

Gift Books for Mystery Lovers: What to Get those Mystery Readers on your Gift List

The past year has seen some long-heralded novels released, some near-forgotten classics re-released, and some surprisingly good efforts by new authors. more...

Nov 25, 2007

Darkness Falls by Kyle Mills: A Riveting Thriller About Sabotaging the World's Oil Supply

Most readers of murder mysteries can never have too many books. Here are our choices for the best holiday gift books for those mystery enthusiasts on your holiday list. more...

Nov 8, 2007

John Grisham: Author of Courtroom Thrillers and More

What would you do if gas were suddenly $6 per gallon, if you didn't have oil to heat your home, and food from all over the country couldn't make it to your grocery? more...

Oct 28, 2007

Top Six Cincinnati Attractions: What to Do in the Queen City

John Grisham's rise from small-town lawyer to best-selling author seems on the surface a Cinderella story, but it's more a tale of dedication and hard work than luck. more...

Oct 17, 2007

Category: Ohio Travel

Cincinnati, along the Ohio River in Southwest Ohio, has a character unlike other Ohio cities. The city has unique, walkable neighborhoods, museums, parks, and bridges. more...

Oct 13, 2007

ABC's Women's Murder Club: Is TV Series Better than the Book?

Finding Senior Travel Discounts: A Travel Agent's Take on the Good, the Bad, and the Lesser Known

The new ABC series based on the James Patterson "Women's Murder Club" books is surprisingly well done, leaving viewers eager for next week's episode. more...

Oct 11, 2007

Category: Senior Travel (general)

As a 20-year veteran of the travel industry, I've come across the term "senior discount" more than a few times. Sometimes it points towards a bargain, other times not. more...

Sep 25, 2007

A Fragment of Fear: A New Release of a Classic John Bingham Mystery

Italy's Wine Regions: Piedmont, Tuscany, Veneto, Lombardy and More

Less well known than his protegee, John Le Carre, Bingham was a master of the subtle thriller. In "Fragment of Fear," he paints an almost existentialist web of terror. more...

Sep 15, 2007

Category: Italian Wine

Although Italy is less than three-quarters the size of California, it vies with France each year for the top honors in world wine production. more...

Sep 3, 2007

The Secret Servant by Daniel Silva: The 2007 Sequel to The Messenger

Blaze by Richard Bachman: A Review of an Early Stephen King Novel, Just Released

Israeli agent, Gabriel Allon returns in Silva's latest thriller, this time not to defend Israel, but to rescue the American Ambassador to Britain's kidnapped daughter. more...

Aug 28, 2007

Review: Five Roundabouts to Heaven: A Classic Mystery by John Bingham

By Stephen King's own admission, "Blaze" is a "trunk novel," an early work rediscovered decades later, revised, and published. more...

Aug 20, 2007

Review - Play Dirty: The Latest Steamy Mystery by Sandra Brown

John Bingham, whose former MI5 protegee was John Le Carre, was a talented mystery writer himself. Three of his novels have just been released and a well worth a read. more...

Aug 14, 2007

Review - Trap Door by Sarah Graves: The Latest "Jake" Tiptree Mystery

Griff Burkett, a former star pro quarterback just out of prison for gambling on his own games, is offered millions to sleep with a disabled billionaire's attractive wife. more...

Aug 11, 2007

Review - Volk's Game: A Modern Russian Thriller by Brent Ghelfi

What happens when you combine an amateur sleuth and the owner of a century home? You get Sarah Graves' delightful series of Home Improvement mysteries. more...

Aug 5, 2007

Category: Thriller Fiction

Much has changed in Russia over the last two decades, but as "Volk's Game" illustrates, the deception, crime and corruption have not gone away--merely changed hands. more...

Jul 25, 2007

Book Review -- Messenger of Truth: The Latest Maisie Dobbs Mystery by Jacqueline Winspear

Review - Lean Mean Thirteen: The Latest Stephanie Plum Mystery from Janet Evanovich

Some mysteries are best left unsolved, as 1930s intrepid detective Maisie Dobbs and her wealthy client discover, much too late. more...

Jul 12, 2007

Harry Potter Trivia: Test your Knowledge of Hogwart's Boy Wizard

In "Lean Mean Thirteen," Joe Morelli and Ranger team up to keep Stephanie out of trouble. But can even these two macho men keep the "Jersey girl" from disaster? more...

Jul 9, 2007

Review - Nail through the Heart: An Engrossing Mystery by Timothy Hallinan

The Harry Potter series is soon coming to an end with the release of the 7th and final book. How much do you know about Harry and his friends? Test your knowledge here. more...

Jul 4, 2007

Review - Murder by the Glass: A Wine Country Mystery by Michele Scott

Tackling difficult subject matter with eloquent text and well-paced action, Hallinan takes the reader to the seamier side of Southeast Asia. more...

Jun 29, 2007

Book Review - Murder in the Marais: The First Aimee LeDuc Mystery

In this second in the Nikki Sands wine country mystery novels, Nikki's best friend is accused of killing her cheating lover's new wife. Will Nikki find the real murderer? more...

Jun 19, 2007

Washington State Outlet Malls: Bargain Shopping in the Evergreen State

The first Aimee LeDuc murder mystery takes readers through the intricate passageways of Paris' Marais district -- and of the city's past. more...

Jun 11, 2007

Category: Washington State Travel

From Seattle to Spokane to Pasco, this northwestern US state has a wealth of outlet shopping centers. more...

Jun 10, 2007

Utah Outlet Malls: Bargain Shopping in the Beehive State

Category: Utah Travel

From Salt Lake to Park City to the southwest corner of the state, Utah offers an array of outlet shopping opportunities. more...

Jun 5, 2007

Beach Reading for Mystery Lovers: Books to Take on Vacation this Year

Book Review - Laced: The Latest Regan Reilly Mystery by Carol Higgins Clark

Are you looking for mystery books to take on your trip this summer? Books that are gripping yet undemanding? These are my picks for great beach reads. more...

May 20, 2007

Review - The Screaming Room: A fast-paced, dark thriller by Thomas O'Callaghan

Regan Reilly finally marries the man of her dreams and takes off for an idyllic Irish honeymoon. However, the couple can't seem to leave crime at home. more...

May 9, 2007

Diving in the Dominican Republic: Underwater Adventure

What happens when the depraved obsessions of a generation past are visited on the people of New York City? more...

May 3, 2007

Category: Dominican Republic Travel

The Dominican Republic treats watersports lovers to a wide variety of underwater terrain, with hidden caves, wrecked ships, and splendid coral displays. more...

Apr 30, 2007

Whale Watching: Astounding Nature in the Dominican Republic

Category: Dominican Republic Travel

The Dominican Republic is a lovely place to spend the winter months - for whales as well as people. Over 10,000 North Atlantic Humpbacks make their way there annually. more...

Apr 27, 2007

Book Review - Whitethorn Woods: The Latest Novel by Maeve Binchy

Category: Irish Fiction

The shrine to St. Ann in the Whitethorn Woods is a favorite with locals and tourists alike. When the county threatens to pave over the site, all sorts of problems arise. more...

Apr 26, 2007

Review - Murder Uncorked: The First Mystery Novel in the Wine Lover's Series

The Father's Day Murder: A Holiday Cozy by Lee Harris

When a Napa Valley and winery owner offers Nikki Sands a six-figure position on his estate, she jumps at the chance to leave LA. Unfortunately, murder follows. more...

Apr 20, 2007

Book Review - Unholy Grail: A Religious Thriller by D.L. Wilson

Each year, the Morris Avenue Boys from the old Bronx neighborhood get together for dinner and stories. This year the group got more than they intended; they got murder. more...

Apr 15, 2007

Louisiana Outlet Malls: Bargain Shopping in the Bayou State

First one Jesuit priest, then another, turns up dead, right after meeting with journalist Brittany Hamar. When she calls on Father Romano, he is wary ... but intrigued. more...

Apr 9, 2007

Category: Louisiana Travel

From Lake Charles to Shreveport to Baton Rouge, Louisiana offers a wealth of outlet shopping malls. more...

Apr 8, 2007

Alabama Outlets: Bargain Shopping in the Heart of Dixie

Category: Alabama Travel

From Mobile to Montgomery, Alabama offers a wide variety of outlet shopping opportunities. more...

Apr 7, 2007

Missouri Outlet Malls: Bargain Shopping in the Show Me State

Category: Missouri Travel

From St. Louis to Branson and beyond, Missouri offers residents and visitors alike a world of outlet shopping. more...

Apr 4, 2007

Minnesota Outlet Malls: Bargain Shopping in the Land of 10,000 Lakes

Category: Minnesota Travel

You'd expect a state that is home to the Mall of America to have excellent outlet shopping malls and it does, from Bemidji to Minneapolis. more...

Apr 2, 2007

Wisconsin Outlet Malls: Bargain Shopping in the Badger State

Category: Wisconsin Travel

From Milwaukee to Madison, Wisconsin offers a variety of excellent outlet shopping malls. more...

Mar 31, 2007

Arizona Outlet Malls: Bargain Shopping in the Copper State

Category: Arizona Travel

Phoenix, Tempe, and Tucson all offer excellent outlet shopping opportunities. Learn more about them. more...

Mar 27, 2007

Book Review - The Testament: A New Thriller by Eric Van Lustbader

Tennessee Outlet Malls: Bargain Shopping in the Volunteer State

Braverman "Bravo" Shaw always knew that his father had secrets, but it is not until Dexter Shaw's death that his son learns of their magnitude. more...

Mar 26, 2007

Category: Tennessee Travel

Tennessee has country music, "Graceland," and barbeque, but did you know that it also has a host of outlet shopping malls? more...

Mar 22, 2007

NC Outlets: Bargain Shopping in the Tar Heel State

Category: North Carolina Travel

From Nags Head to Raleigh, North Carolina offers visitors -- and residents, too -- a variety of outlet shopping opportunities. more...

Mar 18, 2007

Williamsburg Outlets: Bargain Shopping just outside of Colonial Williamsburg

Category: Virginia Travel

Williamsburg Virginia is best known for Colonial Williamsburg, the restored 18th century living history museum. The are also boasts a small collection of outlet malls. more...

Mar 16, 2007

Book Review - High Profile: The Latest Jesse Stone Mystery by Robert Parker

Holiday Murder Mysteries: Mystery Novels for Every Season

Jesse Stone has seen his share of murders, first as an LAPD detective and now as the chief of police for Paradise, MA. This murder, however, is different. more...

Mar 14, 2007

Paris Department Stores: Shopping in the City of Lights

Many mystery authors pen murder mysteries with a holiday theme. Whether its Christmas, St. Patrick's Day, or Passover, the mayhem is the same. more...

Mar 14, 2007

Category: France Travel

Paris department stores are some of the most unique - and exciting - in the world. more...

Mar 12, 2007

DC Outlets: Shopping for Bargains in and around the Nation's Capital

Category: Washington DC Travel

Suburban Washington DC -- the city's Virginia and Maryland suburbs -- offers a plethora of outlet shopping malls. more...

Mar 11, 2007

The Black Dahlia: A Modern Film Noir

Category: Indie Movie DVDs

Based on a real-life unsolved 1947 murder, "The Black Dahlia" is worth watching if only for its gorgeous period sets. It's not as good as the book, but few films are. more...

Mar 9, 2007

Colorado Outlet Malls: Bargain Shopping in the Centennial State

Category: Colorado Travel

Colorado offers visitors and residents a number of outlet shopping malls, in and around Denver. more...

Mar 8, 2007

Book Review - March: The Pulitzer-Prize winning novel by Geraldine Brooks

Category: Modern American Fiction

Louisa Mae Alcott's "Little Women" tells the story of the March women during the Civil War period, but what were Mr. March's experiences during that turbulent time? more...

Mar 4, 2007

MA Outlets: Bay State Bargains

Category: Massachusetts Travel

Massachusetts offers residents and visitors a myriad of outlet shopping opportunities, from the Berkshires to the Bay. more...

Mar 2, 2007

Northern California Outlets: Bargain Shopping in and around the Bay Area

Category: California Travel

Northern California offers careful shoppers a myriad of bargains in outlet malls from Napa to Monterey. more...

Feb 26, 2007

Book Review -- Christine Falls: A Debut Mystery Novel by Benjamin Black

Niagara Outlets: Bargain Shopping near the Falls

What happens when a Booker-award winning novelist (John Banville) tries his hand at crime fiction? The result is enthralling, suspenseful, and satisfying. more...

Feb 24, 2007

Category: Ontario Travel

Niagara Falls is known as a honeymoon and family destination and for its scenic beauty. Did you know the area is also home to two excellent outlet malls? more...

Feb 23, 2007

Orlando Outlets: Shopping for Bargains in Central Florida

Category: Florida Travel

Central Florida is best known for its theme parks and family fun, but the area also boasts several large outlet malls. Add some shopping to your Orlando vacation. more...

Feb 21, 2007

Book Review - African Psycho: A Startling, Original Work by Alain Mabanckou

Booker Prize: Britain's Most Prestigious Award for Fiction

"I have decided to kill Germaine on December 29." So begins this frank, disturbing, yet eloquent solioquy called "African Psycho." more...

Feb 20, 2007

Category: British/UK Fiction (general)

The Man Booker Prize is awarded each October for the best original novel written in English by a citizen of the British Commonwealth of Nations or the Republic or Ireland more...

Feb 19, 2007

Bad Blood: The Latest Thriller from Linda Fairstein

Deep under the streets of New York City lies an underground network of tunnels, subway stations, and waterpipes. It's a rough place and so are the people that work there more...

Paris' Carnavalet Museum: The Museum of the History of Paris

Category: France Travel

Paris' Musee Carnavelet, dedicated to the history of Paris, is housed in a unique Parisian 16th-century mansion in Paris' hip Marais neighborhood. more...

Allen Ginsberg's Howl: An Anthem for an Age

Category: American Poetry

Allen Ginsberg's ground-breaking poem "Howl," published in 1956, expressed the anger of a generation. It also shocked, provoked, and thrilled readers -- then and now. more...

Feb 17, 2007

Miami's Little Havana: The Center of Cuban Culture in South Florida

Category: Florida Travel

There's a salsa rhythm in the air as you cross over 11th St. into the heart of Miami's Little Havana. more...

Feb 16, 2007

Reading Turgenev: A Review of William Trevor's Novel about Love and Loss

Category: Irish Fiction

What would you do if you married to escape a boring existence, only to find yourself in a loveless union, forced to live with your husband's petty, critical sisters? more...

Feb 15, 2007

The Case of the Roasted Onion: The First of a New Cozy Mystery Series by Claudia Bishop

Pere Lachaise: Visit Paris' Historic, Park-Like Cemetery

What's more fun than a new mystery series from a favorite author? Claudia Bishop has launched a new cozy series featuring vet, Austin McKenzie and his wife. more...

Feb 13, 2007

Category: France Travel

Where can you see Jim Morrison, Edith Piaf, Oscar Wilde, and Sarah Bernhardt, all in one place? At Paris' Pere Lachaise Cemetery, that's where. more...

Feb 11, 2007

Picasso Museum -- Paris: Explore the Art of Pablo Picasso in Paris' Historic Marais District

Category: France Travel

The Picasso Museum in Paris is a wonderful collection of the 20th century painter's work and his own private art collection. more...

Feb 11, 2007

Cat Fiction: Mystery Novels Love Cats

Cozy mystery novels have been known to feature a cat as the hero (or heroine) of the tale. The pioneer in this genre is Lilian Jackson Braun and her "Cat who..." novels. more...

The Rodin Museum: A Cultural Gem in the Heart of Paris

Category: France Travel

The first thing that you notice as you enter the Rodin Museum, the gracious 18th century "hotel particulare" once home to Auguste Rodin, is the beauty of the setting. more...

Ernest Hemingway Trivia: Learn More about this Great American Author

Category: Modern American Fiction

Ernest Hemingway is an American legend, but how much do you know about this important author? Test your knowledge with these Hemingway facts. more...

Christopsomo: Traditional Greek Christmas Bread

Category: Greek Food

Many Greek traditions center around baking, and few are more deeply ingrained in Greek culture than the Christmas Bread, Christopsomo, literally Christ's bread. more...

Greek Omelet: A Tasty Combination of Sausage, Red Pepper, and Potato

Category: Greek Food

Eggs are used frequently as a main dish in Greek cuisine, not only for breakfast. Using olive oil, as opposed to the French butter, gives this dish a distinct Mediterran more...

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: Jack Hanna's Home Base

Category: Ohio Travel

The Columbus Ohio Zoo, founded in 1927, is spread over 82 acres and houses over 6000 animals. Thanks to the efforts of TV animalist Jack Hanna, the zoo is world-renowned. more...

Feb 7, 2007

Banned Books: Mysteries are not Immune

Book Review: Motor Mouth: Janet Evanovich's Second Alexandra Barnaby Mystery

You may think that banning books was something that happened in Victorian times, but banning books still happens -- and mystery novels are not exempt. more...

Feb 7, 2007

Review: The Virgin of Small Plains: Nancy Pickard's Latest Mystery Novel

Take Carl Hiaasen's South Florida. Throw in a little NASCAR. Combine with a hot female mechanic and you've got Janet Evanovich's latest recipe for success. more...

Feb 2, 2007

Murder on the Orient Express: A Review of the Agatha Christie Classic Mystery Novel

This 2007 Edgar Award nominee revolves around an 17-year old murder and the toll it has taken on three families. It is powerful reading -- one of Pickard's best. more...

Jan 29, 2007

Review - A Catered Valentine's Day: The Latest Culinary Mystery by Isis Crawford

Christie's "Murder on the Orient Express" is a murder mystery classic. The diverse characters and unique plot make for a timeless -- and enjoyable -- novel. more...

Jan 24, 2007

Book Review - The Watchman: The Latest Thriller from Robert Crais

"A Catered Valentine's Day," released in January 2007, is a delightful holiday cozy mystery, in the spirit of culinary authors like Diane Mott Davidson and Cleo Coyle. more...

Jan 22, 2007

Book Review - Exile: A Political Courtroom Thriller by Richard North Patterson

The latest Joe Pike novel from Robert Crais offers "edge-of-your-seat" action, a twisting plot, and likeable yet flawed characters. It's an enjoyable read. more...

Jan 12, 2007

Review:The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers: The Latest Adventures of KoKo and Yum Yum by Lilian Braun

More than just a book about terrorism, "Exile" is a disturbing, yet compelling murder drama, with deep roots in the conflicts of the West Bank. I highly recommend it. more...

Jan 7, 2007

Review - Murder of Roger Ackroyd: A Classic Mystery by Agatha Christie

"The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers" is a delightful dose of KoKo for "Cat Who..." fans, but first time readers are better off starting with Braun's earlier novels. more...

Dec 24, 2006

Book Review -- Through the Grinder: The Second of Four Clare Cosi Mysteries

"The Murder of Roger Ackroyd" is a classic of the mystery genre. This Christie puzzler is as enjoyable today as when it was released in 1926. more...

Dec 19, 2006

James Patterson: Portrait of a Best-Selling Writer

This coffehouse mystery by Cleo Coyle has all of the elements -- a likeable protagonist, a surprise ending, and even coffee drink and food recipes. more...

Dec 12, 2006

Book Review - Echo Park: The Latest from Novelist, Michael Connelly

James Patterson is the author of 41 novels (to date) and is one of the most prolific -- and successful -- writers in the mystery genre. more...

Dec 3, 2006

Book Review: Limitations: The Latest Courtroom Drama by Scott Turow

"Echo Park," the 12th Michael Connelly novel to feature detective Harry Bosch, has a surprising and satisfying plot -- reminiscent of a Patricia Cornwell novel. more...

Nov 28, 2006

Book Review: Lisey's Story: The Latest Mystery Novel by Stephen King

"Limitations" revisits some of Turow's past characters, but the jury's out on this courtroom drama. more...

Nov 24, 2006

Book Review: The Thirteenth Tale: A Brilliant Debut Novel by Diane Setterfield

"Lisey's Story" is a joy to read. It's a mature, well-crafted novel by the master of all storytellers -- Stephen King. more...

Nov 18, 2006

Book Review: Never Let Me Go: Time Magazine's Best Novel of 2005

If you read just one mystery novel this season -- or this year -- make it "The Thirteenth Tale" by Diane Setterfield. more...

Nov 15, 2006

Book Review: Hidden Assassins: A Modern-Day Thriller by Robert Wilson

Not one word is wasted or misplaced in this subtle, yet disturbing 2005 novel by Kazuo Ishiguro, author of the Booker Prize winning "Remains of the Day." more...

Nov 13, 2006

Book Review: An Innocent Man: A New Non-Fiction Crime Book by John Grisham

A classic thriller, set in modern Seville, "Hidden Assassins" has all the elements of a 1960s spy novel -- only now the KGB have been replaced by Islamic extremists. more...

Nov 6, 2006

Under Orders by Dick Francis: A Book Review

Prolific courtroom crime novelist, John Grisham, makes his first foray into non-fiction with his latest release, "An Innocent Man." more...

Oct 15, 2006

Book Review: The Mission Song: The latest from British Espionage Master, John Le Carre

"Under Orders" is the latest release from prolific British mystery novelist, Dick Francis, best known for his mysteries that center around the racing world. more...

Oct 8, 2006

Book Review: The Devil's Feather: A Psychological Thriller by Minette Walters

What would you do if you were forced to choose between your conscience and loyalty to your country? more...

Sep 24, 2006

Review: The Bookwoman's Last Fling: A Cliff Janeway Novel by John Dunning

What would you do if you discovered a killer, one who was "getting away with murder" in the midst of the world's many war zones? more...

Sep 19, 2006

Book Review: Murder Most Frothy: A Coffee Cozy by Cleo Coyle

"The Bookwoman's Last Fling," is the fifth in a series of mystery novels featuring former cop and book detective, Cliff Janeway. more...

Sep 8, 2006

Break No Bones by Kathy Reichs: A New Novel by the Inspiration for the TV series Bones

"Murder Most Frothy," the fourth in a series featuring coffee steward and barista Claire Cosi, is an enjoyable and interesting late summer read. more...

Aug 21, 2006

Goonight Nobody by Jennifer Weiner: A Suspenseful Novel Right Off the Bestseller's List

Like her protagonist, Dr. Temperance (Tempe) Brennan, mystery writer Kathy Reichs is a forensic anthropologist. "Break No Bones," is her ninth mystery featuring Brennan. more...

Aug 11, 2006

Daughter of Time by Josephine Tey: A Timeless Mystery Classic

"Goodnight Nobody" by Jennifer Weiner, originally released in 2005 and just out in paperback, combines a "cozy" suburban heroine with a suspenseful plot. more...

Aug 2, 2006

Cover of Night by Linda Howard: Well-Written Mystery Novel - Ridiculous Premise

"Daughter of Time," written in 1951 by Josephine Tey, is a wonderful example of a tightly written mystery novel. more...

Jul 22, 2006

At Risk: A Review of Patricia Cornwell's Latest Mystery Novel

Linda Howard's latest mystery novel, "Cover of Night," combines likeable characters with a beautiful rural Idaho setting. The plot, however, is a little far-fetched. more...

Jul 10, 2006

Patricia Cornwell: Author Profile

Mystery author, Patricia Cornwell's latest mystery novel, At Risk is an easy read, but it doesn't live up to the standard set by her previous work. more...

Jul 7, 2006